Sokcho Jungang Market (Sokcho Tourist Fish Market)

Sokcho Jungang Market (Sokcho Tourist Fish Market) is the main market of Sokcho, nestled between Seoraksan Mountain and the East Sea. It's adjacent to 'Abai Village,' formed by North Korean refugees from Hamgyeong Province after the Korean War — which is why this market uniquely serves Hamgyeong-style sundae (blood sausage) and squid sundae that you won't find elsewhere. The nationally famous draw is 'Manseok Dakgangjeong' — fried chicken tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce. The line is long but worth the wait. Sokcho dakgangjeong has a different texture and flavor from Seoul fried chicken, and this market is where it originated. The market is also packed with East Coast specialties: sundae, squid sundae, grilled squid, and mulhoe (cold raw fish soup). Many visitors stop here before or after hiking Seoraksan. The second floor has sit-down seafood restaurants. Morning visits get the freshest selection, and the gaetbae (small ferry) to Abai Village departs near the market.