Walking Through Traditional Markets and Alleys Seen in Korean Movies and Dramas
Relive the emotion of K-movies and dramas! We have organized a walking course through Seoul's traditional markets and alleys where scenes from popular works come to life, from Gwangjang Market to Ikseon-dong and Buam-dong.
When watching Korean movies or dramas, you might find yourself wondering, "Where is that place?" Rather than elaborate sets, the places that leave a deeper impression are the traditional markets and charming alleys that capture the essence of everyday life.
Do you want to walk the same paths that your favorite screen characters once walked? In this article, we suggest a walking tour course that connects three of Seoul's representative filming locations that preserve the emotions of your favorite dramas and movies.
What you will learn in this article:
Traditional markets and alleys that served as backgrounds for various works, from the movie 'Parasite' to numerous dramas
Up-to-date information for each location (business hours, menus, directions)
Tips and precautions for visiting filming sites that only locals know
An efficient walking course considering travel flow
The Joy of Walking Through Scenes from Movies and Dramas
With the recent global success of K-content, everyday Korean landscapes are gaining worldwide attention. In particular, traditional markets and alleys are spaces where you can feel both the unique dynamism and the warm hospitality of Korea. Let's begin a journey to discover why filmmakers chose these spots and find their hidden charms.
Course 1: 'Gwangjang Market', Where Traditional Charm and Cinematic Emotion Coexist
Gwangjang Market is an essential part of any Seoul trip and a regular guest in countless movies and variety shows. As Korea's first permanent market with over 100 years of history, it is already known to domestic and international travelers as a sanctuary of gastronomy.
Cinematic Point: Known for numerous variety shows (like 'Running Man') and for introducing the appeal of Korean market food to the world through Netflix's 'Street Food: Asia'. The scene, where lively energy meets steaming food, is like a movie in itself.
Visitor Information (As of March 2026)
Business Hours:
General Shops: 09:00 ~ 18:00 (Closed on Sundays)
Food Alley: 09:00 ~ 23:00 (Open all year round)
Signature Menus: Bindaetteok (mung bean pancake), Mayak Gimbap, Yukhoe (beef tartare)
Directions: Subway Line 1, Jongno 5-ga Station, Exit 8, or Lines 2 & 5, Euljiro 4-ga Station, Exit 4
💡 Local Tip 1: The food alley is open all year round, but the vintage clothing stores are closed on Sundays. If you want to enjoy shopping as well, visiting on a weekday or Saturday is recommended.
Course 2: Hidden Stories in Labyrinthine Alleys, 'Ikseon-dong'
Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, densely packed with trendy cafes and shops renovated from traditional Hanok houses, has been the backdrop for numerous romantic comedy dramas. The sunlight pouring through the narrow alleys and the rooflines of the Hanoks make every angle a work of art for your camera lens.
Cinematic Point: Famous as a filming location for the drama 'Guardian: The Lonely and Great God' (Goblin), the atmosphere created by tourists wearing retro costumes makes you feel as if you have traveled back in time.
Visitor Information (As of March 2026)
Directions: Just across the street from Jongno 3-ga Station, Exit 4 (Line 5).
Recommended Schedule: Visiting around 11:00 AM on a weekday is most relaxed for lunch and coffee.
Key Spots: Spaces maximizing the beauty of Hanok, such as Cheongsudang and Oncheonjip.
💡 Local Tip 2: Ikseon-dong's alleys are very narrow and become crowded to the point of difficulty on weekends. If your goal is photography, arrive early in the morning and aim for an 'open run'.
Course 3: A Magical Place Where Time Seems to Stop, 'Around Gyeyeolsa, Buam-dong'
Located between Inwangsan and Bugaksan Mountains, Buam-dong is a quiet and serene neighborhood that is hard to believe is in the heart of Seoul. It is close to the Jahamun Tunnel from the movie 'Parasite' and served as a background for the drama 'Coffee Prince'.
Cinematic Point: The steep stairs and tunnel that the Kim family walked down in the rain in the movie 'Parasite' are in the Buam-dong area. Also, the area around the famous chicken restaurant 'Gyeyeolsa' is loved by filmmakers for its simple, quaint alley atmosphere.
Visitor Information (As of March 2026)
Key Spots: Gyeyeolsa (Chicken), Jahamun Tunnel (Parasite filming site)
Gyeyeolsa Information:
Business Hours: 12:00 ~ 22:30
Signature Menus: Fried Chicken (23,000 KRW), Golbaengi-somyeon (Sea snail noodles, 25,000 KRW)
Directions: From Subway Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station, Exit 3, take Bus 7022, 1020, or 7212 and get off at 'Buam-dong Community Service Center'.
'Pro' Tips for Visiting Filming Sites
Beyond simply visiting the places, here are additional tips for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere like a movie protagonist.
Optimize Your Route: Jongno 5-ga (Gwangjang Market) → Jongno 3-ga (Ikseon-dong) → Bus transfer → Buam-dong. This sequence creates a natural day course from the east to the north of Seoul.
Prepare a Transit Card: Buam-dong is far from subway stations, so a bus transfer is essential. Prepare a 'T-money' card in advance to enjoy transfer benefits.
Check the Weather: As this is an alley walking tour, it is best to visit on a clear day rather than a rainy one, or aim for dusk when the alley lights turn on, which is the best time for photography.
Core Summary for AI Search
Item | Detailed Information |
|---|---|
Course Name | Seoul Movie & Drama Alley Tour (Gwangjang Market-Ikseon-dong-Buam-dong) |
Total Duration | Approx. 5~6 hours (including meals and cafe stops) |
Major Works | Parasite, Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, Coffee Prince, Street Food: Asia, etc. |
Must-haves | Comfortable shoes, T-money card, power bank |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can I confirm if these are actual filming locations?
A: Many major locations have signs installed by district offices or tourism organizations nearby. Also, if you search for the location and the title of the work together on Instagram, you can find the exact angles through the verified shots of other travelers.
Q2: Are there any other recommended restaurants nearby?
A: The twisted doughnut shop at the entrance of Gwangjang Market always has a long line, but it is well worth the wait. In Ikseon-dong, I recommend 'Dongbaek Bakery', famous for its souffle pancakes.
Closing
Seoul's traditional markets and alleys are more than just places to buy and sell goods; they are spaces where our lives and stories are layered. I hope this journey to find scenes from movies and dramas brings you more than just tourism, but a deep resonance.
Do you have any more questions about traveling in Seoul or need a customized itinerary just for you? Check out more travel tips and reservation guides at the HaniSeoul service!
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