Itaewon Class: Seoul Filming Locations Tour

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama travelers! Your local K-drama fan here, bursting with excitement to guide you through the streets of Seoul that brought our beloved Itaewon Class to life. If you, like me, were captivated by Park Saeroyi’s unwavering spirit, Jo Yi-seo’s fierce intelligence, and the heartwarming journey of DanBam, then you’re in for a treat! Seoul isn’t just a backdrop for this iconic drama; it’s a character itself, especially the vibrant, diverse district of Itaewon. Get ready to walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters and soak in the atmosphere of ambition, friendship, and delicious food!

Itaewon Class isn’t just a story; it’s an inspiration, showing us that with grit and a clear vision, you can achieve anything. The filming locations scattered across Seoul perfectly encapsulate this message, from the glittering city views symbolizing grand dreams to the bustling alleys representing humble beginnings. This guide is your personal invitation to experience the heart of Saeroyi’s world, offering practical tips from a local’s perspective so you can plan the perfect Itaewon Class Seoul tour.

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower)

Remember those poignant, breathtaking scenes where Saeroyi and Jo Yi-seo shared their deepest thoughts and looked out over the glittering Seoul skyline? Those unforgettable moments of connection, aspiration, and burgeoning romance were often filmed atop the iconic N Seoul Tower. It’s where their dreams seemed within reach, reflecting their shared ambitions against the stunning city panorama.

In real life, N Seoul Tower, perched atop Namsan Mountain, is one of Seoul’s most recognizable landmarks. It offers spectacular 360-degree views of the metropolis, especially at sunset and night. Beyond the views, it’s famous for its ‘love locks,’ where couples affix padlocks to the fences, symbolizing their everlasting love. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the characters’ journey and perhaps even lock in your own travel memories!

How to get there

• Subway & Bus: Take Seoul Subway Line 4 to Myeongdong Station (Exit 3). Walk towards the Pacific Hotel, then turn right to find the Namsan Cable Car. Alternatively, from Chungmuro Station (Line 3 or 4, Exit 2), take Namsan Circulation Bus 02, 03, or 05 directly to the tower.
• Walking: For the adventurous, you can also hike up Namsan Mountain, which offers lovely trails and takes about 30-40 minutes from the base.

Noksapyeong Bridge and Underpass

The Noksapyeong Bridge and the underpass beneath it serve as a quiet, yet powerful, backdrop throughout Itaewon Class. It’s where Saeroyi often walked, his determined strides echoing his unwavering resolve. The view of Namsan Tower from this spot became almost synonymous with his dreams, constantly in his sight as he navigated the challenges of Itaewon.

In reality, Noksapyeong Bridge is more than just a bridge; it’s a vantage point offering one of the most iconic views of Namsan Tower, perfectly framed against the cityscape. The underpass itself is an intriguing architectural space, often featuring art installations, making it a unique spot for photos. It’s a bustling intersection that truly captures the dynamic energy of Itaewon.

How to get there

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 6 to Noksapyeong Station. The bridge is right above the station, and you can access the underpass directly from exits like Exit 2 or 3.

Bogwang-ro 60-gil (The Alley of DanBam’s First Location)

This narrow, atmospheric alley is where it all began for DanBam! The exterior of Saeroyi’s first modest pub, a symbol of his fierce independence and bold vision, was filmed right here. Many of Saeroyi and his crew’s early struggles and triumphs unfolded against the backdrop of this very street, making it a cornerstone of the drama’s narrative.

Today, Bogwang-ro 60-gil is a charming, somewhat tucked-away alley in the heart of Itaewon, not far from Noksapyeong. While the actual building used for DanBam’s exterior is now a different establishment (so please be respectful as it’s a private business and residential area!), the distinct atmosphere of the alley remains. You can still feel the spirit of DanBam and imagine Saeroyi opening his doors to the world. It’s a real, lived-in neighborhood, so remember to keep noise down and respect local residents.

How to get there

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 6 to Noksapyeong Station (Exit 2). From there, it’s a pleasant walk. Head straight from the exit, cross the intersection, and turn right onto Bogwang-ro. Look for Bogwang-ro 60-gil on your left – it’s a distinctive uphill alley. Alternatively, it’s very close to Oriole Cafe, so you can navigate to Oriole and explore the surrounding alleys.

