As K-drama tourism grows, the demand for immersive experiences outside of Seoul is also on the rise. While the capital remains a major draw with its K-drama landmarks, there is increasing interest in smaller cities and rural areas featured in hit dramas. In Pohang, Emma Brown’s emotional pilgrimage to the coastal town illustrates how K-drama fandom is shaping travel destinations previously overlooked by tourists.

In addition to Pohang, other locations like Jeju Island, Gyeongju, and even places featured in dramas like Reply 1988 and Hotel Del Luna are emerging as must-visit spots for international K-drama fans. These areas, known for their scenic beauty and historical significance, are now promoting their connections to popular series to attract visitors.

While South Korea’s tourism infrastructure is responding to this trend by offering more K-drama-focused tours, some experts suggest that there’s room for further growth. Jeong Ji-Youn, a professor at Kyungpook National University, highlighted the need to expand tourism offerings beyond the usual K-pop fanfare, catering to those who seek a deeper, more personal connection to the Korean dramas that have left a lasting impact on them.

The success of these cultural experiences is clear in the growing number of visitors to remote filming locations like Sunshine Land. What started as an attempt to capitalize on the country’s K-pop success is now evolving into a broader trend, where K-dramas serve as a bridge between global audiences and the rich cultural heritage of South Korea.

For fans like Jennifer Zelinski, the allure of South Korea isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about walking in the footsteps of characters and stories that have deeply resonated with them. “It felt like I was finally stepping into the world I had spent hours in front of my TV screen,” she said, reflecting the growing desire among K-drama fans to experience the settings of their favorite shows firsthand.

With tourism linked to K-drama continuing to rise, South Korea is positioning itself as a cultural powerhouse that offers not just entertainment but also an opportunity for international visitors to connect with Korean stories in a profoundly personal way. As the global Hallyu wave spreads, more remote towns and cities are likely to become popular travel destinations, and South Korea’s tourism industry is set to evolve even further.