Korea is the heart of the Hallyu (Korean Wave), offering countless places for K-Pop and K-Drama fans to visit. From entertainment company buildings to drama filming locations and interactive experience centers, there are many ways to immerse yourself in Korean pop culture.
1. K-Pop Landmarks
1) HYBE INSIGHT – A Must-Visit for BTS Fans
- Location: 42 Hangang-daero, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: HYBE's official museum showcasing BTS, SEVENTEEN, ENHYPEN, and more
- Attractions: Exhibition of artist costumes, music production process, and history
2) SM Entertainment – A Historic K-Pop Agency
- Location: Near Seoul Forest, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Home to NCT, aespa, Red Velvet, and more
- Nearby Attractions: SM TOWN &STORE and "SUM Café," where you can buy official merchandise
3) JYP & YG Entertainment Headquarters
- JYP Entertainment (TWICE, Stray Kids, etc.)
- Location: Seongnae-dong, Gangdong-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Features the SOUL CUP café, a popular hangout for trainees
- YG Entertainment (BLACKPINK, BIGBANG, iKON, etc.)
- Location: Hapjeong-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Nearby cafés are known spots for seeing YG artists
4) Hongdae K-Pop Street – The Hub of Dance Busking
- Location: Hongdae (Hongik University Area), Mapo-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Watch live K-Pop dance performances on the streets
- Recommended Activity: Take a K-Pop dance class at a Hongdae studio
5) MBC World & KBS On (Broadcasting Station Experiences)
- MBC World (Sangam-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul)
- Features interactive experiences with MBC programs and virtual stage simulations
- Tours available for drama and entertainment show filming locations
- KBS On (Yeouido-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul)
- Offers hands-on experiences related to news and entertainment broadcasting
- Visit the sets of popular KBS programs
2. K-Drama Filming Locations
1) N Seoul Tower – ‘Crash Landing on You’ & ‘My Love from the Star’ Filming Site
- Location: 105 Namsan Park-gil, Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: One of Seoul’s most famous landmarks, offering stunning night views
- Dramas Filmed: Crash Landing on You, My Love from the Star
2) Gyeongbokgung Palace – ‘The King’s Affection’ & ‘Love in the Moonlight’
- Location: 161 Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: A historic palace where you can wear hanbok (Korean traditional attire)
- Dramas Filmed: The King’s Affection, Love in the Moonlight
3) Jarasum Island – ‘Goblin’ Filming Site
- Location: Jarasum-ro, Gapyeong-eup, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do
- Highlights: A romantic nature spot featured in Goblin
- Recommended Activity: Camping and scenic walks
4) Hangang Park – ‘Itaewon Class’ & ‘Our Beloved Summer’ Filming Location
- Location: Various areas in Seoul (Yeouido, Banpo, Ttukseom Hangang Parks)
- Highlights: A popular shooting location for K-Dramas and movies
- Recommended Activity: Enjoy a picnic with Korean delivery food by the river
5) Gamcheon Culture Village in Busan – ‘Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’ Filming Site
- Location: Gamcheon-dong, Saha-gu, Busan
- Highlights: A vibrant, mural-filled village with picturesque alleyways
- Dramas Filmed: Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Running Man
3. Hallyu Experience Centers & Hotspots
1) DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) – K-Pop Fan Meeting Venue
- Location: 281 Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: A common venue for K-Pop fan meetings, showcases, and concerts
2) COEX SMTOWN Artium – A Complete K-Pop Experience
- Location: Samseong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: SM Entertainment’s exhibition hall featuring K-Pop artist displays and official merchandise shops
3) K-Pop Cafés & Restaurants (Frequented by Idols)
- Café Droptop (Visited by BTS’s RM) – Yongsan-gu, Seoul
- The Third Mind (Recommended by TWICE’s Nayeon) – Mapo-gu, Seoul
- The BOON Bowling Pub (Popular Among Idols) – Gangnam-gu, Seoul
4) K-Star Road (Hallyu Landmark in Gangnam)
- Location: Apgujeong to Cheongdam, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
- Highlights: Iconic street installations dedicated to top K-Pop stars
Summary: The Best Hallyu Destinations in Korea
From K-Pop entertainment agency visits to K-Drama filming location tours and interactive Hallyu experiences, Korea offers a variety of must-visit sites for fans.
- For K-Pop Fans: Visit entertainment agencies, K-Pop concert venues, and Hallyu experience centers
- For K-Drama Fans: Explore locations like N Seoul Tower, Hangang Park, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jarasum Island, and Gamcheon Culture Village
- For Those Wanting an Immersive Hallyu Experience: Enjoy activities at DDP, SMTOWN Artium, and K-Star Road
When visiting Korea, make sure to experience these Hallyu hotspots for an unforgettable trip! 😊🎶🎬