Your Guide to Extraordinary Attorney Woo Filming Locations in Korea!

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama lovers! It’s your local K-drama fan here from KDrama Trip, ready to whisk you away on another unforgettable journey – this time, into the heartwarming world of Extraordinary Attorney Woo! This drama completely stole our hearts with its unique storytelling, incredible characters, and, of course, the ever-charming Woo Young-woo. For many of us, the places where Young-woo found comfort, solved cases, and built friendships became just as iconic as her love for whales and gimbap. If you’re planning a trip to Korea and want to walk in the footsteps of our favorite attorney, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore some of the most memorable extraordinary attorney woo filming locations that you can visit and relive the magic.

Woo Young-woo’s Beloved Gimbap Restaurant

Who could forget the cozy gimbap restaurant that served as both Woo Young-woo’s safe haven and the source of her legal inspirations? Many of her brilliant ideas for cases sparked from the simple act of rolling gimbap or observing its patterns. This humble eatery was a recurring symbol of her connection to her father and her path to becoming a successful attorney.

In real life, this charming spot is actually a Japanese restaurant named Kajaguruma (카자구루마). Located in a quiet neighborhood of Suwon, it has become a pilgrimage site for fans eager to experience a slice of Young-woo’s world. While it serves delicious Japanese cuisine rather than gimbap, the exterior will instantly transport you back to the drama!

How to get there

Kajaguruma is located in Suwon, Gyeonggi-do. The easiest way to reach Suwon from Seoul is by:

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 1 or the Bundang Line to Suwon Station (수원역).
• From Suwon Station: You can then take a local bus (check for routes heading towards Paldal-gu, where the restaurant is located) or a short taxi ride. Taxis are generally affordable and convenient for reaching specific spots like this. Always confirm the exact location and opening hours before your visit! Remember to be respectful of the restaurant’s patrons and staff, as it is a working establishment.

Hanbada Law Firm Building

The impressive headquarters of Hanbada Law Firm served as the central stage for all the legal battles and heartwarming character developments in the series. It’s where Young-woo first started her extraordinary career, where she met her colleagues, and where she faced numerous challenges and triumphs.

The sleek, modern exterior seen in the drama is actually Centerfield Tower East (센터필드 서관), a prominent office building situated in the bustling Gangnam district of Seoul. While the interiors of Hanbada were likely studio sets, the exterior provides that recognizable backdrop where Young-woo and her team navigated the complex world of law.

How to get there

Centerfield Tower East is conveniently located in one of Seoul’s most vibrant areas:

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 2 to Seolleung Station (선릉역) or Gangnam Station (강남역).
• From Seolleung Station: It’s approximately a 10-15 minute walk from Exit 10, or a very short bus/taxi ride.
• From Gangnam Station: It’s a bit further, perhaps a 15-20 minute walk from Exit 1 or 2, or a quick bus/taxi trip. Look for the distinctive modern facade. As it’s an active office building, access is limited to the exterior and public areas only.

The Majestic Sodeok-dong Plane Tree

Perhaps one of the most visually stunning and emotionally resonant locations in Extraordinary Attorney Woo is the ancient plane tree in Sodeok-dong. This majestic tree became a central character in a pivotal case, symbolizing natural beauty, community, and the power of protecting what is precious. Its breathtaking presence left a lasting impression on viewers and Young-woo herself.

This magnificent natural landmark is indeed real! It’s an ancient Zelkova tree located in Dongbu Village (동부마을 느티나무), in Bukjeong-ri, Daesan-myeon, Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do. It’s a true national treasure and a place of quiet contemplation, far removed from the city bustle. Visiting this tree requires a bit more effort, as it’s quite a journey from Seoul, but the serene beauty and connection to the drama are incredibly rewarding.

How to get there

Changwon is in the southeastern part of Korea, so plan for a longer travel day:

• KTX: From Seoul Station (서울역), take a KTX high-speed train to Changwon Jungang Station (창원중앙역). The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
• From Changwon Jungang Station: You’ll then need to take a local bus or a taxi to Dongbu Village in Daesan-myeon. It’s advisable to have the exact address (or the Korean name 동부마을 느티나무) ready for the taxi driver. Public bus routes to this specific rural village might be less frequent, so plan your timing carefully. Remember, this is a quiet residential village, so please be extra mindful and respectful of the local residents and the natural environment.

