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㎡).                                                   

Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market, located in the Noryangjin-dong neighborhood of Dongjak-gu in Seoul, South Korea, is one of the largest and most famous seafood markets in the country. Known for its wide variety of fresh seafood and lively atmosphere, the market is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience authentic Korean seafood culture. Historical and Cultural Significance1. History : Established in 1927, Noryangjin Market is one of Seoul's oldest and most established fisheries markets. It was originally located near Seoul Station but moved to its current location in 1971. The market has undergone several renovations, with a modern building opened in 2016 to enhance facilities and accommodate more vendors and visitors.2. Cultural Impact : The market is a key part of Seoul’s culinary scene, providing a vital link between seafood suppliers and consumers. It is known for its bustling environment, where buyers and sellers engage in lively bargaining, and for the unique experience it offers to visitors who can select fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot. Attractions and Features1. Wide Variety of Seafood : Noryangjin Market offers an extensive array of seafood, including fish, shellfish, crustaceans, and more. Popular items include king crab, lobster, octopus, shrimp, and various types of fish like flounder, mackerel, and tuna.2. Auction Hall : One of the highlights of the market is the early morning fish auctions, where large quantities of seafood are sold to wholesalers and retailers. These auctions are a fascinating spectacle and provide insight into the workings of a major fisheries market. Dining and Experience1. On-Site Restaurants : One of the unique features of Noryangjin Market is the ability for visitors to purchase fresh seafood and have it prepared and cooked on-site at one of the many restaurants located within the market. This allows for an incredibly fresh dining experience, with options to enjoy raw, grilled, steamed, or stir-fried seafood.2. Sashimi and Live Seafood : The market is particularly renowned for its sashimi (hoe in Korean) offerings. Visitors can select live fish or seafood, which are then expertly filleted and served as sashimi. This is a popular choice for those wanting to enjoy the freshest possible seafood. Accessibility1. Location and Transport : Noryangjin Market is conveniently located near Noryangjin Station, which is accessible via Seoul Subway Line 1 and Line 9. The market is just a short walk from the station, making it easy to reach from various parts of Seoul. Tips for Visiting1. Best Time to Visit : The market is open 24 hours, but the best time to visit is early in the morning to witness the bustling fish auctions and enjoy the freshest seafood. Evening visits are also popular for dining.   2. Bargaining : Bargaining is common at Noryangjin Market. Don’t hesitate to negotiate prices with vendors, especially when purchasing larger quantities of seafood.3. Hygiene and Safety : While the market is generally clean, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of wet floors. Visitors should also handle seafood with care and follow any guidance provided by vendors and restaurant staff regarding the preparation and consumption of raw seafood.Noryangjin Fisheries Wholesale Market offers a unique and immersive experience that combines the hustle and bustle of a traditional fish market with the culinary delights of fresh seafood. Whether you're a seafood lover or a curious traveler, a visit to Noryangjin Market is a must for an authentic taste of Seoul’s maritime culture.

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.