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㎡).                                                   

When people think of Seoul, they often imagine towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the constant hum of city life. However, nestled quietly in the heart of the city lies a hidden sanctuary—Baeksasil Valley, a place where nature thrives undisturbed, offering a peaceful retreat for those in search of tranquility.  What is Baeksasil Valley? Baeksasil Valley is located just behind Gyeongbokgung Palace, in the Bukaksan Mountain area. It’s an enchanting spot that many locals and tourists overlook, making it the perfect escape from the crowds and noise of central Seoul. The valley is part of a historical and cultural preservation area, which helps maintain its pristine condition. The area was historically used as a private royal garden during the Joseon Dynasty, and its serene beauty remains intact.  What to Expect As you enter Baeksasil Valley, the first thing you’ll notice is the sound of flowing water. The gentle stream runs through the valley, and the clear water adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Tall trees line the pathways, providing shade and a cool breeze even in the warmer months. The path is easy to walk and not overly steep, making it accessible for all ages. The valley is rich with natural beauty—moss-covered rocks, ferns, and a variety of plants. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife such as birds and squirrels. During autumn, the valley becomes a palette of vibrant colors, with the trees showcasing bright oranges, reds, and yellows.  Why Visit Baeksasil Valley? 1. Escape the City: Despite being in the middle of Seoul, Baeksasil Valley feels like a world away. The quiet, the fresh air, and the presence of nature make it an ideal spot to unwind. 2. Nature at Its Best: The valley is a haven for nature lovers. Whether you enjoy photography, sketching, or simply sitting by the stream and reflecting, Baeksasil offers a serene environment. 3. Less Crowded: Unlike popular tourist spots such as Namsan or Bukchon Hanok Village, Baeksasil is relatively unknown. You can take your time to enjoy the surroundings without the pressure of crowds. 4. Historical Significance: For those interested in Korean history, knowing that this area was once part of a royal retreat adds a unique layer to the experience.  How to Get There Baeksasil Valley is located north of Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a bit off the beaten path, so the best way to reach it is by taking a bus or a short taxi ride from central Seoul. Once you arrive, there are signs that guide you into the valley. If you enjoy hiking, you can also incorporate a walk up Bukaksan Mountain, which offers stunning views of Seoul from above. The valley can be the starting or ending point of a longer nature-filled adventure.  Tips for Your Visit - Wear comfortable shoes: While the paths are not overly challenging, comfortable footwear will make your visit more enjoyable.- Bring water and snacks: There are no shops or restaurants within the valley, so pack a small picnic if you plan to stay for a while.- Respect the environment: As a protected area, it’s important to leave no trace and take your trash with you.  Conclusion Baeksasil Valley is one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the city, this hidden gem is worth the visit. The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a unique destination, offering a rare opportunity to step back in time while enjoying the tranquility of nature. So next time you’re in Seoul and looking for a place to relax, why not take a break from the usual tourist spots and discover the serenity of Baeksasil Valley? Baeksasil Valley is perfect for those who want to explore a quieter, greener side 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.