Tag: BTS Travel Korea

  • BTS Filming Locations in Korea 2026: 10 Must-Visit Places Beyond Seoul for ARMY

    BTS Filming Locations in Korea 2026: 10 Must-Visit Places Beyond Seoul for ARMY

    Introduction

    Seoul may be the starting point for many BTS fans visiting South Korea, but the BTS journey does not end in the capital.

    Across Korea, ARMY can discover beaches, forests, lakes, art spaces, and other locations connected to BTS album photos, music videos, performances, and memorable content. Some have become famous destinations in their own right, attracting fans from around the world.

    One of the best known is the BTS Bus Stop at Jumunjin Beach in Gangneung, recreated at the location associated with BTS’s You Never Walk Alone album imagery. But Gangneung is only one part of a much larger BTS travel map.

    In this guide, we’ll explore 10 BTS-related locations beyond Seoul that ARMY can visit in 2026, along with practical ideas for turning these stops into real Korea travel itineraries.

    If you have already explored BTS places in Seoul, consider this your next journey — following the BTS story beyond the capital and discovering more of South Korea along the way.

    1. BTS Bus Stop at Jumunjin Beach, Gangneung

    The BTS Bus Stop in Jumunjin, Gangneung is one of the most recognizable BTS pilgrimage destinations outside Seoul.

    The original bus stop appeared in imagery associated with BTS’s 2017 album You Never Walk Alone. Although the original structure was created for the photo shoot and later removed, a replica was installed at the location for fans and visitors.

    Standing beside the blue sea with the beach stretching behind it, the bus stop has become a favorite photo spot for ARMY traveling in Korea. Fans often recreate the album-inspired scene while enjoying the quieter coastal atmosphere of Gangneung.

    The location is also an excellent reason to explore more of Korea’s east coast. Jumunjin, Gangneung’s beaches, cafés, seafood restaurants, and other coastal attractions can easily turn a BTS stop into a full-day or overnight trip.

    Travel tip: Gangneung is accessible from Seoul by KTX, making the BTS Bus Stop possible as a day trip. However, staying overnight gives you more time to explore the coast without rushing.

    2. Maengbang Beach, Samcheok — The “Butter” Album Location

    On Korea’s east coast, Maengbang Beach (맹방해변) in Samcheok became internationally known among ARMY after appearing in the concept photography for BTS’s 2021 single album Butter.

    The colorful beach setting — including parasols, beach chairs, and the lifeguard-style backdrop — created some of the most recognizable images from the Butter era. The location later became a destination for fans hoping to recreate those photographs.

    Maengbang Beach also shows why BTS-themed travel can be a great way to explore Korea beyond the major cities. Samcheok offers beautiful coastline, beaches, and scenic attractions that international travelers might otherwise miss.

    For travelers already visiting the BTS Bus Stop in Gangneung, Maengbang Beach can become part of a longer Gangwon east-coast BTS itinerary rather than a separate trip from Seoul.

    Travel tip: Gangneung and Samcheok are in the same general east-coast region, but they are not next to each other. Allow sufficient transportation time if you plan to visit both during the same trip.

    3. Awon Gotaek, Wanju — A Beautiful BTS “Summer Package” Location

    Awon Gotaek (아원고택) in Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, offers a completely different atmosphere from the coastal BTS locations in Gangwon.

    The traditional Korean house and surrounding scenery became familiar to ARMY through BTS’s 2019 Summer Package in Korea. Its combination of hanok architecture, mountains, and peaceful countryside made it one of the most visually memorable locations connected to the group’s travel content.

    For international visitors, Awon Gotaek is especially interesting because the trip offers more than a BTS photo location. It is also an opportunity to experience traditional Korean architecture and the quieter landscape of rural Korea.

    Wanju can be combined with nearby Jeonju, famous for its Hanok Village and Korean food, making this a strong option for travelers who want to turn their BTS pilgrimage into a broader cultural trip.

    Travel tip: Check current visitor access and operating information before making the journey, as Awon Gotaek is not simply an always-open public park.

    4. Seohuri Forest, Yangpyeong — A Peaceful BTS Photo Location

    Seohuri Forest (서후리숲) in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi-do, is a beautiful woodland destination that became well known among ARMY after BTS visited the area for album photography.

