Your Business Proposal Filming Locations Guide: Step into Ha-ri & Tae-mu’s World!

Annyeonghaseyo, K-Drama lovers! Your local guide and fellow fan here, ready to whisk you away on a magical tour inspired by one of the most heartwarming and hilarious rom-coms to grace our screens: Business Proposal (사내 맞선)! If you, like me, fell head over heels for the quirky charm of Shin Ha-ri, the handsome and surprisingly endearing CEO Kang Tae-mu, and the adorable secondary couple, then you’re probably dreaming of walking in their footsteps.

Business Proposal stole our hearts with its classic contract relationship trope, hilarious misunderstandings, and swoon-worthy romance. But beyond the incredible chemistry and laugh-out-loud moments, the drama also showcased some truly picturesque and iconic locations across Seoul and its surrounds. These spots aren’t just backdrops; they’re where our favorite characters shared their first awkward encounters, their blossoming feelings, and their unforgettable dates. From the towering corporate headquarters to their most romantic rendezvous spots, get ready to add these must-visit business proposal filming locations to your K-Drama itinerary and truly step into their world!

The Iconic GOFOOD Headquarters: KEPCO Art Center (한국전력공사 아트센터)

Remember that sleek, modern building that housed GOFOOD, the company where Ha-ri worked and Tae-mu ruled? This striking architectural marvel served as the exterior of the corporate empire in Business Proposal, a silent witness to countless dramatic entrances and exits, secret meetings, and accidental encounters between our leads. It’s where Ha-ri tried to avoid Tae-mu at all costs and where he, unknowingly at first, started to fall for her. Just imagining Ha-ri rushing in late, or Tae-mu’s imposing figure striding through the doors, makes my heart flutter a little!

In real life, this impressive structure is the KEPCO Art Center, a cultural complex owned by the Korea Electric Power Corporation. It’s not actually a food company, but rather a hub for arts and performances, featuring a grand theater and exhibition spaces. The building’s design, with its elegant curves and reflective surfaces, makes it instantly recognizable to any fan of the show. It’s a fantastic spot to kick off your Business Proposal journey and feel like you’re part of the GOFOOD world!

How to get there

The KEPCO Art Center is conveniently located in the Seocho-gu district of Seoul, making it an easy addition to a day exploring the Gangnam area.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 3 or Shinbundang Line to Yangjae Station (양재역). From Exit 10, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk straight down Hyoryeong-ro, or you can catch a short bus ride from the station. Look for local bus numbers that stop near “KEPCO Art Center” (한국전력공사 아트센터) on your navigation app.

Remember to always double-check transit routes and schedules using reliable apps like KakaoMap or Naver Map for the most up-to-date information when you’re navigating Korea. These apps are your best friends!

Their Memorable First Date Spot: Lotte World Aquarium (롯데월드 아쿠아리움)

Who could forget Tae-mu and Ha-ri’s utterly disastrous (and utterly hilarious) “first date” at the aquarium, where he tried every trick in the book to make her dislike him, only to be foiled by Ha-ri’s quick thinking and endearing antics? This vibrant underwater world provided the perfect backdrop for their chaotic yet charming interactions, full of sparkling marine life and awkward romantic tension. Revisit the exact spot where they argued over what a jellyfish truly is!

The Lotte World Aquarium is one of Korea’s premier aquariums, nestled within the massive Lotte World Mall in Jamsil. It boasts a wide array of marine species, from playful beluga whales to mesmerizing jellyfish and impressive sharks, all housed in beautifully designed exhibits. It’s a fantastic place for families, couples, or anyone looking to marvel at the wonders of the ocean, and for us fans, it’s a chance to relive that hilarious ‘first date’ and perhaps even reenact a scene (minus the awful acting, of course!).

How to get there

Lotte World Aquarium is easily accessible in the bustling Jamsil area of Seoul, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled day.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 2 or Line 8 to Jamsil Station (잠실역). Follow the numerous signs directly connecting you to Lotte World Mall. The aquarium is conveniently located in the basement levels of the mall, so you won’t even need to step outside.

