Visit top K-drama filming sites in Seoul with GoCity’s Explorer Pass
Feed that wanderlust with GoCity's all-inclusive pass and tick that bucket list of visiting the best K-drama filming locations at pocket-friendly prices.
To say that K-dramas sparked my love for Korean culture and planted the seed to visit South Korea is not an exaggeration. Besides hoping to bump into the perfectly chiselled faces of oppas, traipsing through the hip Hongdae district, taking a cruise along the famous Han River, partying late at night in Itaewon, donning the traditional Korean costume at their well-preserved palaces, taking in the panoramic view of Seoul atop Namsan Tower, riding the carousel at Lotte World and taking thrill rides at Everland Theme Park, and getting a teaser of what mysterious North Korea is like at the DMZ – I longed to visit each and every filming location of my favourite dramas in Seoul and even dressing up as my favourite characters at the Ikseon Boutique Retro Outfit Rental. The dramas made me weep and laugh and pulled me through the dreary monotony of routine.
It started 20 years ago when Winter Sonata featuring two star-crossed lovers invaded our TV screens. I remember watching it with my mum, and we both could not tear ourselves away from the gripping love story. True enough, more than a decade later, I brought my parents to South Korea – the place that made me crave kimchi, ramyeon and banchan. If you are planning a trip to Seoul, here’s a list of the top filming sites you should visit. Make star chasing easy on your wallet and pick up GoCity’s All-inclusive Pass at 59% off!
Save 59% with GoCity All-inclusive Pass
Save 59% with GoCity All-inclusive Pass
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Top Filming Site 1: Nami Island Ferry Ticket (Round-Trip)
Featured in: Winter Sonata
South Korea first caught the world’s attention for its dramas with the 2002 television romantic drama series Winter Sonata, much of which was filmed on Nami Island, about 60km (37 miles) northeast of Seoul. Shaped like a crescent moon, Nami Island is a tiny sliver of land in the middle of the North Han River. The island is chockful of things to do, such as vast meadows, dining options, shops and other attractions. The sculpture of the leading characters marks the enduring love towards the internationally famous Winter Sonata characters. Stroll along the Gingko Tree Lane, the Maple Lane of True Love and scratch your selfie itch with the Winter Sonata statue. This destination remains so popular even 20 years after the hit drama aired that it is serviced by a shuttle bus with pick-up points in Seoul.
Top Filming Site 2: N Seoul Tower (aka Namsan Tower)
Featured in: Boys Over Flowers, Rooftop Prince Hwayugi / A Korean Odyssey, The Legend of the Blue Sea, My Love From Another Star, Hotel de Luna, Terius Behind Me, Who Are You: School 2015, Dating Agency Cyrano, The Last Empress
An iconic tourist attraction that appeals to locals and foreigners, Namsan Tower, also known as N Seoul Tower, is a natural filming location of choice. This communication and observation tower is located at an elevation and offers panoramic, 360-degree views of Seoul City at its peak. Time your visit and watch the sunset over the hill as the dazzling city lights take over the city of Seoul. A fantastic feeling, especially when you recall the pivotal scenes in your fav dramas filmed at the exact spot you are standing! Seal your love with the ubiquitous love lock adorning the walls.
Top Filming Site 3: Lotte World and Folk Museum (All-In-One Theme Park Combo Ticket)
Combo ticket to Lotte World & Folk Museum
Featured in: Business Proposal, True Beauty, Love Alarm, Hyde Jekyll, Me, Stairway to Heaven
Lotte World has to be THE most featured Korean theme park in all K-dramas. There's no bad time to visit the park as it is beautiful throughout all seasons, with different things to see, day and night. Filled with thrilling rides, an ice rink, a lake, exciting parades, and even a folk museum, it is the perfect date spot.
Top Filming Site 4: Han River Cruise (Afternoon or Sunset Cruise)
Featured in: My Love from the Star
As one of the longest distributaries in South Korea, the Hangang River is a recurring backdrop in many K-dramas. From scenes atop the famous Eland Hangang River Cruise to shots at the romantic Yeouido Hangang Park, Han River has seen everything from cute dates to painful break-ups and even a murder mystery onboard. There’s nothing like fresh air to rejuvenate your senses.
Top Filming Site 5: Gyeongbok Palace (Traditional Korean Costume Rental)
Costume Rental at Gyeongbok Palace
Featured in: Kingdom, Goong, The Last Empress, The Moon Embracing the Sun, Traces of Love, When My Love Blooms, Failing In Love, Mother of Mine, Temperature of Love, My Sassy Girl, Chicago Typewriter, Goblin, The Royal Gambler, Queen In-Hyun’s Man
I can't think of a more culturally-immersive way to spend the day than getting dressed in traditional Korean garb at the majestic and architecturally-impressive Gyeongbokgung. Arguably the most beautiful and spacious palace in Seoul, the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace was built during the Joseon period in 1395. Be sure to check out the twice-daily Changing of the Guards at the palace while you are there. The pass includes a four-hour rental of a traditional Hanbok. You will look the part, as Korean hairstyling is included in the package. Do note hair accessory rental is at an additional fee.
