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㎡).                                                   

Daehak-ro, also known as Daehangno, is a vibrant cultural and arts district located in the Jongno-gu area of Seoul, South Korea. It is renowned for its lively theater scene, bustling street life, and youthful energy, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Here’s an introduction to Daehak-ro:Cultural and Arts Hub1. Theater District : Daehak-ro is often referred to as the "Broadway of Seoul" due to its high concentration of small theaters and performance venues. The area is home to over 100 theaters, showcasing a wide range of performances including plays, musicals, dance, and experimental theater.2. Art and Performances : In addition to theater, Daehak-ro hosts various cultural events and street performances. The district’s streets are often filled with artists, musicians, and street performers, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere . Academic Influence1. Seoul National University (Former Campus) : The name Daehak-ro means "University Street" in Korean, reflecting its historical association with Seoul National University’s former campus. The academic influence has contributed to the area’s intellectual and cultural vibe.2. Youthful Energy : The presence of numerous universities and educational institutions nearby brings a youthful and energetic crowd to the area. This young demographic is a driving force behind the district’s vibrant cultural scene. Attractions and Activities1. Marronnier Park : A central spot in Daehak-ro, Marronnier Park is a popular gathering place for street performers and artists. The park often hosts festivals, concerts, and other cultural events, making it a hub of activity  .2. Cafés and Restaurants : The district is filled with trendy cafés, restaurants, and street food vendors offering a variety of culinary delights. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Korean dishes to international cuisine in a relaxed and creative setting . Shopping and Entertainment1. Boutiques and Shops : Daehak-ro features numerous boutiques and shops selling unique fashion items, accessories, and handmade crafts. The area’s shopping scene is as eclectic and vibrant as its cultural offerings .2. Nightlife : The district comes alive at night with its many bars, clubs, and late-night eateries. The nightlife in Daehak-ro is known for being lively and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences . AccessibilityDaehak-ro is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest subway station is Hyehwa Station (Seoul Subway Line 4), which is centrally located and connects visitors to various parts of Seoul. The area is also well-served by buses and taxis, making it convenient for visitors to reach . Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : The district is lively throughout the day, but evenings and weekends are particularly vibrant with more street performances and cultural events.- Comfortable Shoes : Since Daehak-ro is best explored on foot, wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended.- Check Performance Schedules : If planning to see a play or performance, it’s a good idea to check schedules and book tickets in advance as popular shows can sell out quickly.Daehak-ro offers a unique cultural experience, blending the intellectual atmosphere of its academic roots with the dynamic energy of its arts and entertainment scene. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the creative heart 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.