Millak Raw Fish Center: How to Navigate Like a Local

Live seafood tanks lined up inside Millak Raw Fish Center, Busan

Busan truly pulses with life—and for an unforgettable seafood experience, Millak Raw Fish Center (민락회센터) is a must-visit.

This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s where Korea’s unique raw fish culture comes alive. Just steps from Gwangalli Beach, the center invites you to hand-pick your fish downstairs and enjoy it sashimi-style upstairs with a sea view.

Flatfish being held before preparation at a seafood market

The energy is exciting, but for first-timers, the system can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve put together this complete guide—so you can dive in like a local, avoid overpaying, and enjoy one of Busan’s most beloved seafood rituals.

What’s the Millak Raw Fish Center About?

Exterior view of the Millak Town seafood building near Gwangalli Beach

The Millak Raw Fish Center sits right at the end of our beautiful Gwangalli Beach. Importantly, it’s actually a collection of large seafood centers, not just one building. Most people head to the main one, often called Millak Town, which is a 10-story structure. Here’s how it works: the first floor is a bustling market where you pick your fish. Then, the upper floors (from the 2nd to the 10th) house restaurants, called “chojangjip (초장집),” and they’re the ones who prepare your selection right there.

Entrance to Millak Raw Fish Center with signs and seafood banners

This unique “buy-your-own-fish” system makes dining here truly special. You get to choose your exact fish, thereby ensuring it’s at its peak freshness. Plus, a little friendly banter with the vendors adds to the fun! You won’t find this kind of interactive dining experience just anywhere.

From Tank to Table at the Millak Raw Fish Center

A wide aisle inside a busy seafood market in Busan

Your adventure will begin on that captivating first floor of the market. You’ll likely feel a mix of excitement and a delightful overwhelm, surrounded by countless fish tanks. A tip for picking: don’t just eye the flappiest fish. In fact, calmer fish are often less stressed and can taste even better as sashimi. So, focus on clean, healthy-looking ones.

Live fish tanks at Millak Raw Fish Center filled with fresh local seafood

The “service (덤)” is where the real joy comes in. While fish prices are generally fixed, vendors here often compete by offering generous extras. Don’t hesitate to politely ask for a little something extra. You might even manage to get fresh sea squirts added to your order! It’s all part of the lively market banter, so embrace it.

Insider Tips: How to Get the Best Deal

A common concern for anyone visiting traditional markets is making sure you get a fair deal. Here’s how you can make sure you have a great experience at the Millak Raw Fish Center:

Navigating the Market Floor

First, know the system: the first floor is where you buy your fish, and the upper floors are for the restaurants (chojangjip) that prepare it. You pay for the fish separately from the “table setting fee” at the chojangjip. Next, embrace the “service (덤)” culture. Basic fish prices are usually fixed across stalls due to the “price-display system.” However, the real competition comes from “service,” which means extra freebies! Don’t be afraid to politely ask vendors, “서비스 많이 주세요! (Seo-bi-seu mani ju-se-yo! – “Please give lots of service!”)” or “덤 좀 주세요! (Deom jom ju-se-yo! – “Please give me some extra!”). They might add extra shrimp, a few shellfish, or even a small piece of another fish.

Millak Raw Fish Center seafood price list displayed on a market wall

Before committing, compare a few stalls. Take a moment to walk around and observe. You’ll notice which vendors seem friendly and which are already offering generous “service” to other customers. Pick a stall where you feel comfortable and get good vibes. There’s no pressure to buy from the first place you stop. Lastly, don’t feel pressured by “Hogaekhaengwi (Soliciting).” Some vendors might be quite eager to get your attention. This “hogaekhaengwi” is a part of the lively market atmosphere. Just politely decline if you’re not interested, or simply smile and keep walking until you find a vendor you connect with. The Suyeong-gu Office is actively working to minimize aggressive soliciting, so it’s generally not a big issue, but it helps to be prepared.