The connections are very well marked and designed for easy navigation, so you’ll have no trouble finding your way to this underwater wonderland!

Cozy & Romantic Meals: Ondohae (온도해)

Many of Tae-mu and Ha-ri’s “fake” dates, which eventually turned very real and heartwarming, took place in a chic and cozy restaurant with a distinct Japanese-inspired ambiance. This was Ondohae, a spot that practically became a character itself, witnessing their deepening relationship over delicious food and intimate conversations. Remember their earnest talks, the subtle glances, and the undeniable chemistry that truly started to spark here? It’s a place steeped in their romantic journey!

Ondohae is a real-life Japanese-style restaurant known for its exquisite dishes and charming, minimalist interior. Located in the trendy Sinsa-dong area, it’s a popular spot for locals seeking a relaxed yet stylish dining experience. Imagine sitting at the same counter or table, feeling the romantic vibe that once enveloped our favorite couple, perhaps even ordering something similar to what they enjoyed. It’s truly a chance to step into their world and savor the moment!

How to get there

Ondohae is situated in the fashionable Sinsa-dong neighborhood, renowned for its trendy streets and proximity to Garosu-gil.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 3 to Sinsa Station (신사역). From Exit 8, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk towards Garosu-gil and into the smaller side streets. Alternatively, from Apgujeong Station (압구정역) on Line 3, it’s a similar walk. Using a navigation app like KakaoMap or Naver Map is highly recommended to pinpoint the exact location amidst the bustling and charming streets.

Make sure to check their current operating hours and consider making reservations before your visit, especially if you’re aiming for a specific table or visiting during peak meal times. Popular spots like Ondohae can get quite busy!

Strolls by the River: Yeouido Hangang Park (여의도 한강공원)

No K-Drama tour is complete without a visit to the iconic Han River, and Business Proposal certainly took advantage of its picturesque charm. Yeouido Hangang Park featured in several memorable outdoor scenes, including romantic walks, contemplative moments, and just generally showcasing the beautiful Seoul cityscape as a backdrop to our characters’ lives. It’s a classic setting for a reason – offering both vibrancy and serene beauty, perfect for a developing romance.

Yeouido Hangang Park is one of the largest and most popular of the Han River parks, offering stunning views of the Seoul skyline, wide-open green spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals for cycling, picnicking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. In spring, it transforms into a spectacular cherry blossom haven, and in autumn, the foliage is equally breathtaking. For fans, it’s a perfect spot to reflect on the quiet, heartfelt moments shared by Ha-ri and Tae-mu as their relationship deepened, and perhaps imagine your own K-Drama moment by the river.

How to get there

Yeouido Hangang Park is exceptionally accessible and a central leisure spot in Seoul, making it a must-visit for any itinerary.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 5 to Yeouinaru Station (여의나루역). Exit 2 or 3 will lead you directly into the heart of the park. You’ll literally step out of the station and into the park’s vibrant energy!

It’s incredibly convenient to reach, making it an easy and rewarding addition to your K-Drama-inspired exploration.

The Cherry Blossom Path: Seoul Grand Park’s Gaehwagil (서울대공원 개화길)

For one of the drama’s most visually stunning and romantic outdoor dates, Tae-mu and Ha-ri were seen strolling along a beautiful, tree-lined path, surrounded by what looked like a fairytale of cherry blossoms. This enchanting setting captured the essence of their budding romance perfectly, a truly picture-perfect moment that epitomized the joy and freshness of new love. It’s where their hearts truly started to beat as one!

This magical path is part of Seoul Grand Park in Gwacheon, specifically a road known as Gaehwagil (개화길), meaning “Blooming Flower Road.” While it’s particularly famous for its spectacular cherry blossoms in early spring (usually early April), the path offers beautiful scenery year-round with lush greenery in summer and vibrant foliage in autumn. It’s a truly serene and picturesque spot, perfect for a romantic walk or peaceful contemplation, just like our beloved drama characters, and definitely a must-visit for that picture-perfect K-Drama aesthetic.

