Korea-content isn’t just a story—it’s a place.

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Korea-content isn’t just a story—it’s a place.

Stray Kids in Korea: Every Location You Must Visit — STAY Guide

21 min read

Have you ever wanted to breathe in the cinematic atmosphere of the ‘Thunderous’ music video, or stand exactly where the high-energy ‘S-Class’ riverside choreography took place? If you are planning a trip to South Korea, experiencing the city through the eyes of JYP Entertainment’s self-producing global powerhouses is an absolute must. 

Since their debut in 2018, Stray Kids (SKZ)—Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N—have carved out a wholly unique, “mala taste” identity in the K-pop industry. Driven by the genius composition of 3RACHA, their journey from determined trainees to stadium-filling superstars is mapped out across the streets of Seoul and beyond. 

Welcome to the ultimate “STAY Pilgrimage.” This is not just a standard travel itinerary; it is a meticulously curated Stray Kids Korea travel guide. From the nostalgic trainee-era relics and local neighborhood restaurants that fueled their early debut days, to the grandiose MV backdrops that defined their sweeping visual concepts, we are covering it all. 

Grab your lightstick, bookmark this definitive guide, and let’s step out into the ultimate SKZ adventure for your next Korea trip!

[IMAGE PLACEHOLDER: High-quality wide shot of the Seoul skyline with a Stray Kids lightstick (Nachimbong) in the foreground. Alt-text: Stray Kids lightstick Nachimbong at sunset in Seoul, Korea.]

GANGNAM AREAS

🏢 Former JYP Entertainment Building — Stray Kids AGENCY / TRAINEE SPOT

Long before they were selling out international stadium tours, Stray Kids were grinding through grueling dance practices and vocal lessons in the practice rooms of this very building. This iconic Cheongdam-dong location served as the primary training ground for the members during their pre-debut years. For fans who watched the emotional 2017 Stray Kids survival show, this street is hallowed ground. It is the highly nostalgic starting point where the original 3RACHA members (Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han) began composing their first tracks late into the night, and where the final eight-member lineup fought for their dream. While JYP Entertainment has since moved, standing outside these doors lets you trace the group’s humble “Step Out” history.

  • Hours: 24/7 (Exterior only)
  • Transport: Apgujeong Rodeo Stn (Suin-Bundang Line), Exit 2 (10-minute walk)
  • Cost: Free
  • GoogleMap Address: 41 Apgujeong-ro 79-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 41 Apgujeong-ro 79-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Use a wide-angle lens as the street is quite narrow; focus on the building’s distinct vertical shape. Please note the building now houses other private businesses, so do not attempt to enter the lobby.

[IMAGE PLACEHOLDER: The vertical facade of the old JYP building in Cheongdam-dong. Alt-text: The former JYP Entertainment building in Seoul, a key Stray Kids trainee site.]

🥘 Cheongdamgol — Stray Kids DORMITORY / RESTAURANT

Because Stray Kids’ actual dormitories are private residences, fans looking to experience a “day in the life” of a pre-debut SKZ member should head straight to Cheongdamgol. Affectionately known in the industry as the “idols’ canteen,” this traditional Korean restaurant was a primary dining spot for the members while they lived in their nearby Cheongdam-dong dorms. After exhausting survival show evaluations, the boys would come here for comforting, home-cooked meals. Serving traditional baekban (a hearty homestyle Korean meal featuring rice, soup, and an array of side dishes), Cheongdamgol offers STAYs a literal taste of the group’s history. Sit down, order a warm meal, and imagine the members excitedly discussing their debut plans over these exact tables.

  • Hours: 10:30 – 21:50 (Break: 16:00 – 17:00)
  • Transport: Apgujeong Rodeo Stn (Suin-Bundang Line), Exit 4
  • Cost: Approx. 10,000–20,000 KRW
  • GoogleMap Address: 48 Seolleung-ro 148-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 48 Seolleung-ro 148-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Order the ‘Baekban’ (multi-side dish set) for the authentic trainee meal experience. Try to visit around 2:00 PM to avoid the heavy office worker lunch rush.

🍲 Golmok Restaurant — Stray Kids TRAINEE SPOT / RESTAURANT

Tucked away in the alleys near the old JYP building, Golmok Restaurant is an intimate, friendly “mom-and-pop” eatery that holds some of the sweetest memories for international STAYs. This tiny spot was a favorite escape for the members during their intense training period—specifically Felix and Changbin. The owners are famously welcoming to visiting fans and have even curated a dedicated “Stray Kids Menu” featuring the members’ beloved Army Stew (Budae-jjigae). The interior walls are lovingly plastered with authentic signatures, messages, and photos of the members over the years, making it one of the most personal pilgrimage spots on this tour.

  • Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (Closed Sundays)
  • Transport: Apgujeong Rodeo Stn (Suin-Bundang Line), Exit 2
  • Cost: Approx. 8,000–10,000 KRW
  • GoogleMap Address: 11 Apgujeong-ro 79-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 11 Apgujeong-ro 79-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Ask permission from the owner to photograph the wall signatures; remember that it is a small eatery, so ordering one menu item per person is mandatory.

OTHER SEOUL AREAS

🥣 Somunnan Seongsu Gamjatang — Stray Kids RESTAURANT

Moving over to the trendy district of Seongsu-dong, we find a legendary local institution that has been fully co-opted into the STAY pilgrimage circuit thanks to main vocalist Seungmin. Seungmin is well-known within the fandom for his consistent, highly reliable taste in food. He specifically recommended and praised the pork bone stew at Somunnan Seongsu Gamjatang, cementing it as a mandatory stop for any fan-organized “Seungmin Food Tour.” The rich, bubbling cauldron of spicy broth, tender pork on the bone, and potatoes is the ultimate Korean comfort food, perfectly capturing Seungmin’s warm and satisfying culinary preferences.

  • Hours: 24 Hours
  • Transport: Seongsu Station (Line 2), Exit 4
  • Cost: Approx. 10,000–30,000 KRW
  • GoogleMap Address: 45 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 45 Yeonmujang-gil, Seongdong-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Visit at 10:00 AM or 3:00 PM to avoid the infamous 1-hour dinner queues. The turnover is fast, so don’t linger too long after finishing your meal!

🎡 Yongma Land — Stray Kids LANDMARK / MV FILMING

To understand Stray Kids’ visual aesthetic, one must explore their “mala taste” concepts. Yongma Land, an abandoned amusement park on the eastern edge of Seoul, provides exactly that slightly eerie, retro backdrop. While many K-pop groups have utilized this location, it holds a special place in SKZ history as a primary filming site for their emotional and powerful ‘Voices’ performance video, alongside numerous aesthetic concept photo shoots. The rusted rides, overgrown weeds, and stationary carousel perfectly match the group’s themes of youth, rebellion, and finding one’s voice. It is a stunning, highly photogenic location.

  • Hours: 10:00 – 18:00
  • Transport: Mangu Station (Gyeongui-Jungang Line), Exit 1
  • Cost: 10,000 KRW (Adults)
  • GoogleMap Address: 118 Mangu-ro 70-gil, Jungnang-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 118 Mangu-ro 70-gil, Jungnang-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Bring your SKZOO plushies and photocards for photos at the stationary carousel seen in the MV. The late afternoon “golden hour” provides the best lighting!

💎 JYP Entertainment Headquarters — Stray Kids AGENCY

This is where the magic happens today. Located in Gangdong-gu, the towering, modern JYP Entertainment Headquarters (2018–Present) is the current beating heart of Stray Kids’ operations. This is the building where 3RACHA produces their chart-topping hits, where the members perfect their jaw-dropping choreography in the basement practice rooms, and where a vast majority of the hilarious behind-the-scenes ‘SKZ-TALKER’ episodes are filmed. As the official home of the group, it is the definitive pilgrimage site. Visiting the exterior allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the place where the members spend most of their working hours.

  • Hours: 24/7 (Exterior only)
  • Transport: Olympic Park Station (Lines 5 & 9), Exit 1 (15-minute walk)
  • Cost: Free
  • GoogleMap Address: 205 Gangdong-daero, Gangdong-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 205 Gangdong-daero, Gangdong-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Stand across the wide road near the Starbucks for the best wide-angle scale shot of the building and the glowing red JYP logo. Remember this is an active workplace, so avoid blocking sidewalks or the parking ramp.

🥩 Lamb NIKUYA (Dunchon) — Stray Kids RESTAURANT

Conveniently located near the new JYP Headquarters, Lamb NIKUYA (Dunchon Branch) is a verified modern-day favorite for several members of Stray Kids, as well as other JYP artists. This cozy, Japanese-style grill specializes in premium lamb dishes and serves as a frequent off-duty sanctuary for the boys after a long day of recording or post-concert celebrations. The interior is a treasure trove for STAYs, featuring an autograph wall with genuine, updated signatures from the members. It has naturally become a massive hotspot for local Korean fans to gather, celebrate member birthdays, and enjoy a luxurious dinner.

  • Hours: 12:00 – 00:00 Daily
  • Transport: Dunchon-dong Station (Line 5), Exit 3
  • Cost: Approx. 30,000 KRW+
  • GoogleMap Address: 24 Yangjae-daero 83-gil, Gangdong-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 24 Yangjae-daero 83-gil, Gangdong-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: Check the autograph wall immediately upon entering to spot your bias’s signature! Because the seating capacity is small, reservations are highly recommended if you are traveling with a group of STAYs.

