Korea’s spa culture: the magic of jjimjilbangs

Visitors in matching spa pajamas enjoying a rest area in a jjimjilbang in Seoul

A jjimjilbang is a Korean bathhouse — but not the kind you’re used to. It’s part spa, part sleepover, part cultural deep-dive. Picture this: hot tubs, herbal saunas, ice rooms, body scrubs, nap zones, snack bars, and even movie theaters — all under one roof.

Locals don’t just go to unwind. They go to reset. For just a few dollars, you can spend the entire day (or night) floating between hot and cold, sweat and stillness, snacks and silence.

  • Total Detox: Rotate through clay saunas, steam rooms, and ice chambers until your stress melts.
  • Affordable Luxury: Admission is budget-friendly — often under $10 for hours of indulgence.
  • Cultural Immersion: Everyone wears the same cozy pajama set. You’ll sip sikhye (sweet rice punch) and crack into eggs slow-baked in heated rooms.
  • Sleepover Vibes: Need a cheap overnight option? Many jjimjilbangs let you crash until morning.

If you’re visiting Korea, don’t miss this. Jjimjilbangs aren’t just relaxing — they’re deeply woven into daily Korean life. And after a few hours soaking, steaming, and sipping rice punch in your spa pajamas?

You’ll leave softer, cleaner, and weirdly obsessed with baked eggs.

A jjimjilbang isn’t just about soaking or sweating — it’s about connecting. You’ll see families bonding, solo travelers recharging, and locals finding peace in the middle of everyday life. By the time you leave, you might not just feel cleaner — you might feel more at home in Korea, too.

Start your journey with Foresyte, where the planning is part of the magic.

Discover the experiences that matter most.

GET THE APP

Japan-Korea-Destinations

Read the Latest:

Aerial view of the Las Vegas Strip with the Bellagio fountains in motion at sunset.

📍 Itinerary Inspiration

A perfect weekend in Las Vegas

Read now
MSG Sphere lit up at night on the Las Vegas Strip

💫 Vibe Check

5 fascinations about Las Vegas

Read now
<< Back to news page
Right Menu Icon