How to get there

Seoul Grand Park is just south of Seoul, easily reachable by subway and offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• By Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 4 to Seoul Grand Park Station (서울대공원역). From Exit 2, you can walk towards the main entrance of the park. Gaehwagil is one of the main pathways within the park, so once you’re inside, follow signs towards the main areas, and you’ll find this beautiful road. It’s a pleasant walk from the station, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings before reaching the specific spot.

The park itself is quite expansive, so be prepared for some delightful walking and enjoy the fresh air and stunning natural beauty!

Make a Day of It! Exploring Nearby Treasures

Visiting K-drama filming locations isn’t just about seeing where the magic happened; it’s also a fantastic excuse to explore some of Seoul’s most exciting neighborhoods and discover hidden gems! Here’s how you can extend your K-Drama pilgrimage into a full day of fun, food, and unforgettable sightseeing.

• Near KEPCO Art Center (Seocho/Gangnam Area): This area is Seoul’s vibrant heart of fashion, entertainment, and business.
  • Garosu-gil (가로수길): Just a short bus or subway ride away, this tree-lined street in Sinsa-dong is famous for its trendy boutiques, unique cafes, and stylish restaurants. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon of shopping, enjoying a cup of coffee, and people-watching – perhaps you’ll even spot a celebrity!
  • Apgujeong Rodeo Street (압구정 로데오거리): Known for its luxury fashion brands, high-end beauty clinics, and upscale dining, Apgujeong is great for a glamorous stroll and experiencing the “Gangnam Style” lifestyle.
  • COEX Mall (코엑스몰): A massive underground shopping mall featuring the famous Starfield Library, an architectural marvel worth seeing and a perfect spot for some Instagram-worthy photos amidst towering bookshelves.
• Near Lotte World Aquarium (Jamsil Area): Jamsil is a district bursting with entertainment and attractions for all ages.
  • Lotte World Tower & Sky Observatory: Ascend to the top of Korea’s tallest building for breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul, especially stunning at sunset or night.
  • Seokchon Lake (석촌호수): A beautiful lake perfect for a leisurely walk or jog, especially enchanting at night when Lotte World Castle and the Tower are lit up, creating a fairytale atmosphere.
  • Lotte World Theme Park (롯데월드): If you’re feeling adventurous and want to unleash your inner child, spend a day at one of Korea’s most beloved amusement parks, featuring both indoor and outdoor attractions.
• Near Ondohae (Sinsa-dong/Apgujeong Area): This neighborhood is a haven for foodies and fashionistas.
  • Garosu-gil: As mentioned, it’s practically around the corner! Spend more time here exploring its charming alleyways, discovering independent designers, and enjoying a delightful meal at one of its many unique eateries.
  • Dosan Park (도산공원): A serene and beautifully landscaped park dedicated to independence activist Ahn Changho, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Many high-end cafes and restaurants also surround the park, perfect for a refined afternoon.
• Near Yeouido Hangang Park (Yeouido Area): Yeouido is Seoul’s financial hub but also boasts fantastic recreational spaces.
  • The Hyundai Seoul (더현대 서울): A stunning, modern department store known for its innovative, open-plan design, indoor waterfalls, and a fantastic array of trendy shops, gourmet food courts, and art installations. It’s a destination in itself, even if you’re not shopping!
  • IFC Mall (IFC 몰): Another large and stylish shopping complex offering international brands, diverse restaurants, and a state-of-the-art cinema.
  • 63 Building (63빌딩): An iconic skyscraper with an observatory that offers fantastic views, an aquarium (separate from Lotte World’s), and an art gallery, making it a great alternative or addition to your itinerary.
• Near Seoul Grand Park (Gwacheon Area): An ideal destination for nature lovers and families seeking a break from urban life.
  • Seoul Zoo (서울대공원 동물원) & Botanical Garden (서울대공원 식물원): The park itself houses a huge zoo with diverse wildlife from around the world and a stunning botanical garden, perfect for nature lovers and a fun outing.
  • National Science Museum (국립과천과학관): An engaging and interactive educational museum, great for families or anyone interested in science, technology, and Korean innovation. It’s a wonderful way to combine K-Drama tourism with learning!

