BTS Tourist Spots in Korea: Gangwon Places Every ARMY Should Visit

ARMY, assemble! If you've already explored Seoul's K-pop hotspots, here's a reason to venture further. Beyond the capital lies Gangwon State, home to stunning coastlines, scenic mountains and some surprisingly familiar BTS locations!

Over the years, BTS has left its mark across Gangwon, from filming In the SOOP and shooting album photos to exploring art museums, beaches and scenic trails during personal trips. And yes, you can visit many of these places yourself!

Tune in as we've rounded up 11 BTS-related tourist spots in Gangwon that deserve a place on your Korea itinerary. Along the way, you'll discover plenty of attractions worth visiting even when you're not busy fangirling or fanboying over BTS.

Also read: 16 Most Instagrammable Cafes in Gangwon Province, a Coffee Lover’s Paradise

Wonju: Discover RM's Artistic Side

1. Museum SAN: Follow RM's footsteps through art and nature

Image credit: @BTS_twt | X

If you're an RM-biased ARMY, Museum SAN deserves a spot on your Korea itinerary. Located in Wonju, this beautiful art museum is among the places RM visited during his personal travels. Given his well-known appreciation for art and architecture, it’s easy to see why this destination caught his interest.

Designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Museum SAN (Space Art Nature) is surrounded by mountains and combines contemporary art with peaceful outdoor spaces. One of its most recognisable features is the Water Garden, where the museum's striking concrete architecture reflects beautifully against the water. There's also a Flower Garden, a Stone Garden, and a dedicated exhibition space featuring James Turrell’s works, which explore light and perception.

TripZilla tip: Museum SAN is usually open from 10am to 6pm and closed on Mondays. Certain exhibitions and experiences require separate admission or reservations.

Getting around Wonju: Explore more with Gangwon Tourist Taxi

Image credit: Gangwon State | Official Facebook

Want to explore Wonju without worrying about complicated bus transfers? Here's something that could make your BTS-inspired trip much easier. Luckily, the Gangwon Tourist Taxi service was extended to Wonju in April 2026, offering a convenient way to explore the city's attractions without renting a car.

One of the available sightseeing routes is the Art & Architecture Escape Course, which includes Museum SAN, an ideal spot for ARMY eager to follow in RM's footsteps while enjoying a relaxing cultural escape beyond Seoul.

The recommended route is:

Wonju Station → Museum SAN → Museum of Glaciers → Wonju Station

The service includes a three-hour taxi tour in a four-passenger vehicle, with a meeting point at Wonju Station Tourist Information Center. Museum admission fees, meals and café purchases are not included. Travellers who wish to extend their tour beyond the initial three hours will be charged an additional KRW 20,000 (approximately SGD 19) for each extra hour.

TripZilla tip: If you're planning to spend several hours exploring Museum SAN, the standard three-hour tour may feel a little rushed. Consider requesting additional time or customising your own route. You can explore available options and make reservations via the official Gangwon Taxi Tour website. Reservations can also be arranged through the Wonju Station Tourist Information Center.

Gangneung: Recreate iconic BTS moments by the sea

2. BTS Bus Stop: Recreate the You Never Walk Alone album cover

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

You can't talk about BTS tourist spots in Gangwon without mentioning the famous BTS Bus Stop in Gangneung! Located at Hyangho Beach, this seemingly ordinary bus stop became internationally famous after appearing in the photoshoot for BTS's You Never Walk Alone album, which features the beloved song Spring Day.

Fun fact: The BTS Bus Stop was never an actual functioning bus stop! It was originally built as a prop for the album photoshoot and removed afterwards. But thanks to its popularity among fans, Gangneung City reconstructed it as a tourist attraction.

Today, ARMYs can pose at the bus stop, admire the East Sea and recreate the memorable album cover image. The surrounding beach is also perfect for a relaxing seaside stroll, especially on a clear day.

TripZilla tip: Bring a reference photo of the album cover so you can recreate the members' poses. It's a popular photography spot, so allow some time for other visitors to take their pictures too.

3. Gangmun Beach: Find your J-hope moment by the sea

Image credit: @uarmyhope | Instagram; Visit Gangwon | Official Facebook

Here's another beach worth adding to your BTS-inspired itinerary, especially if you're a J-Hope fan! Located close to Gangneung's Gyeongpo area, the beach offers sandy shores, seaside restaurants and lovely views over the East Sea.

