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㎡).                                                   

Seoul is famous for its dynamic city life, tall buildings, and cultural landmarks, but hidden amidst the urban sprawl is Seoraeseom Island, an oasis of tranquility. Located near Banpo Bridge on the Han River, this small artificial island offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city streets.  What is Seoraeseom Island? Seoraeseom is a serene, lesser-known spot in the middle of the Han River, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to enjoy nature without leaving the city. This small island, connected to the mainland by a short bridge, is part of Banpo Hangang Park and is an ideal destination for a quiet walk, a picnic, or simply relaxing while taking in the stunning river views. The island’s charm lies in its simplicity. With wide open grassy areas, flower fields, and peaceful walking paths, it’s a great place to slow down and unwind. Unlike the more crowded parts of the Han River parks, Seoraeseom remains relatively quiet and is often frequented by locals who want a peaceful retreat.  What to Expect at Seoraeseom One of the island's most enchanting features is its seasonal beauty. In the spring, yellow rapeseed flowers (canola flowers) bloom across the island, creating a sea of bright yellow blossoms that attract photographers and nature lovers alike. The annual Banpo Canola Flower Festival takes place here, drawing attention to the island’s stunning floral display. During the summer and autumn months, the island offers a calm and cool escape, perfect for walking or cycling along the paths that stretch around the park. Visitors often bring blankets and snacks for a riverside picnic while enjoying views of the Han River and the Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show in the evenings. In winter, while the flowers may be gone, Seoraeseom transforms into a quiet, almost otherworldly space, where you can still take a reflective walk amidst the cold, crisp air.  Why Visit Seoraeseom Island? 1. Tranquil Atmosphere: If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of Seoul, Seoraeseom offers a peaceful, scenic environment that's perfect for relaxation. 2. Seasonal Beauty: Seoraeseom is especially beautiful in the spring, when the canola flowers bloom, but it’s a lovely destination year-round. 3. Less Crowded: Unlike other popular spots along the Han River, Seoraeseom tends to be less busy, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection or a romantic picnic. 4. Great for Outdoor Activities: Whether you enjoy walking, cycling, or just lounging in nature, Seoraeseom has plenty of space and paths to explore. 5. Close to Banpo Bridge: After visiting Seoraeseom, you can catch the famous Banpo Bridge Rainbow Fountain Show in the evening, making it a perfect spot for a day of outdoor activities and relaxation.  How to Get There Seoraeseom Island is easily accessible via public transportation. Take the subway to Express Bus Terminal Station (Lines 3, 7, or 9) and walk about 15 minutes towards Banpo Hangang Park. Once in the park, you can follow the signs leading to Seoraeseom. The island is connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge, making it a quick and easy trip from the city center.  Tips for Visiting Seoraeseom - Visit in Spring: If possible, plan your visit in late April or early May to see the island covered in vibrant yellow canola flowers.- Bring a Picnic: The grassy areas and scenic river views make Seoraeseom a great spot for an outdoor meal. Bring some snacks, a blanket, and enjoy a peaceful picnic by the water.- Evening Fountain Show: After relaxing on the island, head towards Banpo Bridge for the famous Rainbow Fountain Show, which takes place after sunset and is one of Seoul’s must-see attractions.- Rent a Bike: You can rent bikes at nearby Banpo Hangang Park to explore Seoraeseom and the surrounding riverside area.  Conclusion Seoraeseom Island is one of Seoul’s best-kept secrets, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing stroll, a quiet picnic, or simply want to soak in some nature, this charming little island is a perfect destination. With its seasonal beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Seoraeseom provides a much-needed break from the busy streets of Seoul. Next time you’re looking for a hidden gem to explore in the city, don’t miss the chance to visit Seoraeseom Island!Seoraeseom Island is the perfect place for those seeking a peaceful escape within Seoul.본 저작물의 사진 '서울연구원'에서 '2020년'작성하여 공공누리 제1유형으로 개방한 '저작물명(작성자:서울연구원)'을 이용하였으며,해당 저작물은 '서울연구원,data.si.re.kr'에서 무료로 다운받으실 수 있습니다.

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.