Hallyu Diary Vol.7

Hey guys, it’s been a while, but Miru’s back!
This time, I wanted to mix things up by suggesting a list of places
that pair perfectly with a summer-ready K-pop playlist.

Ever had that moment when you thought, “This place would go great with this music!”
Well, I’ve put together a summer playlist route that links K-pop songs with the best hotspots!
From the glow of daybreak to midday warmth, golden sunsets, and starlit skies,
there’s a handpicked song and place to match each time of day, so let’s hit the road!

Even in the lazy summer mornings, joggers eager to start their day pour into Sangam DMC.
With summer marathons trending more than ever,
Sangam has become popular with runners for its well-paved sidewalks and lush parks.
Of the many trails, the well-maintained tracks at Nanji Hangang River Park are perfect
for waking up your body in the crisp morning air!

“Close your eyes, one, two, three, JUMP!”

Running on the jogging path to BLACKPINK’s “Jump,”
you’ll find yourself closing your eyes and moving to the beat, just like in the lyrics!

From there, take a few steps farther north toward the streets of Jeungsan-dong.
That’s literally where the “Jump” music video was shot!
Once the retro-style street comes into view, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the video.
Don’t miss the chance to stop and film your own challenge to capture an unforgettable memory.

The entire Sangam area is packed with TV networks like MBC, SBS, and CJ ENM,
giving you the chance to glimpse all things Hallyu up close,
from artists’ commutes to and from work, mini fan meet-and-greets, and music show recordings.
Sangam World Cup Stadium also happens to be a regular venue
for K-pop concerts that create lasting moments for fans.
For all this and more, Sangam is a space filled with special memories for Hallyu lovers.

This weekend, why not lace up your sneakers and go for a run from Sangam to Jeungsan!
With BLACKPINK’s “Jump” thumping in your ears, your summer will feel that much more special.
Don’t forget to unwind after your run with a cup of coffee from a nearby café,
where you just might catch a glimpse of real K-pop in action!

If you’re looking to cool off during a hot summer afternoon in Seoul, head to Gingorang Valley.
With crystal-clear streams and lush forests, it’s a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city.
Whether you’re splashing in the water or just lounging by the stream under the blazing sun,
it’s the perfect place to relax by the water.

“Red flavor, I’m curious, honey
…
What I love most is the flavor of summer”

Place a bowl of summer fruit in the cold waters of the stream
with the music of Red Velvet’s “Red Flavor” playing in the air!
The burst of sweetness in your mouth when you bite into a chilled slice of watermelon will fill you with energy and life even in the thick of summer heat.

Gingorang Valley also merges naturally with the Achasan Dulle-gil Trail.
After a dip in the water, head over to the shaded woods
for a peaceful stroll surrounded by green trees and fresh forest air.
Even in the sweltering heat, the cool forest shade will offer a uniquely calming escape.

Feeling hungry from all that splashing around?
Just a short walk away is Seoul’s Sinseong Traditional Market.
Once featured on the variety show Amazing Saturday, the market is full of delicious eateries
where visitors can enjoy a taste of authentic Korean summer flavor.

At Gingorang Valley, you needn’t go far to enjoy the coolness of nature
and the rich flavors of a local market.
Add in Red Velvet’s zesty melody, and you’ll soon be vibing to the real “Red Flavor”!

If you’re looking to bask in the dreamy urban sunset right in the heart of Seoul,
look no further than Naksan Park in Jongno.

Photo credit: Jongno-gu Office

As you stroll along the fortress path in the soft evening breeze,
you’ll notice the golden sunset peeking over the stone walls.

“You know together we’re glowing
Gonna be, Gonna be golden”

Photo credit: Jongno-gu Office

Hit play on Huntr/x’s “Golden,” and you’ll feel emotion welling up inside your heart,
inspiring you to do anything and everything you dream of.
Just like the lyrics, “Gonna be, gonna be golden,”
you’ll feel like you’re truly golden in that very moment.

This song is included in the soundtrack of the hot new animated film KPop Demon Hunters,
which hit No. 1 in 26 countries and entered the Top 10 in 93 markets
within just days of its Netflix release.
The track “Golden” topped the Billboard Global chart and climbed up the lists of multiple global music platforms, demonstrating a perfect synergy between K-pop and animation.

What’s more, the Naksan Park fortress path appears as an actual setting in the film.
Walking here, you’ll feel your heart pounding in the glow of the sunset,
as if you’ve become the movie’s main character.

After taking in the sunset, go for a walk through the nearby Ihwa Mural Village,
or enjoy a warm cup of coffee in Hyehwa’s café street.
That will be the perfect way to cap off a summer evening of music and sunset.

Once the sun sets, I recommend Seoul Sky for sweeping views of the summer nightscape.
As the lights of the city flicker on one by one, it will look as if the stars are coming together
to create a whole new universe, which begs a listen of “Mikrokosmos” by BTS.

Photo credit: Seoul Tourism Organization

“The city's night view is possibly another city's night
Our own dreams, let us shine”

As I lost myself in the song, I thought of how the people living out their nights
under the same sky are all quietly shining in their own unique way.
With the music set against the nightscape, I felt a sense of awe stirring inside of me.

If you want to hold onto that feeling a little longer while listening to BTS’s “Mikrokosmos,”
the best place would be Seoul Sky, where you can see the stars from the highest point in the city.
Home to Korea’s tallest observation deck located from the 117th to the 123rd floors,
Seoul Sky is the tallest tower in Korea and the sixth tallest in the world.
From here, you’ll feel as if you’re standing among the stars, looking down at Seoul below.

But more so than the nightscape, Seoul Sky offers a moment
that feels like a tiny universe, where the city’s moments come together to shine.
If you’re looking to experience Seoul’s night from its highest point in the most special way,
why not create your own summer moment at Seoul Sky?