How To Explore South Korea Like A True K-Fan
If Korean music and drama is your jam, here are some locations you must add to your South Korea itinerary
The K of Korean has become a mainstay in our lives. Whether it meant bingeing on K-dramas on Netflix, trying our hands at Korean food, listening to K-pop or even trying K-beauty-inspired products to get that enviable glass skin, Korean culture and cinema have made an indelible mark on the world at large. South Korea is not just a K-fan paradise; it is also an incredible travel destination, with its ancient architecture, culinary delights and more. And if you’re headed to South Korea, these locales, which feature in prominent K-culture events – from movies to shows – are a must for the’ gram.
Seoul Land, Seoul
Take pictures at Seoul Land. Picture: seoulland.co.kr
A popular amusement park in Gwacheon, just outside of Seoul in South Korea, Seoul Land saw the filming of When My Love Blooms, The Golden Bride and The Secret Life Of My Secretary, among others. It is one of the country’s oldest and most famous theme parks, offering various attractions and entertainment for visitors of all ages. In addition to the thrilling rides and scenic beauty, Seoul Land hosts various seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, adding an extra touch of splendour to the park. Head here to recreate K-drama-inspired mushy pictures with your loved ones.
Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace. Picture: Shutterstock
Gyeongbokgung Palace, the largest royal palace in Seoul, has a rich history and has appeared in numerous K-dramas. One notable production is “Moon Embracing the Sun,” which showcased the palace’s grandeur and intricate architecture. Other K-dramas shot here include Kingdom, Goong and The Last Empress. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, including the Geunjeongjeon Hall, where pivotal scenes occur. Gyenongbokgung, which translates to ‘palace greatly blessed by heaven’, also has the National Palace Museum of Korea and the National Folk Museum of Korea on its premises.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Bukchon Hanok Village. Picture: Shutterstock
For travellers looking for an immersive cultural experience, this village is your best bet in Seoul. The traditional village homes will take you back to your favourite dramas, the most prominent being Personal Taste/Perfect Match, where one particular house, Sanggojae, was shown as Park Gae-in’s home. Once in Bukchon Hanok, get your hands on the traditional Korean hanbok and click a few pictures while taking a leisurely stroll there.
Busan Gamcheon Culture Village, Busan
Famous for being the hometown of BTS stars Jimin and Jungkook, this colourful village in Busan is called the Machu Picchu of South Korea. Here you can spot stunning artworks and murals adorning the maze-like allies lined with pastel-coloured homes. It was also the site for the drama “Fight for My Way.” There is also a giant mural of Jimin and Jungkook for visitors to click pictures with.
Jeju Island
Jeju Island. Picture: Jeju Tourism Facebook
Often referred to as the ‘Hawaii of Korea’, the volcanic Jeju Island has been a popular shooting location for many K-dramas. The island’s stunning landscapes, such as the dramatic cliffs of Jusangjeollidae and the breathtaking beaches of Jungmun, have provided the backdrop for numerous romantic scenes. One notable drama shot in Jeju Island is the immensely popular Boys Over Flowers.’
Hallasan National Park, South Korea
Hallasan National Park. Picture: Shutterstock
The paragliding accident that gave Crash Landing on You its title was shot in a rainforest which was nowhere in North Korea, as depicted. This scene with Se-Ri was in fact shot in a South Korean national park on Jeju Island. The Hallasan National Park is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Natural Heritage Site that surrounds Mount Hallasan. Travellers can put their hiking skills to test at the popular Eorimok Trail that takes hikers through dense forests, leading to stunning viewpoints overlooking the island. The challenging Seongpanak Trail offers a chance to conquer the majestic Mount Hallasan itself.
