When it comes to Korean dramas, fans of the genre are some of the most passionate and dedicated viewers in the world. From romantic comedies to heart-stopping thrillers, Kdramas have captivated audiences around the world, and for the true fan, a trip to South Korea is the ultimate way to experience the culture firsthand.
Here are 5 things that Korean drama fans must absolutely do when they visit South Korea:
Visit filming locations
Relive some of your favorite scenes from shows like My Love From Another Star, Itaewon Class, and Boys Over Flowers by visiting Namsan Tower (or N Seoul Tower).
Get some fresh air and take a break from all the sightseeing (and shopping!) at Cheonggyecheon Stream. The 11-km stream is the filming location for several Kdrama series, including Vicenzo, Suits, Flower of Evil, and Lovestruck in the City, to name a few.
Of course, who can forget about the Han River? This major river in Seoul is the site of many a scene of Korean series, including My Girlfriend is a Gumiho, Abyss, Two Cops, and Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol.
Go shopping for K-Drama merchandise
South Korea is a shopper’s paradise, and there’s no shortage of K-Drama merchandise to be found. From t-shirts and mugs to phone cases and keychains, you’ll find plenty of souvenirs to bring back home and show off to your friends.
One of the best places to start is Myeongdong, a shopping district in Seoul that’s known for its street vendors and shopping centers selling a variety of Korean products, including K-Drama merchandise.
Another great place to check out is Dongdaemun Market, which is a large shopping complex that’s open 24 hours a day.
Additionally, there are specialty stores and online shops dedicated to selling K-Drama merchandise, such as the K-Style Hub, which offers a wide range of items to choose from.
Check out the K-Pop scene
Korean series and K-Pop go hand in hand, so make sure to take some time to check out the famous K-Pop stores and music shops in the country – there are so many! There’s Myeongdong for all things Kpop, KTown4U, and Hongdae.
Get the chance to attend live performances or music shows like SBS Inkigayo, M Countdown, and KBS Music Bank to see your favorite artists in person. But, be forewarned. There are STEPS for you to be able to get into one of these shows.
Immerse yourself in the traditional side of South Korea
Korean dramas often showcase the country’s modern and trendy side, but there’s much more to explore. Visit traditional palaces and temples like Gyeongbokgung Palace, which has served as the location for many, by many we mean A LOT, of historical K-dramas. This includes The Moon Embracing the Sun, The Last Empress, Goong, and Kingdom.
Try traditional Korean foods like bibimbap and kimchi for a true taste of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Or visit a pojangmacha (trans. covered wagon), those tented eateries where you often see our K-Drama stars drink soju and eat street food like sundae, mandu, odeng, and anju.
Visit a K-Drama theme park
For an experience that truly brings your K-Drama obsession to life, be sure to visit one of the many K-Drama theme parks in the country.
Lotte World, one of Korea’s major recreational theme parks, is the site of the Kdrama series Business Proposal, Our Beloved Summer, Love Alarm, and True Beauty, to name a few. Everland, on the other hand, is the location for What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim, Sisyphus, The Producers, and Kill Me, Heal Me.
From replica sets and props to interactive experiences and photo opportunities, these parks are sure to provide a fun and memorable experience.
In conclusion, a visit to South Korea is a must for any fan of Korean dramas. From visiting filming locations and shopping for merchandise to immersing yourself in the country’s culture and trying traditional foods, there’s so much to see and do.
So pack your bags, grab your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable experience that brings your love for Korean dramas to life.
