Market Meltdown: Overcharging Scandal Ignites Legal Battle at Gwangjang Market

A localized controversy over alleged overcharging at Seoul's historic Gwangjang Market has aggressively escalated, moving from consumer complaints to a full-blown legal confrontation among the merchant groups themselves. The conflict centers around accusations of price gouging targeting tourists, which have severely damaged the market's reputation as a cherished culinary and cultural destination. The situation reached a breaking point with the Gwangjang Market Merchants' Association announcing its intention to file a significant W300 million (approximately $204,119) lawsuit against the similarly named Gwangjang Traditional Market Merchants' Association. This legal action, seeking substantial damages, underscores the deep rift and competitive tension within the marketplace's governing bodies. The core of the dispute lies in the jurisdictional and representational claims of the two associations. The Gwangjang Market Merchants' Association represents around 200 stores operating within the main, traditional building structure. In contrast, the Gwangjang Traditional Market Merchants' Association oversees a broader array of roughly 2,000 affiliated merchants, vendors, and stalls across the entire market area. This distinction has become crucial as the scandal has unfolded, with each group attempting to deflect blame and assert control over the market’s response to the damaging allegations. This internal struggle is more than a trivial administrative squabble; it reflects a serious crisis of governance and accountability in one of Seoul's most vital tourist hubs. The prolonged public display of discord further erodes consumer confidence, not just in Gwangjang Market, but potentially in traditional markets across Seoul. The market's reputation, once built on authentic Korean cuisine and bustling local commerce, is now at risk. The legal battle is forcing a reluctant but necessary conversation about transparency in pricing, the quality of tourist experiences, and the need for unified, ethical merchant standards. This incident serves as a clear warning to all major South Korean tourist centers: a lack of internal oversight and accountability can quickly lead to public and legal backlash, jeopardizing long-term viability. Discover the true cost of unchecked market practices and how this legal action will redefine tourist commerce in Seoul.