Liking K-Pop or K-Dramas can be an amazing way to discover a whole new side of Korean culture, history, and heritage. ? And what better way to celebrate your K-Pop stars than by visiting some of the places they've been to, or that are dedicated to them!
Credit: Giphy
Seoul isn't an extremely big city but with so many K-Pop groups and so little time, how can you pack your itinerary with visits to your stars' favourite spots? This 5D4N itinerary will help you do just that, combining classic attractions with places K-Pop fans will love! ?
Day 1: K-Star Road, SMTOWN Coex, LINE Friends Store
Check into your accommodation- Once you arrive in Incheon airport, travel to Seoul and check in to your accommodation.
- Seoul has options suitable for every budget, and each neighbourhood has its own distinct character that will leave you charmed. For some travel inspo, check out this list of 12 accommodations (under USD80/night) near halal eateries!
- For first-time visitors, we recommend Myeongdong or Hongdae, which are full of shopping streets, chic cafés, and are easily accessible to major attractions. If you're a foodie who can't wait to eat, you can also look for a place in Itaewon - that's where Seoul Central Mosque is located and you'll find lots of Muslim-owned or halal eateries there!
- Start your Seoul search with a true classic: K-Star Road in Apgujeong. Located near the high-end Gangnam district, Apgujeong is also known for being an entertainment district as it's where many K-Pop entertainment companies' headquarter buildings are.
- To honour this, K-Star Road is lined with bear sculptures (called 'GangnamDol' - Gangnam + Idol + Doll) representing some of the most iconic K-Pop groups of all time including SHINee, BTS, B1A4, and Super Junior. K-Star Road was one of the first K-Pop-specific attractions to pop up in Seoul during the Hallyu wave and it's a must-visit attraction for any fan!
- P.S. If you're in the area, look out for the company buildings of JYP and FNC Entertainment! Fans are welcome to snap a photo with the building exteriors but do avoid lingering for too long!
- K-Star Road features iconic groups from a variety of companies, but if you're a fan of EXO, SHINee, SNSD, NCT or Super Junior then you'll want to visit SMTOWN Coex Artium to really get up close with your favourites!
- SMTOWN Coex Artium is a mini theme park dedicated to SM Entertainment's groups and superstars, and consists of 6 storeys of shopping, shows, and even a museum all about SM Ent.
- Start on 3F, which displays the history and growth of SM. Some of the exhibits will even bring you up close with the artists' creative process as well as brings you up close with the artists' creative process and show you some exclusive never-before-seen photos!
- To get your hands on their latest merchandise, move onto the Stores on 1F (which includes some exclusive merchandise) and 4F (which includes collaborations with other brands). ?
- If you have time to spare, get a ticket to what's showing at the Theatre. Shows include hologram projections of SM artistes such as TVXQ, and even screenings of recent concerts such as Red Velvet's REDMARE and EXO's EXO PLANET #4 – The EℓyXiOn! ? Make sure to check out their schedule to see what's on during your visit.
- Time for lunch at Itaewon, Seoul’s Muslim neighbourhood where you’ll find plenty of halal eateries! Even though Itaewon now hosts many halal eateries, you've got to try out Murree which was the first-ever restaurant in Seoul to serve halal Korean cuisine back in 2008.
- Though often overshadowed by more prominent halal Korean restaurants in Seoul, we were pleased to find out that the Korean menu here is really extensive. From the usual favourites like bulgogi and bibimbap to dakdoritang (spicy chicken stew), dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), galbitang (short beef ribs soup), kimchi jjiggae and more, there’s something for everyone at Murree!
- We managed to speak to the Chef and turns out, he’s a Sri Lankan who’s been in Korea for years and he learnt to cook Korean cuisine from a Korean Chef. We were impressed that he could speak Korean so fluently!
- The main highlight was definitely the cheese dakgalbi - the cheese was so stretchy and the chicken dakgalbi was super savoury! ?As it’s hard to find halal dakgalbi in Seoul, make sure you grab the chance to try this! The dakgalbi is very spicy but luckily, the cheese balances out the flavours. As the portions are very big, we recommend sharing your dishes.
