Jjimjilbang 101: how to do a Korean sauna like a local
A jjimjilbang (찜질방) is a Korean bathhouse and sauna — part spa, part hangout. Scrubs, hot rooms, cold drinks, and yes, eggs cooked in the sauna.
How it works
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Useful phrases
- 세신 받을 수 있어요?sesin badeul su isseoyo?
Can I get a body scrub?
- 식혜 하나 주세요sikhye hana juseyo
One sweet rice drink, please
- 맥반석 계란 주세요maekbanseok gyeran juseyo
Sauna eggs, please
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The local-feeling version is less “spa itinerary” and more “settle in and let the temperature changes be the activity.” At most jjimjilbangs, you’ll get a locker key and a set of clothes for the shared lounge and heated rooms. The bathing area is usually gender-separated and nude; shower thoroughly before getting into the tubs. Follow posted rules, and don’t bring a phone into the bathing area.
A body scrub (때밀이, ttaemiri) is optional—not a required rite of passage. If you want one, soak first, then ask staff about the service and price before starting. It can feel very vigorous, so say “약하게 해 주세요” (yakage hae juseyo, “Please do it gently”) or skip it if that sounds unappealing. Avoid scrubbing irritated or freshly shaved skin.
Pack a hair tie and consider bringing your own basic toiletries, though many bathhouses sell or provide them. Try the heated rooms in short rounds, take breaks, and drink water; the sauna eggs (맥반석 계란) and 식혜 (sikhye, sweet rice drink) are classic lounge snacks. For a first visit, go with a friend and check the specific bathhouse’s rules and facilities ahead of time.
Is it okay to get a body scrub while I have a sunburn?
It’s best to avoid a body scrub (ttaemiri) right after getting sunburned, or while you have redness, stinging, or peeling. Friction can increase irritation or make the peeling more noticeable. Even after your skin has calmed down, don’t forcefully scrub it if you still have sunburn marks or it feels sensitive to the touch.
If you really want to get one, tell the staff before the treatment that you’re sunburned and ask whether they can use a gentler touch. If you have pain or intense heat, or blisters over a large area, don’t get a body scrub and consult a dermatologist.
Editor’s tip: The “lamb head,” made by folding a jjimjilbang towel into a small shape and wrapping it around your head, is famous. It’s perfect for a travel souvenir photo 🐑