Oseong Market: Sokcho's Seafood and Street Food Haven

Oseong Market (오성시장) is one of Sokcho's main traditional markets, located in the centre of the city. It is smaller and more local in character than the nearby Jungang Market, which caters more to tourists. Oseong is where Sokcho residents shop for daily groceries, fresh fish, dried seafood, and local specialty products. The market has a covered alley structure with a mix of fresh produce vendors, fishmongers, and prepared food stalls.

Sokcho's identity as a coastal city on the East Sea has always been tied to its fishing industry. The waters off Sokcho are rich in squid, crab, pollack, and sea cucumber, and markets like Oseong have served as distribution points for the catch since the mid-20th century. Sokcho also has a unique demographic history — it absorbed many North Korean refugees after the Korean War, and their culinary traditions, including specific ways of preparing sundae and crab dishes, became embedded in local food culture.

The street food in the market alleys is the main draw: Sokcho-style sundae (blood sausage stuffed with glass noodles and seafood) is different from the Seoul variety and worth trying. Fresh gejang (raw crab marinated in soy sauce or chili) is another local specialty. The fish section displays a wide variety of East Sea catches, including live squid and large snow crabs during crab season (autumn–winter). Haggling is acceptable and expected.

The market is busiest in the morning, particularly on weekdays when local restaurants stock up. Sokcho-style sundae is sold by multiple stalls and costs around 3,000–5,000 KRW per portion. The market is a short walk from Sokcho intercity bus terminal. Combine with a visit to the nearby Abai Village, just across the lagoon channel, for a fuller picture of Sokcho's culture.