Dong Geurami’s Go-To Bar

The place where Young-woo and her best friend Dong Geurami shared their iconic greeting, bonded, and offered each other unwavering support was a vibrant and casual bar. This spot was always filled with the warmth of friendship and Geurami’s straightforward advice.

In reality, this lively setting is the exterior of a real noodle restaurant named Haengbok Noodle (행복국수). Just like Kajaguruma, it’s also located in Suwon, making it a convenient stop if you’re already exploring the city for Young-woo’s gimbap spot. While it’s a noodle house, the recognizable exterior is perfect for recreating some of those fun, memorable scenes with your own friends!

How to get there

Haengbok Noodle is easily accessible in Suwon:

• Subway: Take Seoul Subway Line 1 or the Bundang Line to Suwon Station (수원역).
• From Suwon Station: The restaurant is a short walk or a very quick taxi ride from the station, in the general vicinity of where Kajaguruma is located, making it possible to visit both on a Suwon itinerary. Check online maps for the most direct walking path or bus routes.

Make a Day of It!

Visiting these K-drama spots is just the beginning! Korea offers so much more. Here are some ideas to complement your Extraordinary Attorney Woo filming location tour:

• In Suwon: Since two key locations are here, make a full day of it! Explore the magnificent Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walk along its ancient walls. Visit the beautiful Hwaseong Haenggung Palace, a temporary residence for kings. Afterward, enjoy some local delicacies on Chicken Street (yes, Suwon is famous for its fried chicken!) or grab a coffee at one of the trendy cafes in the Jeongji-dong area.
• In Gangnam (Seoul): After admiring the Hanbada building, dive into the glitz and glam of Gangnam. Visit the stunning Starfield Library at COEX Mall for an incredible photo opportunity, or find peace amidst the skyscrapers at Bongeunsa Temple. Explore the fashionable boutiques and cafes of Garosu-gil for some retail therapy or a chic meal.
• In Changwon (Gyeongsangnam-do): If you make the journey to the Sodeok-dong plane tree, consider exploring more of Changwon. While less known to international tourists, it’s a lovely city. Depending on the season, you might catch the famous Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival (usually early April, a short drive from Changwon) or simply enjoy the tranquility of Yongji Lake Park. Changwon is also known for its beautiful coastal areas and fresh seafood.

Photo Tips

• Kajaguruma: Capture the distinctive orange-tiled roof and entrance that made it instantly recognizable as Young-woo’s gimbap spot. A daytime shot is best to get clear details. If you decide to dine there, perhaps a photo of your meal with a hint of the interior will be a lovely memory.
• Centerfield Tower East: Stand a little distance across the street to get the full scale of the modern Hanbada building. A clear, sunny day or even twilight with the city lights can make for a dramatic shot.
• Sodeok-dong Plane Tree: This requires a wide-angle shot to truly capture its grandeur. Try to find an angle that shows the tree in its natural surroundings, perhaps from the path leading up to it. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) will give you the most magical, warm light. Remember to be respectful and avoid disturbing the natural setting or local residents.
• Haengbok Noodle: Focus on the storefront to capture its cozy, unassuming charm. Early evening, when lights might be coming on, could give it a warm glow.

FAQ

Can I go inside the Hanbada Law Firm building (Centerfield Tower East)?

The exterior of Centerfield Tower East was used for filming, but it is a real, active office building. The interiors of Hanbada Law Firm were largely filmed on a set. Public access inside the building is generally restricted to employees and those with official business, so it’s best to appreciate the architecture from the outside.

Is the Sodeok-dong Plane Tree difficult to get to from Seoul?

Yes, visiting the Sodeok-dong Plane Tree in Changwon requires a significant journey from Seoul. It involves a KTX train ride of several hours, followed by local bus or taxi travel to a relatively rural area. It’s definitely an all-day excursion, so plan your transportation and timing carefully. But for true fans, the serene beauty and connection to the drama make it worth the effort!

Are there any official ‘Extraordinary Attorney Woo’ themed cafes or merchandise?

As of now, there aren’t any permanently established official Extraordinary Attorney Woo themed cafes or dedicated merchandise stores. However, given the drama’s popularity, you might occasionally find limited-time pop-up events or fan-made merchandise in various parts of Korea. The best way to immerse yourself in the drama’s world is by visiting the actual filming locations and experiencing the real-life spots that brought the story to life!