Take a walk along the coastline, snap some photos or find a nearby café where you can enjoy a drink while watching the waves. The Gangmun Port area is also known for its seafood restaurants, making it a convenient stop for lunch.

TripZilla tip: If you're staying overnight in Gangneung, consider combining Gangmun Beach with other nearby coastal attractions. This gives you more time to explore without rushing between locations.

4. Jeongdongjin: Catch the sunrise like RM

Image credit: Visit Korea | Official Website

Imagine standing by the sea early in the morning, watching the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon. Sounds like the perfect start to a Korea holiday, right? Welcome to Jeongdongjin, a scenic coastal destination in Gangneung that's also listed among RM's personal travel stops.

Known for its beautiful sunrises, Jeongdongjin is home to one of Korea's most famous coastal railway stations. And what makes it particularly special? The station sits remarkably close to the beach, so you can enjoy lovely seaside views as part of your journey.

While you're here, you can also try the nearby rail bike attraction or unwind at one of the local cafés overlooking the water. Although Jeongdongjin is especially popular for sunrise viewing, here's plenty of coastal charm to enjoy throughout the day too.

TripZilla tip: If you're hoping to catch the sunrise, consider staying overnight in the Jeongdongjin area. Check the sunrise time and weather forecast before setting your alarm.

5. Jeongdong-Simgok Badabuchae Trail: Walk along RM's coastal route

Image credit: Gangwon State | Official Facebook

For ARMYs who love nature and scenic walks, here's another Gangneung attraction worth exploring. This spectacular coastal trail stretches approximately 3.01 kilometres between Jeongdong Port and Simgok Port, following dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations overlooking the East Sea.

The name Badabuchae refers to the shape of the coastal landscape, which resembles an open fan. Along the way, you'll encounter unusual rock formations, sweeping ocean views and sections of walkway that bring you close to the coastline. It's the kind of destination where you'll probably stop for photos more often than you planned!

TripZilla tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and check the trail's operating status before visiting. Access may be restricted during severe weather or for safety reasons.

Chuncheon: Experience BTS's peaceful escapes

6. Lake 192: Step into the World of BTS In the SOOP

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

Remember watching BTS spend time together in nature during In the SOOP? Well, one of the places featured in Season 1 is located right here in Chuncheon! Lake 192 is a private lakeside accommodation surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, offering the kind of natural setting that fans may recognise from the show.

The property features modern architecture, outdoor spaces and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. It's easy to see how the setting fits the programme's focus on unwinding and taking a break from busy schedules. For fans of In the SOOP, this is an opportunity to explore a location connected to some memorable BTS moments. However, there's one important thing to remember: Lake 192 is private accommodation, not a public theme park or freely accessible filming set.

TripZilla tip: Contact the property in advance to enquire about accommodation bookings and permitted access. Avoid entering private areas without permission.

7. Jade Garden: Discover one of RM's scenic retreats

Image credit: @BTS_twt | X; Jade Garden photograph: Jade Garden | Official Facebook

If your idea of a perfect Korea holiday involves beautiful gardens and peaceful walking trails, Jade Garden should be on your radar. Often described as a little piece of Europe in Korea, Jade Garden features 24 themed gardens, landscaped paths and charming architecture. There are English-style gardens, Italian-inspired landscaping and walking trails through forested areas.

Here's something ARMYs will love! During his holiday in August 2019, RM visited Jade Garden and shared photographs of himself exploring the arboretum on BTS's official social media account. One of the photographs was taken in the Moss Garden, a shaded woodland area with moss-covered stones and a streamside path. As you wander through the naturally preserved moss forest, charming lights guide the way to "RM's Garden", where a plaque displays his quote, "This is how I live". If you're hoping to follow in RM's footsteps, this is one place to look out for!

Autumn is particularly lovely, when the surrounding foliage transforms into shades of yellow, orange and red. During warmer months, the lush greenery makes it an equally pleasant place for a leisure stroll. Even if you're travelling with someone who isn't familiar with BTS, this is still a beautiful attraction to visit.

TripZilla tip: Jade Garden is accessible via the Gyeongchun Line, with a seasonal shuttle service operating from Gulbongsan Station. Check the latest shuttle schedule before your visit.

Beyond the main cities: More BTS spots to add to your Korea itinerary

8. Samyang Roundhill, Pyeongchang: Relive BTS's 2021 winter package

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

If you've watched BTS's 2021 Winter Package, you might recognise the sweeping landscapes of Pyeongchang. Samyang Roundhill, formerly known as Samyang Ranch, is located in the Daegwallyeong highlands. This expansive ranch is known for its rolling green hills, grazing animals and towering wind turbines.

