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㎡).                                                   

When people think of Seoul, they often imagine towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the constant hum of city life. However, nestled quietly in the heart of the city lies a hidden sanctuary—Baeksasil Valley, a place where nature thrives undisturbed, offering a peaceful retreat for those in search of tranquility.  What is Baeksasil Valley? Baeksasil Valley is located just behind Gyeongbokgung Palace, in the Bukaksan Mountain area. It’s an enchanting spot that many locals and tourists overlook, making it the perfect escape from the crowds and noise of central Seoul. The valley is part of a historical and cultural preservation area, which helps maintain its pristine condition. The area was historically used as a private royal garden during the Joseon Dynasty, and its serene beauty remains intact.  What to Expect As you enter Baeksasil Valley, the first thing you’ll notice is the sound of flowing water. The gentle stream runs through the valley, and the clear water adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Tall trees line the pathways, providing shade and a cool breeze even in the warmer months. The path is easy to walk and not overly steep, making it accessible for all ages. The valley is rich with natural beauty—moss-covered rocks, ferns, and a variety of plants. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife such as birds and squirrels. During autumn, the valley becomes a palette of vibrant colors, with the trees showcasing bright oranges, reds, and yellows.  Why Visit Baeksasil Valley? 1. Escape the City: Despite being in the middle of Seoul, Baeksasil Valley feels like a world away. The quiet, the fresh air, and the presence of nature make it an ideal spot to unwind. 2. Nature at Its Best: The valley is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you enjoy photography, sketching, or simply sitting by the stream and reflecting, Baeksasil offers a serene environment. 3. Less Crowded: Unlike popular tourist spots such as Namsan or Bukchon Hanok Village, Baeksasil is relatively unknown. You can take your time to enjoy the surroundings without the pressure of crowds. 4. Historical Significance: For those interested in Korean history, knowing that this area was once part of a royal retreat adds a unique layer to the experience.  How to Get There Baeksasil Valley is located north of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a bit off the beaten path, so the best way to reach it is by taking a bus or a short taxi ride from central Seoul. Once you arrive, there are signs that guide you into the valley. If you enjoy hiking, you can also incorporate a walk up Bukaksan Mountain, which offers stunning views of Seoul from above. The valley can be the starting or ending point of a longer nature-filled adventure.  Tips for Your Visit - Wear comfortable shoes: While the paths are not overly challenging, comfortable footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.- Bring water and snacks: There are no shops or restaurants within the valley, so pack a small picnic if you plan to stay for a while.- Respect the environment: As a protected area, it’s important to leave no trace and take your trash with you.  Conclusion Baeksasil Valley is one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the city, this hidden gem is worth the visit. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a unique destination, offering a rare opportunity to step back in time while enjoying the tranquility of nature. So next time you’re in Seoul and looking for a place to relax, why not take a break from the usual tourist spots and discover the serenity of Baeksasil Valley? Baeksasil Valley is perfect for those who want to explore a quieter, greener side 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)!