A Guide to Visiting Popular K-Drama Filming Locations in Seoul for International Fans

A Guide to Visiting Popular K-Drama Filming Locations

For fans of Korean dramas (K-Dramas), visiting Seoul and its surrounding areas is a dream come true. With its scenic locations, iconic landmarks, and a unique charm that resonates with international viewers, Seoul has become a must-visit destination for K-Drama lovers. This guide will introduce you to some of the most popular filming locations from beloved dramas, complete with transportation details, nearby attractions, and local food recommendations.

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1. Namsan Seoul Tower - My Love from the Star (별에서 온 그대)

• Drama Overview: My Love from the Star is a romantic fantasy that became a global sensation, starring Jun Ji-hyun as a famous actress and Kim Soo-hyun as an alien who has lived on Earth for centuries. The drama beautifully weaves sci-fi elements with romance and humor.
• Iconic Scene: Namsan Seoul Tower is where some of the romantic scenes between the leads take place, making it an essential stop for fans of this hit drama.
• Getting There:
  • Subway: Take Line 4 to Myeongdong Station and exit at Exit 3. Walk towards the Namsan Cable Car station (approximately a 10-minute walk) and take the cable car up to the tower.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Myeongdong Shopping Street: This is one of Seoul's most popular shopping districts, known for cosmetics, fashion, and street food.
  • Namsangol Hanok Village: A traditional Korean village nearby where you can explore Korean culture, architecture, and even wear hanbok (traditional Korean clothing).
• Food Recommendations:
  • Myeongdong Kyoja: Famous for its kalguksu (hand-cut noodles) and mandu (dumplings), this is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
  • Street Food in Myeongdong: Try the tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), hotteok (sweet pancakes), and eomuk (fish cakes) from the street vendors.

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2. Bukchon Hanok Village - Goblin (도깨비)

• Drama Overview: Goblin (also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God) stars Gong Yoo as a goblin cursed with immortality and Kim Go-eun as the girl destined to end his curse. The series captured audiences worldwide with its blend of fantasy, romance, and stunning cinematography.
• Iconic Scene: Bukchon Hanok Village, a historic village with traditional Korean houses, is one of the filming spots where the leads meet. The quaint, traditional backdrop made these scenes memorable.
• Getting There:
  • Subway: Take Line 3 to Anguk Station and exit at Exit 2. From there, it’s a short walk to the village.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Gyeongbokgung Palace: The largest palace in Seoul, located nearby, where you can watch the royal guard changing ceremony.
  • Insadong: Known for traditional tea houses, craft stores, and art galleries, Insadong is perfect for fans looking to immerse themselves in Korean culture.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Samcheong-dong Cafés: Nearby Bukchon, Samcheong-dong has numerous cozy cafes where you can relax with traditional Korean tea or coffee.
  • Gwangjang Market: Located a bit further but worth a visit for authentic Korean street food such as bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap (mini seaweed rolls).

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3. Petite France - My Love from the Star & Secret Garden

• Drama Overview:
  • In My Love from the Star, the charming French village of Petite France appears in a beautiful date scene.
  • Secret Garden, starring Hyun Bin and Ha Ji-won, also features this romantic village as part of its memorable scenes.
• Getting There:
  • Bus: From Gapyeong Station, take the local bus or a shuttle directly to Petite France. This area is also accessible via the ITX-Cheongchun line from Yongsan Station to Gapyeong Station.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Nami Island: Known for its beautiful tree-lined paths, Nami Island is a popular day trip destination from Seoul and a frequent filming location for many dramas.
  • Garden of Morning Calm: Another beautiful location near Petite France, famous for its seasonal floral displays and stunning night lights in winter.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Dakgalbi in Chuncheon: Chuncheon is famous for spicy stir-fried chicken (dakgalbi), often cooked at the table and enjoyed with rice cakes and vegetables.
  • Café Culture on Nami Island: Enjoy some unique cafes that offer themed interiors and cozy spots with views of the island’s natural beauty.

