K-Drama Beach Spots: Coastal Korea (Goblin, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha)

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama travelers! Your local K-drama fan here, ready to share some of Korea’s most breathtaking coastal treasures. If your heart flutters watching our beloved characters find love, solace, or just a moment of peace by the sea, then you’re in for a treat! Korea’s coastline has graced countless unforgettable scenes, offering not just picturesque backdrops but also a tangible piece of the magic we’ve all fallen in love with. Forget crowded cityscapes for a day, and let’s embark on a journey to the very K-drama beach filming locations that made your screen glow. From dramatic encounters to heartwarming confessions, these spots aren’t just pretty; they’re steeped in cinematic history. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to walk in the footsteps of your favorite stars!

Jumunjin Beach Breakwater, Gangneung (Goblin)

This is the iconic spot where Ji Eun-tak first summons Kim Shin, the Goblin, on her birthday, marking the beginning of their extraordinary love story. The red scarf, the buckwheat flower bouquet – it’s all here! It’s also where they often meet and share poignant moments.

Jumunjin Beach, particularly the breakwater, became an instant pilgrimage site for K-drama fans worldwide after Goblin aired. It’s a beautiful, clean beach known for its serene waves and picturesque scenery, popular with families and couples alike. The breakwater itself is part of the larger Jumunjin Beach, which is located in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, a popular coastal city on the east coast of Korea. There are often prop vendors nearby offering red scarves and buckwheat bouquets for the perfect recreation photo!

How to get there

• By Bus: From Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, take an express bus to Jumunjin Intercity Bus Terminal (approx. 2.5-3 hours). From Jumunjin Terminal, the breakwater is a short taxi ride (about 5-10 minutes) or a longer walk (around 20-30 minutes).
• By KTX: Take the KTX train from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station to Gangneung Station (approx. 1.5-2 hours). From Gangneung Station, you can take local bus 300 or 302 towards Jumunjin. Get off at the Jumunjin Beach/Jumunjin Port area and walk towards the breakwater. A taxi from Gangneung Station to Jumunjin Breakwater will take about 20-30 minutes.

Sabang Memorial Park (Shipwrecked Boat), Pohang (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha)

This is where you’ll find the famous "shipwrecked" boat that sits atop a hill, overlooking the beautiful blue sea of Gongjin. It’s one of the most memorable and whimsical backdrops in the series, symbolizing the unique charm of the village and serving as a meeting spot for our beloved characters, especially Chief Hong.

While affectionately known as "Gongjin" in the drama, this location is actually Sabang Memorial Park (사방기념공원) in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province. The boat was placed there as an art installation and a symbol of hope and overcoming challenges, honoring the history of afforestation efforts in the area. The park itself offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline, making it a fantastic spot for photography and a leisurely stroll. The boat is a permanent fixture and incredibly popular.

How to get there

• By KTX: Take the KTX from Seoul Station to Pohang Station (approx. 2.5-3 hours). From Pohang Station, take local bus 510 to Sabang Memorial Park (approx. 40-50 minutes). The bus stop is directly at the park entrance.
• By Bus: From Seoul Express Bus Terminal, take an express bus to Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal (approx. 4 hours). From Pohang Terminal, you’ll need to transfer to local bus 510 to Sabang Memorial Park. Taxis are also readily available from Pohang Station or Terminal, taking around 30-40 minutes.

Wolpo Beach, Pohang (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha)

Wolpo Beach served as a primary filming location for many of the beach and village scenes in "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha." It’s where Hye-jin often went for a stroll, where many villagers gathered, and where some of the most heartwarming everyday moments unfolded against the beautiful coastal backdrop.

Wolpo Beach (월포해수욕장) is one of Pohang’s charming beaches, less crowded than some of the more famous ones, offering a more tranquil atmosphere. It’s characterized by its fine sand and clear waters, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the East Sea. The drama utilized various parts of the beach and surrounding areas to create the fictional village of Gongjin, showcasing its authentic local charm. You’ll recognize the small lighthouse and pier from many scenes.

