South Korea is the land of goblins, grim reapers, gumiho and handsome aliens.

If you are a big fan of K-dramas, then the following South Korean places are a must-see!

Itaewon Class – Itaewon

Itaewon Class is a 2020 South Korean drama that has gained much popularity as it shines a light on some sensitive issues such as sexuality, racism and social class inequality. Besides, we cannot forget the iconic character Park Sae Roy played by the actor Park Seo Joon. But today, our focus is more on the location where the drama was filmed.

Found in Seoul, Itaewon is a city district that is as lively and vibrant as portrayed in the drama. It is home to approximately 22,000 people and is considered as a major area where most foreigners live in Seoul. It is also considered the international district of Seoul as it consists of many English-speaking people, Western-styled eating venues, and a thriving LGBTQ culture. However, crowds flock to Itaewon mostly due to its outstanding nightlife.

For instance, the actors in the drama explain on various occasions about what makes Itaewon so unique. For example, at some point in the drama, Jo Yi-Seo, a smart girl, stated that “when you are in Itaewon, it feels like you are in a foreign country and everyone looks so free.” Just as she puts it, Itaewon is indeed a different place compared to the other parts of Seoul and due to its cultural diversity, it was named the “Western Town.”

Therefore, if you want to experience the multiculturalism and vibrancy of Itaewon, as shown in the drama, you know where to go!

Hotel Del Luna – Hotel Seine

No one can deny the fact that Hotel Del Luna is one of the most popular South Korean dramas. Its visuals, aesthetics, storyline, and great OST make it a unique drama that breaks away from the typical romantic comedy genre. Let’s not forget that one of the main reasons this drama is so famous is the incredible chemistry between Jang Man-wol, the moody hotel owner and Gu Chan-sung, a handsome Harvard MBA graduate.

But what about the hotel?

“When people end their lives, most of them cross the bridge above the Sanzu River and go to another world. But some souls fail to find their way there. They foolishly stay in this world even when their lives here have ended. Thus, those who come to my hotel are those souls who got lost on their way to the afterlife.” – Jang Man-Wol

Contrary to its name, Hotel SEINE is not a hotel but rather a hotel-themed cafe found in the Ikseon-dong neighbourhood in Seoul. It has been operating since November 2018 and is an interesting place with an exquisite vintage look. With the pink-coloured appearance and six floors, the cafe has a strong resemblance to the Grand Budapest Hotel, with an eye-pleasing interior.

At the entrance, you will be greeted with a red carpet and then you will be offered coffee and dessert by the baristas at the concierge counter. On the first floor, you will find the bakery, but you will be more amazed by the cake factory and an art salon on the second and third floors. However, you will like the most is the photo zone on the third floor where you will find some Hotel Del Luna traces.

Goblin – Jumunjin Beach

K-drama fans can neither forget the epic scene where Ji Eun Tak unintentionally summons Kim Shin nor the beautiful Jumunjin Beach where the scene was shot. This is one of the most popular and iconic locations in the K-drama world that fans love to flock to.

Jumunjin Beach is found in the Gangneung City and is one of the favourite places for family travellers. Moreover, it was chosen as one of the 20 cleanest beaches in South Korea in 2016.

So, if you are going to Jumunjin Beach, don’t forget your red scarf and a simple flower bouquet. You know why!

Will you include these places in your travel list? Who knows? You might come across a 939 year old goblin or a cynical but romantic alien? If you like these destinations and feel your imagination growing, then please share your comments!