During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy wide-open grasslands and fresh mountain air. In colder months, the landscape takes on an entirely different character with snow-covered hills creating a beautiful winter wonderland. The ranch also offers animal-related experiences and local dairy products, making it more than just a quick photography stop. Feeling hungry after exploring? Check out the beef burger at the cafe; it uses premium Hanwoo beef, featuring a thick, highly praised meat patty made from premium Korean Hanwoo beef.

TripZilla tip: The weather can be noticeably cooler and windier in the highlands than in the cities below. Bring an extra layer, even if you're visiting during the warmer seasons. 

9. Naksan Beach, Yangyang: Visit a beach loved by V

Image credit: Korea Tourism Organization | Official Website

ARMYs who bias V, here's another seaside destination you'll want to add to your list! Located in Yangyang, Naksan Beach is among the places V visited during his personal travels, a connection also highlighted by the Korea Tourism Organization. Stretching along the East Sea, this beautiful beach is popular for its soft sandy shoreline, pine trees and relaxing coastal atmosphere.

You'll also find plenty of cafés, restaurants and accommodation options nearby. V even recommended a famous snow crab restaurant in the area, giving fans another reason to explore the local food scene!

And while you're here, why not make time for nearby Naksansa Temple? Founded more than 1,340 years ago, this historic Buddhist temple sits above the coastline and offers panoramic views of the sea. It's a wonderful way to add a little culture and history to your beach outing.

10. Neungpadae, Goseong: Explore a dramatic winter package location

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

Looking for a BTS-related destination that feels a little different from the usual beaches and cafés? Head to Neungpadae in Goseong. This striking coastal rock formation is among the locations featured in BTS's 2021 Winter Package.

Instead of long sandy beaches, Neungpadae is known for its unusual rock formations shaped over time by natural coastal processes. The combination of textured rocks, crashing waves and open sea creates a dramatic setting, especially for travellers who enjoy landscape photography.

TripZilla tip: Be cautious around the rocks, especially when conditions are wet or the sea is rough. Stick to accessible viewing areas and avoid climbing onto slippery formations just to recreate a photo.

11. High1 Resort, Jeongseon: Experience BTS's mountain winter wonderland

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

Last but definitely not least, let's head to Jeongseon for a little mountain adventure. Surrounded by beautiful highland scenery, High1 Resort is best known for its skiing and snowboarding facilities during winter, although there are activities to enjoy in other seasons too.

Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy sweeping mountain views, a range of outdoor leisure activities and the scenic charm of Gangwon's highlands. For ARMYs, it's another opportunity to visit a place connected to BTS's winter-themed content. For everyone else, it's a chance to enjoy a mountain getaway at one of Korea's popular resorts.

TripZilla tip: Snow activities are weather-dependent and may not be available throughout the year.

Getting to Gangwon from Seoul

Image credit: Jueon Kim | Pexels

If you're starting your Korea holiday in Seoul, several parts of Gangwon are accessible by rail and intercity transport.

1. For Wonju: Take a suitable KTX-Eum service from Cheongnyangni Station towards Wonju. Selected direct services take approximately 50–60 minutes, depending on the train. From Wonju Station, continue your sightseeing using local transport or the Gangwon Tourist Taxi.

2. For Chuncheon: The Gyeongchun Line and ITX-Cheongchun services connect the Seoul metropolitan area with Chuncheon, making the city a popular day-trip option.

3. For Gangneung: KTX services connect Seoul with Gangneung. Once there, you can explore selected attractions using buses, local taxis or a rental car.

If you're planning to visit several remote BTS locations, especially across Pyeongchang, Jeongseon, Goseong and Samcheok, renting a car or arranging transport in advance may be more convenient.

TripZilla tip: Save the Korean names of your destinations in a navigation app such as Naver Map or KakaoMap.

Also read: Gangwon Autumn Itinerary 2026: Scenic Spots, Festivals and K-Drama Views

Ready to explore Gangwon like BTS?

Image credit: BigHit Music | Official Website

From RM's artistic escape at Museum SAN to the famous BTS Bus Stop at Hyangho Beach and the picturesque landscapes featured in In the SOOP, Gangwon is filled with places that hold special meaning for ARMYs.

And beyond their BTS connections, these destinations offer a chance to discover Korea's art scene, coastal landscapes, mountain scenery and local culture. Your next BTS-inspired Korea adventure might just begin here!