If you’re a fashion student, designer, tailor, or simply someone who loves DIY sewing projects, Dongdaemun Market in Seoul is one of the best places in the world to source fabric and sewing materials. Known as a mecca for fashion manufacturing, Dongdaemun is more than just a shopping district — it’s a full ecosystem of wholesale and retail vendors offering everything from high-quality fabric to zippers, lace, and industrial machines.
But for international visitors, especially those who don’t speak Korean, navigating this vast area can feel overwhelming. There are multiple buildings, each specializing in different types of goods, and many open at different hours. This guide breaks down exactly where to buy fabric and sewing supplies in Dongdaemun, by zone, with clear explanations of what you’ll find in each location.
What Is Dongdaemun Market?
Dongdaemun Market (동대문 시장) is one of Seoul’s largest commercial districts for textiles, fashion, and sewing materials. Unlike department stores, this is not a place for finished clothes — it’s a place where fashion is made. Designers, students, and manufacturers all come here to purchase raw materials and components.
The market is divided into several large buildings and alleys, each serving a specific purpose. Some buildings focus on fabrics, while others specialize in sewing notions, accessories, tools, or industrial sewing equipment. The area runs roughly from Dongdaemun Station to Jongno 5-ga, with most fabric-focused buildings clustered along Cheonggyecheon-ro.
Best Places to Buy Fabric in Dongdaemun
Dongdaemun Fabric Market (DDP Shopping Town)
Korean Name: 동대문 종합상가 (Doota Shopping Town, previously known as Dongdaemun Fabric Market)
Location: Connected to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, Exit 8
Floors: B1 to 5F
Hours: Most vendors operate from 9am to 6pm (closed Sundays)
This is the most well-known destination for fabrics. The market is arranged by category:
B1 & 1F: Cotton, linen, knitwear, rayon
2F: Suits, wool, polyester blends
3F: Lace, sequins, bridal fabrics
4F: Denim, leather, special prints
5F: Sample shops and cutting services
Many vendors sell by the yard or meter, and you can also request swatches. While most signage is in Korean, many vendors are used to foreign customers and will help with basic English or gestures. Bring cash or a Korean card for easier checkout.
Where to Buy Zippers, Buttons, and Sewing Supplies
Dongdaemun N Pyeonghwa Fashion Town (부자재상가)
Korean Name: 동대문 N 평화시장 (also called Bujaejae Sangga = Notions Market)
Location: Near Dongdaemun Station, Exit 8 or 9
What’s here: Notions, hardware, embellishments, and tools
Hours: 9am to 6pm (closed Sundays)
This is where you’ll find everything beyond fabric:
Zippers of all sizes and colors
Buttons, snaps, magnetic clasps
Sewing threads, tapes, ribbons
Hook-and-eye closures, buckles, velcro
Craft tools, scissors, rulers
Beads, appliqués, patches
It’s worth walking through each row because prices and styles vary from booth to booth. You can purchase small amounts as a hobbyist or place bulk orders if you’re producing designs.
For Leather, Upholstery, and Heavy Fabrics
Seun Sangga and Euljiro Alley
Location: Euljiro 3-ga to 4-ga Station
What’s here: Industrial materials, leather, upholstery fabrics
Audience: Advanced hobbyists, costume designers, and custom furniture makers
While not officially part of Dongdaemun Market, Euljiro’s alleys are closely connected and can be reached by foot in 10–15 minutes. This area is more specialized and better for sourcing heavy-duty materials or non-apparel fabrics like vinyl, faux leather, and outdoor textiles. Some shops also sell industrial sewing machines.
For Beginners and Hobby Sewists
DDP Design Lab Basement Pop-Ups
Location: Basement floor of Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
What’s here: DIY kits, fabrics in bundles, pre-cut sets, sewing books
Ideal for: Tourists or beginners who want curated materials
Bonus: Some shops sell English-language sewing books and Korean patterns
This is not wholesale-level pricing, but it’s a good option if you’re just starting out or want to bring back small creative gifts.
For Bulk Orders or Sourcing as a Brand
If you’re sourcing materials for a fashion brand or planning to produce a line of garments, many vendors at Dongdaemun accept bulk orders. Most bulk purchases involve a short negotiation. You can ask:
“최소 주문 수량은 얼마예요?” (What is the minimum order quantity?)
“견본 받을 수 있어요?” (Can I get a sample?)
“해외 배송 가능해요?” (Do you offer international shipping?)
Most vendors don’t speak fluent English, so using a Korean friend, interpreter, or translation app like Papago will help significantly.
Tips for Shopping in Dongdaemun as a Foreigner
Bring cash: Some vendors don’t accept credit cards, especially for smaller purchases
Use Papago or Google Translate: Helpful for price, quantity, and material inquiries
Take photos of booth signs: In case you want to return
Don’t be afraid to ask: Most vendors are friendly and used to international customers
Shop early: Avoid going late in the day as some shops close early or restock after lunch
Use the elevators wisely: Some buildings have confusing layouts — escalators may not reach all floors
Pack lightly: You’ll be carrying bolts or rolls if you make big purchases
How to Get There
Nearest Stations:
Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (Line 2, 4, 5)
Dongdaemun Station (Line 1, 4)
Euljiro 4-ga Station (Line 2, 5)
It’s best to go early and plan to spend at least half a day exploring. Wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing a tote or wheeled bag if you plan to buy a lot.
Where to Book Accommodations Nearby
If you’re staying in Seoul primarily to shop at Dongdaemun, here are a few foreigner-friendly hotels within walking distance:
JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square – Upscale with English-speaking staff
Hotel Skypark Kingstown Dongdaemun – Mid-range and convenient for market access
Hostel HARU – Budget-friendly with great city views
Staying nearby can help you visit multiple times and carry materials back to your room between rounds.
Dongdaemun Is a Global Destination for Fabric Lovers
Whether you’re sourcing textiles for your brand, buying lace for your wedding dress, or simply stocking up on supplies for your next sewing project, Dongdaemun Market is a dream come true for anyone interested in fabrics and fashion.
From the massive fabric floors of DDP Shopping Town to the zipper-filled aisles of Bujaejae Sangga, this market offers an unbeatable variety — and it’s all accessible even if you don’t speak Korean. Bring your curiosity, your creative spirit, and maybe a few reusable bags — you’re about to step into one of the world’s most inspiring places for makers and designers.