Since a jjimjilbang is a shared space enjoyed by people of all ages and genders, there are a few points of etiquette worth knowing in advance. From what to bring to bathhouse manners, checking these ahead of time will make your visit much more comfortable.
Know Before You Go: Making the Most of Your Jjimjilbang Visit
The bathhouse area is completely separated by gender, and the rule is to go without clothing in this space. Swimwear is generally not allowed, so keep that in mind. If you have tattoos, access may be restricted depending on the facility, so it's a good idea to check before visiting. Once you've changed into jjimjilbang clothes, the shared lounge area is open to everyone, but basic etiquette calls for keeping your voice down and being mindful of people who are sleeping nearby.
Checklist
1. The bathhouse area is used nude, and swimwear is not allowed 2. If you have tattoos, check in advance whether you're permitted to enter 3. Using your phone camera is strictly prohibited in the bathhouse area 4. Keep quiet in the lounge and be considerate of those who are sleeping 5. If you don't have your own toiletries, you can buy them at the shop or front counter
Tip
If it's your first visit, it's worth asking about a package that includes a towel and toiletries Photos can only be taken in shared areas like the lounge, and you should be careful not to capture other guests Since the key often doubles as a payment device, we recommend wearing it on your wrist so you don't lose it
More Stories
Seongsu
Sanctuary of Aesthetic Cafés & Pop-ups
Somaek
How Koreans really drink it: mastering somaek the right way
Eol-Baksa
A refreshing carbonated Bacchus, mixed right at the convenience store
Blue Lemon Milkis
The sky-blue convenience store drink MZ generation loves
Deowisanyang Banana Milk — The Ultimate Summer Convenience Store Dessert
Where ice cream meets milk: instant convenience store shaved ice
A-Shot-Chu — Iced Tea with a Shot Added
The convenience store iced tea plot twist: one coffee shot