Lovely Runner Filming Locations 2026: The Ultimate Suwon Pilgrimage
Visit real-life Lovely Runner spots in Suwon for under ₩3,000. Find Sol’s house at Mong Ted cafe and the confession bridge in this 2026 guide.
Still suffering from "Sun-jae sickness"? You are not alone. Even in 2026, the cultural impact of Lovely Runner continues to draw fans to South Korea. If you are ready to grab your yellow umbrella and tour the real-life spots where Im Sol and Ryu Sun-jae fell in love, you have come to the right place.
Trust me, standing in front of that blue gate changes everything. While many tourists scramble to find locations within the capital, the true magic lies just an hour south. This guide will take you through the nostalgic alleyways of Suwon and the hidden gems of Seoul, ensuring you can recreate every iconic scene. Whether you are looking for K-Drama filming locations you can actually visit or specifically hunting for Sun-jae, this is your ultimate roadmap.
Key Takeaways
- 1The short answer is Suwon. Most of the iconic "neighborhood" scenes—like Sol’s house, Sun-jae’s house, and that romantic bridge confession—aren't in Seoul, but in Suwon, specifically the Haenggung-dong area. It is an easy day trip from Seoul, and yes, you can actually visit the cafe that served as Sol’s house!
- 21 hour travel time. That is roughly how long it takes to get from central Seoul to the heart of the filming locations in Suwon via subway or bus. It is incredibly accessible, costing less than the price of a latte (about ₩3,000 one way) to transport yourself right into the drama.
- 3Download Naver Map immediately. Do not—I repeat, do not—rely on Google Maps in Korea. It won’t give you walking directions. To find the exact alleyways and hidden murals from Lovely Runner, you need Naver Map or KakaoMap. Search for "Mong Ted" (Sol's house) to get started!
📋 Quick Facts
The Truth About the Locations: Suwon vs. Seoul
So, you want to know where Lovely Runner was filmed so you can breathe the same air as Sun-jae and Sol? Here is the deal: You need to go to Suwon, not Seoul.
While there are a few spots scattered around the capital—which we cover in our guide to K-Drama filming locations in Seoul 2026—the beating heart of the drama is located in the Haenggung-dong neighborhood of Suwon, about an hour south of Seoul. This includes Sol’s house, Sun-jae’s blue-gated house, and those romantic alleyways.
Specifically, you are looking for a cafe called Mong Ted (Sol's house). The best part? It is completely accessible. You do not need special permission or a tour guide. You just need a subway card with about ₩3,000 on it and a pair of comfortable walking shoes. Standing in that alleyway feels surreal, like Sun-jae is about to walk out with an umbrella any second.
Why Suwon Was Chosen
Okay, let's rewind a bit. Why Suwon? If you have watched the show (and if you haven't, stop reading and go watch it!), you know the vibe is very nostalgic, warm, and intimate. Seoul is amazing, but it is often too modern and frantic to capture that specific "first love in a quiet neighborhood" feeling.
The production team chose Haenggung-dong because strict development restrictions protect it—it sits right next to the UNESCO World Heritage Hwaseong Fortress. This means no skyscrapers, lots of preserved traditional roofs, and a maze of cozy alleys that look exactly like they did 15 years ago. It was the perfect canvas for a time-slip drama.
Filming started back in 2023, capturing the changing seasons that are so crucial to the plot (hello, cherry blossoms and snow!). By the time the show aired in April 2024, locals started noticing lines forming in front of a certain cafe. Fast forward to 2026, and this quiet neighborhood has become a full-blown pilgrimage site for fans from all over the world. It is not just a set; it is a real, breathing community that now holds a special place in K-drama history.
Planning Your Pilgrimage Strategy
Now, you have a few choices on how to tackle this pilgrimage, depending on how obsessed you are.
Option A: The "Casual Fan" (Seoul Only) If you are only in Korea for a few days and cannot leave Seoul, you can still catch a vibe. You can visit Choongang High School near Anguk Station. This is the school they attended. The architecture is stunning—very gothic and moody. Just remember, you can usually only peek through the gates on weekdays. You can also eat at Soegojip in Insadong (Sun-jae's dad's restaurant) or hit DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) where the concert scenes were filmed.
Option B: The "Im Sol" Experience (Suwon Day Trip) This is what I recommend for 90% of you. Take the subway to Suwon. Spend the afternoon walking from Mong Ted to the Confession Bridge. It is walkable, stress-free, and hits all the emotional high notes. You can do this easily in half a day.
Option C: The "Die-Hard" (Road Trip) If you want to see everything, including the Ferris Wheel at Sapgyoho and the reservoir at Dongtan Lake Park, you are looking at a multi-day trip or a rental car situation. These spots are far apart. Sapgyoho is in Dangjin, which is a solid 1.5 to 2 hours away from Seoul by bus. It is doable, but it is a commitment.
The Complete How-To (Suwon Edition)
Let's walk through the Suwon loop because that is the money shot.