    The forest’s tall trees and quiet walking paths create a very different experience from Seoul’s busy BTS landmarks. Fans can enjoy the natural scenery while exploring a place connected to BTS’s earlier years.

    Yangpyeong is relatively close to Seoul, making Seohuri Forest an attractive option for travelers who want a countryside escape without traveling across the country.

    The area is also known for mountains, rivers, cafés, and scenic drives, so visitors can easily build a relaxing day trip around the BTS-related stop.

    Travel tip: Check Seohuri Forest’s current opening days and admission information before traveling, particularly if visiting during winter or periods of bad weather.

    5. Iryeong Station, Yangju — A “Spring Day” Filming Location

    Iryeong Station (일영역) in Yangju, Gyeonggi-do, is closely associated with BTS’s beloved song “Spring Day.” The station appeared in the music video, making it one of the recognizable BTS filming locations near Seoul.

    The quiet railway setting has a nostalgic atmosphere that matches the emotional tone of the song. For many ARMY, visiting the area offers a chance to connect a familiar music-video scene with a real place in Korea.

    Yangju is outside central Seoul but close enough to consider as part of a day trip. The surrounding area also gives travelers a glimpse of a quieter side of Gyeonggi Province.

    Travel tip: Railway facilities can have access restrictions and operational changes. Check current visitor information before traveling, stay only in permitted areas, and never enter active railway tracks.

    6. Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park — Step Into the World of “Daechwita”

    Yongin Dae Jang Geum Park (용인 대장금파크) in Gyeonggi-do is a large historical drama filming complex, but BTS fans may recognize its scenery from Agust D’s “Daechwita” music video, featuring SUGA.

    Traditional-style streets, palace settings, and historical architecture helped create the dramatic visual world of the music video. For fans of SUGA and BTS, visiting the park offers a chance to experience scenery associated with one of his most memorable solo releases.

    The destination is also worthwhile for travelers interested in Korean historical dramas and traditional architecture, making it more than a single-purpose BTS photo stop.

    Travel tip: Yongin is accessible from Seoul, but the park is outside the city center. Check current opening hours, admission information, and transportation options before leaving Seoul.

    7. Mosan Airfield, Jecheon — A Location from BTS’s Youth Era

    Mosan Airfield (모산비행장) in Jecheon, Chungcheongbuk-do, is associated with imagery from BTS’s celebrated The Most Beautiful Moment in Life (HYYH) era.

    The wide open landscape and runway-like setting created a distinctive backdrop during an important period in BTS’s artistic development. For longtime ARMY, locations connected to the HYYH era can feel particularly meaningful because of the themes of youth, friendship, uncertainty, and growing up that defined this chapter of BTS history.

    Jecheon itself is surrounded by mountains and lakes, making it possible to combine a BTS-related stop with a scenic trip through central Korea.

    Travel tip: Access conditions around airfield areas can change. Check current local information before visiting and remain only in areas legally open to the public.

    8. Metasequoia-Lined Road, Damyang — A Scenic BTS Travel Stop

    Damyang’s Metasequoia-Lined Road (담양 메타세쿼이아길) in Jeollanam-do is known for its long rows of towering trees and picturesque scenery. The Damyang area has also become familiar to BTS fans through content connected to the group.

    For international travelers, Damyang is especially appealing because a BTS-inspired trip can easily become a broader journey through southern Korea. The region is famous for bamboo forests, peaceful walking paths, local food, and beautiful natural scenery.

    A visit here offers a slower travel experience than Seoul or Busan and can be combined with Juknokwon Bamboo Garden and other Damyang attractions.

    Travel tip: Damyang is best treated as part of a regional itinerary rather than a quick trip from Seoul. Consider combining it with Gwangju or other destinations in Jeollanam-do.

    9. Dadaepo Beach, Busan — Follow Jimin’s Footsteps by the Sea

    Dadaepo Beach (다대포해수욕장) in Busan is especially meaningful for fans of Jimin, who was born in Busan. The beach became familiar to ARMY after Jimin shared photographs from the area, turning it into a popular stop for fans following places connected to the BTS members.

    Dadaepo is famous for its wide sandy beach, beautiful sunsets, and relaxed atmosphere. It offers a very different experience from Busan’s busier destinations such as Haeundae and Gwangalli.

    For international ARMY, the stop can be combined with a wider BTS-inspired Busan itinerary, while also exploring one of Korea’s most popular coastal cities.

    Travel tip: Try to visit in the late afternoon. Dadaepo is particularly beautiful around sunset, and you can combine the trip with other western Busan attractions.

    10. Oedolgae Sea Stack, Jeju — A BTS Album Photo Location

    Oedolgae Sea Stack (외돌개) in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, is one of the most scenic BTS-related destinations outside Seoul. The dramatic volcanic rock and surrounding coastline appeared in photography connected to BTS’s The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 2 era.

    For ARMY, the location offers something especially valuable: it combines BTS history with one of Korea’s most popular travel destinations. Instead of visiting only for a photo, travelers can explore the surrounding Jeju coastline and nearby walking trails while enjoying the island’s volcanic landscape.

    Jeju also has several other places connected to BTS members and BTS content, making it possible to build an entire BTS-inspired day into a longer Jeju itinerary.

    Travel tip: Oedolgae is in Seogwipo on the southern side of Jeju Island. Plan it together with other southern Jeju attractions rather than traveling there as a single stop.

    How to Plan Your BTS Trip Beyond Seoul

    These BTS locations are spread across South Korea, so trying to visit them all in one trip would require significant travel time. A better strategy is to group them by region.

    For an east-coast trip, combine Gangneung’s BTS Bus Stop with Samcheok’s Maengbang Beach and spend one or two nights exploring Gangwon-do.

    For locations closer to Seoul, Yangpyeong, Yangju, and Yongin can be planned as separate day trips depending on transportation and opening conditions.

    In the southwest, combine Wanju with Jeonju, while Damyang works well as part of a trip through Gwangju and Jeollanam-do.

    Busan and Jeju deserve longer stays. Rather than visiting only for a BTS-related photo, use these locations as starting points for exploring Korea’s beaches, food, neighborhoods, and natural scenery.

    This approach turns a BTS pilgrimage into something even better: a journey through different regions of South Korea.

    Frequently Asked Questions About BTS Filming Locations in Korea

    What is the most famous BTS location outside Seoul?
    The BTS Bus Stop near Jumunjin in Gangneung is one of the best-known BTS pilgrimage spots in Korea, especially because of its connection to the You Never Walk Alone album imagery.

    Can I visit the BTS Bus Stop from Seoul?
    Yes. Gangneung can be reached from Seoul by KTX, and travelers can continue to the Jumunjin area using local transportation. An overnight stay is worth considering if you want to explore more of Gangneung.

    Where was BTS’s “Butter” concept photography taken?
    Maengbang Beach in Samcheok became famous among ARMY through BTS’s Butter concept photography.

    Are there BTS filming locations near Seoul?
    Yes. Locations in Gyeonggi-do, including Yangpyeong, Yangju, and Yongin, can be incorporated into trips from Seoul, although travel times and public transportation options vary.

    Are there BTS-related places in Jeju?
    Yes. Jeju has locations connected to BTS content, including Oedolgae in Seogwipo, which is associated with BTS album photography.

    Should I rent a car for a BTS pilgrimage outside Seoul?
    It depends on the destination. Major cities such as Gangneung and Busan are accessible by public transportation, but some rural filming locations can be considerably easier to reach by car. International visitors should compare train, bus, taxi, tour, and rental-car options before planning each regional itinerary.

    Final Thoughts

    Following BTS filming locations beyond Seoul is also a wonderful way to discover how diverse South Korea really is.

    From the blue coastline of Gangneung and Samcheok to the forests of Yangpyeong, traditional scenery around Wanju, beaches in Busan, and the volcanic landscape of Jeju, each destination offers something beyond its BTS connection.

    For ARMY, these places can bring familiar albums, videos, and BTS memories into the real world. For travelers, they can also become gateways to Korean food, nature, regional culture, and destinations that many first-time visitors never experience.

    So don’t rush simply to recreate a photograph. Stay a little longer, explore the surrounding area, and let your BTS pilgrimage become part of a bigger journey through Korea.

  • BTS Pilgrimage in Seoul 2026: 10 Must-Visit Places Every ARMY Should See

    BTS Pilgrimage in Seoul 2026: 10 Must-Visit Places Every ARMY Should See

    Introduction

    For ARMY visiting South Korea, Seoul is more than palaces, shopping streets, and famous cafés. Hidden throughout the city are places connected to BTS’s journey — from the neighborhood where the members spent their early years to locations that appeared in performances, videos, and memorable moments in BTS history.

    Some of these places are closely associated with BTS before they became global superstars. Others allow fans to experience locations they may recognize from BTS content while also discovering Seoul itself.

    This guide introduces 10 BTS-related places in Seoul that ARMY can add to a Korea itinerary in 2026, with practical travel tips and ideas for combining the stops into an enjoyable day of sightseeing.

    Rather than simply checking places off a list, think of this as a journey through different chapters of the BTS story — while experiencing the neighborhoods, food, culture, and everyday atmosphere of Seoul along the way.

    1. Yoojung Sikdang — A Restaurant from BTS’s Trainee Days

    For many longtime ARMY, Yoojung Sikdang (유정식당) is one of the most meaningful BTS-related stops in Seoul.

    Located in the Nonhyeon area of Gangnam, the restaurant became known among fans because BTS members ate there during their trainee and early debut years, when their practice space was nearby.

    Today, the restaurant attracts BTS fans from around the world. Inside, visitors can find BTS-related decorations and memorabilia while enjoying a Korean meal.

    Rather than visiting only for a photograph, consider eating here and exploring the surrounding neighborhood. It gives fans a glimpse into the part of Seoul connected to BTS long before stadium tours and worldwide fame.

    Travel tip: Combine Yoojung Sikdang with Hakdong Park and the area around BTS’s former BigHit building. These locations are close enough to make them part of the same ARMY walking route.

    2. Hakdong Park — A Place Connected to BTS’s Early Years

    Hakdong Park (학동공원) is another meaningful stop for fans interested in BTS’s pre-debut and early-career years.

    Located near the group’s former practice area in Nonhyeon-dong, the park has become associated with stories and memories from the period when the members were still trainees and young artists working toward their debut.

    Unlike a major tourist attraction, Hakdong Park is an ordinary neighborhood park. That is part of its appeal. Visiting gives ARMY a chance to experience the everyday surroundings connected with BTS’s beginnings rather than only the polished landmarks associated with their later global success.

    Because it is close to Yoojung Sikdang and BTS’s former BigHit neighborhood, the three stops work especially well as one walking itinerary.

    Travel tip: Be considerate of local residents when visiting. Hakdong Park is a public neighborhood space, so keep noise low and avoid blocking paths while taking photos.

    3. BTS’s Former BigHit Building — Where the Early Story Took Shape

    Before HYBE became a major entertainment company with its headquarters in Yongsan, BTS spent an important part of their early career around BigHit Entertainment’s former offices and practice spaces in Gangnam.

    For longtime ARMY, the area is meaningful because it represents the years when BTS was still building its career, practicing, recording, and gradually growing from a newly debuted group into an international phenomenon.

    The building is not an official BTS tourist attraction, and visitors should remember that it is private property. The best way to experience this stop is to view the exterior respectfully and then continue exploring the surrounding neighborhood.

    Together with Yoojung Sikdang and Hakdong Park, this area creates one of the most interesting walking routes for fans who want to understand BTS’s beginnings in Seoul.

    Travel tip: Do not enter private property or disturb people using nearby buildings. A quick exterior visit is enough before continuing your BTS walking tour.

    4. HYBE Headquarters in Yongsan — BTS’s Present-Day Home Base

    BTS’s story eventually moved from the small offices of BigHit Entertainment to HYBE’s headquarters in Yongsan, reflecting just how dramatically the group and its company grew.

    The modern HYBE building is located in Yongsan, one of Seoul’s most accessible central districts. For ARMY, seeing the building from outside can be an interesting contrast to the former BigHit locations in Gangnam — from BTS’s humble beginnings to the global scale of their career today.

    However, visitors should know that HYBE headquarters is an office building, not a general BTS tourist attraction, and access to working areas is restricted. Fans should respect the property and avoid waiting around entrances or interfering with employees.

    Also, the former HYBE INSIGHT museum at the headquarters is no longer operating, so travelers should not plan a visit expecting to enter a BTS museum there.

    Travel tip: Combine an exterior stop at HYBE with other attractions around Yongsan rather than making the building your only destination.

    5. Gyeongbokgung Palace — BTS’s Iconic Seoul Performance Location

    Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of Seoul’s most famous historical attractions, but for ARMY it also holds a special connection to BTS.

    In 2020, BTS filmed performances at Gyeongbokgung for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The spectacular setting brought together K-pop and traditional Korean architecture, introducing millions of international viewers to one of Korea’s most important royal palaces.

    This makes Gyeongbokgung especially valuable for BTS fans visiting Seoul: it is not only a filming location but also a major cultural attraction worth exploring on its own.

    Allow enough time to walk through the palace grounds rather than visiting only for a BTS-related photo. Nearby attractions such as Bukchon, Insadong, and Gwanghwamun can also be combined into the same day.

    Travel tip: Check the palace’s current opening hours and closing days before visiting, as schedules can vary by season.

    6. Nodeul Island — A Scenic BTS Filming Location on the Han River

    Nodeul Island (노들섬) sits in the middle of the Han River and offers a very different atmosphere from Seoul’s busy shopping and entertainment districts.

    For ARMY, the island is especially recognizable as a filming location connected to BTS’s 2021 Season’s Greetings. Its open spaces and Han River scenery have made it a popular stop for fans who enjoy visiting places seen in BTS content.

    Nodeul Island is also worth visiting even without the BTS connection. Travelers can walk along the river, relax outdoors, take photographs, and enjoy views of Seoul from a quieter setting.

    Travel tip: Visit in the late afternoon and stay toward sunset for beautiful Han River views. It can easily be combined with other Yongsan-area stops on your BTS itinerary.

    7. Seokchon Lake — A BTS-Connected Stop in Jamsil

    Seokchon Lake (석촌호수) in Jamsil is another Seoul destination that has appeared in BTS-related content and is a pleasant place to include in an ARMY itinerary.

    Surrounded by walking paths and city views, the lake is particularly popular during spring cherry blossom season. It also sits beside Lotte World and close to Lotte World Tower, making this stop easy to combine with a full day in Jamsil.

    For international visitors, this is a good example of how a BTS-themed trip can lead to discovering other parts of Seoul. Rather than traveling across the city only to recreate a photo, spend some time walking around the lake, exploring Jamsil, or visiting nearby attractions.

    Travel tip: If you visit during cherry blossom season, expect large crowds. Early morning is usually more comfortable for walking and photography.

    8. Seoul Forest — Walk Through a Place Loved by BTS Fans

    Seoul Forest (서울숲) is one of Seoul’s most relaxing green spaces and has also become a familiar destination for ARMY.

    Over the years, fans have created BTS-related commemorative spaces and adopted trees in and around the park to celebrate members’ birthdays and other special occasions. These fan-supported spots have helped turn parts of Seoul Forest into places where ARMY can experience the fan culture surrounding BTS.

    The park itself is worth exploring beyond its BTS connection. With walking paths, gardens, open lawns, and cafés in the nearby Seongsu neighborhood, it is an easy place to spend several hours.

    Travel tip: Combine Seoul Forest with Seongsu-dong, one of Seoul’s popular café and shopping neighborhoods. This turns a BTS-related stop into a fuller half-day Seoul itinerary.

    9. Yeouido Hangang Park — A Place Connected to BTS and Seoul’s Han River

    Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도한강공원) is one of Seoul’s most popular riverside destinations and has a special connection to BTS history.

    The Yeouido area has hosted major BTS-related events, including celebrations connected to BTS FESTA, when large numbers of ARMY gathered along the Han River to celebrate the group’s anniversary.

