5 Questions You'll Want to Know About Your First Korean Jjimjilbang

A sheep’s head made from a towel, brown eggs, and sweet sikhye. You might want to visit a jjimjilbang—like the ones you’ve seen in dramas—but it can be overwhelming to know where to go and what to do. Let’s take a look at five things you might be wondering about before your first visit. 1. How do you make a “sheep’s head” out of a towel? Fold the towel lengthwise into three layers, then roll both ends outward a few times, as if rolling up a sleeve. Spread out the remaining center section and place it on your head to create a cute “sheep head.” Just adjust how tightly you roll it to fit your head size. It’s not a must, but it’s a little bit of fun to help you enjoy the jjimjilbang atmosphere. Please take photos only in common areas where photography is permitted, and make sure no other guests are in the frame. 2. What does a makbanseok egg taste like? Baked eggs, a familiar snack at jjimjilbangs, have brown egg whites and are characterized by a chewier texture and a rich, savory flavor compared to boiled eggs. Although they’re commonly called “macbanseok eggs,” the preparation method can vary by product. It’s also fun to enjoy them with cold, sweet sikhye. Instead of cracking them on your forehead like in TV dramas, lightly score the shell and peel it by hand. 3. Is it okay to be there with my boyfriend or friends? In the communal relaxation areas, men and women can spend time together while wearing jjimjilbuk (bath robes). However, the changing rooms and bathing areas are usually separated by gender, and you must undress and wash in the bathing areas. If it’s your first time, it’s helpful to distinguish between the “rest area” and the “washing area.” At facilities with swimming pools, be sure to check the dress code guidelines separately. 4. What should I be careful about in the bathhouse? Please shower and wash your body before entering the baths. In most public bathhouses, you do not wear a swimsuit, and you should not dip your towel in the bathwater. Do not take photos or videos in the changing rooms or bathing areas. Keep your voice down and be considerate of other guests’ personal space. 5. Can you really spend the night at a jjimjilbang? Some jjimjilbangs are open at night and offer sleeping areas. However, unlike hotels, they do not guarantee private beds or a quiet environment. Not all jjimjilbangs operate 24 hours a day, so be sure to check before your visit whether they’re open at night, their hours of operation, any additional fees, and luggage storage options. A jjimjilbang is a Korean-style relaxation space where you can bathe, rest, and enjoy snacks. Which would you like to try first: making “sheep’s head” or tasting eggs and sikhye?