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㎡).                                                   

Itaewon is a vibrant and multicultural neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, known for its diverse population, eclectic dining options, and lively nightlife. It has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a cosmopolitan experience. Here’s an introduction to Itaewon: Cultural and Multicultural Significance1. Diverse Community : Itaewon is famous for its multicultural atmosphere, with a significant number of expatriates from around the world. This diversity is reflected in the neighborhood's international restaurants, shops, and cultural events.2. Historical Background : Historically, Itaewon gained prominence due to its proximity to the Yongsan Garrison, a major U.S. military base. This presence has contributed to its diverse demographic and international vibe. Dining and Nightlife1. International Cuisine : Itaewon is renowned for its wide range of international dining options. Visitors can find authentic cuisines from around the world, including American, Italian, Indian, Middle Eastern, and more. Popular areas for dining include Itaewon’s main street and the adjacent alleys, which are lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars.2. Vibrant Nightlife : The neighborhood is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and lounges. Itaewon offers something for everyone, from upscale cocktail bars to laid-back pubs and energetic nightclubs. The nightlife scene attracts a diverse crowd and is especially popular among young people and expatriates. Shopping and Entertainment1. Boutiques and Markets : Itaewon is a shopping haven, with a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage stores, and street markets. The area is known for its unique and trendy fashion items, as well as shops selling antiques, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.2. Art and Culture : The neighborhood has several art galleries, cultural centers, and live performance venues. Itaewon is also home to the Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art, which showcases traditional and contemporary Korean art.  Attractions and Landmarks1. Namsan Seoul Tower : Located nearby, Namsan Seoul Tower is a popular tourist attraction offering panoramic views of Seoul. Visitors can easily reach the tower from Itaewon, either by hiking through Namsan Park or taking a cable car.2. Itaewon Mosque : The Seoul Central Mosque, the first mosque in Korea, is located in Itaewon. It serves as a cultural and religious center for the Muslim community and is open to visitors interested in learning more about Islam. AccessibilityItaewon is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation. Itaewon Station (Seoul Subway Line 6) is centrally located, providing easy access to the neighborhood. The area is also well-served by buses and taxis, making it easy to reach from different parts of Seoul. Tips for Visiting- Explore on Foot : Itaewon’s charm lies in its narrow streets and alleys, which are best explored on foot. Walking allows visitors to discover hidden gems and enjoy the vibrant street life.- Respect the Diversity : Itaewon is known for its diverse community, so respecting different cultures and customs is important. Visitors should be mindful of cultural sensitivities and enjoy the multicultural atmosphere responsibly.- Nightlife Caution : While Itaewon’s nightlife is exciting, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and travel in groups, especially late at night.Itaewon offers a unique blend of international culture, cuisine, and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the cosmopolitan side of Seoul. Whether you’re dining at a global restaurant, shopping for unique fashion, or enjoying the nightlife, Itaewon promises an unforgettable experience.

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.