Incheon K-Drama Sites: Goblin, Hotel Del Luna

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama enthusiasts! Your Korean friend and lifelong drama fan here, ready to whisk you away on another exciting journey. Today, we’re setting our sights on Incheon, a city often known as the gateway to Korea, but to us K-drama fans, it’s a treasure trove of unforgettable scenes! While many associate Seoul with drama magic, Incheon offers a unique blend of historical charm and futuristic marvels, making it a beloved backdrop for countless beloved series.

Remember the melancholic yet beautiful alleys where Kim Shin pondered his fate in ‘Guardian: The Lonely and Great God’ (Goblin)? Or the opulent, ethereal settings of ‘Hotel Del Luna’? Many of those breathtaking moments were filmed right here in Incheon! This city truly offers a diverse palette for storytellers, from the quaint, old-world streets reminiscent of a bygone era to the sleek, modern skyscrapers that touch the sky. Join me as we explore some of Incheon’s most iconic drama filming sites, perfect for recreating those cherished scenes and capturing your own K-drama memories. Get ready to walk in your favorite characters’ footsteps – Incheon is calling!

Jayu Park & Jemulpo Club (Freedom Park) – Goblin

In ‘Goblin,’ Jayu Park is featured in several poignant scenes, including the memorable ‘first snow’ moment where Kim Shin and Ji Eun Tak share a quiet, significant interaction. It’s also a place for contemplative walks and serves as a timeless backdrop. The nearby Jemulpo Club appears as a historical setting, adding to the drama’s classic aesthetic.

In real life, Jayu Park (Freedom Park) is Korea’s first Western-style park, offering panoramic views of Incheon Port and the surrounding city. It’s home to a statue of General Douglas MacArthur and features beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. The Jemulpo Club, a historic building within the park, once served as a social club for foreign residents in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s now a cultural exhibition space, allowing visitors to glimpse into Incheon’s international past.

How to get there

Take Incheon Subway Line 1 to Incheon Station (the terminus). From Incheon Station, exit and walk towards the uphill path leading to Incheon Chinatown. Jayu Park is located at the top of the hill, just beyond Chinatown. It’s a pleasant uphill walk, roughly 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views as you ascend. Alternatively, you can check local bus routes from Incheon Station that stop closer to the park entrance for a shorter walk. Remember to verify current bus schedules before your visit!

Hanmi Bookstore in Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley – Goblin

This charming, vintage bookstore is practically a character itself in ‘Goblin.’ It’s where Kim Shin often finds himself, lost in thought or simply observing the world, and where several tender interactions with Ji Eun Tak take place, reflecting its cozy and timeless atmosphere. The bookstore’s unique aesthetic perfectly complements the Goblin’s ancient and contemplative nature.

In real life, Hanmi Bookstore is a beloved institution within Incheon’s historic Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. This alley is a hidden gem, preserving the nostalgic charm of old Korea with its rows of quaint, used bookstores. Hanmi Bookstore itself, with its distinctive bright yellow exterior and piles of books, is a truly photogenic spot that feels like stepping back in time. It’s a haven for book lovers and a delightful place to explore, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

How to get there

Take Incheon Subway Line 1 to Dongincheon Station. From Dongincheon Station (Exit 1), it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to Baedari Secondhand Bookstore Alley. You can use a map application to navigate to ‘한미서점’ (Hanmi Seojeom). The alley is relatively easy to find in the vicinity of the station, look for its distinctive entrance.

Songdo Central Park & G-Tower – Goblin

Songdo International City, particularly its Central Park and the iconic G-Tower, provides a sleek, futuristic backdrop for ‘Goblin’ and other dramas. You might recall scenes of Kim Shin or the Grim Reaper walking through this modern cityscape, beautifully contrasting their ancient existence with the new world. It offers a sense of grand scale and contemporary elegance, serving as a reminder of the drama’s fantastical elements existing in a modern setting.

In real life, Songdo Central Park is a large, urban park inspired by New York City’s Central Park, complete with a man-made canal where you can ride water taxis or pedal boats. Surrounding the park are impressive skyscrapers, including the G-Tower, which offers a free observatory on its 33rd floor with stunning panoramic views of Songdo and the Incheon Bridge. Songdo is a planned smart city, showcasing Korea’s innovation and modernity, making it a fascinating area to explore.

How to get there

Take Incheon Subway Line 1 to Central Park Station. The park and G-Tower are right outside the station exits, making them incredibly convenient to access. If you’re coming from other Incheon locations like Jayu Park, you might need to transfer at a major hub station on Incheon Line 1 to reach Central Park Station.

Paradise City Incheon – Hotel Del Luna

This luxurious resort complex served as the opulent, mysterious, and utterly stunning exterior and interior of the ‘Hotel Del Luna’ in the hit drama! From the grand, art-filled lobby to the intricate architectural details and extravagant facilities, fans will instantly recognize the distinct atmosphere that perfectly encapsulated Man Wol’s extravagant yet poignant hotel. The resort’s artistic flair and diverse spaces brought the drama’s fantastical setting to life with unparalleled visual splendor.

In real life, Paradise City is a sprawling integrated resort near Incheon International Airport, featuring a luxury hotel, a casino, a high-end spa, an art gallery with impressive installations, a convention center, and various entertainment facilities. It’s a destination in itself, renowned for its exquisite design and vibrant ambiance. Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s absolutely worth visiting to admire the architecture, art, and feel like you’ve stepped directly onto a drama set.

