Tour The Heirs Drama Locations: Your Ultimate Guide to K-drama Hotspots in Korea

Annyeonghaseyo, my fellow K-drama lovers! Your resident K-drama addict and travel buddy is here from "KDrama Trip" to guide you on an unforgettable journey. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of one of the most beloved high school romances that ever graced our screens: The Heirs (왕관을 쓰려는 자, 그 무게를 견뎌라 – 상속자들)!

Remember Kim Tan, Cha Eun-sang, Choi Young-do, and the entire opulent, dramatic world of Jeguk High? This drama captured our hearts with its Cinderella-esque romance, intense love triangles, and stunning visuals of both sun-drenched California and vibrant Korea. Many of us dreamed of walking the same halls, strolling through the same parks, or even just grabbing a coffee where Eun-sang worked. Well, chingu-ya, your dream trip is about to become a reality! Get ready to follow in the footsteps of your favorite characters and relive those iconic moments right here in Korea. As a local, I’ll share how to get to these spots, what they’re like in real life, and what else you can explore nearby. Let’s make your K-drama trip truly spectacular!

Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort (평창 휘닉스파크)

What happened there: Ah, the place where fate truly began to intertwine for Kim Tan and Cha Eun-sang after her return to Korea. This breathtaking resort served as the backdrop for the dramatic camping trip, where Tan’s feelings for Eun-sang became undeniably clear, leading to some incredibly intense and heartwarming moments. It’s also where many of the initial power struggles and family dynamics among the heirs played out.

What it is in real life: Phoenix Pyeongchang is a massive, four-season resort complex nestled in the beautiful mountains of Pyeongchang, Gangwon-do. Famous for its ski slopes in winter (it was an official venue for the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics!), it’s also a fantastic destination in spring, summer, and fall, offering golf courses, hiking trails, a water park, and various leisure facilities. It’s a perfect getaway to experience Korea’s natural beauty and indulge in some relaxation.

How to get there:

Getting to Phoenix Pyeongchang requires a bit of a journey from Seoul, but it’s well worth it for the scenic views and resort experience.

• By Intercity Bus: Head to the Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) or Seoul Express Bus Terminal (서울고속버스터미널). Look for buses heading to Jangpyeong Bus Terminal (장평버스터미널). The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours.
• From Jangpyeong Bus Terminal: Once you arrive at Jangpyeong, you can take a local taxi directly to Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort (about a 15-20 minute ride). The resort may also offer shuttle buses from the terminal, so it’s good to check their official website for the most current schedule.
• Consider KTX: While not direct, you can take the KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station (서울역) or Cheongnyangni Station (청량리역) to Pyeongchang Station (평창역) or Jinbu Station (진부역), then take a taxi or local bus to the resort. This can be faster but might involve more transfers.

Yangjae Citizen’s Forest (양재시민의숲)

What happened there: This serene park was practically a second home for Kim Tan and Cha Eun-sang, serving as the backdrop for many of their most heartfelt and vulnerable conversations. It’s where they shared secrets, comforted each other, and navigated the complexities of their forbidden love. Picture them on a bench, deep in thought, or walking along the paths, finding solace in each other’s presence away from the prying eyes of Jeguk High.

What it is in real life: Yangjae Citizen’s Forest is a large, beautiful urban park in the southern part of Seoul. It’s a popular spot for locals to relax, go for a walk, have a picnic, or simply enjoy nature. With its vast open lawns, tree-lined paths, and a tranquil atmosphere, it’s a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park also houses various facilities, including a tennis court, a children’s playground, and a memorial hall.

How to get there:

This location is incredibly easy to access via Seoul’s subway system, making it perfect for a quick K-drama pilgrimage.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 3 (Orange Line) or the Shinbundang Line to Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station (양재시민의숲역). Use Exit 1, and you’ll find yourself right at the entrance of the park. It’s truly that convenient!

