Seoul, a city already known for its vibrant culture and modern infrastructure, has taken its tourism offerings to a new level with its ‘Soul Spots’ initiative. This innovative project focuses on locations that have gained global recognition through their appearances in popular Korean dramas, movies, and music videos. These ‘Soul Spots’ are more than just filming locations – they’re cultural landmarks imbued with the magic of Korean entertainment.
The heart of the ‘Soul Spots’ initiative is a commitment to enriching the tourist experience through technology and storytelling. Each location features AI-guided plaques that provide insightful information about the filming process, behind-the-scenes stories, and the cultural significance of the place. QR codes are strategically placed to offer on-the-spot information retrieval, catering to tech-savvy travelers who expect personalized and interactive experiences.
The initial 30 ‘Soul Spots’ are carefully chosen locations that have captured the imaginations of global audiences. Fans of ‘The Queen of Tears’ will be drawn to The Hyundai Seoul, where key scenes from the drama were filmed. The striking Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), featured in ‘Vincenzo’, will attract architecture enthusiasts and drama fans alike. Another iconic location, the Dong-A Digital Media Center, served as a filming location for the globally popular drama ‘Crash Landing on You’.
The ‘Soul Spots’ initiative transcends the traditional static sightseeing experience. By incorporating technology and storytelling, it transforms visits into dynamic and engaging journeys that offer deeper context and personal connection.
Recognizing the global reach of Korean entertainment, Seoul City has partnered with tvN, a major player in the Korean entertainment industry, to host a virtual running event. Taking place from October 4 to 18, this event allows fans around the world to participate virtually, exploring these iconic locations even if they are unable to travel to Seoul.
To further enhance the ‘Soul Spots’ experience, an offline event in partnership with the ‘7979 Seoul Running Crew’ is scheduled for October 10. This event, designed for up to 80 participants, offers a select group a unique opportunity to explore some of the city’s most scenic spots on foot. Unlike traditional sightseeing tours, this event combines physical activity with a cultural journey, fostering community and creating a more social and shared experience.
The ‘Soul Spots’ initiative is a pioneering model for tourism that is poised to have a global impact. Cities around the world, particularly those with a strong entertainment industry presence, are likely to draw inspiration from Seoul’s innovative approach. The combination of pop culture, technology, and tourism offers a powerful formula for attracting visitors and enhancing the travel experience. As entertainment becomes increasingly globalized, fans are more willing to travel to the locations where their favorite content was filmed. With AI-guided plaques, multilingual support, and virtual events, the ‘Soul Spots’ initiative removes barriers for international travelers, making Seoul a more accessible and engaging destination.
Seoul’s ‘Soul Spots’ initiative is more than just a tourism project; it is a forward-looking vision for the future of travel. By blending entertainment, culture, and technology, Seoul is setting a new benchmark for interactive, experience-driven tourism. This innovative approach is likely to inspire other cities to follow suit, using their own cultural exports to create unique travel experiences that resonate on a global scale.
