Tag: Gangneung

  • 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.

  • Gangwon-do Travel Guide: Mountains, Beaches and the Best Places to Visit

    Gangwon-do Travel Guide: Mountains, Beaches and the Best Places to Visit

    Why Visit Gangwon-do?

    Gangwon-do is one of the best destinations in South Korea for travelers who love mountains, beaches, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery.

    Located east of Seoul, the region stretches from the rugged mountains of the Korean Peninsula to the East Sea. This unique geography makes Gangwon-do a destination that can feel completely different depending on where you travel.

    You can hike through dramatic mountain landscapes in Seoraksan National Park, relax on the beaches of Gangneung and Sokcho, explore traditional markets, enjoy local food, and visit peaceful mountain temples.

    For travelers who want to experience Korea beyond Seoul, Gangwon-do is an excellent place to start.

    1. Explore Seoraksan National Park

    Seoraksan National Park is one of Korea’s most famous mountain destinations.

    Located near Sokcho, the park is known for dramatic granite peaks, forest trails, waterfalls, temples, and spectacular seasonal scenery.

    Autumn is particularly famous, when the mountains turn shades of red, orange, and gold. However, Seoraksan is worth visiting throughout much of the year.

    Visitors can choose from relatively easy walks as well as more challenging hiking routes.

    Even if you are not an experienced hiker, the scenery around the main entrance area makes Seoraksan one of the highlights of a trip to Gangwon-do.

    2. Visit Sokcho

    Sokcho is a coastal city and one of the most convenient bases for visiting Seoraksan.

    The city combines mountains, beaches, markets, and seafood, making it a great destination for travelers who want both nature and local culture.

    One of the most popular places to visit is Sokcho Tourist & Fishery Market, where you can try Korean street food and regional specialties.

    Sokcho Beach is another popular stop, especially during the warmer months.

    Because Seoraksan is nearby, many travelers combine Sokcho and the national park in the same trip.

    3. Discover Gangneung

    Gangneung is one of the most popular coastal destinations on Korea’s east coast.

    The city is known for beaches, coffee culture, historic sites, and relaxed seaside scenery.

    Gyeongpo Beach is one of the best-known beaches in the area, while nearby Anmok Beach has become famous for its seaside cafés and Coffee Street.

    Sitting in a café overlooking the East Sea is one of the simplest and most enjoyable experiences in Gangneung.

    The city is also relatively easy to reach from Seoul by train, making it a popular weekend destination.

    4. Walk Along Anmok Coffee Street

    Coffee has become an important part of Gangneung’s modern travel culture.

    Along Anmok Beach, numerous cafés face the sea, creating an area commonly known as Anmok Coffee Street.

    Visitors can order coffee, find a seat overlooking the water, and spend a relaxing afternoon watching the waves.

    The combination of coffee and ocean views has made this area particularly popular with couples, friends, and independent travelers.

    5. Visit Chuncheon

    Chuncheon is another easy destination to reach from Seoul and is especially famous for food and lakeside scenery.

    The city is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lakes, giving it a very different atmosphere from central Seoul.

    Chuncheon is particularly associated with dakgalbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken dish that has become famous throughout Korea.

    Visitors can explore the city, walk around its lakeside areas, and enjoy a meal of authentic Chuncheon-style dakgalbi.

    6. Experience Pyeongchang

    Pyeongchang became internationally famous as the host of the 2018 Winter Olympics.

    Surrounded by mountains, the area is one of Korea’s major destinations for winter sports.

    During winter, travelers visit the region for skiing and snowboarding. Outside the winter season, the surrounding countryside offers green landscapes, mountain scenery, and a quieter rural atmosphere.

    Pyeongchang can be a good choice for travelers looking for a different side of Gangwon-do away from the busy coastal cities.

    7. Enjoy Gangwon-do’s Beaches

    Gangwon-do has some of South Korea’s most attractive beaches.

    The coastline along the East Sea is known for clear water, long sandy beaches, and beautiful sunrise views.

    Popular coastal areas include Gangneung, Sokcho, Yangyang, Donghae, and Samcheok.

    Summer attracts the largest number of beach visitors, but the coast is also beautiful during spring and autumn.

    Winter has its own appeal, when the beaches become quieter and travelers can enjoy peaceful ocean views.

    8. Discover Yangyang

    Yangyang has developed a reputation as one of Korea’s popular surfing destinations.

    The area attracts younger travelers with beaches, surf shops, cafés, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

    Surfing lessons are available for beginners, while experienced surfers can enjoy several beaches along the coast.

    Yangyang can also be combined with Sokcho because the two areas are relatively close to each other.

    9. Explore Traditional Markets and Local Food

    Food is an important part of traveling through Gangwon-do.

    Each city has its own specialties and traditional markets.

    In Sokcho, travelers can explore the local market and try seafood and popular snacks. Chuncheon is famous for dakgalbi and makguksu, a buckwheat noodle dish.

    Gangneung also offers seafood, local dishes, and cafés that have become part of the city’s travel culture.

