Gwangjang Market Again Faces Price Gouging Controversy! A Bottle of Water Nearly Double the Market Price

Seoul – Gwangjang Market, a beloved destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Korean street food and traditional goods, is once again facing scrutiny over alleged price gouging. A recent incident, documented by a popular YouTuber who has lived in South Korea for 13 years, has brought renewed attention to claims that vendors are overcharging visitors.

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This is the first time I've been charged for water in Korea.

The YouTuber, identified as Seo Ye-eun (서예은), shared a video detailing her experience accompanying a Russian friend to the market. When they ordered drinks, they were charged 2,000 won (approximately $1.50 USD) for a 500ml bottle of water. Seo Ye-eun expressed surprise, noting that this was the first time she had encountered a restaurant or stall charging separately for water in South Korea, especially at a price significantly higher than the roughly 1,100 won found in convenience stores.

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The price of a 500ml bottle of water is about 1,100 won in convenience stores.

This alleged overcharging has sparked outrage among South Korean netizens, who flooded the video's comment section with criticism. Many condemned the practice as blatant price gouging and urged tourists to patronize other markets. Some even expressed shame and disappointment, calling for Gwangjang Market to address these issues. This incident follows a similar report last November where a vendor allegedly inflated the price of blood sausage by adding extra ingredients without consent. Such occurrences threaten the reputation of Gwangjang Market as a welcoming and fair place for all visitors.

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Gwangjang Market's price gouging is too severe.