Located in Jongno, central Seoul, Changsin-dong Stationery and Toys Wholesale Market — more widely known as Changsin-dong Wangu Alley — is an appealing place not only for the children, but also for many “kidults,” or adults with interests similar to children.
This is a place where multiple stationery stores and toy shops are aligned along a portion of a street stretching some 300 meters, beckoning visitors with colorful figurines, appealing cards, cute costumes and charming items to entertain children all day long.
The market is also popular among K-pop fans, who come to browse through merchandise of their favorite idols.
“There are pop-up stores and toy shops in my country as well. But, it is really cool to see the stationery shops next to each other along the entire street,” a Taiwanese fan of Ive surnamed Shih said, sharing her Changsin-dong market story. "It’s interesting to see the shops have some items that do not overlap as well, making me explore multiple stores back and forth for quite some time."
Stores are visited by families who come to buy a present for their children, as well as those who need to get school supplies and adults in need of a quick trip down memory lane with items that evoke nostalgia.
Many of these stationery goods are cheap, and visitors hand over their credit cards and quench their desire without much worry. On the other hand, those coming just to browse would really want to stay alert to avoid impulse purchases.
Though the individual shops have their own charms, luring guests with countless items ranging from animation character-themed pens and alarm clocks to spoons, chopsticks, spinning tops, water guns, robots, cars and dolls, Seungjin Toy is considered the landmark of this wholesale market. Lego lovers visit the shop not only to grab a toy, but also to take photos in front of the shop’s huge bear and gorilla statues.
Proving the market is a sought-after destination for many kids, the small snack shops are hidden between the toy stores, displaying candy, gummies, cookies and more.
A visit to a traditional Korean markets is a must for travelers, first-time or otherwise. These markets offer the holidaymakers a chance to experience some of the authentic Korea lifestyles, explore lesser-known areas in the city and window-shop diverse merchandises to enrich their travel experiences in Seoul. The Korea Herald introduces some Seoul-based street and flea markets other than the most popular Gwangjang Market. — Ed.
