Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Filming Locations in Pohang

Annyeonghaseyo, Fellow K-Drama Lovers! Your Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Journey Starts Here!

As a lifelong K-drama fan and a proud Korean local, there’s nothing I love more than seeing our beautiful country shine through the magic of our shows. And when a drama captures hearts worldwide like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha did, it’s an extra special joy! This beloved series, with its heartwarming story of a city dentist, Yoon Hye-jin, and the charming village chief, Hong Du-sik, finding love and community in the fictional seaside town of Gongjin, gave us all a much-needed dose of comfort and smiles.

The stunning coastal scenery, the quaint village atmosphere, and the incredibly relatable characters made us fall head over heels for ‘Gongjin’. Good news for all of you planning a K-drama pilgrimage: the magic of Gongjin is very real, and it’s waiting for you in the charming city of Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do! Pohang is a picturesque port city on Korea’s east coast, known for its beautiful sunrises and delicious seafood, and it perfectly embodied the cozy, welcoming vibe of our beloved drama. Get ready to walk in the footsteps of Du-sik and Hye-jin, relive your favorite moments, and discover the real-life beauty that made Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha so special.

Before we dive into our adventure, a quick friendly reminder from your local guide: while these locations are enchanting, many are active places of business or private residences. Please be respectful of the locals, their privacy, and their property. Let’s explore with kindness and keep the spirit of Gongjin alive!

Cheongha Market (The Heart of Gongjin)

If you’ve ever dreamt of strolling through Gongjin, this is where you start! Cheongha Market served as the bustling heart of the fictional village, where Hye-jin’s dental clinic, Du-sik’s handyman shop, and all the lively interactions between the villagers took place. This is where Hye-jin first experienced the close-knit community of Gongjin, where she bought groceries, and where Du-sik seemingly appeared everywhere she went!

In real life, Cheongha Market (청하시장) is a wonderfully authentic traditional market in Pohang. While the drama sets have been removed, the essence of the market remains. You can still recognize the layout, the familiar storefronts, and the vibrant energy. Look for the actual shops that were used, like Cheongho Hardware (청호철물점), which appeared as Bora Supermarket in the drama. It’s a fantastic place to soak in local Korean life, grab some fresh produce, or even find a small souvenir.

How to get there

Cheongha Market is located in Cheongha-myeon, Buk-gu, Pohang. From Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal or KTX Pohang Station, you can take a local bus. Buses like Bus 510 or Bus 5000 (express bus) are good options, heading towards Cheongha. The journey will take approximately 40-60 minutes by bus, depending on traffic and transfers. Alternatively, taking a taxi is a quicker option, usually around 20-30 minutes, and quite convenient if you’re traveling with a group. I always recommend using a local navigation app like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes!

Sabang Memorial Park & The Iconic Boat on the Hill

Ah, the majestic boat on the hill! This instantly recognizable landmark became an enduring symbol of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, often appearing in stunning establishing shots and serving as a poignant backdrop for some of Du-sik and Hye-jin’s most reflective moments. It felt like a beacon of hope and dreams, perfectly encapsulating the drama’s beautiful themes.

The ‘boat on the hill’ isn’t just a drama prop; it’s a real art installation located within Sabang Memorial Park (사방기념공원). Perched on Mugeunbong Peak, this unique sculpture offers breathtaking panoramic views of the East Sea. The park itself is dedicated to commemorating the history of forestation and erosion control efforts in Korea. It’s a serene and beautiful spot, perfect for a leisurely walk and, of course, capturing that iconic photo!

How to get there

Sabang Memorial Park is a bit further out from Cheongha Market, but it’s definitely worth the trip. From Pohang city center, you can take a bus such as Bus 510 towards Cheongha-myeon, then transfer to a local village bus or take a taxi for the final leg to the park entrance. Alternatively, a direct taxi from Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal or KTX Pohang Station will be the most convenient, taking about 30-40 minutes. The park has good signage once you arrive, guiding you to the famous boat.

Hye-jin’s Dental Clinic (Sabang Memorial Park Building)

Remember Hye-jin’s sparkling new dental clinic, ‘Yoon Dental Clinic,’ where she aimed to bring her sophisticated city dentistry to the quiet village of Gongjin? While the interior was a set, the exterior of her clinic is a real building and conveniently located right next to the famous ‘boat on the hill’ within Sabang Memorial Park!

In real life, the building that served as Hye-jin’s dental clinic is part of the Sabang Memorial Park facilities, likely an information center or administrative office. It’s a great spot to pause, admire the architecture, and imagine Hye-jin stepping out, ready to face another day in Gongjin. The blue accents that adorned the clinic for the drama made it pop against the green hills and blue sea, and you can still appreciate its charming structure in person.

How to get there

Since this building is located within Sabang Memorial Park, the directions are identical to getting to ‘The Boat on the Hill.’ Once you’re in the park, simply follow the signs or ask a friendly local; it’s very close to the peak where the boat sculpture stands.

Daljeon Port Red Lighthouse

The iconic red lighthouse at Daljeon Port was another frequent backdrop for meaningful conversations and quiet moments between Du-sik and Hye-jin. It represented a constant, a guiding light in their ever-changing lives, and added so much character to the Gongjin coastline.

