Nampo has got to be one of my favorite areas in Busan. It’s got everything – food, clothes, cameras, cafes, temples, performances – you name it, it’s there. Whatever it is that you’re looking for, be it Obama socks or used books, you’ll find it in Nampo. That’s why, when a few months ago, I stumbled upon a vintage clothing labyrinth in Gukje Market, my heart exploded with a brand new love for Nampo-dong.

Gukje Market is an area that was established in the 1950s during the Korean war. Busan became home to thousands of refugees after they fled the war to the north, and Gukje became a place for those refugees to sell random wares and foreign goods. The market remains a bustling network of stalls and storefronts with everything from designer brands to recycled goods and housewares. In 2014, the market garnered even more popularity because of the film “Ode to My Father”, which is about a family who was torn apart by the Hungnam evacuation. The movie follows a family’s struggle to reunite with loved ones  and allows the viewer a glimpse into their lives while running a stall at Gukje Market. I won’t ruin the rest of the movie, so hop on over to Netflix and watch it. It’s subtitled in English, so the only obstacle you have to tackle is keeping your eyes free of tears long enough to read. Godspeed.

On to the vintage…

The first shop I came across is called Vintage Monroe.

This shop is packed from wall to wall with vintage and original/up-cycled pieces. The prices are what I’m used to back home. As a seasoned Goodwill patron, I was happy to find a vintage circle skirt for 5,000 Won (~$5). The store owner is super sweet and helpful, she’s also got ridiculously amazing style.

The next shop on my list is Bonetage Vintage.

Bonetage is really well organized and has a carefully selected collection. Their prices are fair, and keep a regularly-updated instagram, which is really dangerous if you’re trying to save money. They’ll bombard your feed with awesome outfits. You’ve been warned.

The next is actually a group of shops that all share the same building. There are lots of different stores – SZCO, Vintage Museum, Studio in #, Blue Jackson, Stripe & Check, and Vintage by Toop.

This group of shops offers a wide variety of things. You can find vintage, original pieces, art, handmade jewelry, and lots of other stuff. My favorite shops in Busan. Hands down.

The last shops on the list are also in the same building – Docomoto/Hasbeen and Vintage Classic.

I LOVE the selection in Hasbeen. A lot of the items are for men, but could be worn by anyone. The store has a pretty heavy Western (American West) feel, and all of the items are well-made, good quality items. Lots of cowhide and wool. Vintage classic is aimed more at the ladies and features a lot of higher-end items. The store is really well organized.

If you’re more into digging, there are TONS of smaller shops all around the area, most aren’t labeled “vintage”, but you can find some really good vintage items tucked away.

Getting there: take Jagalchi exit 7 and turn left at the first main road. Here’s a crude screenshot map of some of the shops (stars and flags) in relation to the subway.

Happy shopping!