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㎡).                                                   

 Nestled between the bustling streets of Hongdae and the serene Han River, Mangwon-dong has quietly emerged as one of Seoul's most charming and eclectic neighborhoods. Known for its vibrant market, trendy cafes, and welcoming atmosphere, Mangwon-dong offers a delightful blend of tradition and modernity that captivates both locals and visitors.  The Heart of Mangwon: Mangwon Market At the center of Mangwon-dong lies Mangwon Market, a bustling traditional market that serves as the neighborhood's beating heart. The market is a sensory delight, with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and a wide array of Korean street food. From savory tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to sweet hotteok (filled pancakes), the market offers a culinary adventure for anyone eager to taste authentic Korean flavors. Mangwon Market is also known for its friendly atmosphere. Vendors are always ready with a smile and a recommendation, making it an ideal spot for those who want to experience the warmth of Korean hospitality. The market's vibrant energy and community spirit make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Mangwon-dong.  A Haven for Foodies and Coffee Lovers Beyond the market, Mangwon-dong is a paradise for food enthusiasts. The neighborhood is dotted with an array of restaurants and cafes, each offering something unique. From cozy brunch spots to innovative dessert cafes, Mangwon-dong has something to satisfy every craving. The area's coffee culture is particularly noteworthy, with numerous cafes serving expertly brewed coffee in stylish settings. Many of these cafes are independently owned, reflecting the neighborhood's creative and entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're looking for a quiet corner to read or a lively spot to catch up with friends, Mangwon-dong's cafes offer the perfect ambiance.  A Blend of Tradition and Modernity Mangwon-dong beautifully balances the old and the new. Traditional hanok-style houses stand alongside modern apartments, and local artisans coexist with trendy boutiques. This harmonious blend of tradition and modernity gives Mangwon-dong its unique character and makes it a fascinating place to explore. The neighborhood is also home to various cultural and artistic spaces, where local artists showcase their work. These spaces often host workshops and exhibitions, providing visitors with opportunities to engage with Seoul's vibrant arts scene.  A Green Oasis by the Han River For those seeking a bit of nature, Mangwon-dong's proximity to the Han River is a significant draw. The nearby Mangwon Hangang Park offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along the river, taking in the beautiful views and refreshing breeze. The park is a popular spot for picnics, especially during the cherry blossom season when the riverside is adorned with stunning pink blooms.  Conclusion Mangwon-dong may not be as widely known as some of Seoul's other neighborhoods, but its unique blend of tradition, creativity, and community makes it a hidden gem worth exploring. With its vibrant market, eclectic food scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Mangwon-dong invites you to experience a side of Seoul that's both authentic and refreshingly different. Whether you're a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply in search of a new adventure, Mangwon-dong promises to leave a lasting impression.

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.