Explore Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha Filming Spots in Pohang

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama lovers! Your friendly neighborhood Korean fan here, incredibly excited to share a piece of my heart – and a corner of Korea – with you. If you’re anything like me, you probably spent your evenings swooning over the picturesque seaside village of Gongjin in the hit drama “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.” That cozy, healing vibe, the stunning coastal scenery, and the heartwarming community spirit captured so many of us, making us wish we could pack our bags and move right in.

Well, good news! While Gongjin might be a fictional slice of paradise, the real-life locations that brought it to life are very much real and waiting for you in Pohang, Gyeongsangbuk-do. As a lifelong K-drama enthusiast and a local, I’ve had the joy of visiting these spots, and let me tell you, walking through them feels like stepping right into the drama. So, grab your imaginary surfboard (or just your comfy walking shoes!), and let’s dive into a “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” Pohang guide that will make your K-drama trip unforgettable!

Cheongha Market (청하시장): The Bustling Heart of Gongjin

Remember all those lively community gatherings, the everyday chatter, and the charming shops of Gongjin Market? That’s none other than Pohang’s Cheongha Market in real life! This is where most of the town’s action takes place – Hye-jin sets up her dental clinic, Du-sik runs his handyman business from his modest spot, and the whole village congregates for gossip and delicious food. It truly embodies the spirit of a close-knit community.

In reality, Cheongha Market is a vibrant, traditional market where locals shop for fresh produce, seafood, and everyday necessities. You can still feel that bustling energy and see the familiar signboards that were part of the drama set, making it instantly recognizable to any fan. It’s a fantastic place to soak in authentic local life.

How to get there

• From Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal or KTX Pohang Station: Your best bet is to take a local bus. Look for buses heading towards Cheongha-myeon (청하면). Bus numbers like 510 or 500 (check local routes upon arrival as numbers can change) frequently pass through this area. The journey can take anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Get off at the “Cheongha Market” (청하시장) stop.
• By Taxi: A taxi will be faster, taking about 25-35 minutes from the city center or KTX station, but will be more expensive.

Sabang Memorial Park (사방기념공원): The Iconic Boat on the Hill

Who could forget that majestic boat perched atop a hill overlooking the endless blue sea? This iconic spot is where Du-sik often sought solace, where Hye-jin first encountered him, and where many poignant conversations took place. It’s a symbol of hope, dreams, and the vastness of life.

This picturesque location is actually part of Sabang Memorial Park, dedicated to showcasing Korea’s history of erosion control and forestation. The boat itself was placed there as a permanent art installation long before the drama, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a must-visit for its sheer beauty and dramatic connection to the show.

How to get there

• From Cheongha Market area: Sabang Memorial Park is a bit further north from Cheongha Market. You might be able to find a local bus heading further north, but services might be less frequent.
• By Taxi: The most convenient way from Cheongha Market or Pohang city center would be to take a taxi directly to Sabang Memorial Park (사방기념공원). It’s approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Cheongha Market.
• Consider a Local Tour/Car Rental: If you plan to visit multiple locations scattered along the coast, renting a car or joining a local tour might be the most efficient option.

Cafe Comma (카페 콤마): Our Beloved Gongjin Cafe

Every K-drama town needs a gathering spot for coffee, snacks, and a good chat, and for Gongjin, that was Chun-jae’s cafe, often seen next to Bora Supermarket. In “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” this was the cozy heart of the community, where friendships blossomed, and secrets were sometimes spilled.

In real life, this charming building functions as Cafe Comma (카페 콤마). While it no longer operates as a “Bora Supermarket” exterior, it maintains the beloved cafe interior that fans recognize. It’s a wonderful spot to grab a coffee, relax, and reminisce about your favorite scenes. The exterior still holds the essence of Gongjin’s local shops.

How to get there

• Near Cheongha Market: Cafe Comma is located within the broader Cheongha-myeon area, relatively close to Cheongha Market itself.
• By Walking/Local Bus: From Cheongha Market, you can either enjoy a pleasant walk (approximately 15-20 minutes depending on the exact spot within the market) or take a very short local bus ride if available. It’s often considered part of the walking tour if you’re exploring the Cheongha market vicinity.
• By Taxi: If you’re coming from further afield, simply tell your taxi driver “Cafe Comma, Cheongha-myeon” (청하면 카페 콤마).

Jeongjin Port (정진항): Du-sik’s Lighthouse and Fishing Village Charm

The picturesque Jeongjin Port served as a backdrop for countless memorable moments, especially those involving Chief Hong Du-sik and his fishing adventures. From the iconic red lighthouse to the serene harbor where fishing boats gently bob, this port perfectly captured the rustic charm of Gongjin’s seaside life.

