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㎡).                                                   

Namdaemun, meaning "Great South Gate," is one of Seoul’s most significant historical and commercial districts. Known for its traditional market and the iconic Sungnyemun Gate, Namdaemun offers a unique blend of heritage, shopping, and local culture. Key Attractions1. Namdaemun Market   - Description : Established in 1964, Namdaemun Market is the largest traditional market in South Korea. It features a labyrinth of alleys filled with stalls and shops selling a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, household items, and food.   - Diverse Offerings : The market is famous for its variety of products, from cheap knock-offs to authentic traditional items like hanbok (Korean traditional clothing) and handicrafts.2. Sungnyemun (Namdaemun Gate)   - Historical Significance: Also known as Namdaemun Gate, Sungnyemun is one of the Eight Gates of the Fortress Wall of Seoul, which surrounded the city in the Joseon Dynasty. It was originally built in the 14th century and has been designated as National Treasure No. 1.   - Restoration : The gate suffered significant damage during a fire in 2008 but has since been restored to its former glory. It stands as a symbol of Seoul’s resilience and historical heritage. Shopping and Dining1. Traditional Goods and Souvenirs   - Handicrafts and Textiles : Namdaemun Market is an excellent place to buy traditional Korean handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Items like handmade jewelry, pottery, and wooden crafts are popular among tourists.   - Clothing and Accessories : The market offers a wide variety of fashion items, from budget-friendly clothing to accessories. Many stalls specialize in children’s clothing and accessories, making it a go-to spot for family shopping.2. Food and Snacks   - Street Food : Namdaemun Market is renowned for its food alleys, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Korean street food. Popular items include kalguksu (knife-cut noodles), bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes), and tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes).   - Local Restaurants : The market also hosts numerous small restaurants and food stalls offering traditional Korean dishes. The vibrant food scene is a major draw for both locals and tourists looking to experience authentic Korean cuisine. Cultural and Nightlife1. Cultural Experience   - Historic Tours : Visitors can take guided tours of the Namdaemun area to learn about its historical significance and the role it has played in Seoul’s development. The tours often include visits to nearby cultural sites and historical landmarks.2. Night Market   - Evening Shopping : Namdaemun Market remains active into the evening, with many vendors staying open late to cater to night shoppers. The night market atmosphere is lively, offering a different experience compared to the daytime. AccessibilityNamdaemun is centrally located and easily accessible by public transportation. Key subway stations include:- Hoehyeon Station (Line 4) : This station is closest to Namdaemun Market and provides direct access to the market area.- Seoul Station (Lines 1 and 4) : Just a short walk from Namdaemun, Seoul Station is a major transportation hub connecting various parts of the city and the country. Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : While the market is bustling throughout the day, mornings and late afternoons are ideal for shopping when the vendors are fully set up.- Bargaining : Haggling is common in Namdaemun Market, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices with vendors.- Explore Side Alleys : The market’s charm lies in its narrow alleys and hidden corners, where unique and unexpected finds await.Namdaemun offers a rich and immersive experience that captures the essence of traditional Korean market life amidst the backdrop of modern Seoul. Whether you're shopping for unique items, tasting local delicacies, or exploring historical sites, Namdaemun provides a vibrant and authentic Korean experience.

 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)!