- Since you're already in Itaewon, pop over to visit the super popular LINE Friends Store! Here's where you can get plushies, stationery, and even clothing of LINE characters such as Brown, Sally, and Cony.
- Did you know that the Itaewon outlet is actually the global flagship store and is the largest store in the world? ? If you can't find what you're looking for here don't worry because there are several other LINE Friends stores across Seoul!
- Fans of BTS can also get their hands on some BT21 products too! ? In fact almost all LINE Friends stores now have at least 1 floor dedicated just to the Universal Superstars BT21, so keep your eyes peeled for any seasonal merchandise while you're there. The floor is also decorated with standees of the characters and behind-the-scenes looks at early sketches.
- There is also a cafe on the 3rd floor that features themed drinks and snacks. Do note that we were unable to confirm the origins of any ingredients used, and we recommend you dine at your own discretion.
- From the LINE Friends store, cross the road back towards Itaewon station and you'll find an outlet of the internationally famous Halal Guys!
- Founded in New York City, Halal Guys serves 'halal snack packs' consisting of kebab meat, vegetables, and rice. They also have a wrap version - and just fries topped with their signature sauces if you're only looking for a snack!
- Their servings here are very generous but definitely worth it after a day of exploring and shopping. ?
Day 2: Nami Island, Myeongdong
Nami Island
- Seoul might be the big bustling city but there are amazing places to visit for a day trip too! Nami Island is definitely one of those places you must visit - especially if you're a fan of K-Dramas. First made famous in Winter Sonata, the island's beautiful sceneries and lush orchards have since appeared in High School King and Rosy Lovers too. ?
- The island is beautiful year-round, with each season bringing its own unique spread of blossoms and blooms. Recreate your own photoshoot with your friends, or just spend a day enjoying the beautiful views.
- The Metasequoia Lane is where you should head to if you want to recreate your own Winter Sonata, but make sure to check out what else to do around the island too with our Muslim-friendly guide!
- Did you know that Nami Island even has a halal-certified restaurant on the island itself? Asian Family Restaurant Dongmun has Korean and Southeast Asian dishes so whether you're craving Jajangmyeon (Black bean sauce noodles with beef), Spicy Dakgalbi (Grilled Chicken) or Nasi Goreng you'll leave the restaurant feeling full and satisfied!
- There's also a prayer room available so you don't have to worry about doing your prayers during this day trip. ?
- After an afternoon at Nami Island, take the shuttle bus back to Seoul and alight at Myeongdong. The shuttle bus requires 2 months advanced booking so don't forget to secure your seat!
- Myeongdong is maybe the neighbourhood all visitors to Seoul should make a point to visit. One of the major shopping districts of the city, here's where you'll find everything from familiar international brands to genuine vintage shops to small independent boutiques.
- There are also many street food stalls in Myeongdong, but do note that there are currently no halal-certified stalls. While some stalls might sell seafood, we are unable to confirm the origin of added ingredients such as cheese (which might contain animal-based rennet) or bread or pastries (which might contain shortening or lard). We recommend you dine at your own discretion.
- Not forgetting, you'll also find lots of cosmetic shops that have tie-ins with K-Pop groups, such as Innisfree, VT, The Face Shop, and Nature Republic! ? Buruttrak is famous for selling K-Pop albums as well as merchandise such as posters and stickers. If you're looking for good quality items, you definitely have to make a stop here to check it out.
- If your wallet isn't quite ready to handle the prices of official merchandise, don't worry because the Myeongdong Underground Shopping Centre also has several stalls that sell unofficial memorabilia!
- Travel card stickers, calendars, mini posters, badges, buttons - you'll find all of it here! ?Many of them are unofficial, but with such simple items they can last for a surprisingly long time.
- There are some shops that also stock bootleg versions of official merchandise (such as BT21 dolls) so do keep a discerning eye out and try to avoid anything that seems real but is way cheaper than the market price. ? While it's fun to be able to buy merchandise of your idols, it's not so fun when these bootleg items begin to fall apart very quickly.
- End your day with yummy Korean cuisine at Busan Jib, a cosy eatery tucked in an alley in Myeongdong. ? Our favourite dishes when we visited were the Spicy Seafood Stew (there’s even a small crab!), Chilli Squid, and Seafood Jeon (Pancake)!
