Korean saunas, also known as jjimjilbangs 찜질방 , are a popular cultural place in South Korea.
They offer a unique and relaxing experience that combines bathing, sauna facilities, and various other amenities.
It is also a common place for film and k-drama.
Recently, it was one of the shooting spot for 'King the Land".
Today, Stay 14 prepares some guide to enjoy this unique culture in Korea.
These bathhouses attract a diverse range of visitors, including grandmas, young couples, and groups of friends.
It is not uncommon for friends to meet up at a jjimjilbang on a Friday night.
The entry fee for a bathhouse usually ranges from ₩7000 to ₩20,000.
Jjimjilbangs often feature more than just baths and saunas.
Larger facilities may include additional amenities such as restaurants, outdoor swimming pools, hair and nail salons, and karaoke rooms.
Upon arrival at a jjimjilbang, you'll encounter a wall of small lockers for shoes.
You'll need to remove your shoes, store them in a locker, and take the locker key back to the front desk.
After paying the entry fee, you'll receive a new locker key for the changing room, as well as a towel and a pair of cotton pajamas.
Most jjimjilbangs use electronic keys that also record fees for additional services.
Alternatively, the staff may note your locker key number if you avail yourself of extra services, such as a scrub or massage, and bill you at the end.
The key you receive corresponds to your locker, where you can store your clothes and personal belongings.
The front desk staff will direct you to the appropriate gender-segregated changing room.
The term "nam" (남) is used for men, while "yeo" (여) is used for women.
Jjimjilbangs typically have two distinct areas : the same-sex baths and the communal sauna areas.
It's up to you whether you prefer to visit the baths or the sauna first, but most people choose to wash up before enjoying the sauna.
When visiting the baths, you'll need to remove all your clothing and bring only a small towel and toiletries with you.
If you're heading to the sauna, you can change into the provided cotton pajamas.
Traditional saunas in South Korea, known as hanjeungmak 한증막 , differ from the typical image of steam rooms.
These saunas are often stone or clay kilns heated to temperatures ranging from 50°C (122°F) to 90°C (194°F), providing a pleasant experience.
Ending a sauna session with a cup of sikhye 식혜 , a traditional fermented rice drink, is a popular practice.
Steamed eggs, known as maekbanseok 맥반석 , are also available for purchase, having been cooked in the saunas. (*This is one of the Must-Do in jjimjilbang)
By familiarizing yourself with the customs and etiquette, you can fully enjoy and embrace the jjimjilbang experience in South Korea.
Here are some lists you can visit in Seoul!
1. Insadong Hanjeungmak 인사동 한증막
Location : 65-1 Unni-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
2. SupSok Hanbang Land 숲속한방랜드
Location : 75-7 Bongwonsa-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
3. Club K Seoul
Location : 524 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
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