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4. Ihwa Mural Village - Rooftop Prince (옥탑방 왕세자)

• Drama Overview: Rooftop Prince, a fantasy romance about a Joseon prince (played by Park Yoochun) who time-travels to modern-day Seoul, features Ihwa Mural Village as a backdrop to its story. The village is famous for its colorful murals and scenic views.
• Getting There:
  • Subway: Take Line 4 to Hyehwa Station and exit at Exit 2. From there, follow signs to Ihwa Mural Village, about a 15-minute walk uphill.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Naksan Park: Located near the village, this park offers beautiful views of Seoul, especially at sunset.
  • Daehangno (University Street): Known for its youthful atmosphere, Daehangno has various theaters, street performances, and cafes.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Chimaek: Enjoy Korean fried chicken and beer (chimaek) at one of the local spots in Hyehwa.
  • Street Food in Daehangno: Sample classic Korean street food, such as fish cakes and hotteok, as you explore the vibrant area.

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5. Jumunjin Breakwater - Goblin

• Drama Overview: Goblin featured Jumunjin Breakwater, a quiet seaside location where Kim Go-eun first encounters Gong Yoo’s goblin character. This scene became iconic, and the breakwater is now a popular destination for fans of the series.
• Getting There:
  • Bus: From Gangneung Station, take a local bus or taxi to Jumunjin Beach. Alternatively, you can take an express bus from Seoul to Gangneung, then transfer to Jumunjin.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Jumunjin Fish Market: Known for fresh seafood, this market is a great place to try local delicacies like grilled fish and seafood stew.
  • Gangneung Coffee Street: A popular seaside strip with many cafes offering scenic ocean views and specialty coffees.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Fresh Seafood: Enjoy grilled clams, abalone, and various seafood dishes at the nearby Jumunjin Fish Market.
  • Hand-Drip Coffee: Head to Gangneung Coffee Street to experience Korea’s coffee culture and try hand-drip coffee with a view of the ocean.

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6. Dae Jang Geum Park - The Moon Embracing the Sun (해를 품은 달) & Dae Jang Geum (대장금)

• Drama Overview:
  • The Moon Embracing the Sun and Dae Jang Geum are historical dramas beloved by audiences worldwide. Dae Jang Geum Park, a historical theme park, was used as a filming location for both dramas, with traditional sets that transport visitors back to the Joseon era.
• Getting There:
  • Subway and Bus: Take Line 1 to Suwon Station, then take a bus or taxi to Dae Jang Geum Park.
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Hwaseong Fortress: Located in Suwon, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Korea’s history and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Korean Folk Village: Experience traditional Korean culture with performances, workshops, and activities like hanbok rentals.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Suwon Galbi: Suwon is famous for marinated beef ribs, which can be enjoyed at many restaurants near Hwaseong Fortress.
  • Korean Street Food at Korean Folk Village: Sample traditional treats like rice cakes and hotteok in a historical setting.

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7. Han River Park - Itaewon Class (이태원 클라쓰)

• Drama Overview: Itaewon Class, starring Park Seo-joon and Kim Da-mi, features Han River Park as a meeting spot for the characters. The park offers stunning views of the Han River and the Seoul skyline, making it a great location for a relaxing day out.
• Getting There:
  • Subway: Han River Park has several entrances, with popular access points at Yeouido Station (Line 5) and Ttukseom Resort Station (Line 7).
• Nearby Attractions:
  • Yeouido Hangang Park: Known for its cherry blossoms in spring, this park is a popular location for picnics and outdoor activities.
  • IFC Mall: A large shopping mall in Yeouido where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Food Recommendations:
  • Convenience Store Picnic: Grab snacks and drinks from a local convenience store and enjoy a picnic by the river, a popular activity among Koreans.
  • Chimaek at the Han River: Many people order Korean fried chicken and enjoy it at the park while watching the sunset over the river.

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Final Thoughts

Exploring these filming locations offers fans a unique way to connect with their favorite K-Dramas and experience Korean culture firsthand. Each location not only brings you closer to iconic drama scenes but also offers nearby attractions and delicious local foods, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.