Visiting a Korean Bathhouse for the First Time

Korean bathhouses, called jjimjilbang, are a part of life in Korea and are enjoyed only by those who visit the island and feel the need to cleanse themselves (money is power) and have fun. The top five things that one should know in order to enjoy a South Korean bathhouse experience like a South Korean are:

Arrival and Entry

Once you walk into the jjimjilbang, make sure that there are shoe lockers near the entrance where you can leave all your dresses. Also, pay your entrance fee (usually between ₩7000 and ₩20,000) at the reception and switch your shoe locker key into a new key for the changing room. You'll also receive a towel and cotton pajamas.

Changing and Etiquette

Head the way to the gender-specified area of changing rooms; look for "nam" and "yeo". The rest of your stuff should remain in the locker, and all you should bring are a small towel and bathroom items to the bathing area.

Bathing Ritual

You need to wash yourself nicely at the washing stations before relaxing at the baths. The baths have different temperatures, and the standard range is 38°C to 45°C, sometimes with cold tubs as well. Koreans go from hot to cold baths alternately, claiming that it's good for their health.

Optional Services

One of the most recommended treatments is a normal body scrub. (seshin) for smooth and clear skin. Professional scrubs are about ₩20,000, and oil massages are about ₩60,000.

Saunas and Relaxation

At the Korean saunas,(hanjeungmak) which are heated to round about 50°C to 90°C , relax on the heated stone or clay kilns. Beer drinkers can concentrate on the nonalcoholic traditional drinks such as sikhye.

Sleeping Rooms

Some jjimjilbangs give you the option of sleeping in a medieval communal area where people are expected to sleep. All come along with thin mattresses and heated floors (ondol). Pajama is provided for the area themed in these colors.

Departure

As you prepare to move on, you can go to the attendant's desk and give the key of your locker back and pay off all additional charges. Take your shoe locker key and belongings from the closet before leaving.

This guide is a simple review on what the first-time user can expect and to completely enjoy one's visit with a well-prepared and well-thought-out approach of it.