Explore The King: Eternal Monarch’s K-Drama Spots

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama enthusiasts! Your local fan here, ready to guide you on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking filming locations of one of the most visually stunning K-dramas ever: The King: Eternal Monarch. Lee Min-ho as the dashing Emperor Lee Gon, Kim Go-eun as the fierce detective Jeong Tae-eul, and a captivating tale spanning parallel worlds – what’s not to love? This drama truly transported us to a majestic, modern monarchy and a bustling republic, leaving us dreaming of stepping into their world. Well, get ready, because we’re about to do just that!

From the serene bamboo forests where Lee Gon found solace to the bustling streets where Tae-eul solved crimes, the beauty of South Korea shines brightly in every frame of this drama. We’ll explore spots that made our hearts flutter, where iconic scenes unfolded, and where you can truly feel the magic of their intertwined destinies. So, grab your imaginary horse Maximus and let’s dive into the Kingdom of Corea and the Republic of Korea, all in one amazing trip!

Avenue France Pangyo (Ginkgo Tree Avenue)

While the drama’s iconic portal tree itself was a blend of real locations and CGI magic, the beautiful ginkgo tree-lined avenue where Emperor Lee Gon and Detective Jeong Tae-eul share tender moments and reflective walks in the Republic of Korea, giving us glimpses of what a modern Corea might feel like, is famously Avenue France Pangyo.

In real life, Avenue France Pangyo is a stylish, open-air shopping and dining complex in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, designed with a European village feel. Its central promenade, especially charming in autumn with the golden ginkgo leaves, perfectly suited the drama’s aesthetic for a modern yet grand setting. It’s a popular spot for leisurely strolls, coffee, and dining.

How to get there

Take the Seoul Subway Shinbundang Line to Pangyo Station (판교역). From Exit 1, it’s a short walk (about 5-10 minutes) to Avenue France Pangyo. It’s very well-signed and easy to find.

Daehan Saengmyeon (The Noodle Shop)

This is where our beloved Jo Yeong and Jo Eun-seop often find themselves, either sharing a meal or having their parallel world antics play out. It’s the cozy, familiar backdrop for some of the drama’s most heartwarming and humorous moments, showing us the everyday life in the Republic.

In real life, Daehan Saengmyeon (대한생면) is a real, charming noodle restaurant located in Ikseon-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. It’s known for its traditional Korean noodles (국수, guksu) and a welcoming, rustic atmosphere that perfectly captured the feeling of a local, everyday eatery in the drama. Ikseon-dong itself is a trendy neighborhood full of renovated hanok (traditional Korean houses) that now house cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.

How to get there

Take the Seoul Subway Line 5 to Jongno 3(sam)-ga Station (종로3가역). Use Exit 4 or 5 and walk into the charming alleys of Ikseon-dong. Daehan Saengmyeon is a bit tucked away within the hanok village, so using a navigation app might be helpful, but it’s a well-known spot among K-drama fans in the area. It’s approximately a 5-10 minute walk from the station.

Ahopsan Forest (The Bamboo Forest)

This tranquil and mystical bamboo forest serves as a significant location in the Kingdom of Corea, offering Emperor Lee Gon a place of peace, reflection, and at times, a mysterious connection to his past and the parallel world. It’s where some truly iconic, visually stunning scenes of Lee Gon on Maximus were filmed.

In real life, Ahopsan Forest (아홉산숲) is a privately owned forest in Busan that has been preserved by one family for over 400 years. It boasts magnificent bamboo groves, towering pine trees, and ancient deciduous trees, making it a popular filming location for many historical and fantasy dramas. The bamboo section is particularly impressive, creating a serene and otherworldly atmosphere.

How to get there

Ahopsan Forest is located in Gijang-gun, a bit outside central Busan, making it less accessible by subway alone. From central Busan (e.g., Seomyeon or Busan Station), you can take a local bus. For example, from Nopo Station (노포역) on Busan Subway Line 1, take Bus No. 36 to Cheolma-myeon Office (철마면사무소) stop, then transfer to Gijang-gu Village Bus No. 17 and get off at Ahopsan Forest Entrance (아홉산숲입구). Taxis or ride-sharing services are also convenient options, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Please note that the forest usually has specific operating hours and may charge a small admission fee, so check their official website before visiting.

