Korea's largest fish market in Nampo-dong. Iconic Busan experience with fresh sashimi and seafood stalls.

About Jagalchi Fish Market

Jagalchi Fish Market is the largest seafood market in South Korea and one of the most famous in all of Asia, stretching along the Busan waterfront in the Nampo-dong area. The main building, a distinctive modern structure designed to resemble a seagull in flight, houses multiple floors of fresh seafood stalls where you can select live fish, octopus, sea cucumber, and dozens of other species, then have them prepared sashimi-style at tables overlooking the harbor.

The outdoor market along the adjacent streets adds to the spectacle, with elderly halmeoni (grandmothers) selling their catch directly from stalls by the water as they have for generations. The market's ground floor is a wholesale fish auction in the early morning, while the upper floors operate as restaurant-style sashimi dining rooms where the fish-to-table journey takes minutes.

The surrounding Nampo-dong and Jung-gu waterfront area is one of Busan's most historically rich neighborhoods. BIFF Square, named after the Busan International Film Festival, is a famous street food destination known for hotteok (sweet seed-filled pancakes) and ssiat hotteok. Yongdusan Park, accessible by elevator from street level, offers a hilltop panorama and the 120-meter Busan Tower. The nearby Gukje International Market sells everything from Korean snacks to vintage goods.

Nearby Landmarks

BIFF Square Gukje Market Yongdusan Park Busan Tower Lotte Department Store

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost ₩18,000-₩25,000 (~\$13-\$19)
Time 25-35 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost ₩13,000-₩20,000 (~\$10-\$15)
Time 25-35 minutes

Outside arrivals

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Light Rail to Sasang, transfer to Metro Line 1, ride to Jagalchi station. Market is a 5-minute walk.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi ₩18,000-₩25,000 (~\$13-\$19) 25-35 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare ₩13,000-₩20,000 (~\$10-\$15) 25-35 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Busan Metro runs until midnight and Jagalchi station is on Line 1. The market building closes around 10:00 PM but surrounding seafood restaurants stay open later. After metro hours, taxis from the airport cost ₩20,000-25,000. The Nampo-dong area has nightlife that keeps taxis circulating.

Luggage Tips

Jagalchi station has coin lockers for temporary storage while exploring the market. The area is flat along the waterfront. If combining the market with a visit to BIFF Square and Gukje Market, expect to walk on bustling, crowded streets — travel light or store bags at the station.

Accessibility

Jagalchi metro station has elevator access. The main market building has an elevator between floors. However, the outdoor market area has uneven surfaces and crowded aisles that can be challenging for wheelchair users. The waterfront promenade outside the market is accessible.