[This article is written by a JDC Junior Journalist. The JDC Junior Journalist program is an educational project sponsored by Jeju Free International City Development Corporation (JDC). JDC Junior Journalist articles are only briefly edited by mentors before publishing.]

The Five-day market is a traditional marketplace where people can buy assorted items and snacks. People can find five-day markets all over Korea. The Five-day maket opens every five days, hence the name. In 15th century, it was held every ten days.But when Korea underwent a Japanese invasion in 1592, it began to be held every five days.

On November 2nd, the five-day market opened up. Many islanders, expatriates, and travelers went shopping. The market was abound with people and the smells of vegetables, fruit, and fish.

Lee Jung-ja, a shopkeeper, sells homegrown vegetables and has worked in the market for over ten years. She said, “I wish I can sell many vegetables and that people buy my vegetables more. There are many people, but there are many shops too. So I can’t sell very well.” According to her, the city halls grants permits to vendors in the 'Grandma Market' to women over the age of 65.

Many people come to shop, but some come to experience Jeju’s culture. Sang hyun park, originally from Seoul but now a Jeju resident said, “I usually come to the market to buy necessaries, but there’s another reason why I come here: I want to experience Jeju’s culture. The five-day market is really diffirent from grocery stores. If I had to sum up the five day market in one sentence, I would say that the it’s like Jeju sentensive.”

The Jeju traditional five-day market is a place to experience Jeju. The shopkeepers and customers talk to each other and they have fun. The five-day market is full of laughter and kindness. It is a must see destination. Come to Five Day Market.