♨️ Jjimjilbang: How to Enjoy a Korean Bathhouse and Sauna
A jjimjilbang is a large bathhouse and sauna complex, many open around the clock. It is one of the easiest ways to relax after a day of sightseeing and to see an everyday Korean pastime. A few rules make the first visit smooth.
Culture & wellness · Updated 2026-09-29 · 5 min read
How it works
Most jjimjilbangs have two areas. The wet zone has baths and showers and is separated by gender, and no clothing is worn there. The common area is mixed, and everyone wears the T-shirt and shorts provided at check-in. It has themed saunas, rest rooms and often a snack bar.
Entry commonly costs about 10,000 to 20,000 won and usually allows a stay of several hours or overnight without extra fees. You receive a wristband that works as a locker key and lets you charge food or treatments to pay at the exit. Large complexes such as Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan are popular with visitors.
Bathing etiquette
Leave your shoes in the entrance shoe locker, then go to the locker room of your gender. In the wet zone, shower and wash thoroughly with soap before entering any pool. Do not take swimwear or towels into the pool and keep your hair out of the water.
Body scrubs are optional services in many places. Keep your voice low, and avoid filming or taking photos in changing and bathing areas.
Saunas, sleeping and what to bring
Try the salt, jade or charcoal rooms and cool down in an ice room, and drink water regularly. Do not stay in a very hot room too long.
Sleeping rooms have mats, so you can nap or stay overnight, though people can be noisy. Bring small cash or a card, a change of clothes and a hair tie. Leave valuables at your hotel, and use the locker for everything else.