Seoul isn’t just South Korea’s bustling capital—it’s basically one giant outdoor movie set where your favorite K-drama moments come to life. Every corner of this vibrant city seems to have starred in at least one romantic confession scene, dramatic breakup, or that classic ‘running through the rain’ moment we all secretly love. From ancient palaces where historical dramas unfold to modern landmarks that serve as backdrops for contemporary love stories, Seoul offers K-drama fans the ultimate pilgrimage experience.
The city’s unique blend of traditional architecture and cutting-edge design creates the perfect canvas for storytelling, which explains why producers keep coming back to these same magical locations. Here is a list of 15 K-drama spots around Seoul that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped right into your favorite series.
Namsan Tower
— Photo by NGCHIYUI
Namsan Tower, also known as N Seoul Tower, stands as Seoul’s most romantic landmark and appears in more K-dramas than you can count on both hands. The tower offers panoramic, 360-degree views of Seoul city from the top, making it the go-to backdrop for dramatic love declarations and heart-wrenching goodbyes. The tower is also a popular date spot in K-dramas and was featured in Boys Over Flowers, The Legend of the Blue Sea, My Love From Another Star, Itaewon Class, The Last Empress, among many other shows. Couples flock here to hang love locks on the fence, a tradition that started thanks to all those swoon-worthy drama scenes.
Bukchon Hanok Village
Home to hundreds of traditional houses, Bukchon Hanok Village is a Korean traditional village that has been carefully preserved to showcase its 600-year-old history. Sandwiched between royal palaces is the historic Bukchon Hanok Village district in central Seoul, one of the most popular of Seoul’s K-Drama filming locations. Walking through these narrow alleys feels like traveling back in time, which is exactly why it’s perfect for both historical and modern dramas. Bukchon Hanok Village served as a backdrop for K-dramas such as Ghost Doctor, Goblin, My Roommate is a Gumiho, The Heirs, Flower of Evil, and more.
Gyeongbokgung Palace
There are many palaces in Seoul, and the majestic Gyeongbok Palace, or Gyeongbokgung, is arguably the most beautiful and largest of all five. Built in 1395 during the Joseon dynasty, Gyeongbokgung is a magnificent site that served as a filming location for many historical K-dramas such as Kingdom, Goong, The Last Empress, and The Moon Embracing the Sun. The palace’s grand architecture and ornate details create the perfect backdrop for royal storylines and period pieces. Pro tip: Rent a hanbok while visiting for that authentic Joseon-era experience and free palace admission.
Gwanghwamun Square
— Photo by SangaPark
Also known as Gwanghwamun Square, Gwanghwamun Plaza is a public space located next to the main gate of Gyeongbok Palace, and is most known for the majestic statue of King Sejong, one of Korea’s most famous historical figures. The square was a filming location of a handful of K-dramas, with the most notable one being The King: Eternal Monarch. The location is where Lee Min Ho and Kim Go Eun first met, and you can set the statue in the backdrop of the drama’s poster. The square transforms completely at night with colorful lights and water features that add extra drama to any scene.
Lotte World
The dreamy Lotte World is one of the most featured Korean theme parks in K-dramas. Beautiful in all seasons (especially during spring!) and whether in the day or under moonlight, Lotte World is filled with thrilling rides, an ice rink, a lake, exciting parades, and even a folk museum. It is often featured as a date spot in K-dramas such as Business Proposal, True Beauty, Love Alarm, Hyde Jekyll, Me, Stairway to Heaven, and more. The theme park’s magical atmosphere and endless photo opportunities make it easy to understand why drama couples always seem to have their most memorable dates here.
Dongdaemun Design Plaza
— Photo by happycreator
Standing as a modern architectural marvel in the heart of Seoul, Dongdaemun Design Plaza is where you will be mesmerized by innovative and futuristic displays and art installations. Affectionately known as DDP, Seoul’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza is an iconic city landmark known for its unique, UFO-shaped architecture. This gorgeous setting and other such striking designs at Dongdaemun Design Plaza have been a backdrop of many K-dramas, including Record of Youth, Perfume, and The Producers. The building looks especially stunning at night when it lights up like something from a sci-fi movie, which explains why it’s such a hit with modern drama producers.
Itaewon District
— Photo by artyooran.gmail.com
The cosmopolitan charm of Itaewon with its bustling nightlife has won hthe earts of the K-drama enthusiasts, especially the Oriole Bar — a rooftop bar which is seen frequently in the K-drama sensation ‘Itaewon Class’. Known for its cosmopolitan dining and nightlife, Itaewon is the bustling global village of Seoul, filled with streets lined with BBQ restaurants, beer bars, Indie stores, quaint boutiques, clubs, and more. The neighborhood’s international vibe and diverse crowd make it the perfect setting for stories about chasing dreams and overcoming obstacles. Where the streets are lined with cozy bars, BBQ restaurants, jazzy clubs, and high-class boutiques, the Itaewon district in Seoul must be added to your K-drama itinerary.
