KPop Demon Hunters: A Guide to Seoul's Real Filming Locations

About This Guide

Seoul takes center stage in Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters, blending the city's futuristic skyline with its deep traditional roots. To create this stunning animated Seoul, the film's artistic team studied real locations across the city — streets, landmarks, and neighborhoods — to make every frame feel authentic.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply looking for a cinematic way to explore Seoul, these are the real spots behind the movie magic.

Scene: Rumi and Jinu's first meeting — and later, their rooftop duet Free.

Located in Jongno, this neighborhood features narrow alleys and hanok architecture dating back to the 14th century. After receiving Jinu's invitation via Derpy and Sussie, Rumi arrives ready to fight — only to be drawn into a conversation that changes everything. The two return to these tiled rooftops later in the film, levitating above the village as they sing together.

Photographer's tip: Visit around sunset when warm light hits the curved tile rooftops. Arrive early on weekends to avoid crowds.

Scene: Rumi and Jinu's secret strategy meeting along the Seoul Fortress Wall.

This hilltop park is open 24 hours and transforms at night — yellow lanterns illuminate the ancient stone path. The park is also close to Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), making it a great combined stop.

Photographer's tip: Sunrise gives you the fortress wall all to yourself. At night, the glowing lanterns create a scene straight out of the movie.

Scene: HUNTR/X drops their new single Golden on the massive 3D LED screen — and later, Saja Boys use the same billboard to announce their concert.

The wraparound screen is famous for its crashing wave illusion and draws thousands of visitors daily. Add the Starfield Library, Coex Mall, and SM Town for an easy half-day in Gangnam.

Photographer's tip: Blue hour just after sunset is ideal — the screen reflects dramatically off surrounding glass facades.

Scene: The film's climax — Gwi-Ma summons the entire city to a concert at the tower's base in a Pied-Piper-into-Hell moment, while HUNTR/X fights to save everyone's souls.

In real life, N Seoul Tower serves as a broadcast and communications tower. The cable car ride up and the love lock fence make it a must-visit even without demons.

Photographer's tip: Shoot from Myeong-dong with a telephoto lens to capture the tower looming over the city skyline.

Scene: Rumi, Mira, and Zoey battle demons on top of a speeding subway train crossing the Han River, singing Takedown mid-fight.

The bridge carries Seoul Metro Line 7 on the lower deck and vehicles above — its distinctive double-deck structure is unmistakable in the film. Jayang Station (renamed 섬유원지역 in the movie) is right next to Ttukseom Hangang Park for great riverside views.

Photographer's tip: Walk to the riverbank from Jayang Station for a panoramic shot with Seoul Olympic Stadium visible in the distance.

Scene: The Saja Boys perform Soda Pop on the circular-tiled plaza outside Myeongdong Theater — and Rumi visits a traditional Korean medicine clinic after losing her voice.

In real life it's just as electric: live performers, K-beauty shops, and legendary street food stalls line every block.

Photographer's tip: Daytime captures the full bustle. Space is tight during peak hours, so your phone works perfectly here — and grab a Korean corn dog while you're at it.

Scene: HUNTR/X's gleaming penthouse headquarters — the fictional tower is placed exactly where Lotte World Tower stands on the Seoul map.

"The girls are so over the top that they live in the penthouse of an iconic skyscraper, literally reflecting the feeling of being on top of the world," said production designer Mingjue Helen Chen. At 123 stories, it's the 6th tallest building in the world.

Visitor's tip: Seoul Sky Observatory (floors 117–123) is open daily. The reflection pool at the base is one of the best spots for architecture photos.

Bonus historical stop: Referenced in Jinu's backstory — 400 years ago, after selling his soul to Gwi-Ma, he and his family were invited to live on the Joseon royal palace grounds.

Dating back to 1395, Gyeongbokgung is Korea's most visited royal palace and pairs naturally with a stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village nearby. The changing of the Royal Guard ceremony at Gwanghwamun Gate is a highlight you can't miss.

Bonus photo spot: The beloved characters Sussie (서씨) and Derpy (더피) — inspired by the traditional Korean Minhwa painting Hojakdo (tiger and magpie) — are painted on the wall of the Apgujeong underpass in Gangnam. A quick stop and an unmissable shot for any fan.

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Final Thoughts

Exploring Seoul through the lens of KPop Demon Hunters isn't just a fan's journey — it's a cinematic adventure into the city's unique duality: traditional and modern, real and fantastical.

So when you're in Seoul — become a hunter. Seek out these real-life locations, and you'll be… golden.