Ever watch a K-drama and get that feeling? That moment when the scenery is so beautiful, the location so romantic, you wish you could just step right through the screen? Well, what if I told you that you actually can? Yes, many of the most breathtaking, heart-fluttering locations from our favorite dramas are real places you can add to your Korea travel bucket list. It’s time to live out your main character fantasy!
Here are 7 iconic K-drama filming locations you can actually visit. From ‘Goblin’ to ‘True Beauty’ to ‘Itaewon Class’
1. Namsan Tower
Let’s start with a true classic! If a drama needs an epic romantic confession or a stunning panoramic view of Seoul, this is the spot. Featured in legendary dramas like Boys Over Flowers and My Love from the Star, the tower is famous for its “locks of love” fences where couples leave padlocks to symbolize their eternal love. Basically, it’s the ultimate OTP date spot.
2. Jumunjin Beach Breakwater (Gangneung)
This one is for all the Goblin fans! Remember that incredibly beautiful and pivotal scene where Ji Eun-tak first summons Kim Shin to the beach? That very spot, the Jumunjin Breakwater, is a real place in Gangneung. Fans literally line up with a red scarf and a bundle of buckwheat flowers to recreate that magical scene. How cool is that?
3. Yonsei University (Sinchon Campus)
If you love a good campus romance, you’ve definitely seen this location. The beautiful, ivy-covered buildings of Yonsei University have served as the backdrop for countless school and university-set dramas, including True Beauty, Reply 1994, Cheer Up, Extraordinary You, and UnderCover High School. It will have you feeling like you’re the star of your own fresh, youthful love story. Tough Yonsei University is the Top Number 3 university in Korea, but we all K-drama fans know it as a K-drama university.
4. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Have you ever dreamed of being royalty in a historical drama (sageuk)? This is your chance. The majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace, with its stunning traditional architecture, has been the backdrop for countless dramas like Netflix’s Kingdom and The Moon Embracing the Sun. You can even rent a hanbok (traditional Korean clothing) nearby to walk the grounds. Talk about a main character moment!
5. Nami Island
Yes, this is that place. Nami Island became a legendary Hallyu destination thanks to the iconic drama Winter Sonata. The famous tree-lined paths are just as beautiful in person and change with every season. On Nami Island, there is also a statue dedicated to the memory of “Winter Sonata.” Walking or riding a bike here will make you feel like you’re starring in your very own soft, romantic love story.
6. Bukchon Hanok Village
This charming neighborhood, with its preserved traditional Korean houses (hanoks), is like walking through a living piece of history. It offers stunning rooftop views of the city and has been featured in dramas like Our Beloved Summer and many others for those aesthetic “walking through Seoul” montages. It’s the perfect blend of old and new Korea.
7. The Streets of Itaewon
Thanks to the massive hit Itaewon Class, this vibrant, international neighborhood has become a must-visit. You can walk across the Noksapyeong Bridge where Park Sae-ro-yi would often look out at the N Seoul Tower, dreaming of his future. The area is filled with trendy restaurants and shops that capture the drama’s energetic, ambitious vibe.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip, why not build your itinerary around your favorite dramas? It adds a whole new layer of magic to your travels. Personally, my travel bucket list just got a whole lot longer after writing this, hahaha. No seriously, visiting these places feels like paying homage to the stories that made us laugh and cry. For me I;ve already visited Namsan Tower, Nami Island, Yonsei University and Itewan. But I really wanna go Jumunjin Beach Breakwater the Goblin place. I reallyyyyy!!!
Which K-drama location is at the top of your list to visit? Let me know in the comments! Let me know, Wavies! Till then, keep exploring.
