Dongdaemun-gu is one of 25 cities, counties and districts in Seoul. It has 15 neighborhoods (15 dong) and 353,511 registered residents (September 2026). The most populous neighborhood is Jangan 1-dong with 37,018.
15neighborhoods
353,511residents
Landmark stamp: Seoul Yangnyeongsi Market
Fulfilling an essential commercial role, this specialized traditional market gathers merchants trading an immense variety of medicinal herbs, roots, and health preparations.
History
Carrying on the heritage of the historic Bojewon clinic, this commercial area thrives as a central hub trading herbal medicines.
What to see
Walking through the alleys, visitors can instantly smell rich soothing aromas rising from dried angelica roots and licorice herbs.
Visitor tip
Visitors can relax with a warm herbal foot bath and sip aromatic traditional tea at the nearby cultural center.
Food, festivals and stories of Dongdaemun-gu
Local food
Yongdu-dong Jjukkumi Alley attracts food lovers with its spicy and savory stir-fried baby octopus cooked with seasoned bean sprouts.
Local story
Legend holds that seolleongtang soup originated from the nourishing beef broth shared between the king and farmers after agricultural rituals.
Festivals
The Seoul Yangnyeongsi Herb Medicine Culture Festival is held annually, offering immersive experiences with traditional Korean medicinal herbs and wellness.
Did you know?
Hongneung Arboretum is a tranquil urban research forest that preserves diverse botanical species and provides a peaceful woodland walking trail.
Neighborhoods of Dongdaemun-gu (15)
Every neighborhood has its own stamp in Random Passport. Tap “Land here” to fly straight to one.
Sinseol-dong신설동dong · 16,443 residents
Name: The name originated from Saemal, meaning a newly established village, which was officially organized during the early Joseon Dynasty.
Food: Visitors to Seoul Folk Flea Market can browse through vintage curiosities and enjoy traditional, comforting bowls of hot Korean soup.
Photo spot: The waterside walkway where Seongbukcheon Stream meets Cheonggyecheon Stream offers charming urban angles framed by flowing water and quaint bridges.
Name: The neighborhood earned its name from the presence of Seonnongdan Altar, where kings once conducted sacred rituals praying for abundant harvests.
Story: Legend says Joseon kings shared rich beef broth with commoners after performing farming rituals at Seonnongdan Altar, giving birth to seolleongtang.
Food: Entering the alleys of Seoul Gyeongdong Herbal Medicine Market surrounds visitors with deep, earthy aromas of traditional roots and medicinal herbs.
Photo spot: The University of Seoul campus boasts a picturesque birch grove and warm brick buildings, creating peaceful settings for photography.
Fun fact: Bordering Baebongsan Neighborhood Park, residents can easily enjoy relaxing strolls along elevated wooden forest boardwalks to take in fresh air.
Story: The hill became known as Filming Studio Hill because a busy complex actively produced classic Korean motion pictures during the 1960s.
Fun fact: The local antique district features diverse shops displaying historic Korean ceramics, traditional wooden furniture, and captivating folk artifacts.
Photo spot: In springtime, blooming cherry trees form a continuous pink canopy along the Jungnangcheon embankment, creating breathtaking vistas for lovely photos.
Fun fact: Tree-shaded pathways and well-equipped outdoor recreational areas line the riverbank embankment, offering pleasant facilities for neighborhood fitness.
Photo spot: The riverside walking path along Jungnangcheon Stream is lined with blossoming trees, offering a scenic background for capturing seasonal photos.
Fun fact: Embraced by the northern ridge of Baebongsan Mountain, the quiet residential area provides easy access to refreshing woodland walking trails.
Name: The name comes from Imun, an old wooden security gate erected at the village entrance to protect residents against thieves.
Food: Alleys near Hankuk University of Foreign Studies are packed with authentic, multicultural eateries showcasing traditional dishes from around the world.
Story: Folklore tells of nighttime guards walking through the neighborhood striking wooden instruments to keep watch and reassure resting villagers.
Photo spot: Railroad crossings and curving neighborhood alleyways harmonize together, producing a warm and nostalgic backdrop for everyday urban scenes.
Local notes were drafted with the help of AI from public information. Population: Ministry of the Interior and Safety resident registration, September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.