Day 3: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Running Man Experience, N Seoul Tower
Gyeongbokgung Palace
- Live out your K-Drama dreams at Gyeongbokgung Palace, the grandest and most famous palace in Seoul. You can even catch the Royal Guard-Changing Ceremony that happens at 10AM and 2PM (Wed-Mon) before exploring the palace grounds. The sprawling grounds and spacious buildings have been preserved for centuries from 1395 till today!
- We recommend visiting the Throne Hall Compound to get a glimpse of the grand complex where King Sejong held sessions with his ministers, and the Gyeonghoeru Pavillion that’s situated on a pond.
- #HHWT Tip: If you’re planning to visit other palaces in Seoul during your trip, it's more worth it to purchase the Combination Ticket for KRW10,000 that will allow you admission to each of the 5 palaces.
- Continuing on your royal tour of Seoul, drop by Bukchon Hanok Village which is just a short walk away. This area used to be a traditional residential area of nobility during the Joseon period and dates back to the 14th century. 'Hanoks' are the traditional Korean houses in these neighbourhoods, and Bukchon is the most well-known of the Hanok Villages.
- Part of the fun is getting lost in the tiny alleys as you admire the intricate tiled roofs, and the small cafés, museums, and art shops lining the streets. ☺️ It's a charming blend of the old and the new, and really shows you how dynamic Seoul is.
- P.S. Check out day 6 of our 6D5N Seoul-Incheon-Gyeonggi-do Itinerary to find out more about an amazing tea therapy café you can find in Bukchon Hanok Village!
- Stop for lunch at Osegyehyang in the nearby neighbourhood of Insadong. Osegyehyang is a vegan and alcohol-free restaurant tucked away in Insadong’s streets – the perfect spot to try a meat-free twist on some Korean dishes!
- Vegan or meat-free eateries are increasingly easy to find in Seoul, selling not just traditional temple foods but a variety of local and fusion cuisine. At Osegyehyang you can even try dishes such as dumplings, hotpots, and cutlets here that are usually not Muslim-friendly, and if you buy a rice set it’ll come with an amazing 5 types of side dishes such as kimchi!
- Heard of the 'Running Man' variety show? Insadong has a Running Man Thematic Experience Centre where you can become a Running Man yourself by completing a variety of heart-racing activities to collect R-points!
- P.S. The activities are quite tiring so we only recommend this if you feel fit and ready for them. If you prefer a more relaxed time in Insadong, you can enjoy walking down the streets of this chic neighbourhood that blends a traditional atmosphere and artsy vibes - or come on a weekend when the neighbourhood goes car-free for street fairs selling all kinds of handmade goods! ?
- Another Seoul landmark you can't miss is the Namsan (or N Seoul) Tower. The tower is a popular sight in K-Pop videos and K-Dramas, and groups such as NCT have visited the tower for variety shows.
- Apart from catching a bird's eye view of the city, you can also head to the Hanbok Culture Experience Center located at B1F of N Seoul Tower to try on authentic Korean hanbok.
- What we loved about the Center was the extensive variety of hanbok that they had - you could dress up as a King, a guard, a Queen, a palace maid and so on! Not to forget the wide selection of ornaments too, especially for women’s hanbok.
- There were also multiple backdrops in the centre itself such as the King’s phoenix throne room, the Queen’s quarters and various houses of noblemen. It felt like we were on the set of a Korean historical drama!
- End your day at Kampungku, located nearby in Myeongdong. Kampungku is a favourite amongst Muslim travellers for their Korean fried chicken!
- We ordered the crunchy chicken and 2 types of yangnyeom (sweet and spicy chicken). Though the yangnyeom chicken was coated in sauce, we could still taste the crunchiness - this is definitely one of the best Korean fried chicken we’ve ever tasted!
- Besides the fried chicken, other dishes we really enjoyed were the bibimbap, japchae and bulgogi with rice. They also serve Korean Army Stew if you want something to share with your travel buddies.
- #HHWT Tip: The Kampungku Mart is also next door and it's stocked with lots of halal ingredients and groceries! If your accommodations has a kitchen or cooking facilities you can stop by here for some ingredients to prepare simple, affordable meals.
