Best Store in Seoul for Kitchenware & Must-Bring Condiments?

Question

Hey everyone!

I'm traveling to Seoul for a business trip and will be staying there for a week. During my stay, I'd love to pick up some quality kitchenware. Does anyone have recommendations for the best stores in the Seoul area where I can find traditional and modern kitchen tools?

Also, since I love cooking, I'm thinking of bringing some of my favorite condiments from home. What are some must-bring items, or is there anything I should definitely buy locally instead? Any advice would be much appreciated!

Thanks in advance! 🙏

ariane · Answer

I'd head to Insadong for kitchenware, specifically a place called Ssamziegil. It's a multi-story artisan market where you can find handcrafted brass chopsticks and ceramic soy sauce dishes that you won't see at typical tourist shops. The prices are fair for the quality, and you can haggle a bit if you're buying multiple pieces.

For condiments, skip bringing your own sesame oil. The stuff here is noticeably richer, especially from a brand like Ottogi or Beksul, and you can grab a bottle at any Emart or Lotte Mart for around 5,000 won. That's one thing I'd definitely grab locally.

monja · Answer

honestly if you're near Myeongdong, check out the kitchen floor at Shinsegae Department Store - it's bougie but they have really nice traditional brassware and modern knives. for condiments, def grab some doenjang (soybean paste) from a local market, it's a totally different beast than the exported stuff. don't bother bringing hot sauce from home, just get gochujang here it's cheap and everywhere

heilwig · Answer

For kitchen stuff, check out the underground shopping arcade at Express Bus Terminal station, tons of shops with proper Korean cookware like earthenware ttukbaegi and stainless steel bowls. As for condiments, honestly just buy gochugaru and ssamjang here, they're way fresher than anything you'd bring from home.

Neu aus Seoul