Top Places to Spot K-Pop and K-Drama Stars in Seoul
Where to Find Your Favorite Idol in Seoul?
Few things speak more about Seoul’s culture than the sensational presence of K-pop stars and K-drama celebrities. For fans, one of the best thrills of visiting the city is the chance to catch a glimpse of their favorite idols, or better yet, get a photo with them to remember for a lifetime. While such luxuries are never guaranteed, certain neighborhoods and landmarks will help you get the best shot.
Start with the Gangnam neighborhood, home to the headquarters of entertainment giants, where celebrities visit on a regular basis. Try the upscale Cheongdam-dong, where many famous figures own expensive apartments. Or, for a more up-and-coming scene, head to the Hongdae area, where many future stars are waiting to be discovered.
1. Apgujeong Rodeo Street
Fashion and entertainment hub with celebrity appearances on a daily basis
Good for: Shoppers, Luxury
Apgujeong Rodeo Street, located in the upscale Apgujeong-dong of Gangnam District, is an iconic Korean fashion landmark. Lined by designer boutiques, trendy cafes, and buzzing nightclubs, it is the favorite place of many K-pop stars to shop, dine, or simply enjoy the stylish atmosphere.
What makes celebrity encounters even more likely on this street are the many entertainment companies calling it home. Major K-pop agencies such as SM Entertainment, JYP, and Cube all hold their headquarters here, and it’s not uncommon to catch sight of their artists entering or leaving the buildings. In fact, plan ahead of time and get there early, as there are frequently visitors circling those buildings for the exact same purpose.
Apgujeong Rodeo Street
2. K-Star Road
High likelihood of a chance encounter at your idol’s favorite cafe
Good for: Photo, Shoppers
K-Star Road, as its name suggests, is a landmark dedicated to Korea’s beloved pop culture. Stretching over 0.5 miles, this walkable road showcases 17 life-sized GangnamDols (Gangnam Idols), each one representing a famous K-pop group. You won’t miss the towering, almost 10-foot-tall PSY GangnamDol, an icon that marks the beginning of the route.
K-Star Road, as its name suggests, is a landmark dedicated to Korea’s beloved pop culture. Stretching over 0.5 miles, this walkable road showcases 17 life-sized GangnamDols (Gangnam Idols), each one representing a famous K-pop group. You won’t miss the towering, almost 10-ft-tall PSY GangnamDol, an icon that marks the beginning of the route.
K-Star Road
3. Cheongdam neighborhood
Upscale neighborhood that many stars and famous figures call home
Good for: Nightlife, Shoppers
The upscale neighborhood of Cheongdam-dong is marked by luxury boutiques, artful architecture, and a refined, high-society vibe. Widely regarded as one of Korea’s most elite neighborhoods, also named “South Korea’s Beverly Hills,” it’s no surprise that many K-pop stars have chosen a luxury apartment here as their residence.
Chances of happening upon a celebrity are high in this area, as you might spot them at their favorite restaurants or simply traveling to and from their homes. Aside from looking out for them, you might also come across a special event once in a while. The area has previously hosted scenes for the Korean drama Cheongdam-dong Alice, as well as multiple music videos, so be sure to have your camera ready.
Cheongdam neighborhood
4. Itaewon neighborhood
Comes with an international flair that draws many idols’ attention
Good for: Food, Nightlife
Itaewon is one of Seoul’s most famous and diverse neighborhoods. Featuring edgy boutique shops, bars, and a vibrant collection of clubs and lounges, it is a popular place for both locals and visitors to hang out. Naturally, that popularity means it’s highly likely for you to run into A-list stars on the street.
Some upscale clubs are even owned or co-owned by celebrities, making the area a go-to destination for star sightings. Additionally, the location itself holds a special meaning for fans of the hit K-drama Itaewon Class, which was filmed right at the heart of this neighborhood. Take your time to tour the filming location of your favorite scenes and experience its true story behind the camera lenses for yourself.
Itaewon neighborhood
5. Hongdae neighborhood
Training ground for future celebrities, waiting for you to discover
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Hongdae, short for Hongik Daehak or Hongik University area, is one of the liveliest cultural hubs in Seoul. Centered around a university renowned for its art programs, it is a natural haven for live clubs, street performances, and art shows, with an iconic “underground” vibe that sets itself apart from the more polished Gangnam.
Many K-pop idols spent time in this area before their official debut, honing their craft with various performance crews. Established artists can sometimes be spotted too, either enjoying a coffee or revisiting the lifestyle of their past. Occasionally, you’ll also find K-pop music videos being filmed here to capture its colorful vibe, so keep an eye out for someone famous showing up for a role.
Hongdae neighborhood
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