Goblin (Guardian) Filming Locations: Gangneung Coastal Drive Guide
"Goblin" created some of K-drama's most iconic scenes—and most of them are in Gangneung, just a scenic coastal drive from Seoul. The breakwater where Eun-tak first summoned the Goblin is now one of Korea's most visited drama locations. Here's how to experience it all by car.
The Iconic Jumunjin Breakwater
1. Jumunjin Breakwater
This is where it all began—Eun-tak blowing out her birthday candles and accidentally summoning the Goblin. The red lighthouse at the end of the breakwater has become a pilgrimage site for K-drama fans worldwide.
- Scene: Eun-tak's first summoning of Goblin (Episode 1)
- Address: 81-32 Gyohyang-ri, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
- Drive from Seoul: ~2.5 hours via Yeongdong Expressway
- Parking: Street parking near seafood restaurants (look for 해랑횟집)
- Recreation tip: Bring candles and a cake—vendors used to rent props but not anymore
- Also famous for: BTS "You Never Walk Alone" album photo location
Photo Tip
Visit early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends.
Gangneung Locations
2. Gyeongpo Beach & Lake
The beautiful lakeside and beach scenes were filmed around Gyeongpo, one of Korea's most scenic coastal areas. The contrast between the calm lake and the East Sea creates stunning visuals.
- Scene: Various romantic walking scenes
- Address: Gyeongpo-ro, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do
- Drive from Jumunjin: ~20 minutes south
- Parking: Multiple free lots around the lake
- Best time: Cherry blossom season (April) or autumn colors
3. Gangneung Coffee Street
Gangneung is Korea's coffee capital, and many café scenes were filmed along Anmok Beach's famous coffee street. After your Goblin pilgrimage, grab a cup at one of the 30+ ocean-view cafés.
- Address: Changhaero 17beon-gil, Gangneung-si
- Drive from Gyeongpo: ~10 minutes
- Parking: Street parking or café lots
- Must-try: Terarosa Coffee (Korea's most famous roastery, originated here)
Seoul Locations
4. Incheon Open Port Area (Quebec Street)
The "Quebec" scenes where Goblin walks through snowy streets? They were filmed in Incheon's historic open port district. The European-style architecture made it a perfect Canada stand-in.
- Scene: Goblin walking through 'Quebec' streets
- Address: Jung-gu, Incheon (near Chinatown)
- Drive from Seoul: ~1 hour
- Parking: Public lots near Incheon Station
- Combine with: Chinatown lunch, Jayu Park
5. Unhyeongung Palace
The Goblin's residence exterior was filmed at this lesser-known palace in central Seoul. It's much quieter than the main palaces and has the mysterious atmosphere the drama captured.
- Scene: Exterior shots of Goblin's house
- Address: 464 Samil-daero, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Subway: Anguk Station (Line 3), Exit 4
- Entry: Free
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes
Recommended Driving Route
The ultimate Goblin road trip combines Seoul and Gangneung in a 2-day journey along Korea's most scenic coastal highway.
| Day | Route | Highlights | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Seoul → Incheon → Gangneung | Quebec street, Jumunjin sunset | ~3.5 hours total |
| Day 2 | Gangneung → Gyeongpo → Seoul | Coffee street, Heonhwa-ro coastal road | ~3 hours total |
Scenic Route
Take Heonhwa-ro (헌화로) on your way back—it's Korea's closest road to the ocean. The 20km stretch from Simgok to Jeongdongjin offers unobstructed sea views.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The Goblin filming locations offer one of Korea's best coastal driving experiences. From the iconic breakwater to the coffee-lined shores, this is where K-drama magic meets real Korean scenery.
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