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A jjimjilbang is a Korean public bathhouse and sauna that has been part of daily life in Korea for generations. For visitors, spending a few hours or even a night in one is one of the most authentic Korean experiences available. Here is everything you need to know before you go.
Understanding Jjimjilbangs
What Is a Jjimjilbang?
The word jjimjilbang roughly translates to heated room bath place. These facilities combine traditional Korean bathing culture with communal relaxation spaces. A typical jjimjilbang includes gender-separated bathing areas with hot and cold pools, multiple heated sauna rooms, and a large co-ed communal floor where guests wear provided uniforms and relax, sleep, eat, or watch television.
How It Works
You pay the entrance fee at the front desk, usually between 10,000 and 15,000 won, and receive a locker key, towel, and a set of shorts and a t-shirt. Men and women go to their respective locker rooms and enter the bathing area. Always shower thoroughly before getting into any shared pool. After bathing, you put on the uniform and head to the communal floor.
Facilities and Amenities
The Sauna Rooms
Most jjimjilbangs have multiple themed rooms including a yellow clay hwangto room, an activated charcoal room, an ice room, a salt room where you lie directly on coarse sea salt, and a pyramid-shaped room. Sessions are typically 10 to 15 minutes followed by rest in cooler areas.
Food and the Communal Floor
The communal floor has heated floors where people sleep, watch TV, and eat. The most iconic jjimjilbang snacks are sikhye sweet rice punch and hard-boiled eggs. Ramen and Korean rice dishes are also typically available at the snack bar.
Visiting a Jjimjilbang
Practical Tips
- Tattoos are not allowed in some facilities, so check before visiting
- Most jjimjilbangs are open 24 hours and welcome overnight stays
- Bring a change of clothes if you plan to leave in the morning
- Silence and respect are expected in sleeping areas
Where to Go in Seoul
Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan is one of the most well-known options and is popular with tourists due to its rooftop pool and extensive amenities. Siloam Sauna near Seoul Station is a budget-friendly alternative. A jjimjilbang visit is affordable, deeply Korean, and one of the most memorable things you can do on a trip to Korea.
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