Oriole Cafe

While Oriole Cafe wasn’t the main set for the interior of DanBam, its multi-level structure and particularly its charming rooftop terrace perfectly capture the ambitious, community-focused vibe that Saeroyi envisioned for his pub. Many fans visit Oriole Cafe precisely because it embodies the spirit and aesthetic of what DanBam aspired to be, making it a beloved stop on any Itaewon Class tour.

Oriole is a popular cafe and bar known for its cozy ambiance and fantastic views from its rooftop, especially during sunset. Nestled in the same vibrant neighborhood as the DanBam alley, it offers a real-life taste of the kind of place Saeroyi worked so hard to build. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy a drink or coffee, and soak in the Itaewon atmosphere.

How to get there

• Subway: Similar to the DanBam alley, take Seoul Subway Line 6 to Noksapyeong Station (Exit 2). Follow directions towards Bogwang-ro 60-gil. Oriole Cafe is located prominently within this cluster of alleys. It’s often easier to navigate directly to ‘Oriole Cafe’ on KakaoMap or Naver Map, and from there, you can explore the surrounding areas that housed the DanBam exterior.

Make a Day of It: Exploring Itaewon Beyond the Drama

Itaewon isn’t just about Itaewon Class; it’s a truly unique district in Seoul, known for its incredible diversity and international flair. After you’ve relived Saeroyi’s journey, take some time to explore the rest of what Itaewon has to offer:

• Gyeongnidan-gil: Just a short walk from Noksapyeong, this charming street is packed with trendy cafes, unique boutiques, and international restaurants. It’s perfect for cafe hopping and finding some delicious global cuisine.
• World Food Street: Itaewon is a culinary paradise! You can find almost any cuisine imaginable here, from Turkish to Mexican, Indian, and American. It’s a fantastic place to grab a meal that caters to any craving.
• Unique Shopping: Explore the main street and the smaller alleys for one-of-a-kind fashion, vintage finds, and quirky souvenirs. Itaewon is known for its bespoke shops and custom-made items.
• War Memorial of Korea: For those interested in history, this comprehensive museum is just a short walk or subway ride away from Itaewon, offering insights into Korea’s past.
• Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art: A world-class museum showcasing both traditional Korean art and modern international art, located close to Itaewon.

Whether you’re looking for global flavors, a unique shopping experience, or just to soak in the bustling, cosmopolitan atmosphere, Itaewon offers a vibrant contrast to other parts of Seoul.

Photo Tips

• N Seoul Tower: For that iconic Saeroyi/Yi-seo moment, head to the observation deck or the ‘love locks’ area. Evening is best for capturing the sparkling city lights.
• Noksapyeong Bridge: Frame Namsan Tower in the background while standing on the bridge or within the underpass. Golden hour (just before sunset) casts a beautiful light. Try a wide-angle shot from inside the underpass looking out towards the station or the bridge.
• Bogwang-ro 60-gil (DanBam Alley): Recreate Saeroyi’s determined walk up or down the alley. Capture the narrowness and unique character of the street. Early morning offers fewer crowds and softer light. Remember to be respectful as it’s a residential area.
• Oriole Cafe: Head straight for the rooftop for panoramic views and cozy vibes. Capture the distinctive red brick exterior and the charming details that echo DanBam’s warmth.

FAQ: Your Top Itaewon Class Tour Questions Answered!

Is the actual DanBam restaurant from Itaewon Class still open for visitors?

Unfortunately, the interior sets of DanBam were purpose-built for the drama and no longer exist. The building used for the exterior of the first DanBam in Bogwang-ro 60-gil is now a different establishment. While you can visit the alley and see the outside of the building, you won’t find ‘DanBam’ open for business. But don’t worry, the spirit of DanBam lives on!

How much time should I allocate for an Itaewon Class filming locations tour?

To fully enjoy the experience and explore the surrounding Itaewon area, I’d recommend allocating a half-day to a full day. Noksapyeong, the DanBam alley, and Oriole Cafe are all relatively close to each other, allowing for easy walking. However, factoring in travel to and from N Seoul Tower (which is a bit further out but absolutely worth it!) and enjoying a meal or shopping in Itaewon, a full day will give you a relaxed pace.

Is Itaewon tourist-friendly for non-Korean speakers?

Absolutely! Itaewon is renowned for being Seoul’s most international district. You’ll find a high concentration of English speakers, diverse signage in multiple languages, and a very welcoming atmosphere for international visitors. Most establishments will have English menus or staff who can assist you, making it one of the easiest places in Seoul to navigate for non-Korean speakers.

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