Sherra's Taste of Life

Visiting Pohang, South Korea: A Guide to the Filming Locations of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha

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.

Getting There from Seoul

Our trip started at Seoul Station, where we boarded the KTX (Korea Train Express) to Pohang. The journey took just under 2.5 hours, offering scenic views of rolling hills and glimmers of ocean as we got closer to the coast.
While Pohang is a beautiful place to explore, we learned that public transportation between filming locations and coastal spots can be quite limited. To make the most of our time and visit all the iconic scenes from the drama, we decided to book a private tour thru KKDay. It turned out to be the best decision— flexible, stress-free, and packed with local insights that made the experience even more memorable.

Our Itinerary in Pohang

1. Welcome to Gongjin

Cheongha Market

Our first stop was this traditional market, featured as Gongjin Market in the show. Small but lively, the vendors are warm and welcoming—and some proudly display photos of the Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha cast!

The Squid Statue

Yes, the giant squid statue is real—and it's just as delightfully odd in person. It's also located in Cheongha Market (Cheongha-dong area of Pohang) and many people both locals and tourists stop here for a quirky photo op.

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).

June 29, 2025

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Maldives

Escape to Paradise: Celebrating Christmas in the Maldives

Last Christmas, we traded in the snowy weather and festive frenzy for the crystal-clear waters and tropical sunshine of the Maldives. After months of hectic work schedules and holiday stress, we were craving a getaway that felt like a true escape from reality. Little did we know, the Maldives would not only offer us an unforgettable holiday, but it would also become our new definition of paradise.

We stayed at Grand Park Kodhipparu, a stunning island resort known for its eco-conscious practices and overwater bungalows. We chose this resort because of its close proximity to Male airport, just a mere 20-30 mins ride by speedboat. Waking up to the sound of gentle waves and being able to step straight into the turquoise water was a dream come true. The resort’s Christmas decorations added a festive touch to the already breathtaking surroundings.

Our four days of stay in the island were spent snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs, swimming with schools of colorful fishes, sharks and manta rays, kayaking through the lagoons and finding peace in sunset yoga sessions.

The Maldives isn’t just a place for relaxation; it’s a place for reinvigorating both body and mind. Between kayaking in the morning and unwinding with sunset yoga, we found the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. These activities not only allowed us to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the islands but also offered a way to reset and reconnect with ourselves—something that we didn't know we needed until we experienced it.

As night fell on Christmas day, we made our way to one of the island resort's fine dining restaurants - FireDoor for a special Christmas dinner. The soft glow of candles lighting up the dinner table, the sound of the gentle waves lapping against the sand, the cold breeze, and the twinkling stars above made the entire evening feel like a dream. It was the perfect balance of intimacy and luxury, where the natural beauty of the Maldives enhanced every aspect of the celebration. Truly, a magical holiday feast to remember.

Each evening, we made it a point to find the perfect spot to watch the sunset. One of our favorite places was a secluded stretch of beach, where the sand felt soft under our feet, and the waves gently lapped at the shore. The sky would begin to shift colors long before the sun actually dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow across the entire island. The colors would intensify as the minutes passed, creating a moment of complete serenity. There, with the warm breeze on our faces and the sound of the ocean surrounding us, we were truly at peace.

Watching the sunset in the Maldives wasn’t just a visual experience—it was an emotional one too. In those moments, the outside world seemed to disappear. We found ourselves in awe of how something so simple could evoke such deep feelings of gratitude and wonder. The beauty of the setting sun, casting its final rays across the water, made us feel completely in the present. It was a perfect reminder of how little we need to feel content—just the company of each other, the sound of the waves, and nature’s perfect display.

There are many picture-perfect spots on the island, each more enchanting than the last. Everywhere you looked, the water sparkled in vibrant shades of blue, almost glowing with an otherworldly brilliance. The soft, powdery sand stretched endlessly beneath the warm sun, while the sky above transformed into a canvas of pastel hues as the day gently faded. It was the kind of place where every angle felt like it could be plucked straight from a postcard.

If you're considering a similar holiday, I’d highly recommend visiting the Maldives. When we visited in the last week of December, we were blessed with sunny days, the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. As for packing, make sure to bring light, breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, and plenty of swimwear.

If you're craving an escape to a tropical paradise, the Maldives offers an unparalleled experience —where time slows, beauty surrounds you, and unforgettable memories are waiting to be made. Trust me, it's a destination you won't want to miss, and you should do at least once in your lifetime.

A trip to the Maldives is undeniably a bucket-list experience, but it’s important to acknowledge that it comes with a hefty price tag. The Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts, exclusive overwater villas, and high-end amenities, all of which contribute to its status as one of the most expensive vacation destinations in the world.

In addition to accommodation, meals and activities in the Maldives are often priced at a premium. Many resorts offer all-inclusive packages, but these can still be expensive, particularly if you’re booking high-end dining experiences or private excursions. Activities like scuba diving, snorkeling trips, and spa treatments are commonly offered, but they often come with an extra cost. Additionally, the remote location of many resorts means that transportation (like seaplane or boat transfers) is often an added expense, making the overall cost of the trip even higher.

That said, while the Maldives is certainly a splurge, the cost often reflects the exceptional experience it offers. For many, the sheer beauty, privacy, and luxury of the destination make it well worth the expense. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or to simply indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime getaway, the Maldives offers an unforgettable escape—one that lives up to its price tag for those seeking a luxurious and exclusive vacation.

For us, this trip was a beautiful reminder of what truly matters - spending quality time together, appreciating nature’s beauty, and giving ourselves permission to relax. The Maldives turned out to be the perfect place to reset, recharge, and make memories that we’ll cherish forever.