First, download Naver Map. Type in "Suwon Station." From Seoul Station, take Line 1 (the dark blue line) all the way to Suwon. It takes about an hour. Once you exit Suwon Station, head to the bus transfer center. You are looking for buses heading to Hwaseong Haenggung (Palace). Buses 11, 13, or even the 35 will get you there.
Once you get off at the palace, cross the street and dive into the alleys. Put "Mong Ted" into your map. As you walk, you will start recognizing the murals. When you turn the corner and see the yellow brick building, prepare to gasp. It really looks just like Sol's house. Go inside! Order an Iced Americano and their Salt Bread (it is famous for a reason—crispy outside, fluffy inside). Sit by the window and look out. Directly across the narrow street is the Blue Gate. That is Sun-jae’s house.
After you have taken 500 photos, walk towards the stream (Suwoncheon). Follow the water north until you see the big stone floodgate (Hwahongmun). Just before it, there is a small stepping-stone bridge. That is where the confession happened. It is incredibly peaceful. If you have energy left, climb the hill to the Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset and pretend you are waiting for a time slip.
Essential Etiquette and Tips
Here are the pro tips that will save you from embarrassment and help you navigate unwritten social rules in South Korea.
First, Sun-jae’s house is a private home. I cannot stress this enough. There are real people living there. They are generally nice to fans, but please do not shout "SUN-JAE YAAAA!" at the top of your lungs at 8 AM. Be cool. Take your pic and move on.
Second, Mong Ted is closed on Wednesdays. Imagine traveling all the way there and finding the gate locked. That would be tragic. Check their Instagram (@__mongted) before you go just in case of sudden closures.
Third, the "Video Rental Shop" sign is not there anymore. The production crew put that up for filming. The cafe has its own signage. Do not be confused if it looks slightly cleaner and more modern than in the drama.
CRITICAL TIP regarding Transport: If you do not have a Korean ARC (Alien Registration Card), you cannot just sign up for any Korean app. Make sure you have Kakao T installed for taxis, but set payment to "Pay to Driver." If you get stranded in Suwon late at night, hailing a taxi on the street can be tough in 2026. Having the app is a lifesaver. Also, get the Climate Card (unlimited transit card) if you are staying in Seoul for a while—it covers the subway ride to Suwon!
Filming Begins
Production starts in Suwon and Seoul, capturing the distinct seasonal vibes seen in the show.
Drama Premiere
Lovely Runner airs, sparking immediate interest in the "blue gate" house in Suwon.
The "Mong Ted" Boom
The cafe used as Sol's house sees lines out the door as the drama hits peak popularity.
Tourism Stabilization
Haenggung-dong solidifies itself as a major Hallyu hotspot; cafes add English menus for international fans.
Current Status
The locations remain pristine; "Sun-jae" tours are now a staple for K-drama fans visiting Korea.
New Transport Options
Expanded GTX lines make getting to outlying filming spots like Dongtan Lake Park faster than ever.
Location Comparison
| Feature | Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Scenes | Sol/Sun-jae’s houses, Confession Bridge | School, Concert Hall, Dates | Ferris Wheel Date |
| Cost to Access | Low (Subway/Bus) | Low (Subway) | Medium (Intercity Bus/Taxi) |
| Walkability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very High) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (High) | ⭐⭐ (Need taxi/car) |
| Crowd Level | High (Weekends) | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
| Photo Ops | Iconic (Yellow Umbrella spots) | Nostalgic (School/Alleys) | Cinematic (Night lights) |
| Best For | The "Core" Pilgrimage | Quick stops during city tour | Dedicated day trippers |
| 2026 Changes | More "Lovely Runner" themed cafes | Continued restricted school entry | Improved bus schedules |
Pros and Cons of the Suwon Day Trip
Pros
- ✓Walkability is King: Once you get to Haenggung-dong, you can walk to about 70% of the key filming locations. Sol's house, Sun-jae's house, the mural alleys, and the confession bridge are all within a 15-minute radius. It is efficient and saves your feet.
- ✓It is Not Just a Set: This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site (Hwaseong Fortress). So, even if your travel buddy is not a fan of the show, they will still love the traditional architecture, cool cafes, and history. It is a win-win.
- ✓The Cafe is Real: Unlike some dramas where the "house" is just a facade on a soundstage, Sol's house is a functioning cafe called Mong Ted. You can actually go in, sit down, and soak up the vibes (and eat their famous salt bread).
Cons
- ✗Private Residence Awkwardness: Sun-jae's house (the blue gate right across from Sol's) is a real person's home. You cannot go inside, and there are signs asking you to be quiet. It can feel a little invasive if there are too many loud fans around.
- ✗School Access is Tricky: The high school scenes were filmed at Choongang High School in Seoul. It is an active school, so tourists are often banned from entering the grounds during school hours or altogether, meaning you might only get a gate selfie.
- ✗Distance for the "Extras": While Suwon covers the main stuff, the amusement park (Sapgyoho) and the beach scenes are far. You really need to dedicate separate days or rent a car to hit those outlying spots without stress.
