KOREA

(Credit: ClipartKorea)

Jeju Island, one of South Korea’s most popular travel destinations, attracted 7 million foreign tourists in the first half of this year. Amid its unique volcanic landscape are secret spots visited by K-pop idols. Though not well-known tourist destinations, they are worth a visit for special and unique memories.

Hwanguchi Coast

(Credit: Naver Blog-gogodde)

(Stills from the drama “Castaway Diva”)

Hwanguchi Coast, in the southwest of Jeju Island, features a distinctive black sand beach surrounded by the magnificent cliffs of Sanbangsan Mountain, providing an awe-inspiring experience. This quiet and secluded spot has gained popularity after NewJeans filmed their “Bubble Gum” music video here. You can splash in the sea and blow bubbles just like NewJeans, capturing picture-perfect moments of youthful exuberance.

Address: Sagye-ri, Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주 서귀포시 안덕면 사계리)

Tip: You can easily find this location by searching for the café “ONE AND ONLY.” Walk along Jeju Olle Trail Route 10 to reach Yongmeorihaean Coast.

Dongneobeundeok (Jeju Olle Trail – Route 07)

(Credit: Korea Tourism Organization – Lee Beomsu)

(Credit: Getty Images Bank)

The Oedolgae Sea Stack, famous as a filming location for the iconic K-drama “Dae Jang Geum,” is a highlight on Jeju Olle Trail Route 7. The trail from here to Hwanguchi Coast is renowned for its stunning beauty, featuring rock formations created by volcanic eruptions 1.5 million years ago. Along the way, you’ll find a large hill called Dongneobeundeok, used for BTS’s “The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 2” album photoshoot. While the members posed as if running towards the sea from the cliff’s edge, be cautious as there are no safety railings. Instead, step back and enjoy the breathtaking view of the surrounding islands, especially during sunset.

Address: Cheonji-dong, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주 서귀포시 천지동)

Tip: You can easily find this location by searching for “Hill of Storms” on Google Maps. There is a parking lot for Oedolgae on Jeju Olle Trail Route 7 nearby, making it convenient for visitors.

BEECAVE

(Credit: OH MY GIRL OFFICIAL YOUTUBE CHANNEL)

(Credit: BEECAVE)

For fans of OH MY GIRL’s YooA and NCT’s Doyoung, visit Café BEECAVE, where their solo tracks “Bon voyage” and “Youth” were filmed. The cave in the café’s garden features a hole in the ceiling, creating a spotlight effect for your photos. Since the cave’s ceiling is low and the floor can be slippery, it’s advisable to wear the provided safety helmets. Besides the cave, the 23,140-square-meter flower garden, filled with unique objects like pianos and beds, is perfect for K-pop idol-worthy poses.

Address: 122 Dongbaek-ro, Jocheon-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주 제주시 조천읍 동백로 122)

Inquiries: +82-507-1410-8022

Operating Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.      

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Tip: You can rent the glass orb featured in the intro of Doyoung’s “Youth” music video at the café.

Hwansangsup Forest Gotjawal Park

(Credit: Hwansangsup Forest Gotjawal Park)

(Credit: Hwansangsup Forest Gotjawal Park)

Jeju Island’s volcanic nature makes it an unusual place for plant growth, yet it is home to unique primeval forests known as Gotjawal. These forests, with trees and vines growing over rocks, create a jungle-like atmosphere. A notable example is Hwansangsup Forest Gotjawal Park in Hangyeong-myeon, featured in BTS’s “The Most Beautiful Moment in Life, Part 2” album photos, f(x)’s “4 Walls” music video, and the teaser for AKMU’s first album. Instead of aimlessly searching for filming spots, take your time to enjoy the fresh air and explore leisurely. Participating in a 50-minute forest guide program can provide deeper insights into the lives of Jeju’s people living in harmony with nature.

Address: 594-1 Nokchabunjae-ro, Hangyeong-myeon, Jeju-si, Jeju-do (제주 제주시 한경면 녹차분재로 594-1)

Inquiries: +82-64-772-2488

Operating Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun 1 p.m.–5 p.m.

Website

Tip: To participate in a forest guide program, you need to make a reservation through Naver Booking or by phone. The standard program provides an English guidebook, while the private tour includes an English-speaking guide.

More info

• 1330 Korea Travel Helpline: +82-2-1330

• 1330 Text Chat: url.kr/PBeNi2

(Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Vietnamese, Thai, Indonesian)

* This column was last updated in July 2024, and therefore information may differ from what is presented here. We advise you to confirm details before visiting.

COPYRIGHTS ©KOREA TOURISM ORGANIZATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

www.visitkorea.or.kr

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