Indoor seafood market scene with live tanks and yellow baskets

Confirming Your Order & Costs

Since basic prices are often set, your “bargaining” power comes more from negotiating for more “service” (extra fish/seafood) rather than a lower price on the main fish itself. Finally, confirm chojangjip fees upfront. When you go upstairs, quickly confirm the “table setting fee (상차림 비용)” per person at your chosen chojangjip before you sit down. While the range (5,000-7,000 KRW) is common, a quick confirmation avoids any surprises. Also, ask about maeuntang (spicy fish stew) pricing if you plan to order it.

By following these tips, you’ll not only get a great deal but also enjoy a more authentic and confident experience!

The Chojangjip Experience: Savory Delights with a View

Window seat view overlooking Gwangalli Beach at Millak Raw Fish Center restaurant

Basket in hand, head upstairs to one of the chojangjip within the center. These restaurants charge a small “table setting fee” (상차림 비용), typically 5,000 to 7,000 KRW per person. They’ll expertly prepare your fish and provide all the essential condiments. These include chojang (spicy chili sauce), fresh greens for wrapping, and basic side dishes.

Fresh fish in a blue bucket ready to be prepared

Full seafood table setup with sauces, greens, sannakji, and banchan

Mixed slices of red and white sashimi on a large white plate at Millak Raw Fish Center

The Spicy Fish Stew (Maeuntang, 매운탕) is usually an absolute highlight. It uses the head and bones of your chosen fish. This incredibly rich, spicy, and warming dish perfectly complements the fresh sashimi. Many places let you add hand-pulled noodles (sujebi), which is highly recommended! The maeuntang is always incredibly flavorful and the perfect ending to the meal.

Maeuntang (spicy fish stew) boiling hot at a chojangjip near Millak Raw Fish Center

Try to snag a window seat, and the view will truly amaze you. Eating fresh sashimi while gazing at the Gwangandaegyo Bridge, sparkling at night, is an unforgettable Busan moment. Plus, the sashimi itself is usually generously thick-sliced, which gives it a fantastic chewiness that many really appreciate.

A slice of raw fish being dipped into Korean spicy chojang sauce

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Best Time to Visit: For a calmer experience, weekdays in the morning or early afternoon are best. Weekends and evenings, conversely, become very crowded, especially with local crowds.
Don’t Be Shy with Vendors: Vendors can be enthusiastic, but this is simply market culture here. Be polite, compare stalls, and confidently ask for “service.”
Consider Takeaway: You can also buy your fish and enjoy it back at your accommodation. Just remember, however, Millak Riverside Park nearby now prohibits alcohol.
Seasonal Delights: Always ask your vendor about seasonal offerings! For example, Spring features flatfish and webfoot octopus. Summer brings squid and sea bass. Autumn boasts gizzard shad and crab. Finally, Winter is great for oysters and cod.

Beyond the Center: Gwangalli’s Charm Near the Millak Raw Fish Center

The market’s prime location really enhances the whole visit. Millak Riverside Park sits right next door – it’s a lovely spot for a stroll, where you can admire the iconic Gwangandaegyo Bridge. While alcohol is no longer allowed, it’s perfect for relaxing after your meal and soaking in the beautiful views.

Of course, the vibrant Gwangalli Beach is just steps away. A leisurely walk along its sandy shore, especially at night when the bridge lights up in a dazzling display, feels truly magical.

Epilogue: A True Busan Gem – The Millak Raw Fish Center

A trip to the Millak Raw Fish Center offers more than just a meal; it’s an authentic slice of Busan life. Incredibly fresh seafood, a unique dining system, a lively market atmosphere, and stunning Gwangalli views combine to make it a true highlight of a visit here. Yes, it can be loud and busy, but that’s part of its charm – it’s a living, breathing market experience.

Thick-cut sashimi from Millak Raw Fish Center held by chopsticks

If you’re seeking fantastic, generously portioned sashimi at a reasonable price, and want to truly immerse yourself in Busan’s local culture, then a visit here is an absolute must. It will undoubtedly make you exclaim, “This is why I came to Busan!”