KPop Demon Hunters, KDH for short, has taken the world by storm with its catchy songs, beloved characters, and relatable nods to modern K-pop fan culture. On top of that, the film is packed with references to Seoul – the city where the story unfolds.
The hit Netflix film recreates many iconic spots around the city, all of which you can visit IRL. If you’re planning a trip to Korea, here are some places featured in KPop Demon Hunters that you can check out.
Note: This article contains spoilers for KPop Demon Hunters.
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The creators of KPop Demon Hunters make full use of Seoul’s urban landscape, which seamlessly blends modern architecture with historical landmarks and traditional Korean designs. From ancient temples to contemporary cultural hubs, the film showcases these locations to capture the vibrancy and unique character of Seoul through animation.
Bukchon Hanok Village is a neighbourhood in the Jongno district with rows of well-preserved traditional Korean homes known as hanok. You can recognise them from the unique rooftop designs. These roofs have been reinforced with modern materials, but most of the overall structure remains intact.
PSA: Residents live here, so remember to be mindful as you walk around.
Image adapted from: Netflix Family via YouTube
These stunning streets and rooftops were the stage for Rumi and Jinu’s duet, Free. So, if you’re looking for a nice and romantic spot to go on a stroll, consider visiting this village.
Image credit: Nicolas Joaquin Rojas via Google Maps
Similar to East Nanjing Road in Shanghai, Myeongdong Shopping Street is a tourist-friendly hub where you can find all kinds of local and international brands to shop. You’ll also be treated to vibrant colours which would fit beautifully into your IG feed.
As it is a tourist destination, you can expect the merchandise here to be significantly pricier, so come prepared.
In KPop Demon Hunters, this is where Rumi, Mira, and Zoey first meet the Saja Boys – and where the fan-favourite Soda Pop performance takes place. It also makes a great backdrop for filming your own TikTok dances to the song.
Image adapted from: Klook
The film incorporates a lot of historical Korean elements, especially through the origin story of the hunters and Jinu. Key components of these elements are the clothing and locations portrayed through the various flashbacks, and Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most prominently featured historical relics.
It was built in 1395 and housed the kings of the Joseon dynasty. In the film, the palace plays a major part in Jinu’s backstory, and we get to see it in all its glory during a flashback.
Image credit: IMDb
You can visit this historical landmark in real life. It’s located in the Jongno district in Seoul, and you can rent a traditional hanbok to wear as you explore the grounds. You can find these rental places around the palace and online.
For the history buffs, check out the experience packages on platforms like Klook, which include a guided tour of the palace.
Book a tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace (S$15.55).
Image adapted from: Trip.com, Fandom
Many photos of Seoul’s skyline feature a prominent tower in the background – that is N Seoul Tower, AKA Namsan Tower. You can spot this landmark in the final sequence in What It Sounds Like when Huntrix successfully seals the honmoon over Seoul.
Image credit: Reddit
When visiting Seoul, you’ll need to take a cable car to get up to the tower. Some attractions you can explore include the observatory – which features a Digital Telescope offering panoramic views of the city’s skyline – and the Love Locks walls, where you can leave behind a padlock as a symbol of love.
Get tickets to N Seoul Tower (S$13.35).
Hardcore Rujinu shippers will remember the scene where Rumi gives Jinu the Korean Chrysanthemum Knot bracelet. In the background, the unique structure with elevated tiers actually exists IRL – it’s a recreation of the Seoul City Wall, which forms a trail through Naksan Park.
Treat yourself to the gorgeous views of Seoul’s skyline as you stroll along the trail. Here, you’ll see a striking contrast between the city’s traditional architecture and its modern urban landscape.
Image credit: James Amrein via Google Maps
Another location that is featured in KPop Demon Hunters is the Seoul Olympic Stadium – a popular venue that has hosted concerts by the biggest names in K-pop, including BTS and EXO. Other recognisable names that have performed there are Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars.
Image credit: IMDb
Huntrix seems to have the same level of star power as these huge names in the KDH universe, since they also get to perform at this iconic venue. During the How It’s Done sequence, we even get a cool bird’s-eye view of the venue from Huntrix’s plane.
Later in the film, you’ll get a closer look at the venue from the outside, during the scene where Rumi runs past it in a deeply emotional moment.
Remember that giant billboard where the 3D tiger jumps out at passersby? Korea has one too. COEX K-POP Square, a popular spot in Seoul’s Gangnam district, features its own giant LED display that regularly showcases K-pop and Hallyu – Korean content which includes K-dramas and movies – promos, and ads.
In KPop Demon Hunters, the LED display appears during Golden, when a group of pedestrians can be seen watching the music video.
Image credit: hi conan via Google Maps
Cheongdam Bridge connects the Gwangjin and Gangnam districts, which you can cross using the Line 7 train of the Seoul subway. As you travel across the bridge, you’ll be treated to a beautiful view of the Han River.
You can see Cheongdam Bridge during the epic battle between Huntrix and the horde of demons, which also features snippets from Takedown.
These spots featured in KPop Demon Hunters make great additions to your Korea itinerary. Whether you’re travelling with friends or planning a family trip, these places in Seoul are sure to create some fun moments along the way, especially for fans of the film.
For more Korea reads:
Cover image adapted from: Trip.com, Arden Cho via Facebook, Sony Pictures Animation & Netflix Family via YouTube
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