If you’re an international K-pop fan planning a trip to Seoul, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. You want to make the most of your time in the city, but you’re worried about missing out on unique experiences or falling into tourist traps.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
This curated list of must-do activities will ensure you make the most of your visit to the birthplace of K-pop.
So, let’s dive in and explore the top 8 things every K-pop fan in Seoul should do! Get ready for a fun and memorable trip that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the culture that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
1. Visit the K-Star Road
Gangnam, the district that gained worldwide recognition through PSY’s hit song “Gangnam Style,” is undeniably the birthplace of the Korean wave. Even before its global fame, Gangnam had been at the forefront of Korean trends, with more than half of the country’s entertainment companies located in the area.
The main road connecting Apgujeong Rodeo Station (exit 2) to the Cheongdam crossroads is also known as the K-Star Road. The establishment of this road took around two years and features GangnamDols, human-scale bear dolls with images of famous K-pop groups printed on them.
Here, can find 18 GangnamDols, including a 3-meter-tall PSY statue and dolls representing groups like Super Junior, EXO, Girl’s Generation, and BTS. The sculptures are placed along a 1 km stretch of the road, which is also home to several entertainment companies.
2. Shop for Merchandise
As a K-pop fan, buying merchandise like albums and photocards is a must, especially when visiting Korea. Merchandise and albums might be cheaper than in your home country, especially because you can skip the shipping fees.
Where To Shop K-Pop Merch In Seoul
Here are a few K-Pop merchandise shops in Seoul that I recommend checking out:
Kwangya is the official merchandise store run by SM Entertainment. Come here to buy merchandise, such as light sticks and albums, of your favorite SM artists, or just to enjoy the beautiful decorations.
Other popular stores for K-pop merchandise include Music Korea in Myeongdong, KTown4U inside the Coex Mall in Gangnam, and Kyobo Book Center for books and magazines related to K-Pop.
Here’s an insider tip: Want to shop for albums but are on a tight budget?
Check out the Aladin bookstores!
There are several branches across Seoul that sell second-hand K-Pop albums and even photo cards.
The albums are usually in very good condition, as fans usually buy several copies of the same album to get a better chance of getting into fan events. After the raffle for those events are over, many fans sell the album copies they don’t need, and Aladin resells them for a fraction of the original price.
Shopping for K-pop merchandise in Seoul is an exciting experience. Various options are available to suit different budgets and interests. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home unique souvenirs and support your favorite artists during your visit!
3. Visit an Entertainment Company Building
All major K-pop entertainment companies, such as SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment), have their headquarters in Seoul. Visiting these buildings is a popular activity for K-pop fans traveling to the city.
While you can take pictures outside these buildings, fans are generally not allowed inside as the artists enter through underground parking lots. However, the surrounding areas often have K-pop themed cafes, shops, and exhibitions that fans can visit.
- SM Entertainment‘s new building is located in Seongsu-dong near Seoul Forest Park. Their previous SMTOWN museum and cafe have closed.
- JYP Entertainment is located in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam. Nearby is “JYP Street” with JYP-owned shops and cafes.
- YG Entertainment is in Mapo-gu near Hongdae. The SamE Cafe run by YG is right across from their building.
- HYBE‘s headquarters, home to BTS and other artists, is in Yongsan-gu.
Keep in mind: It’s advised to only pass by the buildings and be respectful, as overcrowding by fans can become a real issue.
4. Check Out the Handprints at Lotte Star Avenue
Lotte Star Avenue is a K-pop-themed exhibition space located inside Lotte Duty-Free stores. It features displays and interactive experiences related to popular Korean celebrities and idol groups, such as Super Junior, Aespa, and Stray Kids.
This unique attraction allows fans to get up close and personal with their favorite stars through handprints, and photo zones. It’s a must-visit spot for K-pop stans!
Lotte Star Avenue is located inside the Lotte Duty-Free Main Store in Myeongdong. It’s easily accessible by taking the subway to Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2) or Myeongdong Station (Line 4).
5. Join a K-Pop Dance Class
For K-pop fans who want to take their love for the genre to the next level, joining a dance class at a renowned studio is an unforgettable experience.
An example of dance studios in Seoul offering classes is 1Million Dance Studio.
Located in the heart of Seoul, 1Million Dance Studio has gained international recognition for its top-tier instructors, many of whom are choreographers for popular K-pop artists. The studio offers a variety of classes suitable for different skill levels, making it accessible for both beginners and advanced dancers.
You can also book foreigner-friendly dance classes through platforms like GetYourGuide*.
Joining a class at a dance studio in Seoul not only allows you to learn from skilled instructors but also offers the opportunity to connect with fellow K-pop fans from around the world.
Tips for making the most of your experience:
- Book your class in advance to secure your spot, as popular classes tend to fill up quickly.
- Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the studio and warm up before class.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek instructor guidance; they are there to help you improve.
- Bring a water bottle and a towel, as the classes can be intense, and you’ll want to stay hydrated.