🌊 Yeouido Hangang Park — Stray Kids MV FILMING / LANDMARK

Yeouido Hangang Park is an iconic Seoul landmark, but for STAYs, it is synonymous with the explosive 5-STAR era. This sweeping riverside park was the outdoor filming site for the high-energy ‘S-Class’ (특) music video choreography. Watching the members execute their intricate, star-shaped point dance against the glittering backdrop of the Han River and the Seoul skyline is unforgettable. Furthermore, the park is a general landmark for the group; the members have frequently been spotted here relaxing or filming informal, chaotic challenges for their ‘SKZ CODE’ variety content. 

  • Hours: 24/7
  • Transport: Yeouinaru Station (Line 5), Exit 2
  • Cost: Free
  • GoogleMap Address: 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
  • NaverMap Address: 330 Yeouidong-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

STAY Tip: To find the exact ‘S-Class’ performance spot, walk along the river paths until you locate the ‘Mulbit Stage’ (Floating Stage). Visit at night to perfectly match the MV’s lighting!

OUTSIDE SEOUL

🏯 MBC Daejanggeum Park — Stray Kids MV FILMING

Prepare to unleash your inner Sorikkun. Located in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, the massive MBC Daejanggeum Park is the primary filming location for Stray Kids’ cultural masterpiece, the ‘Thunderous’ (소리꾼) music video. This sprawling outdoor film set features incredibly detailed, grand traditional Korean palace architectures and the lively Jeojatgeori (traditional market street) seen in the MV. STAYs travel from all over the world to wander these historic sets, recreating the iconic, dramatic “pained” entry sequence, or attempting the massive group dance choreo in the expansive palace courtyards. 

  • Hours: 09:00 – 18:00 (Mar–Oct) / 09:00 – 17:00 (Nov–Feb)
  • Transport: Jukjeon Station (Suin-Bundang Line) + 40-minute Taxi or Bus
  • Cost: 9,500 KRW (Adults)
  • GoogleMap Address: 778 Yongcheon-ro, Baegam-myeon, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do
  • NaverMap Address: 778 Yongcheon-ro, Baegam-myeon, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do

STAY Tip: Navigate specifically to the Lower Palace (Injeongjeon) area to find the exact courtyard from ‘Thunderous’. Arrive early, as exploring the massive grounds takes about 3 hours!

🏭 Bucheon Art Bunker B39 — Stray Kids OTHER / MV FILMING

Stray Kids’ music frequently explores themes of breaking out of the mold, and the architecture of Bucheon Art Bunker B39 is intrinsically linked to that grand, dystopian aesthetic. Once a massive, active waste incineration plant, this imposing structure has been transformed into a stark cultural arts space. It has been heavily utilized as a backdrop for various SKZ performances, providing the industrial, concrete energy felt in visual elements related to ‘LALALALA’ and ‘S-Class’. The towering, raw walls capture the fierce “Step Out” energy that defines the group’s performance-heavy videos.

  • Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (Closed Mondays)
  • Transport: Bucheon Stadium Station (Line 7), Exit 1 + Bus/Taxi
  • Cost: Free (Exhibitions)
  • GoogleMap Address: 53 Samjak-ro, Ojeong-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
  • NaverMap Address: 53 Samjak-ro, Ojeong-gu, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do

STAY Tip: Head straight for the “Ash Pit” zone—the deep, industrial concrete bunker provides the absolute best Stray Kids-style dystopian backdrop for your photos.

🏗️ Gimcheon Abandoned Building — Stray Kids MV FILMING (Restricted)

For OG, long-time STAYs, the Gimcheon Abandoned Circular Building is nothing short of sacred ground. This remote, dilapidated structure was the gritty, breathtaking filming location for their very first pre-debut music video, ‘Hellevator’. The towering circular atrium represents the dark, rebellious origin of the group’s identity. Fans have historically traveled here to experience the sheer scale of the architecture where the boys took their very first leap into the K-pop industry.

  • Status: RESTRICTED ACCESS / PRIVATE PROPERTY
  • Transport: Gimcheon Station + 15-minute taxi
  • GoogleMap Address: 27-1 san, Ogyul-gil, Gimcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
  • NaverMap Address: 27-1 san, Ogyul-gil, Gimcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do

STAY WARNING: CRITICAL FLAG — DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENTER THE BUILDING. This is unsafe private property, and trespassing is highly illegal and monitored by security. You may only view the structure from the safety of the exterior perimeter fence. A high-zoom lens is recommended to see the ‘Hellevator’ atrium from the road. 

