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I still remember my trip to Korea just to walk the very same path as my favorite K-drama characters. From the secret alleys of Itaewon to the stunning ginkgo road of Nami Island, every place felt like stepping straight into a magical scene. If you’ve ever dreamed of reliving those unforgettable drama moments, or want to impress your friends with secret scene locations, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore Korea’s most iconic filming spots—through stories, scene guides, and insider tips—so you can plan your own drama-inspired journey!
🏙️ Famous K-Drama Filming Locations in Seoul
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Seoul stands as the true capital of K-drama magic. From traditional palaces to quirky cafés, the city’s neighborhoods have appeared in countless hit series. Here’s where you can recreate iconic scenes:
| Location | Featured In | Drama Scene | Visiting Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheonggyecheon Stream | My Love from the Star, Vincenzo | Romantic walks and riverside confessions | Evening is best for atmosphere & lights |
| Namsan Seoul Tower | My Love from the Star, Boys Over Flowers | Love locks, first dates, late-night views | Take the cable car for a K-drama-worthy ride |
| Ihwa Mural Village | The Heirs, Strong Woman Do Bong Soon | Cute mural walks, meet-cute scenes | Explore on foot for hidden spots |
| Ikseon-dong Hanok Village | Hotel Del Luna | Secret alleys, cozy date night scenes | Great for unique cafés and photos |
| Gyeongbokgung Palace | Kingdom, The Last Empress | Historical fights, royal romance | Rent hanbok nearby for free palace entry |
| Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP) | She Was Pretty | Trendy walks, big reveals | Catch the light show at night |
| Seoul Forest | It’s Okay to Not Be Okay | Mental healing scenes, deep conversations | Perfect for a quiet stroll |
| Starfield Library (COEX) | Record of Youth | Dreams and inspiration among books | Visit early to avoid crowds |
| Samcheong-dong Café Street | Clean with Passion for Now | Lighthearted café moments | Try the famous desserts, too |
🌲 Nami Island: The OG K-Drama Dream Spot
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Nami Island became a legend among K-drama fans thanks to Winter Sonata, but its beauty continues to attract new series and viewers. A stroll down its Metasequoia Lane or ginkgo tree avenue is a walk through the heart of Korean romance. If you’ve seen those beautiful slow-motion confessions in the snow or magical spring moments, you’re already a virtual visitor!
| Drama | Famous Scene on Nami Island | Best Season | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter Sonata | Snow-covered avenue kiss, bicycle ride, confessions | Winter (for THAT iconic look) | Visit early morning for fewer crowds |
| Hi Bye, Mama! | Riverbank scenes of family and loss | Spring for cherry blossoms | Ferry ride is scenic, bring a picnic |
| You Who Came From the Stars | Dreamy proposal scene | Autumn (golden leaves everywhere) | Capture photos in golden hour |
| Secret Garden | Breezy lakeside date | Summer | Rent bikes on site |
🌟 Goblin Filming Locations in Korea
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From sweeping rooftops at Deoksugung Palace’s Stone-wall Road, to modern city corners and cozy restaurants, Goblin transformed everyday places into living fairy tales. If you’ve ever wanted to walk through the “door” and find yourself in Canada or stand on the mountain with flaming swords, these are THE spots to add to your K-drama journey.
| Location | Key Episode/Scene | Can Visit? | Bonus Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jumunjin Beach Breakwater (Gangneung) | Ji Eun-tak’s iconic red scarf summoning | Yes | Replicate the umbrella scene for photos |
| Unhyeongung Palace | Historical flashbacks | Yes | Go during hanbok events for free tours |
| Deoksugung Stone Wall Road | Main couple’s romantic walks | Yes | Best in autumn for the leaves |
| BBQ Olive Chicken Café | Main character’s part-time job | Yes (multiple branches) | Try the “drama menu” set |
| Samcheongdong-gil | Shop chase and meet-cute | Yes | Perfect for street food snacking |
| Cheongna Lake Park | Final “goodbye” scene | Yes | Very romantic at sunset |
| Itaewon (Var) | City life, rooftop meetings | Yes | Explore at night |
| Korean Folk Village (Yongin) | Historical and fantasy scenes | Yes | Great for families and kids too |
| Canada (Quebec streets, Château Frontenac) | “Door travel” scenes | Yes (overseas) | In Korea: visit “Goblin photo zones” for themed backdrops |
🔶 Itaewon Class Filming Spots: Trendiest Seoul Roadmap
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After “Itaewon Class”, Itaewon is forever stamped as the place for dreamers and rebels. I still remember wandering down the neon-lit streets at dusk, tracing the main characters’ steps. If food, friendships, and ambition are your drama vibe, don’t skip these iconic corners!
| Spot | Behind the Scene | K-Drama Scene | How to Reach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oriole Bar & Restaurant | DanBam’s rooftop inspiration | Rooftop scenes, group bonding | Walk from Noksapyeong Station (Line 6) |
| Itaewon World Food Street | Main clubbing and party scenes | Nightlife, romance, chasing dreams | Center of Itaewon-dong |
| NPizza Itaewon | Saeroyi’s team dinners | Casual, heartfelt moments | Adjacent to main road |
| Hangang Riverside Park | Reflective heart-to-hearts | Life lessons, turning points | Accessible from Itaewon by taxi/bus |
| Lee Soo Hyuk’s “DanBam” Set | Filmed on a set but inspired dozens of cafés/bars in the area | Most bar scenes | Many themed spots now open |
| Bus Stop at Bogwang-dong | First big confrontation | Pivotal early scene | On Bogwang-ro, walkable from center |
🏆 How to Design Your K-Drama Pilgrimage
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Pro-tips for an unforgettable K-drama travel adventure:
- Plan by zones—Seoul has clusters of filming spots (Insadong, Hongdae, Itaewon, etc.) that can be combined in a day.
- Most locations are public—cafés, parks, and main streets welcome drama fans for photos and fun.
- Visit off-peak hours for less crowded, more authentic moments.
- Use local transport—Seoul’s subway connects nearly every drama location easily.
- Special suggestion: Look for “Drama Filming Location” signposts at some sites (installed by local tourism).
- Don’t forget your camera and maybe a red scarf or love lock for the ultimate K-drama shot!
💬 FAQ: Everything You Want to Know About K-Drama Filming Locations
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- Are all the locations in Seoul open to the public? Most filming sites (cafés, parks, main streets) are, but some private businesses may have changed or closed.
- Do I need to pay to visit these spots? Palace entry and theme parks may charge a fee. Cafés expect a purchase.
- Can I take photos? Absolutely! Many places even have “photo zones” set up for drama fans.
- When is the best time to go? Spring and autumn for foliage, early morning or late afternoon for the mood.
- Are there tours? Yes—plenty of local guides and group tours cater to K-drama fans.
- Can I dress up in drama costumes? Hanbok rentals and themed merchandise shops are everywhere!
©️ K-Drama Filming Locations Travel Guide: Seoul, Nami Island, Goblin & Itaewon Class Spots