- Have fun and embrace the challenge of learning new choreography! Remember, everyone starts somewhere.
6. Visit a K-Pop Music Show
Attending a live K-pop music show recording is on the bucket list of many fans visiting Seoul. These weekly shows, hosted by various television networks, feature live performances by popular K-pop artists promoting their latest releases.
Some of the most popular music shows include:
- M Countdown (Mnet)
- Music Bank (KBS)
- Show Champion (MBC)
- Inkigayo (SBS)
While admission to these recordings is usually free, securing a spot can be challenging, especially for popular groups. Fans often need to be part of an artist’s official fan club or meet certain requirements, such as owning albums or merchandise, to have a chance at attending.
For those unable to secure official tickets, there are still ways to experience the excitement of a music show recording:
- Join a guided tour package with guaranteed admission to a show like SBS The Show. These tours can be pricey but offer a hassle-free experience. You can book these tours through platforms like Trazy and Creatrip.
- Try your luck by arriving early at the broadcast venues to catch a glimpse of idols during their pre-recording arrivals. This requires dedication and patience but can result in memorable fan-idol interactions.
- Some shows, like SBS Inkigayo, offer a random lottery system through a mobile app where you can apply for a chance to win tickets. Keep an eye out for these opportunities and submit your application as directed.
If you manage to attend a music show recording, here’s what you can expect:
- Multiple artists performing their latest title tracks and sometimes special stages
- Fan chants and cheers fill the studio, creating an electric atmosphere
- Opportunities to interact with idols through post-recording high-touch events or giveaways by staff members
- A unique behind-the-scenes look at the production of a K-pop music show
In May 2023, I was lucky enough to attend a recording of Music Bank to see Seventeen. Witnessing my favorite artists’ performances up close and feeling the energy of the K-pop industry firsthand was truly an unforgettable experience.
With some planning and some luck, you can make this dream a reality during your visit to Seoul!
7. Join a K-Pop Concert
Experiencing a live K-pop concert in Seoul is the ultimate dream for many fans. The energy, the music, and the connection with your favorite artists create an unforgettable memory. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your K-pop concert experience in Seoul.
Getting Tickets
The first step to attending a K-pop concert is securing tickets. Keep an eye on ticketing sites like Yes24, Interpark, and Melon Ticket for concert announcements and ticket sales. Be prepared to act fast, as tickets often sell out within minutes (or even seconds), especially for popular groups.
If you’re a fan of a major K-pop act, consider joining their official fan club to access pre-sale tickets or enter ticket raffles and lotteries. This can significantly increase your chances of getting tickets.
Concert Day
On the day of the concert, arrive early to account for long lines at the venue entrance and security checks. Bring your printed ticket and passport for identification.
To enhance your concert experience, consider purchasing the group’s official light stick if available. These light sticks create a beautiful, cohesive look during the performances and make you feel more connected to the artists and fellow fans.
Be prepared for crowds and potential delays when leaving the venue and using public transportation after the concert. Plan your route in advance and allow extra time to ensure a smooth journey back to your accommodation.
Venues
K-pop concerts in Seoul are held at various venues depending on the group’s popularity and the scale of the event. Major concerts often take place at large stadiums like Gocheok Sky Dome, KSPO Dome (Olympic Park), or Jamsil Indoor Stadium. Smaller groups or solo acts may perform at university auditoriums or theaters like Yonsei or Sogang University.
Keep an eye out for new venues like Inspire Arena at Incheon’s Mohegan Inspire Resort, which are starting to host major K-pop concerts and music shows.
8. Visit a K-Pop Pop-Up Store
K-pop pop-up stores have become increasingly popular in Seoul, allowing fans to immerse themselves in their favorite group’s latest concept and merchandise. These temporary stores are often tied to a specific album release or anniversary and feature exclusive items that can only be purchased during the limited run.
But K-pop pop-up stores are more than just a merchandise store. They combine exclusive merchandise, themed food and beverages, photo zones, and interactive displays to create a unique, multisensory experience for fans.
To stay updated on upcoming pop-up stores, keep an eye on your favorite group’s official social media channels. Some key locations to watch out for include Gangnam, Seongsu, and Hongdae.
When visiting a K-pop pop-up store, be prepared for potential crowds and long queues, especially for popular groups. Arrive early and be patient, as the experience of shopping for exclusive merchandise and immersing yourself in your favorite group’s concept is well worth the wait.
Conclusion
Exploring Seoul as a K-pop fan is an unforgettable adventure filled with unique experiences and opportunities to connect with your favorite artists and fellow fans.
I hope that this blog article will help you navigate the city with confidence and create lasting memories that will deepen your connection to the world of K-pop.
Wishing you a wonderful time in Seoul and safe travels!
P.S.: Click here for an interactive map with over 30 K-pop related locations in Seoul!
Continue reading:
- The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To Korean Convenience Stores
- 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Traveling To South Korea
- Top 10 Things To Do As A Solo Traveler In Seoul
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