Itaewon Class: A Story of Grit and Determination
Itaewon Class (2020) is a Korean drama based on the popular webtoon of the same name. The series follows Park Saeroyi (played by Park Seo-joon), a young man who opens a small bar called DanBam in the vibrant neighborhood of Itaewon after being wrongfully expelled from school and losing his father. With an unwavering sense of justice and relentless determination, Saeroyi assembles a team of misfits to challenge the powerful food industry conglomerate Jangga Group. The drama became a cultural phenomenon, boosting tourism to Itaewon and inspiring viewers worldwide with its themes of perseverance, loyalty, and fighting against systemic corruption.
Exploring the Real Itaewon
The filming locations are concentrated around the Itaewon and Gyeongridan-gil area in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Gyeongridan-gil, once a quiet residential street near the former military base, has transformed into a trendy district filled with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops — much like the transformation depicted in the drama. Visitors can walk along Noksapyeong-daero and soak in the multicultural atmosphere that makes Itaewon unique among Seoul's neighborhoods. The pojangmacha (street food stall) culture featured prominently in the show remains an authentic experience visitors can enjoy, especially in the evening hours when the area comes alive with neon lights and the aroma of Korean street food. Whether you are a fan of the drama or simply curious about Seoul's most international neighborhood, Itaewon offers a memorable experience that blends Korean tradition with global influences.
