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.

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.