Yonsei University
Many universities in South Korea look so pretty that they can be considered tourist attractions. One such university is the prestigious Yonsei University, known as one of the best private universities in the country. The Underwood Hall in the Sinchon campus functions as a museum dedicated to Yonsei’s founder, Horace G. Underwood and is one of the many historical buildings around the Yonsei campus. Due to its gorgeous architecture looking like it’s straight out of Europe, the hall frequents school K-dramas such as True Beauty, Extraordinary You and Reply 1994. The campus is absolutely gorgeous in autumn when the trees turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Han River Parks
— Photo by SangaPark
The glowing lights of Banpo Rainbow Bridge illuminating the Han River, Yeouido Hangang Park, with outdoor attractions like the waterside fountain and piano waterway, are some of the famous K-drama filming locations along the Han River. No visit to Seoul is complete without spending time at the Han River. This location has been the backdrop for numerous romantic scenes in K-dramas. The river parks offer everything from bike rides to picnic spots, making them perfect for those contemplative moments when characters need to think about their life choices. Embarking on a Han River cruise is the best way to explore these spots featured in ‘More Than Friends’ and ‘The Spies Who Loved Me’.
Cheonggyecheon Stream
The Cheonggyecheon Stream is a popular date spot for couples and also makes for a romantic K-Drama filming location when couples want to have a romantic walk by the river, just as Yoo Ah In and Lim Soo Jung’s did for their first date in Chicago Typewriter. While it might not seem much, the square where the steam is located is actually created based on traditional Korean bojagi design (colorful wrapping cloth), showcasing the craftsmanship of traditional stonework that is both colorful and refined. This place is a great option for couples looking for a romantic stroll, especially at night when it lights up beautifully. Some dramas filmed at Cheonggyecheon Stream: Vincenzo, You Raise Me Up, True Beauty, Flower of Evil, Find Me In Your Memory, Chicago Typewriter.
Deoksugung Palace Stonewall Walkway
— Photo by SangaPark
Deoksugung Palace Stonewall Walkway looks like a seemingly simple spot but it’s more than meets the eye. It makes a frequent appearance in a lot of Korean dramas due to the picturesque pedestrian footpath located near Deoksugung Palace. The walkway is also a perfect example of blending urban space, a historical motif, and nature all in one. This tree-lined path has become synonymous with serious conversations and relationship-defining moments in K-dramas. While it’s a popular spot for a romantic walk, we recommend visiting during autumn to witness the stunning autumn foliage around the area.
Seoul Fortress Wall
Seoul’s ancient fortress walls run throughout the heart of the city, stretching 18.6km past many famous destinations, including Namsan Tower. One of the best places to see the fortress walls is the stretch between Naksan Park and the Seoul City Fortress Wall Museum in Dongdaemun. Fans of Itaewon Class will recognize the fortress walls as the last stop on Jo Yi Seo and Park Saero Yi’s mini date. Walking along these ancient walls gives you incredible views of the city below and that perfect dramatic backdrop for important character moments.
COEX Aquarium
— Photo by aaron90311
Being one of the largest aquariums in Seoul, you will be greeted with graceful stingrays, majestic sharks, attractive starfish, and other underwater creatures in this aquatic paradise. Coex Aquarium is one of the coolest places to visit in Seoul because of the themed areas and discovery zones such as Ocean Kingdom, Amazonian World, and Undersea Tunnel, which allows you to understand the marine habitat deeply. The underwater tunnel creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere that’s perfect for those magical moments when characters realize they’re falling in love. The aquarium’s ethereal blue lighting and floating sea creatures provide a uniquely romantic setting that’s appeared in several modern dramas.
Coffee Prince Café
Visit the actual filming location of the iconic drama “Coffee Prince.” Enjoy a cup of coffee in this charming café and relive the memorable scenes. This cozy spot holds a special place in K-drama history as the setting where Gong Yoo’s character ran his quirky coffee shop and where one of the most beloved gender-bender storylines unfolded. The café maintains much of its original charm from the show, complete with the vintage furniture and warm atmosphere that made it feel so authentic. Sitting here with a latte feels like stepping directly into the drama, especially if you’re a fan of the classic enemies-to-lovers storyline.
Dal.komm Coffee
Dal.komm Coffee is a perfect place to enjoy a nice cup of coffee to start your day! Yoo Shi Jin and Kang Mo Yeon had multiple coffee dates here in the drama, but they also experienced a breakup here (cue the tears). This café chain gained fame after being featured in “Descendants of the Sun.” It offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious beverages, perfect for K-drama fans. The chain’s modern aesthetic and consistently good coffee make it a favorite for both real-life dates and drama scenes. This was also the place where Yoo Shi Jin and Seo Dae Yeong brought their stuffed animal girlfriends!
Seoul’s Drama Legacy Lives On
— Photo by artyooran.gmail.com
These fifteen locations represent just a fraction of Seoul’s incredible K-drama heritage, but they capture the essence of what makes the city such a compelling backdrop for storytelling. Each spot offers its own unique blend of history, culture, and cinematic magic that continues to draw fans from around the world. Whether you’re recreating your favorite romantic scene at Namsan Tower or exploring the traditional beauty of Bukchon Hanok Village, these locations prove that Seoul isn’t just a city—it’s a living, breathing drama set where every street corner holds the potential for your own K-drama moment. The magic of these places extends far beyond their appearance on screen, offering visitors a chance to experience the real Seoul that serves as the foundation for all those unforgettable stories.
More from Travel Pug
- 20 Best Beach Towns in the Carolinas
- 13 Destinations Where Tourists Regularly Regret Their Trip
- 20 Things You Actually Get in First Class
- 20 Small Airports With Aviation Museums
- 20 Places in the U.S. That Are Perfect for a Reset Trip
Like Travel Pug’s content? Follow us on MSN.