2026 Purple Special: [Seoul/Busan] The 7 Icons' Ultimate Pilgrimage (Jumunjin Bus Stop, Daejanggeum Park, Hometown Cafe)

Hakdong Park is significant for K-pop fans as it's nestled in a neighborhood historically home to many entertainment agencies, including some of the biggest. Trainees and idols frequented the area, making it a place where fans hope to feel closer to their favorite stars' early journeys. It symbolizes the starting point for many successful K-pop careers, offering a nostalgic look into the industry's roots.

Auntie Restaurant offers an authentic Korean dining experience, specializing in home-style dishes. It's renowned for being a frequent haunt for K-pop idols and celebrities, attracting fans eager to dine in the same spots as their favorite stars. Visitors can enjoy delicious, comforting meals in a casual setting while soaking in the unique ambiance created by its famous clientele.

Yongin Daejanggeum Park is Korea's largest historical drama film set. Numerous iconic K-dramas have been filmed here, including "Dae Jang Geum," "Moon Embracing the Sun," "Kingdom," and "Scarlet Heart Ryeo." Its meticulously recreated traditional Korean architecture also makes it a popular location for K-pop music videos, variety shows, and photo shoots, showcasing historical aesthetics.

Beyond these specific locations, Seoul boasts several vibrant K-pop hotspots. The Gangnam District, especially Apgujeong Rodeo and Cheongdam-dong, is known for its entertainment agencies, idol-frequented cafes, and fashion boutiques. Hongdae and Myeongdong also offer K-pop merchandise stores, fan-focused events, and street performances, providing diverse ways to experience idol culture.

Visitors can immerse themselves by exploring the historical K-pop agency surroundings of Hakdong Park, imagining the early days of their favorite idols. At Auntie Restaurant, dining in the same space as celebrities offers a direct connection. Fans often take photos at these significant spots, try dishes known to be celebrity favorites, and absorb the atmosphere where idol culture flourished.

To fully explore Yongin Daejanggeum Park, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes as it's a large outdoor set requiring significant walking. Visitors can wander through various themed zones, from royal palaces to traditional villages, recognizing scenes from popular K-dramas and K-pop content. Following a map to pinpoint specific filming locations or joining a guided tour can enhance the experience.

For these visits, comfortable footwear is essential, especially for Yongin Daejanggeum Park's extensive grounds. Checking opening hours and transportation routes beforehand is advisable, as locations can have varied accessibility. Consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience at each K-pop and K-drama landmark.

Hakdong Park and its surrounding area hold historical significance for BTS. Before their debut, BTS members were known to frequent cafes and practice rooms in this vicinity, making it a pilgrimage site for ARMYs. While specific "filming steps" might refer to broader K-pop activities, the area around Hakdong Park offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of many idols, including BTS, during their formative years.