While most K-dramas are loved for their glamour and emotional appeal, the latest drama, Idol I, offers a compelling look at the industry’s darker realities. The drama drew major global attention for its striking take on the real incidents involving BTS member Jungkook, who faced intrusive behaviour from obsessive fans in South Korea. Audiences are praising the realistic portrayal of the fear and intrusion that idols can face.
Beyond the plot, Idol I keep viewers hooked with the stunning Seoul backdrops featured throughout the drama. From legal spaces to serene riverside scenes, let’s examine the locations that reflect the characters’ inner conflicts.
Also, check out our story on Seoul’s Dongdaemun market.
The cast, plot, and trailer of Idol I
Premiered on December 22, 2025, on Netflix, Korean Drama Idol I is proving that sometimes fiction is the best way to spark necessary conversation about idol safety and the boundaries of fan behaviour. While it begins as a love story between a star and a fan, it showcases unpredictable incidents, emotional healing, and twists. In this drama, you can experience both mystery and human warmth through its immersive narrative and nuanced emotional arcs.
The drama follows Maeng Se-na (played by Choi Soo-young), a lawyer who takes on the case of K-pop star Do Ra-ik (played by Jae-yeong), whose life turned upside down after being accused of murder.
Directed by Lee Gwang-young, the drama cast is led by Choi Soo-young (Maeng Se-na) and Kim Jae-yeong (Do Ra-ik), with Ahn Woo-yeon (Kang Woo-sung), Jeong Jae-kwang (Kwak Byeong-gyeon), Choi Hee-jin (Hong Hye-ju), and Kim Hyun-jin (Park Chung-jae) appearing in supporting roles.
The 12-episode drama has an approximate 1-hour runtime per episode, with new episodes airing every Monday and Tuesday until January 27, 2026.
Filming locations of Idol I
Mapo-gu area
Several urban shots tied to work pressure and constant media pressure scenes of Idol I were shot across the Mapo-gu area. The area features several notable towers and structures, including Mapo Oil Tank Culture Park, Park One Tower, and more.
Gangnam showcases celebrity life in Idol I
Luxury visuals highlighting status and celebrity life were shot across the Gangnam district in Seoul. It is an affluent and modern district famed for luxury shopping, K-pop culture, trendy nightlife, upscale dining, and tech hubs.
Also read | Gangnam B-Side Shooting Locations: Dive Into The Glamour Of This Korean Thriller
Ichon Hangang Park: Aesthetic backdrop for Idol I
The introspective emotional moments of Idol I were captured in the backdrops of this peaceful riverside park. Built close to the Hangang River, this park features bicycle paths, walking trails, inline skating rinks, and more.
Gyeongui Line Forest Park
From soft emotional scenes to inner reflection moments of the celebrity were filmed at this park. Built on the former railway line, it is one of the popular linear parks in Seoul that offers a perfect relaxing picnic spot amidst nature.
63 Square reflects fame and ambition in Idol I
63 Square is a famous gold-clad skyscraper, located on Yeouido Island in Seoul, known for its iconic golden exterior and spectacular views of the Han River. This building is shown as a symbol of fame, ambition, and visibility in the drama. This building also houses the 63 Art Gallery and Aqua Planet.
SeoulDal
SeoulDal is Seoul’s unique, moon-shaped, tethered helium balloon attraction, located in Yeouido Park. Launched in 2024, it offers a stunning panoramic view of the city’s skyline.
Did you know?
SeoulDal lifts passengers 130 metres above the city, offering panoramic views, with its name combining ‘Seoul’ and ‘Dal’, the Korean word for moon.Yeouido: Key shooting location of Idol I
Yeouido, a significant river island in Seoul, served as a backdrop to represent power, media attention, and political influence in the drama Idol I. Famed as Korea’s Manhattan, it is the nation’s hub for politics, finance, and media. It is also home to the National Assembly and popular recreational hubs.
Do check out our story on Seoul’s most aesthetic cafes.
Hanyang University ERICA Campus
Though not prominent, the university building is employed as a stand-in backdrop for institutional and academic settings in Idol I. Located in Ansan, Hanyang University is known for strong-industry-academic collaboration.
Top things to do in Seoul
Inspired by the drama Idol I, if you are planning a trip to Seoul, here are a few things you need to add to your itinerary:
Stroll Bukchon Hanok Village
Perched on the hills of Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the oldest and carefully preserved Hanok villages in Seoul. You can take a walk across the streets and admire the stone-roofed Hanoks.
Also read | These Bucket-List Activities Define Seoul’s Nightlife
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace was the heart of the Joseon Dynasty. Served as a primary royal residence in the past, it now attracts tourists across the world for its royal feel.
Admire Namsan Tower
Located on Namsan Mountain, Namsan Tower is one of the iconic landmarks in Seoul, known for its stunning panoramic views from its observatory.
Step into Starfield Library
Whether you are an avid reader or not, the Starfield library is going to stun you with its visually appealing interiors. Known for its towering, 13-metre bookshelves, a collection of more than 50,000+ books and magazines, this library is something you can’t miss on your Seoul trip.
Try local delicacies
Seoul’s local delicacies offer a vibrant mix of sweet, spicy, and savoury flavours that you can resist. From Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) to Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang), and sweet Hotteok (pancakes), you can find these delectable treats in markets like Gwangjang Market.
Don’t miss our guide to Seoul’s street food.
Best time to visit Seoul
Seoul experiences all four seasons in extremes. So, it’s best to visit the city either in early spring into early summer, or late summer into fall.
T+L tip
If you want to cherish cherry blossoms, then late March to early April is the perfect time to visit.How to reach Seoul
Seoul Gimpo Airport (GMP) is located approximately 25 km from Seoul city centre. You can take a bus or a cab to reach your specific destination.
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(Feature image credit: IMDb)
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Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.