    Instead of eating only at familiar chains, visiting a traditional market can be one of the best ways to experience everyday Korean food culture.

    10. Visit Mountain Temples

    Gangwon-do’s mountains are home to several beautiful Buddhist temples.

    These temples often combine Korean religious history with impressive natural surroundings.

    A temple visit can provide a quieter experience compared with busy beaches or city attractions.

    For international visitors, it can also be an opportunity to see traditional Korean architecture and learn more about the role Buddhism has played in Korean history and culture.

    How Many Days Do You Need in Gangwon-do?

    Because Gangwon-do covers a large area, the ideal length of a trip depends on where you want to go.

    For a short trip, two days can work well for one main destination such as Gangneung or Sokcho.

    A three- or four-day trip gives you more time to combine destinations.

    For example:

    Day 1: Seoul → Sokcho → Sokcho Market → Sokcho Beach

    Day 2: Seoraksan National Park → local food → Sokcho

    Day 3: Sokcho → Gangneung → Gyeongpo Beach → Anmok Coffee Street

    Travelers with more time can add Pyeongchang, Yangyang, or other parts of the region.

    How to Get to Gangwon-do from Seoul

    There is no single best way to travel from Seoul to Gangwon-do because Gangwon-do is a large region. The best transportation option depends on your destination.

    Seoul to Gangneung

    Train travel is one of the most convenient choices for Gangneung.

    KTX services connect the Seoul area with Gangneung, making the city an accessible destination for travelers who do not want to rent a car.

    Once you arrive in Gangneung, you can use local buses or taxis to reach beaches and other attractions.

    Seoul to Chuncheon

    Chuncheon is conveniently connected with the Seoul metropolitan area.

    The ITX-Cheongchun train is a popular option for reaching Chuncheon and is useful for travelers planning a day trip or short overnight visit.

    Seoul to Sokcho

    Sokcho does not currently have the same direct KTX access as Gangneung, so intercity or express buses are commonly used by travelers coming from Seoul.

    Buses connect Seoul with Sokcho, and after arriving in the city, local transportation can be used to reach Seoraksan and other attractions.

    Seoul to Pyeongchang

    Rail travel is also useful for reaching parts of Pyeongchang.

    Depending on your exact destination, KTX services and local transportation can be combined to reach the region.

    Always check current train and bus schedules before traveling because routes and departure times can change.

    Should You Rent a Car?

    A rental car is not essential if you are visiting only one major destination such as Gangneung, Chuncheon, or Sokcho.

    However, driving becomes much more useful if you want to explore several beaches, mountain areas, smaller towns, or attractions that are far from train and bus stations.

    For a multi-day road trip through Gangwon-do, renting a car can provide significantly more flexibility.

    Getting Around Gangwon-do

    Transportation within Gangwon-do requires more planning than transportation within Seoul.

    Major cities have local buses and taxis, but attractions can be spread far apart.

    If you are staying mainly in one city, public transportation and taxis may be enough.

    If your itinerary includes several cities, beaches, mountains, and rural destinations, a rental car may save considerable time.

    Before leaving your accommodation each morning, check the route to your next destination rather than assuming transportation will be as frequent as it is in Seoul.

    When Is the Best Time to Visit Gangwon-do?

    Each season offers a different experience.

    Spring brings mild weather and fresh mountain scenery.

    Summer is popular for beaches, surfing, and coastal trips.

    Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons, particularly in mountain areas such as Seoraksan.

    Winter attracts visitors for snow, skiing, and winter resorts, especially around Pyeongchang and other mountainous areas.

    The best season depends on whether you prefer hiking, beaches, autumn foliage, or winter sports.

    Gangwon-do for First-Time Visitors

    If this is your first trip to Gangwon-do, avoid trying to see the entire region in one or two days.

    Choose one or two main areas and explore them properly.

    For nature and mountains, consider Sokcho and Seoraksan.

    For beaches and cafés, Gangneung is an excellent choice.

    For an easy trip from Seoul with food and lakeside scenery, Chuncheon works well.

    Travelers interested in winter activities can consider Pyeongchang and the surrounding mountain areas.

    Mountains Meet the East Sea

    One of the most memorable things about Gangwon-do is how quickly the landscape changes.

    You can spend the morning walking through mountain forests and later watch the sun set near the coast.

    Small cities, traditional markets, beaches, cafés, temples, and mountain landscapes give travelers many different ways to experience the region.

    Gangwon-do shows that traveling in South Korea is about much more than exploring its largest cities.

    Why Gangwon-do Belongs on Your Korea Itinerary

    Seoul may introduce you to modern Korea, but Gangwon-do introduces you to another side of the country.

    Here, mountains meet the East Sea, coastal cities develop their own food and café cultures, and outdoor experiences become an important part of the journey.

    Whether you want to hike in Seoraksan, drink coffee beside the sea in Gangneung, eat dakgalbi in Chuncheon, surf in Yangyang, or experience winter in Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do offers experiences that are difficult to find anywhere else in Korea.

    For first-time visitors who want to travel beyond Seoul, Gangwon-do deserves a place on the itinerary.