Jjimjilbang: The Complete Guide to Korean Spas

A jjimjilbang is a gender-segregated public bathhouse combined with co-ed relaxation areas. The bathing sections (jimjil) have hot tubs, cold pools, and various therapeutic baths. The common areas (jjimjilbang proper) feature heated rooms, TVs, snack bars, and sleeping areas. Entrance fees typically run 12,000-18,000 won, granting access for as long as you want—many people stay overnight. You receive a locker key and cotton shorts/shirt pajamas (for the co-ed areas). Jjimjilbangs range from basic neighborhood facilities to elaborate complexes with saunas, pools, fitness centers, and entertainment. Dragon Hill Spa in Yongsan and Siloam Sauna near Seoul Station are popular with tourists due to English signage and foreigner-friendly policies.

Here's what trips up most first-timers: the bathing area is completely nude. You'll shower and use the pools without clothes. Koreans have grown up with this; for visitors from cultures with more bathing privacy, it takes adjustment. Everyone showers before entering the pools. This isn't optional. Scrub thoroughly at the shower stations (seated, with a handheld showerhead). Many Koreans do a serious exfoliation routine here. Towels are provided but small—one for drying, which most people also use for modesty when walking around. Larger towels may cost extra. Shampoo, soap, and basic toiletries are usually available. Don't stare, don't take photos (obviously), and don't wear swimwear in the pools. After a few minutes, the nudity becomes unremarkable. If you're truly uncomfortable, the co-ed jjimjil areas don't require disrobing.

After bathing, change into the provided pajamas and head to the co-ed areas. Here you'll find heated rooms at various temperatures—some with salt, jade, or charcoal—plus cool rooms for contrast. The sheep-head towel (양머리, yangmeori) is a jjimjilbang signature: folding your towel into a turban shape keeps sweat out of your eyes in the hot rooms. Staff or other visitors may show you how. Common areas also have mat sleeping areas, TV rooms, internet corners, and cafes serving baked eggs (maekbanseok eggs, cooked in the hot rooms) and sikhye (sweet rice drink). These are the quintessential jjimjilbang snacks. Many Koreans nap here, sometimes overnight. The sleeping areas are open rooms with mats—not private. Bring earplugs if you're sensitive to noise. As budget accommodation goes, it's basic but functional.

Tattoos: Many jjimjilbangs prohibit visible tattoos. Some enforce this strictly; others don't. Smaller tattoos might go unnoticed; large ones might get you turned away. Tourist-friendly spots like Dragon Hill are generally more lenient. Timings: Weekday afternoons are quietest. Weekend evenings are busy with families and friend groups. After midnight, the atmosphere shifts to people sleeping or recovering from nights out. What to bring: Nothing essential—toiletries are provided. But you might want a phone charger, earplugs, eye mask, and extra cash for snacks or services. Upgrades: Most jjimjilbangs offer paid services: body scrubs (때밀이, ttae-mili—aggressive but effective exfoliation, about 20,000-30,000 won), massages, and beauty treatments. Leaving and re-entering: Your wristband key tracks you. You can leave and return within your visit, but check policies—some charge for extended stays.