Korean jjimjilbangs (Korean spas) are taking the U.S. by storm! From New York to Los Angeles, Korean-style saunas are becoming the go-to wellness destination. But if you want to experience the real deal, there's no place like Korea! 🇰🇷✨
In this article, we'll dive into:
✅ Why Korean jjimjilbangs are trending in the U.S.
✅ The health benefits of jjimjilbangs
✅ The best jjimjilbangs to visit in Korea
✅ Must-try jjimjilbang foods
If you're a fan of K-culture or just looking for a unique wellness experience, Korean jjimjilbangs are a must-visit!
🔥 Why Are Korean Jjimjilbangs Becoming Popular in the U.S.?
The global wellness industry is booming, and Korean jjimjilbangs fit perfectly into this trend. These spas offer a combination of relaxation, detox, and cultural experience, making them a favorite among spa lovers and K-culture enthusiasts alike.
✅ 4 Reasons Why Jjimjilbangs Are Gaining Popularity
💆♂️ 1. The Perfect Wellness Retreat
-
Jjimjilbangs are designed for full-body relaxation, combining dry saunas, hot tubs, and therapeutic rooms.
-
The heat therapy helps with detox, stress relief, and improved circulation.
💰 2. Affordable Luxury Compared to Western Spas
-
Many high-end spas in the U.S. charge hundreds of dollars per session.
-
Jjimjilbangs offer unlimited access for an affordable price, often including hot tubs, saunas, and rest areas.
🇰🇷 3. The K-Culture Boom (K-Pop, K-Drama, K-Beauty)
-
Many Korean celebrities, from BTS to Blackpink, have shared their jjimjilbang experiences, making it a must-try for fans.
-
K-dramas often feature jjimjilbangs, sparking curiosity among international audiences.
🍳 4. A Unique Food + Spa Combo
-
Unlike typical spas, jjimjilbangs also serve delicious Korean food!
-
Roasted eggs + sweet rice drink (sikhye) = the ultimate jjimjilbang snack combo!
💆♀️ The Health Benefits of Jjimjilbangs
Korean jjimjilbangs offer more than just relaxation; they also provide significant health benefits:
✔️ Detox & Improved Circulation
-
The high heat in bulgama (hot stone rooms) promotes sweating, flushing out toxins and improving circulation.
✔️ Stress Relief & Better Sleep
-
The warm environment helps relax muscles and reduce stress levels, leading to better sleep quality.
✔️ Weight Loss & Metabolism Boost
-
Heat therapy stimulates metabolism and promotes fat burning, making jjimjilbangs great for weight loss.
✔️ Glowing Skin & Anti-Aging Benefits
-
Infrared saunas and mineral-based therapy rooms help detoxify skin, leading to a clearer and more youthful complexion.
🇰🇷 Best Jjimjilbangs to Visit in Korea
If you're visiting Korea, don’t miss out on authentic jjimjilbang experiences! Here are the top jjimjilbangs to add to your itinerary:
🏆 1. Sparex (Jongno, Seoul)
-
Why Visit? Located in the heart of Seoul, Sparex is a modern jjimjilbang with a variety of sauna rooms and relaxation areas. It’s clean, affordable, and easily accessible, making it a great choice for first-time visitors.
-
Address: Jongno 3-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul
-
Opening Hours: 24/7
🏆 2. Jjimjilland (Haeundae, Busan)
-
Why Visit? A jjimjilbang with a sea view, located near Haeundae Beach. It offers ocean-based treatments, including seawater baths and mineral-rich spa rooms.
-
Address: Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan
-
Opening Hours: 24/7
🏆 3. Sealala Water Park & Jjimjilbang (Yeongdeungpo, Seoul)
-
Why Visit? A unique jjimjilbang combined with a water park, featuring hot springs, themed sauna rooms, and indoor pools. Perfect for families and those looking for a fun spa experience.
-
Address: Mullae-dong 3-ga, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
-
Opening Hours: 24/7
🏆 4. Hansol Jjimjilbang (Jung-gu, Daegu)
-
Why Visit? A traditional Korean-style jjimjilbang with hanok (Korean house) architecture. If you want to experience Korea’s classic spa culture, this is the perfect spot.
-
Address: Jungang-daero, Jung-gu, Daegu
-
Opening Hours: 24/7
🏆 5. Healing Time Jjimjilbang (Namdong, Incheon)
-
Why Visit? A modern jjimjilbang with high-end wellness facilities, including massage services and therapeutic hot baths. Great for travelers looking for relaxation and self-care.
-
Address: Yesullo, Namdong-gu, Incheon
-
Opening Hours: 24/7
🍽️ Must-Try Jjimjilbang Foods
A jjimjilbang visit isn’t complete without trying traditional Korean spa snacks! Here’s what you need to order:
🥚 1. Roasted Eggs (Maekbanseok Eggs)
-
Slowly cooked in a heated room, giving them a smoky flavor and firmer texture.
-
The perfect high-protein snack after sweating it out in the sauna!
🥤 2. Sikhye (Sweet Rice Drink)
-
A sweet and refreshing traditional Korean drink that helps rehydrate after a sauna session.
-
Pairs perfectly with roasted eggs!
🍚 3. Seaweed Soup with Rice (Miyeok-guk Bap)
-
If you're craving something more filling, warm seaweed soup is a great post-sauna meal.
-
Known for its detox and anti-aging benefits.
🍜 4. Instant Ramen
-
Many jjimjilbangs have instant ramen stations where you can cook your own bowl!
-
A delicious and comforting treat after a long soak in the hot baths.
🎯 Tips for the Best Jjimjilbang Experience
✔️ Wear the signature jjimjilbang outfit & take an Instagram-worthy photo! 📸
✔️ Try different themed rooms – from the super hot bulgama to the freezing ice room.
✔️ Visit during off-peak hours (mornings or late at night) for a quieter experience.
✔️ Don’t skip the jjimjilbang food – roasted eggs and sikhye are a must!
🔥 Final Thoughts
Korean jjimjilbangs are more than just spas – they’re a full cultural experience! Whether you’re in the U.S. trying a Korean spa for the first time or visiting Korea for the real deal, jjimjilbangs offer the perfect mix of relaxation, wellness, and fun.
🌍 If you’re traveling to Korea, make jjimjilbangs a part of your itinerary! It’s an experience you won’t forget. 💖
Check out LE SSERAFIM's jjimjilbang visit in the video below! 🎥🔥🧖♀️✨
Watch the adorable and beautiful members of LE SSERAFIM enjoy delicious food and explore the cozy interior of a Korean jjimjilbang! 🧖♀️🔥🍳✨