Photo Tips for Your Business Proposal Pilgrimage

You’re here to capture the magic, right? Here are some tips to get those perfect K-Drama-inspired shots that will make your friends jealous!

• KEPCO Art Center: Stand directly in front of the main entrance and try a wide shot to capture the building’s full, impressive facade. Imagine you’re either Ha-ri making a grand entrance or Tae-mu confidently striding in! Best time? Mid-morning for clear, even light on the building, or at dusk when the building lights up for a dramatic, cinematic effect.
• Lotte World Aquarium: The main ocean tank, particularly the area with the massive viewing window, is your target! Try to get a shot that evokes the vastness of the underwater world and the romantic (or hilarious!) moments shared by our couple. Weekday mornings right after opening are best to avoid crowds, allowing for clearer, more personal shots without too many people in the frame.
• Ondohae: If you’re lucky enough to visit during off-peak hours and it’s permitted by the staff, discreetly try to capture the restaurant’s unique interior design, perhaps focusing on the counter seating or a cozy corner that featured prominently in the drama. Always be respectful of other diners and the staff – a quick “May I take a photo?” (사진 찍어도 될까요?) goes a long way! Late afternoon can offer lovely natural light, creating a warm ambiance.
• Yeouido Hangang Park: Aim for shots with the Han River and the distant city skyline (like the iconic 63 Building) as your backdrop. If you visit in spring, make sure to capture the stunning cherry blossoms along the riverbanks! Sunset here is absolutely magical, painting the sky in vibrant colors over the river and offering truly breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Seoul Grand Park’s Gaehwagil: The iconic tree-lined path is your canvas. If you’re there in spring (early April is usually prime time!), focus on the delicate cherry blossoms creating a pink tunnel. Otherwise, the lush green canopy in summer or the vibrant autumn leaves make for equally stunning photos. Early morning or late afternoon golden hour will give you the softest, most ethereal light, perfect for that dreamy K-Drama aesthetic.

FAQ: Your Business Proposal Filming Location Questions Answered!

As a fellow K-Drama enthusiast, I know you have questions! Here are some common ones about visiting the Business Proposal filming locations:

Can I visit the actual GOFOOD office where they filmed the interiors?

While the KEPCO Art Center magnificently served as the exterior of GOFOOD, giving us all those grand corporate vibes, the interior office scenes were primarily filmed at other locations, including the Hana Bank Cheongna Branch in Incheon and various studio sets. These interior filming locations are not publicly accessible for tourists. Please be mindful and respectful that the KEPCO Art Center is an active cultural institution and not the actual corporate office of the fictional GOFOOD, so you can enjoy the exterior but not expect to walk through Tae-mu’s office!

Are the restaurants and cafes featured in Business Proposal real and open to the public?

Absolutely, yes! Many of the charming dining locations, like the romantic Ondohae, are real restaurants and cafes that you can visit and enjoy. It’s always a fantastic idea to check their current operating hours, make reservations if possible (especially for popular spots or during peak meal times), and be aware that menus and decor might change over time. Experiencing the actual atmosphere of these places, perhaps even ordering the dishes you saw on screen, adds a truly special and delicious touch to your K-Drama trip!

What’s the best time of year to visit the Business Proposal filming locations?

For outdoor locations like the beautiful Yeouido Hangang Park and Seoul Grand Park’s Gaehwagil, spring (especially early to mid-April for those breathtaking cherry blossoms) or early autumn (September to October for pleasant weather and stunning fall foliage) are absolutely ideal. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and incredible natural beauty, perfect for strolling and photography. For indoor locations like Lotte World Aquarium or Ondohae, any time of year is perfectly fine, but visiting on weekdays and earlier in the day can help you avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.