Top Filming Site 6: Changdeok Palace (Traditional Korean Costume Rental)
Costume rental at Changdeok Palace
Featured in: The Red Sleeve, The King’s Affection, Kingdom I & II, Rookie Historian Goo Hae-Kyung, The Crowned Clown, Moonlight Drawn by Clouds, The Royal Gambler, Secret Door, Rooftop Prince
Prefer a palace with more nature? Check out the twin palaces of Changdeokgung & Changgyeonggung, built in the 15th century. Though less stunning than the Gyeonbgokgung, the Secret Garden inside Changdeokgung and Changgyeonggung’s botanical gardens are well-worth a visit. If you are a fan of Netflix’s K-Drama Kingdom, you may find Changdeokgung familiar as it was initially reserved for the Crown Prince. The pass includes a four-hour traditional costume rental. In addition, you get to pick from over 300 sets of Hanboks.
Top Filming Site 7: Seoul Pub Crawl at Itaewon, Fridays only
Featured in: Itaewon Class
Itaewon’s claim to fame started way before the K-drama Itaewon Class, starring the dashing Park Seo-Joon, who took on the role of an uncharacteristic underdog, brought increased visibility of the Itaewon district to the international crowd. A cosmopolitan dining district teaming with nightlife, indulge in the streets lined with your favourite BBQ restaurants, beer bars, Indie stores, quaint boutiques, clubs, and more. The pass includes three free shots, entry to three bars and clubs and special drink discounts at the bars.
Top Filming Site 8: Seoul Land Combo Pass
Includes Seoul Land, Seoul Zoo & 1-Way Cable Car Ride
Featured in: When My Love Blooms, The Secret Life Of My Secretary, The Smile Has Left Your Eyes, Strong Woman Do Bong-soon, She Was Pretty, The Golden Bride, Goong
Amusement parks probably evoke happy childhood memories for most. For K-drama fans, it conjures scenes of teary farewells, excited proposals and the moment the leads fall in love. So recreate happy feelings of first love with a ride on the roller coasters, carousel or the 40 rides available at the park. And if you are racking your brains for a wedding proposal, Seoul Land could be it.
Top Filming Site 9: Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour from Seoul
Featured in: Crash Landing on You, Iris, Money Heist: Korea - Joint Economic Area, Snowdrop, City Hunter, Doctor Stranger
You have heard so much about the DMZ and watched countless dramas, such as the hit K-drama Crash Landing on You, which was on everyone's lips. But to step foot into DMZ is a totally different experience in understanding the country's history. What is the DMZ? The Demilitarized Zone, also known as the DMZ, is a 4km-wide, 240km-long stretch of land separating North and South Korea. Understand the political tensions surrounding North and South Korea and delve into the history of the Korean War and the Cold War in this educational tour. A not-to-be-missed once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Top Filming Site 10: Dark Side of Seoul: Ghostlore and Urban Legends Walking Tour
Only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
A recurring theme in various K-dramas
Watched one too many ghost-themed K-dramas, hooked on the living dead genre or looking for an out-of-the-ordinary adventure? Then this attraction is right up your alley. So brace yourself for tales of Seoul's spookiest, goriest and most haunted locations, filled with stories of ghostlore, folk beliefs and urban legends at this night tour of the city's lesser-known places. Hear about haunted houses, the ghosts of Gyeonghui Palace and mythical monsters that stalk the streets at night.
And while you are in Seoul, don't miss the popular and fun Cookin' Nanta Musical Comedy Show, I had a whale of a time when they were in Singapore years ago! Of course, making navigating the city a breeze with Go City's 7-day Korea SIM + Transportation Card OR eSIM, available on their Explorer Pass.
Buy by 31 May, Save 10%: GoCity Explorer Pass
Types of Go City passes
There are two types of passes that you can choose from:
1. All-Inclusive Passes
Go City's famous All-Inclusive passes allow customers to visit as many attractions in a destination for one fixed price, delivering incredible savings, choice, inspiration, and ease.
Each All-Inclusive Pass is subject to a purse value based on the pass's duration. The purse value is the maximum amount you can use based on the standard gate price for each attraction. For example, with the 6-day adult All-Inclusive Pass, you can visit as many attractions up to S$519.
See below for purse values for each pass:
2-day All-Inclusive Pass: adult S$274 / child S$219
3-day All-Inclusive Pass: adult S$389 / child S$299
4-day All-Inclusive Pass: adult S$444 / child S$384
5-day All-Inclusive Pass: adult S$489 / child S$389
2. Explorer Pass
And for those who are more selective, there's the Explorer Pass. With this pass, you can select how many attractions you wish to visit, and you'll have 60 days to do so. Plus, there's no need to decide which ones you'll see before purchasing, so you can keep your plans flexible.
Each Explorer Pass is subject to a purse value based on the pass's duration. The purse value is the maximum amount you can use based on the standard gate price for each attraction. For example, with a 6-choice adult Explorer Pass, you can visit six attractions for up to S$219.
Here's a breakdown of the purse value for each pass:
2-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$84 / child S$69
3-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$109 / child S$89
4-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$134 / child S$114
5-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$169 / child S$134
6-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$219 / child S$159
7-choice Explorer Pass: adult S$224 / child S$179
Plus, with the Go City app, you'll have all the information you need at your fingertips. We're discussing attractions information, suggested itineraries, a handy map, and more!
How to start using the pass
First, choose the All-Inclusive Pass or the Explorer Pass and make your purchase. The confirmation email will be sent to you. Next, download the Go City app. You can then use your order confirmation number to add your pass to your phone. Not a fan of apps? You can also print your pass at home using the link in your confirmation email.
This content was produced in partnership with Go City.
