Queen of Tears Filming Locations: Your Ultimate K-Drama Trip Guide to Korea!

Annyeong, K-Drama Lovers! Let’s Walk in the Footsteps of Hae-in and Hyun-woo!

It’s me, your local Korean K-drama enthusiast, back with another exciting travel guide! If you, like millions around the world, were absolutely captivated by the gripping story and stunning visuals of Queen of Tears, then you’re in for a treat. This drama wasn’t just a rollercoaster of emotions; it also showcased some truly beautiful and iconic spots across South Korea. From the bustling cityscapes of Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island, the filming locations brought an extra layer of magic to Baek Hyun-woo and Hong Hae-in’s unforgettable journey.

As a lifelong K-drama fan, I know there’s nothing quite like standing in the very spot where your favorite scenes unfolded. It’s like stepping into the drama itself! For Queen of Tears, the locations are particularly special because they reflect the characters’ high-stakes corporate world, their personal struggles, and their tender, blossoming romance. While I’ll give you a peek into what happened at these spots, I promise to keep any major plot twists under wraps – your viewing experience is safe with me! So, grab your imaginary dramatic soundtrack, and let’s explore some of the most memorable Queen of Tears filming locations!

Pocheon Art Valley: The “Miracle of the Cherry Blossoms” Spot

Remember that incredibly poignant scene where Hyun-woo finally finds Hae-in, surrounded by the magical beauty of blooming cherry blossoms, ready to confess his feelings? This breathtaking moment, a true fan favorite, was filmed at the stunning Pocheon Art Valley. It’s a place that perfectly captures the blend of natural beauty and artistic charm.

In real life, Pocheon Art Valley is a unique cultural and artistic complex built on an abandoned quarry. It has been transformed into a vibrant space featuring a magnificent granite quarry lake, a sculpture park, an open-air performance hall, and exhibition spaces. The clear turquoise water of Cheonjuho Lake, surrounded by towering rock cliffs, is particularly striking and makes for an unforgettable backdrop. It truly feels like a place where miracles could happen, just like in the drama!

How to get there

• Subway & Bus: Take the subway to Gangbyeon Station (Seoul Subway Line 2). From there, head to Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) and take a direct intercity bus to Pocheon (포천). Once in Pocheon, you might need a local bus or taxi to reach Pocheon Art Valley, as it’s a bit further out. Look for buses heading towards ‘Pocheon Art Valley’ (포천아트밸리). The journey from Seoul typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and connections.
• Recommendation: Consider joining a day tour if you prefer not to navigate public transport for this location, as it’s a bit off the beaten path but absolutely worth it!

The Hyundai Seoul (Yeouido): Hae-in’s Business Empire

The sleek, modern, and utterly grand department store where Hong Hae-in wields her incredible power as the ‘Queen’ of retail? That’s none other than The Hyundai Seoul in Yeouido! You’ll recognize its distinctive architecture and luxurious interior as the backdrop for many high-stakes corporate meetings, fashion events, and dramatic encounters that define Hae-in’s professional world.

The Hyundai Seoul is one of Korea’s newest and largest department stores, known for its innovative design, vast open spaces, and an impressive indoor garden called ‘Sounds Forest.’ It’s not just a place for shopping; it’s an experience. The store itself is a marvel of modern architecture, featuring natural light, abundant greenery, and a curated selection of luxury brands and trendy lifestyle shops. Even if you’re not planning a shopping spree, it’s a fantastic place to simply explore, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere of a top-tier Korean department store.

How to get there

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 5 or 9 to Yeouido Station (여의도역) and use Exit 3. From there, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk. Alternatively, take Line 5 or 9 to Yeouinaru Station (여의나루역) and use Exit 1, also about a 10-15 minute walk.
• Bus: Numerous bus lines serve The Hyundai Seoul directly. Look for buses stopping at ‘The Hyundai Seoul’ (더현대 서울) or ‘Yeouido Park’ (여의도 공원).
• Tip: The underground connection from Yeouido Station to Parc.1 (the complex where The Hyundai Seoul is located) is quite convenient, especially in bad weather.

