Jeonju, South Korea - where tradition meets taste, and time slows down. 

When most people dream of South Korea, they picture Seoul’s skyline or Busan’s beaches. But tucked away in the southwest lies Jeonju—a city that quietly steals hearts with its heritage, flavors, and warm authenticity. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience. Here's why Jeonju should be on every traveler's bucket list.

Jeonju Hanok Village: A Walk-Through History

What makes it special:

What to do:

• Rent a hanbok and stroll the lanes
• Visit Gyeonggijeon Shrine
• Climb to Omokdae Pavilion for views over the rooftops

Photo Tip: Capture the village from a high vantage point in hanbok during golden hour, or snap close-ups of intricate Hanok rooftops.

Bibimbap at Its Best

Jeonju is the birthplace of bibimbap, and no, it’s not just hype. The flavors here are deeper, the ingredients fresher, and the presentation—pure art.

We went to the famous Han Kook Jib. A family-run restaurant since 1952. The restaurant is celebrated for its bibimbap made with a special hot pepper paste crafted from sea salt sourced from Gomso. This unique ingredient imparts a distinct flavor to their bibimbap, which has been enjoyed by locals and celebrities alike.

Don’t miss:

• Han Kook Jib: a famed spot for traditional bibimbap
• Nambu Market at night for street-food style versions
• Makgeolli Alley for local rice wine and side dishes

Photo Tip: Top-down shot of a sizzling hot stone bibimbap bowl with colorful toppings.

Arts, Crafts & Culture

Jeonju is a city for creators. From Hanji (Korean paper) workshops to calligraphy, pottery, and indie art spaces, it’s rich in hands-on tradition and contemporary expression.

What to explore:

• Jeonju Crafts Exhibition Hall
• Jeonju Hanji Museum
• Jeondong Catholic Cathedral
• Small galleries and murals near Jaman Mural Village

Photo Tip: Snap handmade crafts, artists at work, or a vibrant mural wall.

The Vibe: Calm, Connected, and Soulful

While Seoul buzzes, Jeonju breathes. It’s a place where time feels like it pauses—perfect for meaningful travel.

Why it stands out:

• Slower pace, ideal for deep travel
• Friendly locals proud of their culture
• A beautiful blend of everyday life and heritage

Photo Tip: Candid moments: locals chatting in Hanok alleys, tea being poured slowly, or a traveler journaling in a Hanok stay.

Lots of foods to try!

Jeonju may not have the skyscrapers or beaches, but what it does have is an unparalleled culture. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t try to impress you... and ends up being completely unforgettable. Jeonju is a place where every street, every dish, and every corner tells a story. Whether you’re savoring the world-famous bibimbap, exploring the picturesque Hanok village, or indulging in a sweet Choco pie, Jeonju invites you to slow down and truly appreciate the beauty of Korean tradition and modern flair.

Travel Tips

How to get there:

From Seoul:

    KTX high-speed train (approx. 1.5–2 hours)

    Intercity bus (around 3 hours)

Where to stay:

• Hanok Guesthouses: Try Saekdongjeogori Guesthouse or Hanok Hyeyum
• Modern Hotels: Ramada Jeonju offers great comfort and location

Best time to visit: April–May (spring blossoms) or October–November (autumn colors). It's magical in winter too (the time of our visit). 

 If you've ever wanted to step inside a K-drama, there's no better place to do it than in Pohang - the real-life setting of the beloved series Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha. Charming, breezy, and full of warmth, this coastal city offers the perfect blend of nostalgia and seaside calmness.

Sabang Memorial Park & Beach

A peaceful stretch of coastline perfect for your first view of the East Sea. Several wide-angle shots from the drama were filmed here, and it set the tone for the rest of our trip.

2. Drama Landmarks and Fan Favorites

Seokbyeong Park Lighthouse (Red Lighthouse)

One of the most iconic visuals in the show—this is where Chief Hong often stood deep in thought. It's also one of the best sunset spots in Pohang.

Grandma Gam-ri's House

Located in Cheongha Village, this hillside location brought back all the emotional moments with Grandma Gam-ri. Fans still visit the place to reflect and take in the view.

Chief Hong’s House Location

Chief Hong's house is situated very close to Grandma Gam-ri's house, both on the same hillside with incredible views of the ocean. 

Yoon Hye-jin’s House

Facing the sea and tucked into a quiet street in Cheongha, the orange house is instantly recognizable.

Yoon Dental Clinic

Just a short walk from Hye-jin’s house, the clinic’s exterior is gone, but the setting remains. Many fans leave notes or take photos in front of the familiar backdrop.

Chief Hong’s Boat Location at Jukdo Port

This is where Chief Hong worked on his boat and had several heartwarming moments in the drama. The boat was docked at a location near the Jukdo Port, but to get to it, you’ll need to climb a series of steps that lead up to the harbor. The port has that authentic working vibe and walking up to the docked boat will definitely give you a sense of connection to the scenes filmed here.

Gamji Beach & Seaside Café

This beach was featured in many of the show’s calm, introspective moments while the famous cafe bore witness to many village gossips. 

Wolpo Beach

Remember the scene where Hye-jin loses her expensive heels in the sand? This is the spot. A quiet, expansive beach perfect for walking barefoot—and maybe reenacting that moment (with cheaper shoes!).

Homigot (Homigot Sunrise and Homigot Hand Sculpture)

As a grand finale to our day, we made sure to visit Homigot, one of Korea’s most scenic and culturally significant areas. Homigot is famous for the Homigot Hand, a monumental sculpture symbolizing the greeting of the sun at the easternmost point of the Korean peninsula. Known for its stunning panoramic views of the ocean, Homigot is a peaceful, serene place perfect for reflection, offering breathtaking landscapes all year round.

This spot also boasts Homigot Sunrise, which is considered one of the best places to watch the sunrise in Korea, making it a perfect addition for nature lovers and fans of the drama alike. Whether you're arriving at sunrise or during the golden hour, the beauty of the location will leave you in awe.

Guryongpo Modern Cultural History Street

Though not a direct filming location for Hometown Cha Cha Cha, this street was made famous by another beloved K-drama, When the Camelia Blooms. The place is great for street photography and casual exploring.

Pohang isn’t just a drama backdrop—it’s a real, peaceful town that offers the same warmth and charm that made Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha so special. Whether you’re retracing Hye-jin and Chief Hong’s steps or simply looking for a beautiful coastal escape, Pohang welcomes you with open arms—and maybe a gentle sea breeze.

Whether you're a fan of the show or simply someone who enjoys exploring hidden gems, Pohang leaves a lasting impression. It’s a place that invites you to return, not just for its scenic beauty, but for the warmth that lingers long after you've left. A place that feels like home in the most unexpected ways, and one that will always welcome you back with open arms.

Pohang may be small, but it’s rich with heart—and that’s what makes it a destination worth coming back to.

Tips for Visiting

• Book a private tour or hire a local driver—most locations are spread out, and public buses are limited.
• Download Naver Map or KakaoMap—Google Map doesn’t work well for walking routes in Korea.
• Bring your camera—these spots are photogenic and full of nostalgia.
• Allow at least 2 full days to see everything without rushing (although still doable within a day if your intent is to visit only the most popular spots).