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㎡).                                                   

Hongdae, short for Hongik University Street, is a vibrant and youthful neighborhood located in the Mapo-gu district of Seoul, South Korea. Known for its dynamic arts scene, indie music culture, and lively nightlife, Hongdae is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Here’s an introduction to Hongdae: Cultural and Artistic Hub1. Art and Creativity : Hongdae is renowned for its artistic atmosphere, thanks in part to the presence of Hongik University, which is famous for its fine arts programs. The area is filled with murals, street art, and independent galleries showcasing the work of local artists.2. Performances and Festivals : The streets of Hongdae often come alive with impromptu performances by indie bands, buskers, and street dancers. The Hongdae Free Market, held on weekends, is a popular event where artists and craftsmen sell their handmade goods and perform live music.Shopping1. Fashion and Accessories : Hongdae offers a diverse shopping experience with numerous boutiques, vintage stores, and street vendors selling trendy clothes, accessories, and unique items. The area is particularly popular with young fashion enthusiasts.2. Beauty and Cosmetics : Many Korean beauty and cosmetics brands have stores in Hongdae, offering a wide range of skincare and makeup products.Food and Drink1. Street Food : Hongdae’s streets are lined with food stalls offering a variety of delicious street food such as tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), odeng (fish cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and more.2. Cafés and Restaurants : The neighborhood boasts an eclectic mix of cafés and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Korean dishes to international cuisine, as well as themed cafés that offer unique dining experiences.3. Nightlife : Hongdae is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and pubs catering to a young crowd. The area is known for its lively club scene, with venues playing everything from K-pop to EDM and hip-hop. Attractions1. Trick Eye Museum : This interactive museum offers 3D artworks that create optical illusions, allowing visitors to become part of the art. It’s a fun and popular attraction in Hongdae.2. Hongdae Mural Street : Also known as Picasso’s Street, this area is famous for its colorful murals and graffiti, making it a great spot for photos and exploring street art. Entertainment1. Live Music and Clubs : Hongdae is a hotspot for live music, with many clubs and venues featuring performances by indie bands and DJs. Popular clubs like M2 and Cocoon are well-known for their energetic atmosphere and music.2. Karaoke and Game Rooms : For those looking for indoor entertainment, Hongdae offers numerous karaoke (noraebang) venues and game rooms where visitors can enjoy singing and playing arcade games.AccessibilityHongdae is easily accessible by public transportation. The Hongik University Station (Seoul Subway Line 2, Gyeongui-Jungang Line, and Airport Railroad Express) is centrally located, making it convenient for visitors to reach the area from different parts of Seoul.Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : Hongdae is lively at all hours, but the best time to experience its vibrant atmosphere is in the evening when the nightlife comes alive.- Stay Alert : As a bustling area, it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Keep an eye on personal belongings and be cautious in busy areas.- Explore Side Streets : Some of the best spots in Hongdae are tucked away in its side streets. Take time to explore beyond the main roads to discover hidden gems.Hongdae offers a unique blend of art, culture, shopping, and nightlife, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the youthful and creative spirit of Seoul.

 Despite its name, 목동 송식당 먹고기 is actually located near Magokdong, offering a truly unique Korean pork dining experience. This restaurant is a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a variety of pork cuts paired with traditional Korean sauces and dishes. Whether you're new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned foodie, 송식당 먹고기 promises a memorable meal filled with rich flavors.  The Specialty: Pork with Korean Sauces 송식당 먹고기 is known for its exceptional use of different pork cuts, each grilled right at your table. But what makes this place truly stand out is how you enjoy the pork—with an array of traditional Korean sauces that add an explosion of flavor to every bite: 1. Myeongran-jeot (명란젓): A salty and slightly spicy fermented pollock roe that complements the grilled pork, offering a bold and savory taste.  2. Galchi-jeot (갈치젓): Made from salted hairtail fish, this fermented sauce enhances the pork’s flavor with a rich and salty depth. 3. Meljeot (멜젓): A favorite from Jeju Island, this anchovy-based sauce adds a deep, umami-packed flavor to the meat. Dipping your pork in meljeot is a true taste of Korean culinary tradition.  Must-Try Dishes In addition to their pork cuts and unique sauces, 송식당 먹고기 offers some standout dishes that should be on every visitor’s list: 1. Kimchi Jjigae with Pork (김치찌개): 송식당 먹고기’s kimchi jjigae is a hearty, comforting stew that features a generous portion of pork. The stew is flavorful and spicy, making it the perfect side dish to your grilled meat.  2. Grilled Pork Skin (돼지껍데기): A lesser-known but delicious Korean dish, the grilled pork skin here is crispy on the outside and chewy inside. It pairs wonderfully with the restaurant's dipping sauces and is a must-try for adventurous eaters.  What Makes 송식당 먹고기 Special? 송식당 먹고기 focuses on variety and flavor, with their use of fermented sauces like myeongran-jeot, galchi-jeot, and meljeot being a unique twist that sets them apart from other BBQ spots in Seoul. The restaurant prides itself on offering dishes that reflect authentic Korean flavors while allowing diners to explore beyond the usual Korean BBQ fare.  For Foreign Visitors - No Language Barrier: Although 송식당 먹고기 doesn't have an English menu, the staff is helpful and welcoming. The grilling process is easy to enjoy even if you’re unfamiliar with Korean BBQ, and the staff can assist with any questions.  - Interactive Dining: At 송식당 먹고기, grilling your own pork at the table is part of the fun. The sauces add an extra layer of flavor, and with side dishes like pork-packed kimchi jjigae, you'll experience a full and satisfying meal.  Location and How to Get There Even though its name includes "Mokdong," 송식당 먹고기 is actually located closer to Magokdong, making it easily accessible from Seoul's growing tech and business district. - Nearest Subway: Yangcheon Hyanggyo Station (Line 9), Exit 8 203 meters away- Address: 135-ho, 1F, 23 Magokdong-ro 10-gil, Ganseo-gu, Seoul- Hours: 16:00 PM – 12:00 PM (Closed on Sundays) - Price Range: ₩12,000 – ₩18,000 per person  Why You Should Visit 송식당 먹고기 offers a fresh take on Korean pork dishes, making it a fantastic spot for those looking to try something new and authentic. With their creative use of sauces and traditional dishes like kimchi jjigae and grilled pork skin, you’ll find every bite packed with rich, satisfying flavors. Whether you’re in the area for business or just exploring, 송식당 먹고기 is the perfect place to dive deeper into Korean cuisine. Enjoy your meal (맛있게 드세요)!