Seoul Grand Park Zoo: An Unforgettable Date

Who could forget the heartwarming and utterly adorable scene where Hyun-woo and Hae-in share a surprisingly tender moment, surrounded by animals, particularly the memorable giraffe? This delightful date spot, which gave us a glimpse into their softer, more relaxed side, was filmed at the Seoul Grand Park Zoo.

The Seoul Grand Park Zoo is one of the largest zoos in South Korea, home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. It’s part of the much larger Seoul Grand Park complex, which also includes a botanical garden, a theme park (Seoul Land), and a contemporary art museum. The zoo is designed with spacious enclosures and offers various attractions like a sky lift that provides panoramic views of the park. It’s a wonderful place for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun day out in nature, away from the city bustle, just like our beloved drama couple.

How to get there

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 4 to Seoul Grand Park Station (대공원역) and use Exit 2.
• From the Station: Once you exit, you can walk to the zoo entrance (about a 15-20 minute walk), or take the “Elephant Train” (코끼리열차) from the station directly to the zoo entrance. The Elephant Train is a fun experience in itself! You can also take the Sky Lift to get a bird’s-eye view.

Paradise City, Incheon: The Ultimate Luxury Setting

The opulent resorts and sophisticated event spaces that often highlighted the Queens Group’s lavish lifestyle and pivotal business dealings were beautifully captured at Paradise City in Incheon. This is where many of those high-society gatherings, intense family confrontations, and moments of quiet reflection in a luxurious setting took place.

Paradise City is a premier integrated resort, a true destination in itself. It boasts a five-star hotel, a casino, an art gallery (Paradise Art Space), a spa, a theme park (Wonderbox), and numerous high-end dining and shopping options. Its stunning architecture and meticulously designed interiors, filled with art installations, create an atmosphere of modern luxury and elegance. It’s a place where you can easily spend an entire day or even a weekend, indulging in relaxation, entertainment, and fine dining, just like the elite characters of Queen of Tears.

How to get there

• Incheon Airport Maglev: Take the Incheon Airport Maglev (operated by Korail) from Incheon International Airport Terminal 1 Station. Paradise City Station is the second stop (only a few minutes ride).
• Subway & Shuttle: From Incheon International Airport Terminal 1, you can also take a free shuttle bus directly to Paradise City.
• From Seoul: Take an airport limousine bus from major areas in Seoul directly to Incheon International Airport. From the airport, follow the directions above.

Bochigi Beach, Jeju Island: A Place for Serene Reflection

Jeju Island provided a beautiful, tranquil escape for Hae-in during some of her most vulnerable moments, and Bochigi Beach was one of those serene locations. It’s where she seeks solace and faces crucial personal revelations, surrounded by the island’s unique and breathtaking coastal scenery.

Bochigi Beach (보치기 해변) is one of Jeju Island’s lesser-known but incredibly picturesque beaches. Unlike some of the more famous sandy shores, Bochigi is characterized by its dramatic black volcanic rocks and clear, emerald-green waters. It offers a more rugged and private feel, perfect for quiet contemplation. The natural rock formations and the gentle sound of the waves create a uniquely peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to reflect and appreciate Jeju’s raw beauty, much like Hae-in did.

How to get there

• Flight to Jeju: First, you’ll need to fly to Jeju International Airport (CJU) from major Korean cities like Seoul (Gimpo Airport).
• Bus & Taxi from Jeju Airport: From Jeju International Airport, you can take a local bus towards Seongsan-eup (성산읍) or Seogwipo (서귀포). It’s advisable to use a rental car or taxi to reach Bochigi Beach from the nearest bus stop, as public transport to the exact beach might be infrequent. Look for directions towards ‘Bochigi Beach’ (보치기 해변) or the nearby ‘Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak’ (성산일출봉), as it’s located on the eastern side of the island.
• Recommendation: Renting a car on Jeju Island is highly recommended for exploring its various natural attractions, including less accessible beaches like Bochigi.

Make a Day of It!

