In South Korea, room salons are an integral part of the nightlife scene. These are upscale private lounges that cater to high-paying customers seeking top-quality entertainment, food, and drinks, along with the company of attractive hostesses.
The concept of #풀싸롱 #룸싸롱 may seem controversial or intriguing, depending on your perspective. In this blog, we aim to shed light on this unique aspect of Korean culture and help readers understand the secrets behind the phenomenon.
What is a room salon?
Room salons are luxurious, yet discreet spaces that are reserved for private entertainment. They typically feature high-end furniture, lighting design, and photography that creates an intimate and stylish atmosphere. Customers order an unlimited supply of alcoholic beverages and can also enjoy a wide range of cuisine, ranging from sushi to Korean barbecue.
However, the main attraction of room salons is the hostess or ‘juicy girl,’ who entertains the customers with dancing, singing, and conversation. Customers typically pay for the hostesses’ time as well as their company and the entertainment she provides. Some room salons have themes or gimmicks such as costumed waitresses or karaoke rooms to further attract customers.
History of Room Salons
Room salons have been around in Korea since the ‘50s, and they originally started as hostess bars. They aimed to provide customers with good food, drinks, and company. Over time, the concept evolved into private rooms where customers could relax with friends, colleagues, or business partners while being entertained by a hostess.
What to Expect
When you enter a room salon, you will usually be greeted by a host or hostess, who will then show you to your room. Most rooms come fitted with a karaoke set-up, and you can request a particular song to sing. Hostesses will also join in the singing, dance, and make sure you have nothing but a good time.
Keep in mind that while room salons have the reputation of being luxurious, they can be expensive. The charges are usually per hour, and you will have to pay for drinks and food, too. Also, note that room salons roster is usually all-women hostess staff that can be seen as objectifying.
Etiquettes to Keep in Mind
When visiting a room salon, you need to keep in mind several etiquettes. One is to never touch the hostesses, not their bodies, clothes, or hair. You are expected to tip the hostess as a sign of gratitude for entertaining you. Tipping usually comes in the form of buying the hostess drinks or additional extras during your session.
Types of room salons
Room salons are diverse and come in different sizes, themes, and levels of exclusivity. Basic room salons can accommodate about 12 people, while larger ones can host up to 30-40 guests.
Some are very expensive and require membership and referral from existing customers, while others cater to casual customers. The prices for a night in a room salon can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the services provided, the quality of the hostesses, and the exclusivity level of the establishment.
Why are room salons popular?
There is no denying that room salons have a significant cultural and social impact in South Korea. Many Koreans see them as a way to escape from the daily grind and enjoy the finer things in life. Room salons provide a space for people to relax, socialize, and network while enjoying the company of beautiful and intelligent hostesses.
Room salons often have a strict policy on phone usage, providing a break from technology. They also provide a sense of exclusivity and luxury, which is appealing to many Koreans, especially young adults. For some, room salons can be a status symbol, allowing them to flaunt their wealth and social standing.
Controversy and criticism
Despite the popularity and acceptance of room salons in Korean culture, they are not without controversy and criticism. Many people object to the objectification of women and the commodification of sex. Some argue that the system exploits vulnerable women, and consequently, the industry has a dark underbelly of human trafficking and sexual violence.
The government of South Korea has attempted to regulate the industry and crack down on illegal activities, but it remains a challenging task due to the secretive and exclusive nature of the industry.
Conclusion
The concept of room salons may seem unusual and controversial to some, but it is essential to understand its unique cultural importance. They have become a symbol of the growing Korean culture and offer a unique blend of entertainment, aesthetics, and luxury.
However, it is also essential to acknowledge the controversies surrounding the industry and work towards creating a more equitable and safer environment for all involved. Ultimately, understanding the culture of room salons and the reasoning behind their popularity reflects a broader view of the changing social landscape in Korea.