One Mount (원마운트)

What happened there: One Mount was a stylish hangout for the Jeguk High students, especially for lighter, more youthful scenes. Remember the adorable moments between Yoon Chan-young and Lee Bo-na at the ice-skating rink? Or the characters shopping and relaxing in a trendy environment? This multi-complex provided that modern, affluent setting, showcasing the characters’ leisure activities outside of school.

What it is in real life: Located in Ilsan, Gyeonggi-do, One Mount is a massive indoor entertainment complex. It features a large shopping mall, a water park, and a snow park (which includes the ice-skating rink seen in the drama!). It’s a fantastic destination for families and friends looking for a fun day out, regardless of the weather. You can shop, dine, swim, or even experience indoor snow sports all under one roof.

How to get there:

One Mount is easily reachable from Seoul by subway, making it a great addition to your itinerary.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 3 (Orange Line) to Juyeop Station (주엽역). Use Exit 2.
• From Juyeop Station: From there, you can either enjoy a pleasant 15-20 minute walk to One Mount (it’s quite straightforward) or take a short local bus ride (usually 2-3 stops) that will drop you closer to the complex. Consult Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most current bus routes.

Dongtan Global High School (동탄국제고등학교)

What happened there: This is it, K-drama fans – the iconic exterior of Jeguk High School! While many interior scenes were filmed on sets, the exterior shots that established the grandeur and prestige of the school were filmed right here. Imagine Kim Tan making his grand entrance, Cha Eun-sang nervously walking through the gates, or Choi Young-do menacingly leaning against a wall. This is where the world of the heirs truly came to life.

What it is in real life: Dongtan Global High School is a real, active international high school located in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi-do. It boasts modern and impressive architecture, fitting perfectly with the image of an elite educational institution. Because it’s a functioning school, visitors must be extra mindful and respectful.

How to get there:

As a school in Hwaseong, it’s a bit further from central Seoul but still accessible for a dedicated fan.

• By KTX/SRT Train: The fastest way to get to the Dongtan area is by taking a KTX or SRT high-speed train from Seoul Station (서울역) or Suseo Station (수서역) to Dongtan Station (동탄역). The train ride is very quick.
• By Express Bus (M-Bus): Alternatively, you can take an M-Bus (Metropolitan Bus) from major Seoul hubs like Gangnam Station (강남역) or Yangjae Station (양재역) directly to Dongtan. Look for routes like M4403, M4434, or M4130 heading towards Dongtan New City.
• From Dongtan Station/Bus Stops: Once you’re in Dongtan, you’ll need to take a local bus or a taxi to reach Dongtan Global High School. Always use a navigation app like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most accurate local bus routes and estimated travel times.
• Important Note for Visitors: Since this is an active high school, please be extremely respectful of the students and school environment. Plan your visit outside of school hours (weekends or holidays are best) and refrain from entering the school buildings or disrupting any activities. Photos should be taken discreetly from public areas outside the main school entrance.

Gwangmyeong Cave (광명동굴)

What happened there: This unique and atmospheric location served as a dramatic hiding spot for Kim Tan and Cha Eun-sang when they needed to escape the relentless press and Young-do’s scrutiny. The cave’s distinctive interior provided a sense of intimacy and isolation, making for a memorable and visually striking scene where they found a temporary refuge from their tumultuous world.

What it is in real life: Gwangmyeong Cave is an incredible transformation story! Once a defunct gold mine, it has been brilliantly repurposed into a fascinating theme park and cultural attraction. Inside, you’ll find dazzling light shows, an underground aquarium, a wine cellar, various art installations, and even a concert hall. It’s a truly unique experience, offering a blend of history, nature, and entertainment.

How to get there:

Gwangmyeong Cave is easily accessible from Seoul and offers a distinct experience.