Day 4: Daeo Bookstore, Ewha Womans University, Hongdae
Daeo Bookstore- For day 4 we'll be exploring some Insta-worthy shots around the city - starting with Daeo Bookstore near Gyeongbokgung Palace! BTS fans will recognize this as a bookstore visited by RM/Namjoon, and it's become a popular IG spot since.
- The bookstore's haphazard-like arrangement of its books give it a rustic feel, and its vintage interior feels like you're stepping into a time decades ago. Do note that you'll have to buy a drink to enter the interior part of the bookstore!
- Next up, take a nice stroll around the Ewha Womans University campus. With beautifully curated gardens, sprawling green spaces and neoclassical buildings, the gorgeous complex is an attraction on its own.
- There are many spots for photo opportunities too! Make sure you head to the famous steps and walkway to snap a photo, or catch the classic architecture of the buildings. ?
- For more IG-worthy spots, check out these 12 places in Seoul to up your IG feed!
- Take a break for lunch at this fairly new halal restaurant in the popular neighbourhood of Hongdae! Agak Agak is actually run by a Malaysian restauranteur and its menu consists of classic Malaysian dishes with a slight twist!
- Nasi Lemak, Satay, and Epok Epok are all on the menu here. Perfect if you're feeling a little homesick. ?
- After lunch it's finally time to explore Hongdae Shopping Street. Standing for the short form of ‘Hongik University’ this university district is full of hip and affordable bargains, trendy cafes, and street performers such as dancers and buskers showing off their talents.
- Since it's a university town, the prices at Hongdae don't tend to be too expensive and the clothing also usually keeps up with the latest trends!
- Hongdae is also home to many cafés, but do note that there are not many halal options available. There are some cafés that serve only coffee and/or desserts or have vegan/vegetarian options but we recommend you check with the staff before ordering and dine at your own discretion. For dinner options, you can head to the Halal Guys outlet located at 서울 마포구 양화로 161 03995, EXIT MALL 3F, 홍대입구역 2번출그 next to Hongik University station Exit 2.
- If you stay around Hongdae until nightfall, you'll definitely catch some buskers or late-night performers showing off their talents on the streets.
- Many performers showcase their own versions of hit K-Pop songs and dances, and some of them are even popular enough to have a small following on social media. ? It's definitely worth staying for a while to see what the different acts are like - who knows, you might be watching the next big superstar!
Day 5: Cheonggyecheon, Itaewon
Cheonggyecheon- For your last day in Seoul, take it easy by enjoying a leisurely walk down the Cheonggyecheon stream. This manmade stream is a popular recreational spot and is lined with shops, walkways, and greenery. In the summer (or any time year round when the weather feels just right), you'll find locals and visitors alike dipping their feet in the cool water!
- You can also take a stroll down Seoullo 7017, a series of walkways near Seoul station with historic buildings dessert cafés nearby. There are also many dedicated green spaces along Seoullo 7017, and after a busy week rushing around the city it's a great place to just sit down and unwind. ☺️
- Ever dreamt of holding hands with your idols, or just meeting them up close? LOTTE Star Avenue might be the closest you'll get! ? This street is lined with handprints from members of groups including BTS, EXO, Twice, Stray Kids and more.
- If your idol has featured on an advertisement for LOTTE Duty Free, chances are you'll find their handprints as well as promotional videos here!
- The avenue also connects you to the humungous LOTTE Department Store so it's perfect if you've still got souvenirs to buy. ?
- Grab one final lunch at Itaewon before heading to the airport before your flight home. You'll be spoilt for choice here, but we recommend trying out Makan Halal Restaurant for some halal authentic Korean dishes.
- Their Jjajangmyeon (Black bean noodles) is definitely a favourite, but the Dakdoritang (spicy braised chicken stew) will leave your mouth burning with that unique Korean-style spiciness!
- Pay a visit to Seoul's one and only mosque to end your trip!
- The mosque is one of the central community hubs for Muslims based in Seoul, and the premises can get super full on Fridays and during Islamic holidays such as Eid.
- It's definitely worth a visit and if you manage to catch a sermon in Korea it'll really be a great reminder of how diverse yet vibrant the local Muslim community is. ?
