K-pop has taken the world by storm in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. From their addictive tunes to their captivating dance routines, K-pop groups have mastered the art of delivering entertainment in every aspect of their music. One of the most memorable and defining aspects of K-pop is the music video, which often sets the stage for the song’s narrative and provides fans with a visual representation of their favorite groups.
K-pop music videos are known for their stunning locations and visually stunning sets. From vibrant cityscapes to tranquil countryside vistas, K-pop music videos have been filmed in some of the most iconic and memorable locations in the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most notable and memorable filming locations in K-pop music video history.
1. Namsan Tower, Seoul
Namsan Tower is a staple location in K-pop music videos and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul, South Korea. With its breathtaking views of the city and its iconic structure, it’s no surprise that the tower has been used as a filming location in numerous K-pop music videos.
One of the most famous examples is Girls’ Generation‘s “Gee,” which features the group dancing and singing on the observation deck of the tower. The stunning views of the city in the background serve as the perfect backdrop for the upbeat and cheerful song.
2. Han River, Seoul
The Han River is another popular filming location for K-pop music videos, offering a serene and tranquil setting that’s perfect for showcasing the beauty of Seoul. This location has been used in countless music videos, including BIGBANG’s “Fantastic Baby” and BTS‘s “Blood Sweat & Tears.”
In these music videos, the Han River serves as the perfect backdrop for the groups’ smooth and stylish dance routines, as well as their powerful vocals. The river also provides a unique visual contrast to the cityscape of Seoul, making it an ideal filming location for K-pop music videos.
3. Jeju Island, South Korea
Jeju Island is a beautiful and scenic location that’s known for its stunning landscapes, making it a popular filming location for K-pop music videos. The island’s natural beauty has been captured in numerous music videos, including Red Velvet‘s “Red Flavor” and BLACKPINK‘s “As If It’s Your Last.“
In these music videos, Jeju Island serves as the perfect backdrop for the groups’ playful and energetic dance routines, with its lush greenery and crystal-clear waters providing a breathtaking visual contrast to the urban setting of Seoul.
4. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Seoul and has been used as a filming location in numerous K-pop music videos. This stunning palace is known for its grand architecture and rich history, making it the perfect setting for music videos that want to showcase the beauty of South Korean culture.
One of the most famous examples is EXO‘s “Growl,” which features the group dancing and singing in the palace’s spacious courtyards. The palace’s ornate architecture provides the perfect backdrop for the group’s powerful dance routines, and its rich history adds an extra layer of cultural significance to the music video.
5. Busan Beach, South Korea
Busan Beach is a popular tourist destination in South Korea, and it’s also a popular filming location for K-pop music videos. With its long stretches of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Busan Beach is the perfect setting for music videos that want to showcase the beauty of South Korea’s natural landscapes.
One of the most memorable music videos filmed at Busan Beach is EXO‘s “Call Me Baby,” which features the group dancing and singing against the backdrop of the beach and its stunning sunsets. The beach’s pristine sand and clear waters provide the perfect contrast to the group’s dynamic dance routines, making for a visually stunning music video.
6. Namsangol Hanok Village, Seoul
Namsangol Hanok Village is a traditional Korean village that’s located in the heart of Seoul. With its historic homes and traditional architecture, the village serves as a window into South Korea’s rich cultural heritage.
Namsangol Hanok Village has been used as a filming location in several K-pop music videos, including BTS’s “I Need U” and EXO‘s “Overdose.” The village’s traditional homes and lush greenery provide the perfect backdrop for the group’s emotional and introspective music videos, making it a memorable and iconic filming location.
7. Gyeongju, South Korea
Gyeongju is a historic city in South Korea that’s known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. With its ancient temples, historic sites, and scenic countryside, Gyeongju is the perfect location for music videos that want to showcase South Korea’s cultural heritage.
One of the most famous music videos filmed in Gyeongju is BTS‘s “Blood Sweat & Tears,” which features the group dancing and singing against the backdrop of the city’s historic sites and stunning natural landscapes. The city’s rich history and breathtaking scenery provide the perfect contrast to the group’s dynamic dance routines, making for a visually stunning music video.
In conclusion, K-pop music videos are known for their visually stunning locations and iconic settings, and the locations highlighted in this article are some of the most memorable and recognizable in K-pop history. From Namsan Tower and Han River in Seoul to Jeju Island and Gyeongju, these filming locations have helped to bring K-pop music videos to life, making them memorable and entertaining for fans all over the world. Whether you’re a die-hard K-pop fan or just a lover of visually stunning music videos, these iconic locations are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Featured Image: Screengrab from BTS Official video “Blood, Sweat, & Tears“