How to get there

• By KTX: Take the KTX from Seoul Station to Pohang Station. From Pohang Station, take local bus 510 directly to Wolpo Beach (approx. 40-50 minutes). It’s located just a bit further north from Sabang Memorial Park, so you could combine these two locations.
• By Bus: From Seoul Express Bus Terminal, take an express bus to Pohang Intercity Bus Terminal. From Pohang Terminal, take local bus 510 to Wolpo Beach. A taxi from Pohang Station or Terminal will take about 30-40 minutes.

Youngjin Beach, Gangneung (Run On)

This picturesque beach is where Oh Mi-joo (Shin Se-kyung) and Ki Seon-gyeom (Im Si-wan) share several sweet moments, walking along the sandy shore, talking, and growing closer. The tranquil setting perfectly complements their budding romance and introspection.

Youngjin Beach (영진해변) is another stunning beach in Gangneung, less known than Jumunjin but equally beautiful. It boasts soft sand, calm waters, and a relaxed ambiance, making it ideal for a peaceful walk or simply unwinding by the sea. While it might not have one specific ‘prop’ like the Goblin breakwater, its natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it instantly recognizable for fans of "Run On." It’s often praised for its clean environment and scenic views.

How to get there

• By KTX: Take the KTX from Seoul Station or Cheongnyangni Station to Gangneung Station. From Gangneung Station, take local bus 300 or 302 towards Jumunjin/Youngjin Beach direction (approx. 30-40 minutes). Get off at Youngjin Beach stop. A taxi from Gangneung Station would take about 20-25 minutes.
• By Bus: From Seoul Express Bus Terminal or Dong Seoul Bus Terminal, take an express bus to Jumunjin Intercity Bus Terminal. Youngjin Beach is a short taxi ride (5-10 minutes) south of Jumunjin, or you can take a local bus.

Handam Coastal Walk / Aewol Cafe Street, Jeju Island (Our Blues)

While "Our Blues" featured countless breathtaking coastal scenes across Jeju, the Aewol area, with its picturesque Handam Coastal Walk, perfectly encapsulates the drama’s rustic yet vibrant island life. Many characters would walk along these paths, deep in thought or sharing profound conversations, set against the dramatic volcanic rocks and turquoise waters characteristic of Jeju. It embodied the community spirit and the island’s unique beauty.

The Handam Coastal Walk (한담해안산책로) in Aewol-eup, Jeju City, is renowned for its scenic beauty, winding along the coast with stunning views of the sea, unique rock formations, and charming cafes and restaurants. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a leisurely stroll, cycle, or simply soak in the ambiance. The entire Aewol Cafe Street is built around this beautiful coastline, making it a vibrant hub that frequently appears in dramas showcasing Jeju’s modern charm alongside its natural wonders. It’s a publicly accessible walk.

How to get there

• By Air: Fly from Gimpo Airport (Seoul) to Jeju International Airport (approx. 1 hour).
• From Jeju International Airport: Take an airport limousine bus (e.g., Route 102) to Aewol-eup (approx. 30-40 minutes). Get off at Handam-dong or Gwakji Beach stop and walk to the coastal path. Alternatively, a taxi from Jeju Airport to Handam Coastal Walk will take about 20-30 minutes. Jeju’s bus system is quite efficient for navigating the island.

Make a Day of It

If you’re making the journey to these stunning K-drama beach filming locations, why not extend your trip and explore the surrounding areas?

• In Gangneung (Goblin, Run On): After visiting Jumunjin or Youngjin Beach, head to Anmok Beach Cafe Street. It’s lined with trendy cafes offering magnificent ocean views – perfect for a coffee break and soaking in more of Gangneung’s coastal charm. Don’t miss trying some local seafood at Jumunjin Port, famous for its fresh catches. For a taste of history, Ojukheon House, the birthplace of a prominent scholar, is also worth a visit. If you’re there in winter, you might even catch a glimpse of the famous "Squid Game" bus stop at Jumunjin Beach for a bonus K-drama spot, although it’s not strictly a beach location itself, it’s very close!
• In Pohang (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha): Beyond Sabang Memorial Park and Wolpo Beach, a visit to the actual Cheongha Market (청하시장) is a must for "Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha" fans. It served as the central hub of Gongjin, and you can still see the identifiable storefronts and immerse yourself in the drama’s vibrant community spirit. Grab some traditional market snacks or a hearty meal. You can also explore Yeongildae Beach in central Pohang, known for its beautiful pier and the iconic Yeongildae Pavilion, especially stunning at sunset.
• In Jeju Island (Our Blues): The Aewol Cafe Street itself offers a plethora of dining and cafe options right along the Handam Coastal Walk. Treat yourself to a delicious meal with an ocean view. Further along the coast, you can visit Gwakji Gwamul Beach, known for its unique rock pools and beautiful sand. For those interested in more of Jeju’s unique volcanic landscape, a drive to Halla Mountain National Park (reserve in advance if hiking the summit) or exploring the Jusangjeolli Cliffs (columnar joints) on the south coast can make for a truly unforgettable island experience, showcasing the diverse beauty that makes Jeju a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Photo Tips