How to get there

Take the Incheon Airport Maglev Line to Paradise City Station. This is a free monorail service that conveniently connects Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport to the resort complex. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or a short taxi ride directly from Incheon International Airport to Paradise City.

Incheon Grand Bridge (Incheon Bridge) – Hotel Del Luna

While perhaps not a primary character interaction spot, the majestic Incheon Grand Bridge makes frequent appearances as a stunning backdrop in ‘Hotel Del Luna,’ often shown in sweeping aerial shots, emphasizing the hotel’s connection to the modern world and its ethereal nature. Its grandeur symbolizes journeys and destiny, fitting for a drama about souls traveling between worlds. It also features in establishing shots for many other K-dramas and films.

In real life, the Incheon Bridge is Korea’s longest cable-stayed bridge and the second-longest bridge overall in the country, connecting Incheon International Airport to Songdo International City. It’s an engineering marvel and a beautiful landmark, particularly when illuminated dramatically at night. While you can’t walk across it for safety, you can appreciate its grandeur from various viewpoints, including the G-Tower Observatory in Songdo, or by driving across it for spectacular views of the West Sea and the city.

How to get there

The most direct way to experience the Incheon Bridge is to drive across it, as it’s part of the primary route from Incheon International Airport to Songdo International City. For a breathtaking panoramic view of the bridge, visit the G-Tower Observatory in Songdo (as mentioned for Location 3); from there, you get a fantastic vista of the bridge stretching across the water. Another option is to take a local bus that crosses the bridge, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without needing a car. Check bus routes connecting the airport to Songdo for this experience.

Make a Day of It!

Okay, my friends, you’ve chased after your favorite K-drama scenes – now let’s make your Incheon adventure even more unforgettable! Incheon is brimming with its own unique charm beyond its drama appeal, especially the areas around Jayu Park and Dongincheon Station.

Start your culinary journey in Incheon Chinatown, right next to Jayu Park. As Korea’s official Chinatown, it boasts over a century of history. Here, you absolutely must try Jajangmyeon (black bean noodles), a dish that originated here! Visit one of the historic restaurants like Gonghwachun or Mansebok for an authentic taste. While you’re there, grab some ‘fortune cookies’ or mooncakes as souvenirs.

Adjacent to Chinatown is the Open Port Area (Gaehangjang), a fascinating district that reveals Incheon’s past as Korea’s first international port. Wander through its streets lined with beautifully preserved 19th and early 20th-century buildings, showcasing a blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Western architectural styles. You’ll find charming cafes, art galleries, and museums detailing the city’s rich history. It’s like stepping into a time machine!

If you’re looking for more thrills, consider a short trip to Wolmido Island, easily accessible by local bus from Incheon Station. This small island boasts a lively amusement park with rides like the iconic ‘Disco Pang Pang’ and the ‘Viking Ship,’ along with plenty of street food vendors and a beautiful waterfront promenade. It’s a favorite spot for locals to unwind and have some fun.

For those exploring Songdo, take some time to simply relax by the canal in Songdo Central Park, maybe even rent a water taxi. The area is also known for its modern shopping malls and diverse dining options, offering a stark contrast to the historical areas but equally captivating.

Photo Tips

Recreating your favorite K-drama moments is half the fun! At Jayu Park, aim for the main path near General MacArthur’s statue or among the cherry blossom trees (if visiting in spring) to capture the wide, contemplative feel of Goblin’s scenes. Golden hour (just before sunset) casts a beautiful, soft light perfect for photography. For Hanmi Bookstore, try to get a shot of the bright yellow exterior with its classic sign. Inside, angle for the stacks of books, perhaps pretending to browse like Kim Shin. Early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded is best for a clear shot.

In Songdo Central Park, find a spot by the water taxi dock or with the G-Tower prominently in the background to capture the modern, expansive feel. The G-Tower Observatory offers incredible panoramic city views – great for wide shots. For Paradise City, focus on the grand entrance and lobby, trying to capture the luxurious, artistic vibe of Hotel Del Luna. If you’re comfortable, try to mimic a walk or pose Man Wol might take within its opulent settings. Mid-morning or late afternoon helps avoid harsh shadows and heavy crowds, especially inside the resort’s stunning interiors.

FAQ

Is Incheon worth a day trip from Seoul?

Absolutely! Incheon is incredibly accessible from Seoul, making it a perfect destination for a day trip. With its unique blend of historical sites (Chinatown, Open Port Area), a futuristic smart city (Songdo), and numerous K-drama filming locations, it offers a diverse range of experiences that are distinct from Seoul. You can easily spend a full day exploring different facets of the city and its drama heritage.

How much time should I allocate for visiting Incheon K-drama locations?

To comfortably visit the locations mentioned (Jayu Park, Hanmi Bookstore, Songdo, Paradise City), you’ll need a full day, roughly 8-10 hours, including travel time from Seoul and between locations. If you want to dive deeper into one specific area like the Open Port or Songdo, or include an additional spot like Wolmido, you might consider an overnight stay to truly relax and explore, or simply focus on fewer locations for a more leisurely pace.

What’s the best way to get around Incheon?

Incheon boasts an excellent and efficient public transportation system. The Incheon Subway Line 1 is your best friend, connecting many key areas, including Incheon Station (for Jayu Park/Chinatown), Dongincheon Station (for Hanmi Bookstore), and Central Park Station (for Songdo). For Paradise City, the free Incheon Airport Maglev Line is incredibly convenient. Buses are also widely available for areas not directly served by the subway and are a great way to explore. A T-Money card is highly recommended for seamless and convenient travel across all public transport options.

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