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㎡).                                                   

Samcheong-dong is a charming and picturesque neighborhood in Seoul, South Korea, known for its blend of traditional Korean culture and modern artistic vibes. Here’s an introduction to Samcheong-dong:Cultural and Historical Significance1. Bukchon Hanok Village : One of the highlights of Samcheong-dong is its proximity to Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic area with hundreds of traditional Korean houses called hanoks. These hanoks are beautifully preserved and provide a glimpse into Korea's past.2. Cultural Heritage : The neighborhood is rich in cultural heritage, with several traditional tea houses, art galleries, and museums that showcase Korean history and culture.Art and Design1. Art Galleries : Samcheong-dong is home to numerous art galleries featuring contemporary Korean art and international exhibitions. These galleries, often housed in renovated hanoks, contribute to the area’s artistic atmosphere.2. Boutiques and Shops : The streets are lined with unique boutiques and shops selling handmade crafts, designer goods, and artistic pieces. Many of these shops offer items that blend traditional Korean elements with modern design.Food and Cafés1. Cafés : Samcheong-dong is famous for its charming and quaint cafés, many of which are housed in traditional hanok buildings. These cafés offer a cozy atmosphere where visitors can enjoy coffee, tea, and desserts.2. Restaurants : The area boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Korean restaurants to modern fusion cuisine. Visitors can enjoy everything from authentic Korean dishes to creative culinary experiences.Attractions1. Gyeongbokgung Palace : Located nearby, Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and experience traditional Korean architecture and history.2. Samcheong Park : A popular spot for locals and tourists, Samcheong Park offers scenic walking trails and beautiful views of the city. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.Entertainment and Experiences1. Cultural Activities : Visitors can participate in various cultural activities, such as traditional Korean tea ceremonies, calligraphy classes, and hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) rentals.2. Street Performances : The neighborhood often hosts street performances and cultural events, adding to its lively and artistic ambiance.Architecture1. Hanok Buildings : The traditional hanok buildings are a significant feature of Samcheong-dong. These wooden houses with tiled roofs and courtyards provide a unique architectural charm and historical value.2.  Modern Architecture : Alongside the hanoks, there are also modern architectural marvels, creating a beautiful contrast and showcasing the area’s blend of old and new.AccessibilitySamcheong-dong is easily accessible by public transportation. Anguk Station (Seoul Subway Line 3) is the nearest subway station, and from there, it’s a short walk to the neighborhood. The area is also well-connected by buses and taxis.Tips for Visiting- Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Samcheong-dong is during the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the foliage adds to the area’s beauty.- Walking Shoes : The neighborhood is best explored on foot, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.- Respect the Culture : When visiting traditional hanoks and cultural sites, it’s essential to respect the local customs and traditions.Samcheong-dong offers a serene escape from the bustling city life of Seoul, providing a perfect blend of history, culture, art, and modernity. It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the unique charm and beauty of traditional and contemporary Korea.

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.