Nov 9, 2026
A scarf vendor at Seoul's Namdaemun Market has become an unlikely celebrity, drawing crowds so large that police have been called to the scene and private security guards hired to maintain order. His popularity has also caught the attention of Korean entertainers, some of whom have visited his stall to meet him in person. The vendor has gone viral on social media for his witty remarks, playful interactions with customers and charismatic salesmanship. His growing fan base has earned him the nickname "Namdaemun idol," turning an ordinary scarf stall at one of Seoul's oldest traditional markets into an unexpected tourist attraction. The frenzy has become so intense that the vendor temporarily closed his stall on Thursday amid safety concerns after police were called to manage the crowds. When business resumed the following day, three private security guards were reportedly stationed outside the shop to help maintain order. Comedian Kim Hye-sun was among the latest celebrities to experience the phenomenon firsthand. In a video uploaded to her YouTube channel "Grace Sun" on Friday, Kim visite