Where was Dear X shot? Revisiting key filming locations of the latest K-drama

A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)
A still from the show (Image via Apple TV)

Dear X has taken the K-drama world by storm since its release in November. The psychological thriller follows Kim Yoo-jung as Beak Ah-jin, a top actress hiding a dark secret beneath her beautiful exterior. While the intense storyline and compelling performances engage viewers, many are equally curious about where this gripping show was filmed.

The production team selected several places across Gyeonggi and Seoul Province to bring the tale to life. These places range from bustling urban streets to serene locations. Every setting adds nuance to the atmosphere of Dear X.

The filming places create the perfect backdrop for Baek Ah-jin's dual life as she navigates revenge, fame, and manipulation. For those wishing to walk in the footsteps of their beloved characters, several public locations are accessible. Others say closed sets are used exclusively for production purposes.


Urban streets of Seoul

The centre of Dear X beats through the streets of Mapo-gu in Seoul. World Cup-ro in Hapjeong-dong serves as a crucial filming location. The street captures the subtle metropolitan ambiance that perfectly matches Beak Ah-jin's complicated character.

The area is recognized for its indie art scene and trendy cafés. Visiting fans might recognize the exact location where Kim Yoo-jung filmed the central confrontation scenes. Nearby, World Cup-ro-5-gil offers a subtle contrast. This lane features urban buildings mixed with hidden cafes. The location provides an ideal setting for the emotionally charged moments that define the show.


Entertainment Industry settings

The Ilsan Marshal Building in Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang, is home to an entertainment company in Dear X. This office complex effectively captures the tense atmosphere of the industry portrayed in the drama. The modern, sleek design mirrors the competitive world where Beak Ah-jin builds her career through calculated moves and manipulation. The Ilsanseo-gu Health Centre Intersection also appears for a limited time. This busy spot features in the flashbacks and chase scenes in Dear X. The urban cityscape adds realism to the fast-paced storytelling.

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Quieter moments in Dear X

Not all sequences in Dear X unfold in modern chaos. Bundang Memorial Park, situated in Yatap-dong, Seongnam, provides a serene space for emotional reflection. The park's peaceful landscape provides a reflective setting for the drama's more intense narratives. This location is open to visitors and offers a subtle atmosphere surrounded by nature.

Dowonjang restaurant in Eungam-dong, Eunpyeong-gu, appears in more personal sequences. This traditional spot is recognized for its classic decor and homely meals. It gives audiences a taste of authentic Seoul's culture while advancing the plot.

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Studio production of Dear X

Many indoor sequences in Dear X were filmed at professional studio spaces. Urban Works Studio in Deokyang-gu, Goyang, housed the hospital set. Several Korean dramas have used the facility for medical sequences. However, it is not open to the public.

Additionally, Nogosan Studio doubles as the location for darker indoor scenes in Map-gu. This well-known filming place has been used for several thrillers and music videos. The controlled ambiance allowed the production team to create the psychological atmosphere that makes the show so compelling.

Even a GS25 convenience store in Ilsandong-gu, Goyang, was featured in Dear X. This seemingly mundane setting appears in a brief but crucial scene. It proves that everyday corners of life can become unforgettable when viewed through the lens of quality storytelling.

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Visiting the Locations

For viewers planning a pilgrimage, most outdoor places are accessible. The streets of Hapjeong-dong are open to visitors year-round. Bundang Memorial Park offers a subtle and quiet retreat. The restaurant Dowonjang serves customers traditional Korean cuisine.

The show continues to release new episodes every Thursday on HBO Max and TVING. As the narrative unfolds, audiences may discover even more filming locations. The show proves that setting matters as much as storytelling in providing a memorable drama experience.

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Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal