Tag: Busan

  • 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.

  • Yeongnam Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Southeastern Korea

    Yeongnam Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit in Southeastern Korea

    Discover the Yeongnam Region of Korea

    Yeongnam is the historical region of southeastern South Korea that includes Busan, Daegu, Ulsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang), and Gyeongsangnam-do (South Gyeongsang). The name traditionally refers to the area south of the major mountain passes that separated this part of Korea from the central regions.

    For travelers, Yeongnam is useful as a way to understand southeastern Korea rather than as a single modern administrative region. It brings together some of the country’s most important historic cities, coastal destinations, traditional villages, mountains, temples, and regional food cultures.

    Many first-time visitors focus on Seoul, but traveling through Yeongnam reveals a very different side of Korea—from Busan’s coastline and Gyeongju’s historic sites to Daegu, Ulsan, and the smaller cities and countryside of the two Gyeongsang provinces.

    For travelers, Yeongnam offers remarkable variety. You can explore ancient royal tombs in Gyeongju, walk through a traditional village in Andong, enjoy seafood beside the ocean in Busan, discover colorful coastal towns, and travel through some of Korea’s most beautiful countryside.

    If you want to explore beyond Seoul, Yeongnam deserves a place on your Korea itinerary.

    Is Yeongnam the Same as Gyeongsang?

    Yeongnam and Gyeongsang refer to almost the same part of southeastern Korea, but the terms are used differently. Gyeongsang is the historical provincial name that survives today in Gyeongsangbuk-do (North Gyeongsang) and Gyeongsangnam-do (South Gyeongsang), while Yeongnam is a broader regional term.

    In modern usage, Yeongnam generally includes the two Gyeongsang provinces as well as the major metropolitan cities of Busan, Daegu, and Ulsan. Travelers are therefore more likely to see Gyeongsang on maps and administrative information, while Yeongnam may appear when Korea is discussed in broader regional, historical, or cultural terms.

    1. Busan – Korea’s Dynamic Coastal City

    Busan is South Korea’s second-largest city and one of the best places to begin exploring the Yeongnam region.

    The city combines beaches, mountains, seafood markets, temples, modern neighborhoods, and dramatic coastal scenery.

    Haeundae Beach is one of Korea’s best-known beaches, while Gwangalli Beach offers impressive views of Gwangan Bridge, especially after sunset.

    Travelers can also explore Jagalchi Market, walk through the colorful streets of Gamcheon Culture Village, or visit Haedong Yonggungsa, a Buddhist temple overlooking the sea.

    Busan is large enough to deserve several days on its own, but it also works as an excellent transportation base for exploring southeastern Korea.

    2. Gyeongju – Travel Back to Ancient Korea

    Gyeongju is one of Korea’s most important historical destinations.

    Once the capital of the ancient Silla Kingdom, the city is filled with royal tombs, archaeological sites, temples, and traditional architecture.

    Daereungwon Tomb Complex, Cheomseongdae, Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, Bulguksa Temple, and Seokguram Grotto are among its best-known attractions.

    Hwangridan-gil adds a modern element with cafés, restaurants, shops, and renovated traditional buildings.

    Gyeongju is particularly rewarding for travelers who want to understand Korea’s history rather than only see its modern cities.

    3. Daegu – Markets, Food and Urban Culture

    Daegu is one of Korea’s largest cities but receives fewer international tourists than Seoul or Busan.

    That can be part of its appeal.

    The city offers traditional markets, shopping streets, local food, cafés, and easy access to nearby mountains.

    Seomun Market is one of Daegu’s best-known traditional markets and a good place to experience the city’s everyday food culture.

    Travelers interested in city views and outdoor activities can also explore areas around Apsan.

    Daegu provides a useful contrast to Korea’s more heavily visited tourist destinations.

    4. Andong – Traditional Korean Culture

    Andong is one of the best destinations in the region for travelers interested in traditional Korean culture.

    Its most famous attraction is Hahoe Folk Village, where traditional houses and village landscapes preserve an important part of Korea’s cultural heritage.

    The village is associated with Confucian traditions and offers visitors a glimpse of how communities were organized in earlier periods of Korean history.

    Andong is also known for regional foods, including Andong jjimdak, a savory braised chicken dish.

    For travelers interested in history, architecture, and traditional lifestyles, Andong can be one of the most memorable stops in Yeongnam.

    5. Tongyeong – Islands and Coastal Views

    Tongyeong is a beautiful southern coastal city surrounded by islands.

    The city is known for harbor scenery, seafood, hillside neighborhoods, and views across the sea.

    One of the pleasures of visiting Tongyeong is simply exploring the waterfront and experiencing the slower atmosphere of a smaller Korean coastal city.

    The surrounding islands also make the area attractive for travelers who enjoy ferries, walking, and ocean scenery.

    Tongyeong is particularly appealing when combined with other destinations along Korea’s southern coast.

    6. Geoje – Beaches, Islands and Scenic Drives

    Geoje is one of Korea’s largest islands and is connected to the mainland by bridges.

    The island is known for coastal roads, beaches, cliffs, forests, and views of smaller islands scattered across the sea.

    Travelers often combine Geoje with nearby Tongyeong.

    A car can be particularly useful here because attractions are spread around the island.

    Geoje is a good choice for travelers who want to leave the large cities behind and spend more time near nature and the coast.

    7. Ulsan – Industry Meets Nature

    Ulsan is widely known as one of Korea’s major industrial cities, but travelers may be surprised by the amount of nature surrounding it.

    The city and nearby areas offer coastal landscapes, parks, walking trails, and access to mountainous scenery.

    Ulsan can also serve as a useful stop between Busan and Gyeongju.

    It is not usually the first destination international visitors think of when planning a Korea trip, which makes it an interesting option for travelers looking for places beyond the most familiar tourist routes.

    8. Pohang – The East Coast and Local Seafood

    Pohang lies on Korea’s eastern coast and is closely associated with the sea.

    The city is known for seafood, coastal scenery, and sunrise views.

    Travelers interested in local food can explore markets and seafood restaurants, while coastal areas provide a different experience from inland destinations such as Daegu and Andong.

    Pohang can also be combined with Gyeongju because the two cities are relatively close.

    9. Jinju – History Along the Namgang River

    Jinju is known for its riverside scenery and historic fortress.

    Jinjuseong Fortress stands beside the Namgang River and is closely connected with important events in Korean history.

    The riverside setting makes the area pleasant for walking, especially when combined with the city’s historic attractions.

    Jinju offers another opportunity to explore a Korean regional city that many international visitors overlook.

    10. Explore Yeongnam Through Its Food

    One of the best reasons to travel through Yeongnam is food.

    Different cities have developed their own specialties, giving travelers an opportunity to experience Korean cuisine beyond the dishes most commonly found in Seoul.

    Busan is famous for seafood and dishes such as dwaeji gukbap, a pork-and-rice soup.

    Andong is known for Andong jjimdak.

    Coastal cities such as Tongyeong and Pohang offer fresh seafood, while traditional markets throughout the region provide snacks, noodles, local dishes, and seasonal ingredients.

    Instead of searching only for famous restaurants, make time for traditional markets and neighborhood restaurants as well.

    They can provide some of the most memorable meals of a trip.

    11. Traditional Markets Are Worth Exploring

    Traditional markets are an important part of regional travel in Korea.

    They offer much more than food.

    Visitors can see local ingredients, household goods, prepared dishes, snacks, and everyday interactions that are difficult to experience in major tourist attractions.

    Markets in Busan, Daegu, Andong, Pohang, and other Yeongnam cities each have their own atmosphere.

    For travelers interested in Korean food culture, a market visit should be part of the itinerary.

    How Many Days Do You Need in Yeongnam?

    Yeongnam is far too large to explore properly in one short trip.

    If you have only three or four days, it is better to focus on two destinations rather than trying to see the entire region.

    For example:

    Day 1: Seoul → Gyeongju → Daereungwon → Cheomseongdae → Hwangridan-gil

    Day 2: Bulguksa Temple → Busan → Gwangalli Beach

    Day 3: Busan → Jagalchi Market → Gamcheon Culture Village → Haeundae

    Day 4: Additional Busan sightseeing or a day trip nearby

    With five to seven days, you can add destinations such as Daegu, Andong, Tongyeong, Geoje, or Pohang.

    Travelers who enjoy slower travel could easily spend more than a week exploring southeastern Korea.

    How to Get to Yeongnam from Seoul

    Because Yeongnam covers a large part of southeastern Korea, the best transportation method depends on your destination.

    Seoul to Busan

    High-speed rail is one of the easiest ways to travel between Seoul and Busan.

    KTX trains connect the two cities, making Busan one of the most convenient long-distance destinations to reach from the capital.

    Express buses are another option, although the journey generally takes longer.

    Seoul to Daegu

    Daegu is also easily accessible by high-speed rail.

    Travelers can use KTX services to reach the Daegu area and continue by local transportation.

    This makes Daegu practical both as a destination and as part of a longer regional itinerary.

    Seoul to Gyeongju

    Travelers heading to Gyeongju can use high-speed rail to reach Gyeongju Station and then continue into the main sightseeing areas by local bus or taxi.

    Because Gyeongju and Busan are relatively close, the two destinations work particularly well together.

    Seoul to Andong

    Rail and intercity bus services provide options for reaching Andong from the Seoul area.

    The best choice depends on your departure point, schedule, and accommodation location.

    Always check current schedules before traveling.

    Getting Around the Yeongnam Region

    Public transportation works well between many major cities.

    KTX and other rail services are useful for destinations such as Busan, Daegu, and Gyeongju, while intercity buses connect many regional cities and towns.

    Within cities, local buses, subways where available, and taxis can usually handle most sightseeing.

    However, a rental car becomes more useful if you want to explore Geoje, smaller coastal towns, rural areas, mountains, or several destinations in one trip.

    Do not assume transportation will be as frequent as it is in central Seoul. Check routes and return times in advance when visiting smaller destinations.

    When Is the Best Time to Visit Yeongnam?

    Yeongnam can be visited throughout the year, but each season creates a different experience.

    Spring is excellent for walking, sightseeing, and seasonal flowers.

    Summer is popular for Busan and the southern coast, although the weather can be hot and humid.

    Autumn offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage, making it one of the best seasons for regional travel.

    Winter is colder but generally quieter at many outdoor attractions.

    If your trip focuses on beaches and islands, summer may be appealing. For city exploration, historic sites, and walking, spring and autumn are particularly comfortable.

    Yeongnam for First-Time Visitors

    For a first trip to Yeongnam, combining Gyeongju and Busan is one of the easiest introductions to the region.

    The two destinations offer completely different experiences while being relatively close to each other.

    Gyeongju provides ancient history, temples, royal tombs, and traditional scenery.

    Busan provides beaches, seafood, modern city life, markets, and coastal views.

    Travelers with additional time can then choose a third destination based on their interests: Andong for traditional culture, Daegu for urban life and markets, or Tongyeong and Geoje for coastal scenery.

    From Ancient Kingdoms to Coastal Cities

    The appeal of Yeongnam lies in its variety.

    Few regions allow travelers to move so easily between ancient royal capitals, traditional villages, major modern cities, mountain landscapes, fishing communities, and island scenery.

    The region also tells an important part of Korea’s story.

    Gyeongju reveals the legacy of the Silla Kingdom, Andong preserves aspects of Confucian culture, and cities such as Busan, Daegu, and Ulsan show different sides of modern Korea.

    Why Yeongnam Belongs on Your Korea Itinerary

    Traveling beyond Seoul allows visitors to understand how diverse South Korea really is.

    In Yeongnam, you can begin the morning beside an ancient royal tomb, eat a regional specialty at a traditional market, and finish the day watching the sea from a coastal city.

    Whether you are interested in Korean history, local food, beaches, traditional culture, hiking, or simply discovering places that receive fewer international visitors, southeastern Korea has something to offer.

    Start with Gyeongju and Busan, then travel deeper.

    Yeongnam may become one of the most memorable parts of your journey through Korea.