This picturesque spot is the real-life Daljeon Port Red Lighthouse (달전항 등대), a functioning lighthouse at a small, tranquil fishing port. It’s exactly as you remember it from the drama – bright red, standing tall against the blue sea. It’s an ideal location for a reflective walk, enjoying the sea breeze, and watching the fishing boats come and go. It’s also a perfect spot to capture some stunning photos with the lighthouse as your backdrop.

How to get there

Daljeon Port Red Lighthouse is situated along the coastal road, not too far from the Cheongha Market area. From Cheongha Market, you can take a local bus south along the coast (check local apps for specific routes, as they can change) or, for convenience, a short taxi ride will get you there in about 10-15 minutes. It’s a great addition to your itinerary after exploring the market.

Du-sik’s House & Hye-jin’s House

The homes of our beloved protagonists were central to their stories and budding romance. Du-sik’s cozy, slightly rustic house with its inviting porch, and Hye-jin’s modern, initially sterile, then slowly warmed-up abode, were where much of the drama’s intimacy unfolded. Their houses, located just a stone’s throw from each other, symbolized their proximity and eventual connection.

In reality, the houses used for Du-sik’s and Hye-jin’s residences are private homes located in the rural areas near Sabang Memorial Park. While fans might recognize the exteriors, it is crucial to remember that these are not public attractions. They are actual residences where people live.

How to get there

These homes are in the vicinity of Sabang Memorial Park. If you’re visiting the park, you might see them from a distance. However, I cannot provide exact addresses or detailed directions out of respect for the residents’ privacy. If you do happen to spot them from a public road, please admire them from a respectful distance. Do not approach the houses, trespass on private property, or disturb the residents in any way. We want to be the best kind of K-drama fans – appreciative and respectful of the local community that brought our favorite stories to life.

Make a Day of It: Beyond Gongjin – Explore Pohang!

After you’ve had your fill of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha magic, don’t rush off! Pohang itself is a vibrant and beautiful city with so much to offer. Extend your K-drama trip into a full day of exploring this charming coastal gem:

• Jukdo Market (죽도시장): This is one of Korea’s largest traditional markets and an absolute must-visit for seafood lovers! Imagine a bustling array of fresh catches, dried seafood, and plenty of local street food. It’s a feast for the senses and a fantastic place to experience authentic Korean market culture. Try some fresh raw fish (hoe) or grab a delicious local snack.
• Homigot Sunrise Square (호미곶 해맞이광장): Known as the easternmost point of the Korean peninsula, Homigot is famous for its spectacular sunrises and the iconic ‘Hands of Harmony’ sculpture rising from the sea. It’s a powerful and beautiful spot, offering incredible photo opportunities, especially around dawn.
• Yeonorang Seonyeo Theme Park (연오랑세오녀 테마공원): Located along the beautiful coastline, this theme park is inspired by a local legend and offers stunning ocean views, walking paths, and cultural exhibits. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll and to enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
• Pohang Canal (포항운하): Take a serene canal cruise through the city! This revitalized waterway offers a unique perspective of Pohang, connecting the downtown area to the sea. It’s a modern marvel that blends urban life with the city’s coastal charm.
• Local Delicacies: Don’t leave Pohang without trying some of its culinary specialties! Gwamegi (과메기), semi-dried herring or saury, is a local delicacy, especially in winter. Of course, fresh seafood from Jukdo Market is always a good idea, and try mulhoe (물회), a cold spicy raw fish soup, perfect for a refreshing meal.

Photo Tips for Your Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Journey

• The Boat on the Hill: The best angle to capture the boat is from the pathway leading up to it, giving you the vast expanse of the sea in the background. Aim for the ‘golden hour’ (early morning or late afternoon) for soft, warm lighting that truly makes the scene magical.
• Cheongha Market: Get some lively street shots! Look for the Cheongho Hardware sign, or capture the general hustle and bustle. Early morning when the market is setting up, or mid-morning, offers great light and atmosphere.
• Daljeon Port Red Lighthouse: Stand near the lighthouse for a close-up, or use the coastline to frame it against the sea. Overcast days can bring out the vibrant red, or a sunny late afternoon for beautiful reflections on the water.
• Private Residences (Du-sik’s & Hye-jin’s houses): If you spot them from a public vantage point, use a zoom lens to take photos from a very respectful distance. Remember, privacy first!

FAQ: Your Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Pohang Questions Answered!

Is Gongjin a real place you can visit?

No, the village of ‘Gongjin’ itself is a fictional setting created for Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. However, all the charming and picturesque locations that brought Gongjin to life are very real and can be visited in the city of Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea.

How much time should I allocate for visiting the Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha locations?

To comfortably visit the main Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha filming locations (Cheongha Market, Sabang Memorial Park, Daljeon Port Lighthouse) and have some time to soak in the atmosphere and take photos, I highly recommend dedicating at least a full day. If you want to explore more of Pohang’s attractions like Jukdo Market or Homigot, consider an overnight stay or a very early start!

Can I go inside Hye-jin’s Dental Clinic or Du-sik’s/Hye-jin’s houses?

The exterior of Hye-jin’s Dental Clinic is part of a real building within Sabang Memorial Park, but it is not an active dental practice and its interior was a drama set. Du-sik’s house and Hye-jin’s house are private residences. For the privacy and peace of mind of the residents, please do not attempt to enter these properties or disturb the people living there. You can admire them from a respectful distance if visible from public areas.

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