Top 10 Iconic K-Drama Filming Locations in Korea
For fans of Korean dramas, traveling to South Korea is more than just a tourist experience; it’s a journey into the heart of iconic scenes and memorable characters. These locations are not only visually captivating but also carry a unique atmosphere that K-dramas often highlight. In this article, we’ll take you through 10 must-visit filming locations for K-dramas in South Korea, where you can relive your favorite moments and immerse yourself in South Korea’s beauty and culture.
1. Petite France (Gapyeong)
Popular Dramas: My Love from the Star, Secret Garden, Beethoven Virus
Located in the scenic region of Gapyeong, Petite France is a themed village with French-inspired architecture and colorful buildings. Inspired by The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, this quaint village offers visitors a touch of Europe in the heart of South Korea. Petite France has become a favorite backdrop for romantic K-dramas, such as My Love from the Star, due to its charming and nostalgic atmosphere. Whether you’re taking photos or just wandering around, Petite France offers a dreamy escape into a European-inspired world that fans of K-dramas will recognize and love.
2. Namsan Seoul Tower (Seoul)
Popular Dramas: My Love from the Star, Boys Over Flowers, Legend of the Blue Sea
Perched atop Namsan Mountain, the Namsan Seoul Tower provides breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul. Known as a romantic spot, it’s famous for the “love locks” left by couples on the fences surrounding the tower, a tradition popularized by numerous K-dramas. For instance, Boys Over Flowers showcases this tower as a romantic symbol, making it a must-visit for fans who want to capture a piece of Seoul’s iconic skyline. In summary, the Namsan Seoul Tower is a blend of romance and beauty, offering fans of K-dramas a chance to experience a piece of their favorite shows.
3. Itaewon (Seoul)
Popular Drama: Itaewon Class
Known for its multicultural vibe and vibrant nightlife, Itaewon is one of Seoul’s liveliest districts. It gained even more popularity through the drama Itaewon Class, which captures the area’s dynamic energy and diversity. The streets are filled with a variety of international restaurants, bars, and unique shops that showcase Seoul’s modern side. Due to its rich cultural mix, Itaewon is the ideal place to experience the city’s diverse atmosphere and is a must-see for anyone interested in K-dramas and urban exploration.
4. Library Starfield (COEX Mall, Seoul)
Popular Dramas: Record of Youth, The King: Eternal Monarch
Located within the massive COEX Mall in Seoul, the Library Starfield is an impressive space with towering bookshelves and a sleek, modern design. This free-to-visit library has become a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike, offering a perfect spot for photography or relaxation. Dramas like Record of Youth have filmed scenes here, showcasing the library’s dreamy atmosphere and its appeal to the ambitious and thoughtful characters often portrayed in K-dramas. Because of its open and welcoming design, Library Starfield is a must-see spot for anyone visiting Seoul.
5. Ihwa Mural Village (Seoul)
Popular Dramas: Rooftop Prince, Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, Goblin
Perched on the hills of Seoul, Ihwa Mural Village is a vibrant area known for its colorful murals and artistic vibe. Originally revitalized as an art project, the village is now a popular destination for locals and tourists, filled with murals, sculptures, and unique art installations. Dramas like Goblin and Rooftop Prince have used Ihwa Mural Village to showcase its eclectic and lively charm. The village’s narrow alleys and staircases adorned with art provide fans a chance to walk through a real-life gallery that has been featured in several well-known K-dramas.
6. Palaces of Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung (Seoul)
Popular Drama: Historian Goo Hae-Ryung
The historic palaces of Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung offer visitors a glimpse into South Korea’s rich history. These beautiful palaces, with their traditional architecture and well-kept gardens, have been the setting for various period dramas, like Historian Goo Hae-Ryung. The palaces showcase the elegance of Korea’s past, making them essential stops for fans of historical K-dramas. Because they bring historical scenes to life, Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung allow fans to feel as though they’ve stepped into a drama set in Korea’s royal era.
7. Seonyudo Park (Seoul)
Popular Dramas: While You Were Sleeping, Run On
Seonyudo Park, an eco-friendly green space located on an island in the Han River, is a peaceful escape in bustling Seoul. Known for its lush landscapes and stunning views of the river, it’s a popular spot for picnics, strolls, and romantic moments. The park’s natural beauty has been featured in dramas like While You Were Sleeping, where it serves as a serene background for characters to connect. In autumn, the park transforms as the leaves change color, offering a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. Seonyudo Park is perfect for fans who want a quiet retreat and a scenic spot to relax.
8. Temple Haedong Yonggungsa (Busan)
Popular Dramas: Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Black Knight
Uniquely located by the sea, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple is a striking Buddhist temple in Busan. Unlike most temples situated on mountains, Haedong Yonggungsa stands along the coast, offering stunning views of the ocean, especially at sunrise. This temple was featured in the drama Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, emphasizing its serene and spiritual atmosphere. Because of its special coastal location and peaceful ambiance, Haedong Yonggungsa is a meaningful stop for those who want to experience South Korea’s cultural and spiritual heritage firsthand.
9. River Han (Seoul)
Popular Dramas: Navillera, Abyss, Beautiful Love
The Han River runs through Seoul, providing a scenic backdrop for many popular K-dramas. The river’s banks are lined with parks and recreational areas, where locals and tourists can enjoy bike rides, picnics, and beautiful views of the city skyline. The Han River often serves as a versatile setting for romance, dramatic farewells, and heartfelt conversations, as seen in dramas like Navillera and Abyss. Because it’s a frequent setting in K-dramas, the Han River has become a must-visit for fans wanting to experience a familiar yet picturesque part of Seoul.
10. Nami Island (Chuncheon)
Popular Drama: Winter Sonata
Nami Island, with its unique half-moon shape and beautiful tree-lined paths, is a breathtaking location year-round. Famous for being featured in the classic drama Winter Sonata, the island is especially popular in the autumn, when the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. In winter, the snow-covered landscape offers a tranquil beauty that makes it a perfect backdrop for romance. Due to its natural beauty and seasonal charm, Nami Island is a destination that K-drama fans should experience, as it provides a setting straight out of a storybook.
Conclusion
Visiting these 10 must-see K-drama filming locations in South Korea offers fans a rare opportunity to step into the world of their favorite dramas. Each place has its own unique character, from the romantic Namsan Tower to the serene Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, making them integral parts of the stories we love. Because these spots have appeared in some of the most beloved dramas, they provide a meaningful experience for fans looking to reconnect with the scenes that made them laugh, cry, and fall in love. These locations go beyond mere sightseeing; they invite visitors to feel the essence of K-drama storytelling in real life.
These places showcase South Korea’s vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes, offering fans an unforgettable experience. In summary, if you’re a K-drama enthusiast planning a trip to South Korea, be sure to include these iconic filming spots on your itinerary for a journey that blends reality with the magic of K-dramas.