    Even when there is no BTS event taking place, the park offers international visitors a classic Seoul experience. You can walk or cycle beside the river, enjoy Korean convenience-store food, have a picnic, and watch the city lights after sunset.

    For ARMY, it is a good place to experience both BTS fan culture and the everyday Han River lifestyle that is such an important part of Seoul.

    Travel tip: Visit in the evening and combine the stop with a Han River picnic. During major events or festivals, check official announcements in advance because access and transportation arrangements may change.

    10. Seoul Olympic Stadium — A Landmark in BTS Concert History

    Seoul Olympic Stadium (서울올림픽주경기장) in Jamsil holds an important place in BTS history as the setting for some of the group’s major concerts in South Korea.

    For ARMY, the stadium represents a very different chapter from the small restaurants, parks, and practice spaces associated with BTS’s early years. Performing at a massive stadium in Seoul became a powerful symbol of how far the group had come.

    The stadium area has undergone major redevelopment, so travelers should check current access and construction conditions before visiting rather than expecting the same appearance seen in older BTS concert footage.

    Even when access to the stadium itself is limited, Jamsil is easy to combine with other attractions, including Seokchon Lake, Lotte World Tower, shopping, restaurants, and cafés.

    Travel tip: Do not make a special trip solely to enter the stadium. Check its current status first and combine the area with your Jamsil itinerary.

    How to Plan Your BTS Pilgrimage in Seoul

    Trying to visit all 10 locations in a single day would mean spending too much time traveling across Seoul. A better option is to group the destinations by neighborhood.

    For fans interested in BTS’s early history, start with Yoojung Sikdang, Hakdong Park, and the former BigHit area in Gangnam. These locations work naturally as one walking route.

    On another part of your trip, explore HYBE’s Yongsan area and Nodeul Island, followed by an evening along the Han River.

    Gyeongbokgung Palace deserves several hours because it is also one of Seoul’s most important historical attractions. Likewise, Seoul Forest and Seongsu work well together for a relaxed half-day of parks, cafés, shopping, and BTS fan culture.

    Finally, Seokchon Lake and the Jamsil area can be combined into another itinerary.

    The best BTS pilgrimage is not about rushing between photo spots. Give yourself time to experience the Seoul neighborhoods that became part of the BTS story.

    Frequently Asked Questions About BTS Places in Seoul

    Where can BTS fans go in Seoul?
    Popular BTS-related stops include Yoojung Sikdang, Hakdong Park, the former BigHit area, HYBE’s Yongsan headquarters area, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Nodeul Island, Seoul Forest, and several Han River locations.

    Can fans enter the HYBE headquarters?
    HYBE headquarters is primarily an office building, not a general BTS tourist attraction. Visitors should not expect access to working areas and should respect the building, employees, and surrounding property.

    Is the old BigHit building open to tourists?
    No. The former BigHit location should be treated as private property. Fans can respectfully see the area from outside without entering or disturbing occupants.

    Can I visit BTS places in Seoul in one day?
    It is possible to see several locations in one day, but the sites are spread across Seoul. For a more enjoyable trip, divide them into neighborhood-based routes over two or more days.

    What is the best area for BTS fans visiting Seoul for the first time?
    Fans especially interested in BTS’s early history may want to start around Nonhyeon-dong with Yoojung Sikdang, Hakdong Park, and the former BigHit area.

    Are there BTS places outside Seoul?
    Yes. BTS-related filming and photo locations can be found in several other parts of South Korea. One of the most famous is the BTS Bus Stop at Jumunjin Beach in Gangneung.

    Final Thoughts

    A BTS pilgrimage in Seoul is more than a tour of places connected to a famous K-pop group. It is also a journey through different parts of the city and different chapters of BTS’s history.

    From the modest streets around Yoojung Sikdang and Hakdong Park to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the Han River, and the neighborhoods associated with BTS today, each stop offers ARMY a different perspective on the group’s journey.

    Most importantly, take time to enjoy Seoul itself. Eat Korean food, explore the neighborhoods, visit cafés, walk along the Han River, and experience the culture surrounding these locations.

    And Seoul is only the beginning. Beyond the capital, destinations such as Gangneung’s famous BTS Bus Stop give ARMY even more reasons to explore South Korea.