RECOMMENDED 1-DAY ITINERARY: THE “STAY IN SEOUL” ROUTE

Short on time? Here is the ultimate, optimized 1-day Stray Kids Korea travel itinerary to hit the highlights within Seoul city limits:

  • Morning (10:00): Start your day wide awake at Yeouido Hangang Park. Walk along the river, find the Mulbit Stage, and soak in those fresh ‘S-Class’ riverside vibes.
  • Lunch (12:30): Take the subway across the city to Seongsu-dong. Beat the afternoon rush and dig into a hearty bowl of Somunnan Seongsu Gamjatang, just like Seungmin.
  • Afternoon (14:30): Head east to Gangdong-gu for a quick, respectful visit to the new JYP Headquarters. Snap your photos with the iconic red logo.
  • Late Afternoon (16:30): Travel back in time to Cheongdam-dong. Explore the nostalgic Former JYP HQ street, then walk over to the nearby trainee restaurants (Cheongdamgol or Golmok) to see the history on the walls.
  • Dinner (19:00): Finish your perfect pilgrimage at Lamb NIKUYA. Enjoy a luxury dinner, find your bias’s autograph, and cheers to a successful STAY day!

TRAVEL TIPS FOR FANS VISITING KOREA

To ensure your Stray Kids Korea travel experience is flawless, keep these 10 practical tips in mind:

  • Map Apps: Install Naver Map immediately upon landing. Google Maps is notoriously unreliable for walking directions in South Korea, whereas Naver Map is incredibly precise.
  • Transit: Purchase a T-Money card at any convenience store. Load it with cash to ensure seamless subway and bus transfers across Seoul.
  • Respect Boundaries: Always respect Private Property. Never enter buildings marked as restricted (like the Gimcheon site), and never loiter in staff parking entrances at JYP Entertainment.
  • Taxis: Download KakaoTaxi for late-night returns to your accommodation, especially after a long concert or a late dinner at Lamb NIKUYA.
  • Fandom Gear: Pack your Nachimbong (Stray Kids Lightstick) and SKZOO plushies! Korean fans love taking “fandom proof” photos at aesthetic spots like Yongma Land.
  • Power: Carry a high-capacity portable battery. Filming 4K MV recreations at Hangang Park will drain your phone battery incredibly fast.
  • Language: Learn basic Korean phrases like Gamsahabnida (Thank you) and Jogi-yo (Excuse me) to politely interact with the sweet owners at local restaurants like Golmok.
  • Dining: Book reservations at smaller venues like Lamb NIKUYA in advance if you are traveling with a large group of STAYs.
  • Snacks: Visit 24-hour convenience stores (CU, GS25) to hunt for the specific Korean snacks and drinks the members frequently picture in their Bubble updates.
  • Updates: Follow HallyuMap on social media to get live updates on SKZ pop-up stores, exhibitions, and member birthday cafe events happening during your trip!

FAQ SECTION

  • Q: Where is the Stray Kids “Thunderous” MV filmed?
  • A: The primary ‘Thunderous MV location’ is MBC Daejanggeum Park, a massive outdoor traditional Korean historical set located in Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, just outside of Seoul. 
  • Q: Can fans go inside the JYP Entertainment building?
  • A: No, the interior of the agency is closed to the public. If you plan to ‘visit JYP HQ Seoul’, you can only view and take photos of the building’s exterior. 
  • Q: Is there a “Stray Kids Menu” at local restaurants?
  • A: Yes! If you are looking for ‘Stray Kids favorite food Seoul’, head to Golmok Restaurant in Cheongdam-dong, which features a dedicated SKZ Army Stew menu, or Cheongdamgol for their beloved trainee-era traditional meals.
  • Q: How far is the “Hellevator” filming site from Seoul?
  • A: The ‘Hellevator MV location Gimcheon’ (an abandoned circular building) is quite far, requiring a KTX train ride from Seoul to Gimcheon Station, followed by a taxi ride. Note that access is strictly restricted to exterior fence viewing only.
  • Q: Are there Stray Kids birthday cafes in Korea?
  • A: Absolutely! ‘Stray Kids birthday events Korea’ are incredibly popular. During a member’s birthday month, fans rent out cafes primarily in the Hongdae and Seongsu districts, decorating them with photos and offering custom cup sleeves.

CONCLUSION

Walking the same streets where Stray Kids transformed from hopeful trainees into global icons is a profound experience for any true STAY. From the gritty remnants of the ‘Hellevator’ era to the polished, gleaming halls of the new JYP Entertainment headquarters, the city of Seoul is inextricably linked to the music and history of SKZ. 

We hope this comprehensive Stray Kids Korea travel guide helps you plan the ultimate fandom pilgrimage. Tell us in the comments—which SKZ spot is first on your bucket list? When you finally make the trip, don’t forget to take plenty of photos with your Nachimbong and share them using our community tag. Safe travels, and Step Out!