Jeongjin Port is an authentic, active fishing village in Pohang. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the busier ports, retaining its quaint, untouched beauty. You can still see local fishermen going about their day, and the red lighthouse stands tall, just as it did in the drama. It’s a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll and to feel the refreshing sea breeze.

How to get there

• From Cheongha Market area: Jeongjin Port is a short distance from Cheongha Market, further along the coast. It’s a bit too far to walk comfortably.
• By Local Bus: Look for buses heading towards Jeongjin Port (정진항). Some local buses that serve the Cheongha area might extend to Jeongjin. Ask locals or check bus route apps for the most up-to-date information.
• By Taxi: This is the most straightforward option from Cheongha Market or Sabang Memorial Park, taking about 10-15 minutes.

Make a Day of It: Explore More of Pohang!

Pohang is a city rich in coastal beauty and delicious food, making it perfect for extending your “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” pilgrimage. After you’ve explored Gongjin’s heart, here’s how you can make your day even more special:

• Savor Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal city, Pohang is renowned for its incredible seafood. Head to Jukdo Market (죽도시장), one of Korea’s largest traditional markets, for an unparalleled seafood feast. You can pick your fresh catch and have it prepared on the spot! It’s a bit further into Pohang city, but worth the trip.
• Relax at Wolpo Beach: Just a short distance from Cheongha, Wolpo Beach (월포해수욕장) is another beautiful stretch of sand that occasionally featured in the drama, especially for surfing scenes. It’s a great spot for a relaxed walk or to simply enjoy the ocean air.
• Visit Homigot Sunrise Square: If you’re willing to venture further, Homigot (호미곶) is Korea’s easternmost point and famous for its stunning sunrises, particularly the “Hands of Harmony” sculpture emerging from the sea. It’s a bit of a drive, but truly breathtaking.

Photo Tips for Your Gongjin Memories

To capture those perfect K-drama-esque shots, here are a few insider tips:

• Cheongha Market: Aim for mid-morning when the market is lively but not overwhelmingly crowded. Capture the vibrant market signs and the general hustle and bustle. Try a wide-angle shot to encompass the street, or close-ups of specific shops.
• The Boat on the Hill (Sabang Memorial Park): This spot shines during golden hour – either sunrise or sunset. The soft, warm light creates a magical glow around the boat and illuminates the ocean beautifully. Position yourself to include both the boat and the expansive sea view. Don’t forget a shot from inside the boat looking out!
• Cafe Comma: For the exterior, daytime provides the best natural light. Frame the entire building to capture its charm. Inside, focus on the details that remind you of the drama – maybe a specific counter or seating area.
• Jeongjin Port: Early morning offers a tranquil atmosphere and beautiful light on the red lighthouse and fishing boats. Try capturing the lighthouse with the serene village in the background, or get close-ups of the colorful boats.

FAQ: Your ‘Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’ Pohang Trip Questions Answered

Q1: Is Gongjin a real place?

A1: While the heartwarming village of Gongjin stole our hearts, it is a fictional creation for “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha.” However, the drama was primarily filmed in and around Pohang, specifically utilizing the beautiful coastal areas and charming neighborhoods of Cheongha-myeon (청하면) and Guryongpo-eup (구룡포읍) to bring Gongjin to life. So, while you can’t find “Gongjin” on a map, you can definitely visit its real-world counterparts!

Q2: How much time should I allocate to visit the ‘Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’ locations?

A2: To comfortably explore the main filming locations in Pohang, I recommend dedicating at least one full day. This allows you enough time to travel between Cheongha Market, Sabang Memorial Park, Cafe Comma, and Jeongjin Port, and enjoy them without rushing. If you wish to visit other Pohang attractions like Jukdo Market or Homigot, consider extending your trip to two days for a more relaxed pace.

Q3: What is the best time of year to visit Pohang for these locations?

A3: The ideal times to visit Pohang for the “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” locations are spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasantly mild, making it comfortable for walking and exploring. You’ll also encounter fewer crowds compared to the peak summer vacation season, allowing for a more serene experience. Winter can be beautiful but quite chilly and windy along the coast.

I hope this guide helps you plan your dream “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha” trip to Pohang! Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and most importantly, soak in the healing energy of this beautiful coastal region. Don’t forget to check local bus schedules and opening hours before your visit, as things can change. Enjoy your journey to Gongjin!

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