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㎡).                                                   

Cheonggyecheon Stream is a modern public recreation space located in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. This urban stream is a symbol of the city's successful urban renewal and environmental restoration efforts. Here’s an introduction to Cheonggyecheon Stream: Historical and Cultural Significance1. Historical Background : Originally a natural stream, Cheonggyecheon was covered over by concrete in the 1950s as part of Seoul's rapid post-war development. In the early 2000s, the city embarked on an ambitious project to uncover and restore the stream, which was completed in 2005. The restoration transformed Cheonggyecheon into a 10.9-kilometer-long modern urban park that runs through downtown Seoul.2. Cultural Impact : The restoration of Cheonggyecheon has been praised for its positive impact on the urban environment and quality of life in Seoul. It has also become a symbol of the city's commitment to sustainability and green urban development. Attractions and Features1. Scenic Walkways : The stream is lined with walkways and bridges, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls and cycling. The pathways are beautifully landscaped with plants, flowers, and trees, providing a natural oasis in the middle of the bustling city.2. Art Installations and Light Displays : Throughout the year, various art installations and light displays are featured along the stream, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and creating a dynamic public space. These installations often change with the seasons and special events, adding to the stream's charm.3. Historic Sites : Along the stream, visitors can find various historical markers and artifacts that tell the story of Seoul’s history and the stream’s transformation. The area also includes several cultural and historical sites, such as the Dongdaemun Design Plaza and the Seoul City Wall. Recreational Activities1. Festivals and Events : Cheonggyecheon hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Seoul Lantern Festival, which illuminates the stream with beautiful lantern displays every autumn. These events attract both locals and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere.2. Rest Areas and Cafés : There are several rest areas and cafés along the stream where visitors can relax and enjoy the view. These spots offer a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and bustle, making them perfect for a quiet break or a casual meetup with friends. Environmental and Social Benefits1. Urban Cooling and Air Quality : The stream helps to cool the surrounding urban area and improve air quality, contributing to a more comfortable and healthier environment for residents and visitors alike.2. Community Space : Cheonggyecheon serves as a vital community space where people can gather, socialize, and engage in recreational activities. It has also become a popular tourist attraction, boosting local businesses and the economy. AccessibilityCheonggyecheon is easily accessible by public transportation. Several subway stations, including Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5) and Jongno 3-ga Station (Lines 1, 3, and 5), provide convenient access to different parts of the stream. The stream's central location makes it a key point of interest for visitors exploring Seoul. Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : Cheonggyecheon is beautiful throughout the year, but visiting during the spring and autumn offers the most pleasant weather and scenic views. The Seoul Lantern Festival in autumn is a particularly spectacular time to visit.- Comfortable Footwear : The stream is best explored on foot, so wearing comfortable walking shoes is recommended.- Respect the Environment : To help maintain the stream's cleanliness and natural beauty, visitors are encouraged to dispose of waste properly and respect the natural surroundings.Cheonggyecheon Stream exemplifies successful urban renewal and environmental restoration, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat amidst the bustling cityscape of Seoul. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the harmonious blend of nature and modernity in the heart of the city.

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.