Tongbok Traditional Market Near Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek [PIEF Foreign Reporter]

 

Autumn is here, and the best way to celebrate as the weather cools is to take advantage of the most fruitful harvest of the growing season as we enjoy the locally-grown food, prepare heartier recipes and incorporate local flavors in our meal planning. So off we went to Tongbok Market, the biggest traditional market here in Pyeongtaek City to purchase some nutritious food and ingredients and of course, to experience Korean market culture. It’s a must-do at least once a week activity to buy local and freshly harvested produce at the farmer’s market section, dine in or take out some food at the restaurants, food stands, street food corners, and there are also several world markets and Asian grocery marts. This massive market is also very foreign and family friendly.

Visiting a traditional market is more than just buying our daily food supply, this is also a place to converse, learn and practice the language and culture of the locals. A place to dine and shop, meet-up and gather, watch some real cooking demonstrations, enjoy several events, listen to local music, learn and enjoy some arts, culture, fashion and so much more. Indeed, it is the very heart of the community. And that stays true as seen how the community adapts and cooperates to support economic sustainability amidst the pandemic.

In fact, generational restaurants and culture stores are thriving. You can easily spot a restaurant in every section of Tongbok Market and experience food culture. After walking around the market area as we looked for some summer noodle experience, we spotted Ma’ms Noodles (Ajumma Sun Galgukso) wherein, we ordered kalguksu (Korean knife-cut noodle soup), gongguksu (soy milk noodle soup), and poribap (mixed barley rice with veggies).

This type of dining experience was like a home cooked meal served with Ajumma’s love and smile, and some little stories and sweet praises. And before we finished our food, we requested patjuk (red bean porridge) for pojang (take out).

Afterwards, we checked some alleys around the marketplace and found a very trendy and cozy area. In a city where people and nature coexist, it is not a surprise that they named this old street, Youth Forest. Yes, we are still in Tongbok Traditional Market!

Here, you can feel a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. Young start-ups, emerging brands and modern entrepreneurs are budding like mushrooms on the old streets at Youth Forest in Tongbok Traditional Market making it one of the trendiest and liveliest corner in the area.

We had a wonderful coffee experience at Sweet 1981 Cafe. It was very cozy. The fragrance of freshly grounded coffee and the sweetness of artisan cakes fill the air. The fresh flowers on every table gave a hint of love stories waiting to be told.

The owner of this cafe is very sweet, friendly and accommodating. I even asked her the name of the flowers and there I knew how well-versed and passionate this young entrepreneur is with her venture.

It was daytime and raining when we visited this area so I am looking forward to experiencing its youthful vibe and energy in the evening. Until our next market adventures, see you!

This article is written by Sheena Solis a PIEF Foreign Reporter