Cheongju Culture Factory (King’s Study / Imperial Library)

The grand, high-ceilinged library, where Emperor Lee Gon often contemplates, researches, and meets with his inner circle in the Kingdom of Corea, holds many significant intellectual and emotional moments. Its imposing architecture symbolized the weight of his responsibilities and the depth of his knowledge.

In real life, the Cheongju Culture Factory (청주문화산업단지) in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do, is a fascinating repurposed tobacco factory. It has been transformed into a vibrant cultural complex housing exhibition spaces, galleries, and performance venues. The specific area used in the drama, with its industrial-chic aesthetic and towering bookshelves (often dressed for filming), provided the perfect backdrop for the Emperor’s study. It’s a testament to Korea’s creative use of historical industrial spaces.

How to get there

From Seoul, take an intercity bus to Cheongju Intercity Bus Terminal (청주시외버스터미널). From the terminal, you can take a local bus (many routes go towards the city center, look for stops near Cheongju Arts Center or Cheongju City Hall) or a taxi directly to Cheongju Culture Factory (청주문화산업단지). It’s a prominent landmark in Cheongju city, so most taxi drivers will know it. The journey from the bus terminal is typically 10-15 minutes by taxi.

Woljeonggyo Bridge (Imperial Palace Entrance / Corea Architecture)

The stunning, traditional Korean architecture of Woljeonggyo Bridge, particularly when beautifully illuminated at night, was used to depict parts of the majestic imperial palace or grand gateways in the Kingdom of Corea, lending an air of historical grandeur and royal splendor to Lee Gon’s world.

In real life, Woljeonggyo Bridge (월정교) is a beautiful wooden bridge in Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, reconstructed to its former glory based on historical records from the Silla Dynasty. It’s an architectural marvel, especially enchanting when lit up at night, reflecting on the tranquil waters below. Gyeongju itself is known as “the museum without walls” due to its rich history and numerous ancient sites. The bridge offers a fantastic glimpse into traditional Korean design and engineering.

How to get there

From Seoul, take a KTX train to Singyeongju Station (신경주역). From Singyeongju Station, take local bus routes (e.g., No. 50, 51, 60, 61, 70, 150, 330) that go towards Gyeongju city center and stop near Woljeonggyo Bridge or Gyerim Forest. Taxis are also readily available from the KTX station and can get you there in about 20-30 minutes. The bridge is within walking distance of other major Gyeongju attractions like Cheomseongdae Observatory and Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond.

Make a Day of It: Exploring Beyond the Filming Spots

Korea is all about experiencing culture, food, and history, so why not extend your K-drama tour into a full day of exploration? Each of these locations offers fantastic nearby attractions to enrich your trip!

• Near Avenue France Pangyo (Seongnam): Since you’re in Pangyo, often called Korea’s “Silicon Valley,” enjoy the modern urban vibe. Explore more high-end shopping at the Hyundai Department Store Pangyo, or relax at Hwarang Park. For something unique, check out the nearby Korea Robotics Museum (though check opening status).
• Near Daehan Saengmyeon (Ikseon-dong, Seoul): You’re already in one of Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods! Spend hours wandering through the narrow alleys of Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, popping into charming cafes, artisan shops, and unique restaurants. Just a stone’s throw away are traditional attractions like Jongmyo Shrine and Changdeokgung Palace, offering a perfect blend of old and new Seoul.
• Near Ahopsan Forest (Busan): After your serene forest walk, head to nearby Gijang-gun for its famous seafood. Visit the Gijang Traditional Market for fresh catches, or enjoy a meal with an ocean view at one of the many cafes and restaurants along the coast. Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, a stunning temple right by the sea, is also a must-visit in the area.
• Near Cheongju Culture Factory (Cheongju): Explore more of Cheongju’s history and art. Visit Cheongju National Museum for a deeper dive into regional heritage, or take a stroll through the Sangdangsanseong Fortress for panoramic views of the city. Cheongju is also famous for its jikji, the world’s oldest movable metal type print, so consider visiting the Early Printing Museum.
• Near Woljeonggyo Bridge (Gyeongju): You’re in the heart of ancient Silla! Within easy walking distance, you can visit Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond (Anapji), absolutely magical at night; Cheomseongdae Observatory, the oldest existing astronomical observatory in East Asia; and Daereungwon Tomb Complex, home to the famous Cheonmachong Tomb. Rent a hanbok for some amazing photos around these historical sites!

