The rise in Seoul apartment prices has slowed due to the government’s tightened loan regulations. While transaction volumes have decreased and unsold listings are accumulating, large-sized apartments in Seoul are still setting record-high prices. Experts predict that demand from wealthy individuals, driven by the relative scarcity of large apartments, will further increase their popularity.According to the Monthly KB Housing Price Trends report by KB Real Estate on the 24th, the average sale price of large apartments in Seoul with a dedicated area exceeding 135㎡ was reported at 3.04661 billion KRW last month. This represents a 6% (172.13 million KRW) increase from October last year (2.87448 billion KRW). For the first time since KB began compiling this data in 2016, the average price has exceeded 3 billion KRW. The upward trend has continued for 16 consecutive months since June last year.This trend is also evident in the monthly apartment sale price index by area. Last month, the sale price index for large apartments in Seoul was 105.49, the highest since the statistics began in 2016. Compared to October of last year (100.84), it increased by 4.62%. In comparison, the price increases for other apartment categories during the same period were more moderate: 2.1% for medium-large apartments (102㎡ to 135㎡), 3% for medium apartments (85㎡ to 102㎡), 2.52% for small-medium apartments (60㎡ to 85㎡), and 1.4% for small apartments (under 60㎡).                                                   

Tucked along the banks of the Han River, Ttukseom Hangang Park is a serene oasis in the heart of Seoul. With its lush green spaces, recreational facilities, and stunning views of the city skyline, Ttukseom Hangang Park offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle and bustle, attracting locals and visitors alike who are eager to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Seoul’s riverside.  A Green Retreat in the City Ttukseom Hangang Park spans over 840,000 square meters, making it one of the largest parks along the Han River. Its expansive lawns, shaded picnic areas, and well-maintained walking paths provide the perfect setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply unwind with a book under a tree, the park’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal retreat from the city’s fast-paced life.  Recreational Activities and Facilities The park is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of recreational facilities for people of all ages. Cycling enthusiasts can take advantage of the scenic bike paths that wind along the river, while sports lovers can enjoy the park’s basketball courts, soccer fields, and badminton courts. For those interested in water sports, Ttukseom Hangang Park features a water sports complex where visitors can try their hand at windsurfing, kayaking, and wakeboarding. During the summer months, the park's swimming pool and water play areas are popular destinations for families seeking to cool off from the heat. In the winter, the park transforms into a wonderland with an ice skating rink, offering a fun and festive experience for all ages.  Cultural and Entertainment Events Ttukseom Hangang Park is also a vibrant cultural hub, hosting various events and festivals throughout the year. The park’s outdoor performance stages regularly feature live music, dance performances, and cultural shows, providing entertainment for visitors as they enjoy the natural surroundings. The park is particularly lively during the annual Seoul Lantern Festival and the Hangang Summer Festival, which draw crowds with their dazzling displays and engaging activities.  Stunning Views and Natural Beauty One of the highlights of Ttukseom Hangang Park is its breathtaking views of the Han River and the Seoul skyline. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas from the park’s observation deck, which offers a stunning vantage point to watch the sunset over the city. The park’s proximity to the river also allows for picturesque walks along the water’s edge, where visitors can enjoy the calming sound of the river flowing by. The park’s natural beauty is enhanced by its diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. In the spring, the park’s cherry blossom trees burst into bloom, creating a spectacular display of pink blossoms that attract photographers and nature enthusiasts from all over Seoul.  Conclusion Ttukseom Hangang Park is a beloved destination that offers a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and culture. Its diverse attractions and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Seoul. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a place to connect with nature, Ttukseom Hangang Park promises an unforgettable experience that highlights the charm and allure of the Han River.

When we think of Korean food, dishes like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap often come to mind. However, beyond the well-known favorites, there are many traditional dishes that are lesser-known but just as delicious. One of these hidden gems is Gondre Rice (곤드레밥), a simple yet flavorful meal deeply rooted in Korean culinary history.  What is Gondre Rice? Gondre Rice, or "Gondrebap," is a traditional Korean dish made with gondre (also known as *Cirsium setidens*), a wild leafy vegetable that grows in the highlands of Korea, particularly in the Gangwon Province. The vegetable has a distinctive earthy aroma and a slightly bitter taste, which becomes mellow when cooked. Gondre is often compared to spinach or other leafy greens but with a unique flavor of its own. This dish is created by cooking rice together with the gondre leaves, allowing the flavor of the vegetable to infuse the rice. It’s usually served with a side of soy sauce mixed with sesame oil, adding an extra layer of savory richness to the meal.  Why is Gondre Rice Special? 1. Nutritional Value: Gondre is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly iron and calcium. It has long been valued for its health benefits, including aiding digestion and improving liver function. 2. A Taste of Simplicity: The beauty of Gondre Rice lies in its simplicity. The clean, fresh taste of the gondre combined with plain rice creates a satisfying and healthy meal that doesn’t need any complicated seasonings or ingredients. 3. A Traditional Dish from Gangwon Province: Gondre Rice is most popular in the Gangwon Province, where the wild gondre plant grows naturally in the mountains. While it’s becoming more available throughout Korea, it’s still considered a regional specialty, and many visitors to the province seek out this dish as part of their culinary experience. 4. A Connection to Nature: Because gondre is a foraged wild vegetable, Gondre Rice is a dish that connects people to the natural environment of Korea. It reminds us of Korea’s long history of using wild plants in its cuisine, creating dishes that are both healthy and sustainable.  How to Enjoy Gondre Rice Gondre Rice is traditionally served with a simple soy sauce dip, but it can also be paired with a variety of side dishes (banchan), such as kimchi, seasoned vegetables, and fermented soybean paste (doenjang). It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a humble meal on its own or as part of a larger spread of Korean food. In many restaurants, especially in the Gangwon region, Gondre Rice is served in a traditional stone pot, which keeps the rice warm and creates a crispy layer of rice at the bottom, known as nurungji—a favorite for many diners.  Where to Try Gondre Rice Though it originates from Gangwon Province, Gondre Rice is becoming more popular in other parts of Korea. You can find it in specialty restaurants that focus on traditional Korean dishes or even in some Korean BBQ restaurants as a healthier alternative to white rice. If you're visiting Gangwon Province, be sure to try Gondre Rice at a local eatery, where you'll get the freshest gondre and the most authentic experience. Some restaurants even offer meals that feature multiple dishes made with gondre, showcasing the versatility of this unique vegetable.  Conclusion While it may not be as famous as some other Korean dishes, Gondre Rice offers a delicious and nutritious taste of Korea’s culinary heritage. It’s a simple yet hearty dish that highlights the natural flavors of the wild gondre vegetable, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore more traditional Korean foods. Next time you’re in Korea, or if you find a Korean restaurant that serves Gondre Rice, don’t miss the chance to try this hidden gem. It’s a perfect example of how Korean cuisine finds beauty in simplicity and its deep connection to nature.Gondre Rice is a wonderful introduction to the lesser-known side of Korean cuisine, offering both health benefits and a deliciously earthy flavor.