These locations aren’t just one-stop photo ops; they’re gateways to experiencing more of Korea! Here’s how to extend your K-drama trip into a full day of exploration:

Pocheon Art Valley Area

After soaking in the art and natural beauty, explore more of Pocheon. You can visit the Herb Island, a charming botanical garden and village known for its aromatic herbs and beautiful lights at night. For food, try Pocheon Makgeolli (rice wine) and pair it with local Korean dishes at one of the traditional restaurants in the town center. There are also many eateries specializing in Galbi (marinated short ribs) in the region.

The Hyundai Seoul & Yeouido

The Hyundai Seoul itself offers incredible dining options, from gourmet restaurants to trendy cafes. After exploring the department store, take a leisurely stroll through Yeouido Hangang Park, especially beautiful during spring for cherry blossoms or in the autumn for vibrant foliage. You can rent a bike, have a picnic, or even take a cruise on the Han River for stunning city views.

Seoul Grand Park & Gwacheon

Beyond the zoo, explore the rest of Seoul Grand Park! Visit the Seoul Land amusement park for some thrilling rides, or enjoy the tranquility of the Seoul Grand Park Botanical Garden. Gwacheon, the city where the park is located, also has local eateries, or you can easily head back to Seoul for more dining choices.

Paradise City & Incheon

As an integrated resort, Paradise City has an abundance of dining from casual to fine dining, and entertainment options like the casino, Wonderbox theme park, and art installations. You can also explore nearby Incheon attractions like Wolmido Island for fun seaside amusements, or visit Chinatown for delicious Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles) and vibrant streets.

Bochigi Beach & Jeju Island East Coast

After enjoying the tranquility of Bochigi Beach, venture further along Jeju’s eastern coast. Hike up Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (Sunrise Peak) for breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and the unique crater. Explore the Seopjikoji coastline, famous for its dramatic cliffs and scenic walking paths. For food, indulge in Jeju’s fresh seafood, especially haenyeo (women divers) caught seafood at coastal restaurants, or try the famous Black Pork BBQ.

Photo Tips

• Pocheon Art Valley: Capture the stunning Cheonjuho Lake from the observation deck, especially during the “golden hour” (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) for magical light on the water and rock formations. If you visit in spring, look for the cherry blossom trees around the pathways for that iconic drama shot!
• The Hyundai Seoul: Head to the ‘Sounds Forest’ on the 5th floor for a wide, airy shot of the indoor garden. The best time is during opening hours when it’s less crowded, allowing you to capture the architectural beauty without too many people.
• Seoul Grand Park Zoo: For the giraffe scene, try to find a spot near the giraffe enclosure that gives you a clear view. Early morning shortly after opening is best to avoid crowds and get a clear shot of the animals.
• Paradise City: The Art Garden area with its striking sculptures and the entrance lobby with its grand decor offer excellent photo opportunities. Late afternoon to evening, when the lights come on, adds a luxurious glow.
• Bochigi Beach: Frame the dramatic black volcanic rocks against the clear turquoise water. Sunset can be particularly stunning here, casting warm hues over the rugged landscape. Be mindful of the tides for the best rock formations.

FAQ: Your Queen of Tears Filming Locations Questions Answered!

Are the German filming locations accessible to fans?

While Queen of Tears featured some beautiful scenes filmed in Germany, this guide focuses on the Korean locations to help you plan your trip to Korea. The German locations, such as Sanssouci Palace and Eiserner Steg bridge, are publicly accessible tourist sites in Germany. For details on those, you would need to consult a travel guide for Germany.

Are all the locations easy to reach by public transport?

Most of the Seoul-based locations, like The Hyundai Seoul and Seoul Grand Park Zoo, are very well connected by subway and bus. Locations further afield, such as Pocheon Art Valley and Bochigi Beach in Jeju, might require a combination of bus/subway and then a local bus, taxi, or a rental car for convenience. Always verify bus schedules and routes before your visit, especially for less frequent services.

Do I need to make reservations to visit these locations?

Generally, you do not need reservations to enter most of these public filming locations like The Hyundai Seoul or Pocheon Art Valley. For Seoul Grand Park Zoo, you will need to purchase an admission ticket upon arrival. Paradise City is a resort, and while public areas are accessible, specific facilities (like the casino, spa, or theme park) might require separate entry fees or bookings. It’s always a good idea to check their official websites for the most current information regarding operating hours and admission.