The Secret Wellness World Hidden in Metropolitan Cities
By Kelli Luu | 22 May, 2025

East meets West in the most relaxing way possible as Korean spas are turning into the hottest wellness destinations in the U.S.

A new wellness revolution is underway as Korean Day Spas, or jjimjilbangs, are becoming the next best place to rejuvenate from the busy streets of New York or the bustling culture of Los Angeles. Jjimjilbangs originally gained popularity in South Korea in the 1990s, and that's because they are more than just a day spa. They're complete wellness centers for total relaxation and cultural immersion. These spas offer many amenities, including dry and wet saunas, ice plunges and hot tubs.

Himalayan salt rooms, and even communal sleeping areas. It's easy to spend your entire day at a jjimjilbang as some even have traditional Korean food courts to keep you from having any excuse to leave. People are becoming more focused on improving their mental and physical health, making the spa service market in the United States boom. In 2024, Grandview Research estimated the market size to be $96.5 billion.

and is projected to increase at a compound annual growth rate of 7.5 % from 2025 to 2030. Korean spas have been a significant part of this growth, especially in metropolitan cities. In the heart of Los Angeles, WeSpa is a four-story facility that's open 24-7 and will give you a full Korean spa experience. Here, you can find features such as gender-segregated areas, co-ed saunas, salt and clay rooms, and a full service restaurant. Imperial Spa is the very first jimjilbang to be introduced to Las Vegas. The two-level center spans over 30,000 square feet and blends Korean spa traditions with an ancient Roman aesthetic. Visitors can spend time in the many themed relaxation rooms, including the Jade and Onyx room. Imperial Spa also offers massages and Korean body scrub services to elevate your experience even more.

On the East Coast, sitting just across the Hudson River, is SoJo Spa Club, a very luxurious jimjilbang with panoramic views of the New York City skyline. At SoJo, you can take a dip in the stunning infinity pool and follow up with some time in the infrared sauna before taking a look at lunch options. Americans are absolutely intrigued by how Korean spas transcend cultural boundaries with their emphasis on relaxation and holistic health.

Spa enthusiasts are craving authentic wellness experiences and Jim Jobong's are standing out by creating a space that mixes tradition, community and self-care. So get ready to embark on your own Jim Jobong journey and find one near you for your next spa day.