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㎡).                                                   

Gangnam, often spelled Kangnam, is one of the most affluent and vibrant districts in Seoul, South Korea. Known for its upscale lifestyle, trendy nightlife, and modern architecture, Gangnam is a symbol of contemporary Korean culture and sophistication. Here’s an introduction to Gangnam:Economic and Commercial Hub1. Business District : Gangnam is a major business and commercial hub in Seoul. It is home to numerous corporate headquarters, including those of major Korean conglomerates like Samsung and Hyundai. The area’s business facilities and infrastructure are state-of-the-art, attracting both domestic and international businesses.2. COEX Convention & Exhibition Center : COEX is a significant landmark in Gangnam, hosting numerous international conventions, exhibitions, and trade shows. It also features a large shopping mall, an aquarium, and various entertainment options. Shopping and Lifestyle1. Upscale Shopping : Gangnam is famous for its high-end shopping districts. Apgujeong Rodeo Street and Cheongdam-dong Fashion Street are known for their luxury boutiques, designer shops, and flagship stores of international brands. The area caters to a fashionable and affluent clientele .2. Malls and Markets : In addition to luxury shopping streets, Gangnam features large shopping complexes like COEX Mall and Starfield COEX Mall, offering a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Cultural Attractions1. Bongeunsa Temple : A serene Buddhist temple located amidst the bustling district, Bongeunsa offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into Korea’s spiritual heritage. The temple hosts various cultural and religious events throughout the year .2. K-Pop Culture : Gangnam is closely associated with K-pop culture, partly due to the global hit song "Gangnam Style" by Psy. The area is home to several entertainment agencies and is a hotspot for K-pop fans. Visitors can often find K-pop themed cafés and merchandise shops . Nightlife and Entertainment1. Vibrant Nightlife : Gangnam boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and lounges. Areas like Gangnam Station, Apgujeong, and Cheongdam-dong are known for their trendy nightclubs and high-end entertainment venues that attract a stylish crowd.2. Entertainment Options : Beyond nightlife, Gangnam offers various entertainment options, including cinemas, performance theaters, and karaoke bars, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Education and Innovation1. Education Hub : Gangnam is renowned for its high concentration of educational institutions and private academies (hagwons). The district’s emphasis on education has made it a desirable location for families seeking quality education for their children.2. Tech and Innovation : The area is also a center for technological innovation, with many IT and tech companies having a presence in Gangnam. The district’s focus on technology and innovation contributes to its dynamic and forward-thinking environment . AccessibilityGangnam is well-connected by public transportation, making it easily accessible from other parts of Seoul. Gangnam Station (Seoul Subway Line 2 and the Shinbundang Line) and several other subway lines and bus routes serve the area. The district’s transportation infrastructure supports its role as a key commercial and cultural hub. Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : Gangnam is lively throughout the day and night, but evenings are particularly vibrant with nightlife and dining options.- Explore on Foot : While public transportation is convenient, exploring Gangnam’s streets on foot allows visitors to fully experience its dynamic atmosphere.- Fashion and Etiquette : Given Gangnam’s upscale nature, dressing stylishly and adhering to local etiquette can enhance the experience.Gangnam represents the pinnacle of modernity and luxury in Seoul, offering a unique blend of business, culture, and entertainment. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the cutting edge of contemporary Korean life.

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.