I, like many, first got into Korean culture through K-pop. Lauren introduced me to BTS and that gateway led me into so much more than I would have imagined—Koren dramas, Korean music as a whole, Korean culture, and of course Korean food! I am so thankful that BTS has expanded so many mindsets and exposed the world to the beauty of Korea. Because of Lauren and I’s bond over BTS, we plan to visit a few locations based on the group when we finally get to their homeland.
ARMY will recognize this bus stop on the cover of BTS’ album, You Never Walk Alone. The east coast city of Gangneung built a replica bus stop on its beach (Jumunjin). They did this specifically to serve those coming to see the BTS cover site, like me and Lauren plan to. It isn’t an actual bus stop, but serves for taking photos. Additionally, this beach is actually where a scene in Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, also known as Goblin, was filmed. I loved that drama, so it’s a bonus to have both filming locations in the same place.
I grew up in Florida, and so I’ve been to many beaches. I wonder how the Korean seaside would differ from those I grew up around. Is the ocean icy cold or lukewarm? Are there many shells? Is the sand soft or coarse? I can’t wait to find out for myself!
Kim Seokjin is well-known by ARMY for not only being worldwide handsome but also for loving food. His V-lives, titled “EatJin,” are watched by millions. This man knows how to chow down, so I entirely trust that this restaurant he co-owns with his brother is fantastic. Even though I plan to binge on as much Korean food as possible, I will make an exception with this Japanese restaurant.
According to reviews online, you can steam food fresh at your table. First, a server will bring out a pot of water that will be heated on your table’s electric stove. When it’s the right temperature, which normally only takes five minutes, you’ll be given wooden boxes of food to place on top. Out of these two boxes, the top contains thinly sliced meat: two kinds of beef and Jeju pork. The lower box holds vegetables like bok choy, potatoes, mushrooms, and root vegetables. Although there are other menu options, I would undoubtedly choose this one. I’ve never steamed anything fresh at a restaurant and think it would be a unique experience.
The environment in the restaurant seems minimalistic and clean-cut. The seating feels more private as each table is separated by dividers. You can also request a private room, if necessary.
Even if Jin didn’t own this restaurant, I’d probably give it a go! It looks amazing. However, there are a couple of things I’d likely have to figure out before going. First, I’ll need to get a reservation as it is pretty popular and will likely have to be booked in advance, especially since it only seems to open for dinner. Additionally, it appears that the menu is in Korean, and I’m still learning the language! Looking at the menu in my spare time might prove useful before this endeavor.
Would I be ARMY if I didn’t visit the headquarters for HYBE? A relatively new building to house Big Hit, this only opened in March of 2021. Here BTS practices, records, and conducts business. This is the mecca of BTS fandom.
Inside, you can visit a museum for a small fee. The museum has several exhibits, including some with large screens streaming music videos from HYBE artists, as well as artistic displays. It looks like an amazing experience, and I can already see myself wanting to visit more than once.
If I needed to save up my money for any one experience, it would be the HYBE gift shop. Though K-pop is gaining greater familiarity in America, the merchandise available is slim. I cannot imagine the thrill of seeing good quality BTS t-shirts, journals, etc. I plan to fully geek out and I know Lauren will be right there with me!
This café is located in Busan, which is Jimin’s hometown and is run by Mr.Park himself. Its interior has some interesting elements. With a fancy chandelier, but also pop art and industrial touches, it’s an interesting spot even if it wasn’t connected to BTS. There are nods to Jimin in the café, including a couple of his hats on display.
The menu seems great. Not only is there a good amount of coffee options, but the desserts also look so tasty! I’ve seen a few Instagram videos on the amazing cakes offered there, such as blueberry mousse or a colorful rainbow layered vanilla. One person bragged about getting MAGNATE’s green tea bingsu. I honestly didn’t know what it was until I researched it. It’s an elaborate dessert. In a bowl, it starts with sweet red bean, topped with green ice shavings, a few rice cakes, and big scoops of green tea ice cream and green tteok ice cream. I love anything green tea flavored so this is right up my alley and would be something special to try!
Something else that struck me about MAGNATE is the size of it. It seems rather spacious compared to the cafes I’ve seen in Korea. With great natural lighting and a cool environment, this would be a fantastic spot to stop after a day at the beach.
This was a recent addition to my top BTS spots. Samcheok beach was the shooting location for the “Butter” photo jackets. Featured in one of BTS’ behind the scenes videos, this place looks awesome. Korean beaches, in general, seem amazing, but seeing your favorite artists enjoying the seaside there definitely adds to the draw.
Located in Gangwon, when filming BTS raved over how amazing the ocean looked. J-Hope commented that it looked photo-shopped. And on film, it really does look that good! Suga commented that it was a great place to fish, and I take his suggestions very seriously. Suga even stated that he had camped there before. He really kept raving about the place, adding later that there is a lot of good food to eat. Say no more, Min Yoongi. I believe you.
Jin recommended coming to the filming site and playing volleyball. Jungkook commented, “Good sunlight and good views never fail you.” In fact, at the end of the video, BTS urged everyone to come visit. That’s all the incentive I need to come!
If I have the time and resources, I’d love to visit Jeju Island. Jeju is known for its amazing beaches and scenery. This café is something that would make my list even if it wasn’t previously owned by a relative of BTS member, Min Yoongi. The structure is unlike any I’ve seen before. With concrete support, this café uses nature to provide its design. With trees, rocks, and natural light, GONGBECH not only sports a unique feel but also sits directly on the beach. Additionally, they display art. According to their Instagram page, “GONGBECH is a space for art, culture and nature, located on the northeastern coast of Jeju. We present contemporary art and introduce new thoughts and lifestyles.”
This place feels trendy, inspirational, and totally one-of-a-kind. It’s the exact type of spot I’d be looking for whilst traveling. Why go to Starbucks when I can go to a cafe that only exists in one location globally?
I imagine I’d spend some time inside, but finish the rest of my drink outside. The location of the café itself is right on the water and provides fantastic views. I’m sure sipping a coffee or wine while watching the sunset would be a lovely way to wind down from a day at the beach.
Honestly, if I could only visit one of these six locations, I’d die a happy ARMY. These locations are spread out across the country, so I should be able to see at least a couple no matter which major city I travel to. I love that I could be outside catching rays on the beach or in the cool A/C at the HYBE building, both providing me with an opportunity to experience a place connected to BTS.
This country has so much to offer, BTS being one of many wonderful facets. I can’t wait to see some of these spots and see this amazing country.