• Jumunjin Beach Breakwater (Goblin):
  • Angle: Stand at the very end of the breakwater, facing the sea, mimicking Eun-tak calling the Goblin. Or pose with your back to the sea, looking out, holding a red scarf or a buckwheat bouquet (often sold by vendors nearby).
  • Time: Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) for softer light and fewer crowds. Overcast days can also create a moody, ‘Goblin-esque’ atmosphere.
• Sabang Memorial Park (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha):
  • Angle: Capture the full boat with the expansive sea and sky behind it. You can also take a close-up with the boat’s bow, making it seem like you’re aboard. Get creative with wide-angle shots to capture the full landscape.
  • Time: Sunrise offers incredible colors over the East Sea, or late afternoon for beautiful golden light. Mid-day can be good for clear blue skies but might lead to harsher shadows.
• Wolpo Beach (Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha):
  • Angle: Focus on the small, charming lighthouse and the pier. A shot walking along the water’s edge, or capturing the serene waves, will evoke the drama’s peaceful vibe.
  • Time: Sunset here is absolutely magical, painting the sky in warm hues. Early mornings are quiet and great for reflection.
• Youngjin Beach (Run On):
  • Angle: Emphasize the long stretch of soft sand and the gentle waves. A shot walking hand-in-hand (even if it’s just with your imaginary K-drama partner!) along the water’s edge is perfect. Look for interesting rock formations for added texture.
  • Time: Golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) is ideal for soft, romantic lighting.
• Handam Coastal Walk (Our Blues):
  • Angle: Frame yourself against the dramatic volcanic rocks and the vibrant turquoise water. Capture the winding path with the ocean stretching into the distance. The cafes along the path also offer great photo opportunities.
  • Time: Anytime from late morning to late afternoon for the best color in the water. Sunset provides a romantic backdrop, especially from a cafe balcony.

FAQ

Are these K-drama beach filming locations free to visit?

Yes, all the beach and coastal filming locations mentioned, such as Jumunjin Beach, Sabang Memorial Park, Wolpo Beach, Youngjin Beach, and the Handam Coastal Walk, are public areas and completely free to visit. You do not need to pay an admission fee to access the beaches or coastal paths themselves. However, transportation costs, food, drinks, and any optional activities (like prop rentals at Jumunjin) will, of course, incur charges.

What’s the best time of year to visit K-drama beach filming locations in Korea?

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times to visit coastal K-drama locations. The weather is pleasantly mild, rainfall is lower, and the scenery is beautiful. Summer (July-August) can be hot and humid with potential typhoons, but it’s also peak beach season, so expect crowds. Winter (November-March) can be cold and windy, especially on the coast, but offers a unique, serene atmosphere, perfect for recreating those moody, introspective drama scenes.

Can I find K-drama souvenirs at these filming locations?

While official K-drama merchandise might be harder to find directly at these specific outdoor filming sites (unless there’s a dedicated pop-up store, which is rare for older dramas), you can often find local vendors near popular spots like the Jumunjin Breakwater selling "Goblin"-themed items like red scarves and buckwheat bouquets. In general, visiting the local markets (like Cheongha Market in Pohang) allows you to experience the atmosphere and find local products. Larger souvenir shops or official drama merchandise are usually found in major cities or specific pop-up events, not typically at the outdoor filming locations themselves.

Keep Reading

• Seoul One-Day “Goblin” Tour: Guardian Filming Locations
• Suwon K Drama Filming Locations: Easy One Day Itinerary
• Vincenzo Filming Locations in Seoul: Real Life Walking Tour
• Real Jeju K-Drama Filming Locations for Your Trip