• By Subway & Bus: Take Seoul Subway Line 1 to Gwangmyeong Station (광명역). From Gwangmyeong Station, exit and look for the bus stop. Take local bus No. 17 or No. 17-1 directly to Gwangmyeong Cave (광명동굴). The bus ride is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Make a Day of It

Exploring these The Heirs locations is just the beginning! Here’s how you can extend your K-drama pilgrimage into a full day of fun:

• Phoenix Pyeongchang Resort: If you visit in winter, hit the ski slopes! In warmer months, enjoy a round of golf, go hiking, or relax at the resort’s water park. Don’t miss trying local Pyeongchang specialties like Hanwoo (Korean beef) or Makguksu (buckwheat noodles).
• Yangjae Citizen’s Forest: After a relaxing stroll, venture into the upscale Gangnam district. Explore the trendy boutiques and cafes of Garosu-gil (via Sinsa Station), or indulge in some serious shopping at the Shinsegae Department Store Gangnam. The area around Gangnam and Sinsa is full of the kind of stylish cafes and restaurants the heirs would frequent.
• One Mount: Spend the rest of your day at the water park or snow park for some active fun! Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll around Ilsan Lake Park (일산 호수공원), one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia, known for its beautiful walking paths and seasonal flower festivals. You could also visit the nearby MBC Dream Center, a broadcasting station where many K-dramas are produced.
• Dongtan Global High School: While respecting the school, take some time to explore Dongtan New City. It’s a modern, well-planned city with beautiful parks, contemporary cafes, and shopping centers like the Dongtan Lotte Department Store. It offers a glimpse into a newer, rapidly developing part of Korea.
• Gwangmyeong Cave: Since you’re in Gwangmyeong, make it a shopping spree! The cave is conveniently located near major retail hubs like IKEA Gwangmyeong and Lotte Premium Outlet Gwangmyeong. You can easily spend an entire afternoon browsing for unique finds and enjoying a delicious meal.

Photo Tips

To truly capture your The Heirs experience, here are some tips for getting those perfect shots:

• Golden Hour Magic: For outdoor locations like Yangjae Citizen’s Forest, aim for sunrise or an hour before sunset (the "golden hour"). The soft, warm light creates a magical, romantic atmosphere perfect for K-drama-esque photos.
• Recreate the Moment: Think about specific scenes or character poses. At Yangjae Citizen’s Forest, find a quiet bench and pose thoughtfully, imagining a deep conversation between Tan and Eun-sang.
• Capture the Scale: For Dongtan Global High School, try to capture the imposing and modern architecture from a respectful distance to convey the grandeur of Jeguk High.
• Dramatic Lighting: Inside Gwangmyeong Cave, focus on capturing the vibrant light installations and unique rock formations. It can be a bit dark, so adjust your camera settings or use a phone with good low-light capabilities.
• Angle is Key: For One Mount’s ice rink, try to get an angle that shows the expanse of the rink, perhaps with you gracefully (or humorously!) skating.

FAQ

Is Kim Tan’s house a real place I can visit?

No, Kim Tan’s opulent mansion was a private luxury villa, not a public attraction. It’s crucial for fans to respect the privacy of residents and avoid seeking out private homes that were used for filming. The magic of the K-drama often involves creative sets and private properties that aren’t open to the public.

Were all the Jeguk High School scenes filmed at a real school?

While the iconic exterior shots of Jeguk High School were indeed filmed at Dongtan Global High School, many of the interior classroom and hallway scenes were actually shot on specially designed sets or in other unidentifiable locations. If you visit Dongtan Global High School, please remember it’s a functioning educational institution and be respectful of the students and staff.

What’s the best way to travel to these locations from Seoul for international visitors?

For locations within Seoul and nearby Gyeonggi-do (like Yangjae Citizen’s Forest or One Mount), the Seoul subway system is your best friend – it’s efficient, affordable, and well-connected. For destinations further out like Phoenix Pyeongchang or Dongtan Global High School, a combination of intercity buses, KTX/SRT high-speed trains, and local buses/taxis will be your most efficient options. Always use local navigation apps like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules, as public transport can sometimes change.

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