Photo Tips: Capturing Your Inner Emperor or Detective

Ready to create your own K-drama moments? Here’s how to get those perfect shots:

• Avenue France Pangyo: For the iconic ginkgo avenue shot, go in autumn when the leaves are golden. Frame yourself walking along the promenade, perhaps looking up at the trees, or even seated at one of the cafes as if waiting for your parallel-world counterpart. Early morning or late afternoon light is best to avoid harsh shadows and capture that soft, romantic glow.
• Daehan Saengmyeon: Capture the cozy, rustic charm. Sit at one of the window seats if available, or get a wide shot of the exterior, especially if you can get the “Daehan Saengmyeon” sign in the frame. A wide-angle lens works wonders here to capture the atmosphere of Ikseon-dong’s narrow alleys too. Mid-morning before lunch rush or late afternoon are good times.
• Ahopsan Forest: The magic here is in the towering bamboo. Use a low angle to emphasize the height and density of the bamboo stalks. Try to find a moment when the forest isn’t too crowded to capture the serene, mystical feeling. Overcast days or early mornings often provide the best soft, diffused light, perfect for the green hues. Standing amidst the bamboo, looking up, creates a dramatic shot.
• Cheongju Culture Factory: While you can’t access the exact “set” without special permission, aim for wide shots of the factory’s interior public spaces that reflect its industrial-chic aesthetic. Focus on architectural details and the sheer scale of the converted factory. During the day, natural light floods in, making it great for photos.
• Woljeonggyo Bridge: This bridge is absolutely stunning at night. The illuminated bridge reflecting on the water below is the money shot! Use a tripod for long exposures if you want professional-looking night photos. During the day, cross the bridge and take photos from either end to capture its full traditional beauty against the sky. Golden hour (just before sunset) is also fantastic for warm, rich tones.

FAQ: Your K-Drama Trip Questions Answered

Is it possible to visit all The King: Eternal Monarch locations in one trip?

While possible with extensive planning and perhaps a rental car, covering all major locations (Seoul, Gyeonggi, Cheongju, Busan, Gyeongju) would require significant travel time and multiple days, as they are spread across different provinces. Many fans choose to pick a few key locations that fit their itinerary, or focus on a specific region. For example, Seoul/Gyeonggi locations can be done in a day or two, while Busan/Gyeongju might be another separate multi-day trip.

Are the filming locations still set up as they were in the drama?

Most filming locations in South Korea are real-life places like restaurants, parks, or historical sites, so they will look largely as they do in the drama, minus any temporary set dressings or props. Restaurants like Daehan Saengmyeon will be fully operational. Public spaces like Avenue France Pangyo, Ahopsan Forest, Cheongju Culture Factory, and Woljeonggyo Bridge retain their real-life charm, though they may not have specific “King: Eternal Monarch” markers. Expect the general atmosphere and architecture to be the same, allowing you to easily envision your favorite scenes.

Do I need to speak Korean to visit these locations?

Not necessarily! While knowing some basic Korean phrases is always appreciated and helpful, most major tourist areas and transportation hubs have English signage, and many younger Koreans speak some English. For places like Daehan Saengmyeon, staff might have limited English, but pointing to menu items or using translation apps usually works fine. For detailed directions or more complex interactions, a translation app or a local tour guide can be very beneficial. Taxis will understand location names if you show them in Korean. Don’t let language be a barrier to your K-drama adventure!

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