Step-by-Step Guide: The "Im Sol" Suwon Pilgrimage Loop
Total Time: 5-6 Hours (leisurely pace) Difficulty: Easy
Step 1: Step 1: Get to Suwon and "Mong Ted"
Take the subway (Line 1 or Suin-Bundang Line) to Suwon Station. From there, hop on a bus (lots of options like 11, 13, or 35) to the Hwaseong Haenggung stop. Walk into the residential alleys of Haenggung-dong. Navigate to Mong Ted (Sol's House). Pro Tip: Go on a weekday morning if you can. On weekends, the line to take a photo in front of the yellow umbrella spot (if it's out) or the blue gate can get long!
Step 2: Step 2: The Blue Gate (Sun-jae’s House)
Literally, just turn around 180 degrees from Mong Ted. The house with the blue gate is right there. It is shockingly close—the drama made the street look slightly wider, but in reality, they are practically neighbors. Remember, people live here! Whisper, snap your pics quickly, and do not lean on their gate or doorbell.
Step 3: Step 3: The Confession Bridge (Suwoncheon Stream)
Walk towards the Hwahongmun Gate (the big water gate). Just slightly downstream, you will see the stepping stones and the small bridge where the famous confession scene happened. It is especially pretty at sunset. In summer, the stream is lush and green; in winter, it looks exactly like the tragic scenes in the drama. Dress accordingly!
Step 4: Step 4: Fortress Wall Walk & Yongyeon Pond
Walk up the stairs to the fortress walls. Head toward Banghwasuryujeong Pavilion and look down at Yongyeon Pond. This is where Sun-jae taught Sol how to ride a bike. It is gorgeous at night when the walls are lit up. Bring a picnic mat if the weather is nice. This is a huge hangout spot for locals, not just drama fans.
Most tourists make the mistake of staying only in Seoul. But Suwon's Haenggung-dong is actually the heart of Lovely Runner. If you want that perfect shot, visit Mong Ted around 4:00 PM. The 'Golden Hour' light hits the yellow walls of the cafe beautifully, giving you that cinematic filter look without any editing. Also, don't skip the salt bread there—it's actually delicious.
Specific Location Details
If you are building your itinerary, here are the hard facts for the top three spots.
1. Mong Ted (Sol's House)
- Korean Name: 몽테드
- Type: Cafe
- Address: 14 Hwaseomun-ro 48beon-gil, Paldal-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do
- Hours: 12:00-21:00 (Closed Wednesdays)
- Price Range: $$ (Coffee approx ₩5,000-6,000)
- Highlights: Sol's bedroom window view, Salt Bread, The brick exterior.
- Insider Tip: The salt bread sells out fast; get there right when they open at noon! Be sure to brush up on The 2026 Master Guide to Korean Table Manners before you go, though cafes are generally casual.
2. Choongang High School
- Korean Name: 중앙고등학교
- Type: School (Filming Site)
- Address: 164 Changdeokgung-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul
- Hours: Grounds open weekends only (usually 09:00-18:00)
- Highlights: Gothic architecture, The main slope, School gates.
- Insider Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby "Goblin" filming location (Yun Posun-gil).
3. Sapgyoho Amusement Park
- Korean Name: 삽교호 놀이동산
- Type: Amusement Park
- Address: 15 Sapgyocheon 3-gil, Sinpyeong-myeon, Dangjin-si, Chungnam
- Price Range: $$ (Per ride basis, ~₩5,500 per ride)
- Highlights: The Ferris Wheel, Retro carousel, Night lights.
- Insider Tip: Go at night. The Ferris Wheel lights are iconic and essential for the vibe.
Pilgrimage Budget Breakdown
How much will this fandom trip cost you? Here is a quick look at the 2026 prices.
| Option | Price | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mong Ted Cafe | ₩6,000 | Budget | Cost of a signature Latte inside Sol's house. |
| Taxi to Suwon | ₩50,000 | Luxury | Taking a taxi from Seoul directly to the cafe (one way). |
| Subway to Suwon | ₩3,000 | Budget | Using the subway/bus combo (approx 1.5 hours). |
| Amusement Park | ₩35,000 | Mid | Ferris Wheel ride + snacks + roundtrip bus from Seoul. |
Warnings and Tips
FAQ
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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Conclusion: Your Action Plan
Alright, you are ready. Here is your plan for your first full day in Korea:
Wake up early, grab a coffee, and head to Seoul Station by 10 AM. Catch the train to Suwon. Be at Mong Ted by 12:00 PM when they open to snag the fresh salt bread. Spend the afternoon getting lost in the alleys of Haenggung-dong, walk the fortress wall at sunset, and have a crying session at the confession bridge.
It is an easy, affordable, and emotionally fulfilling day trip. You might not find a time-traveling watch, but you will definitely find the magic of the show. Go get him, Sol!
And while you are planning your trip, don't forget to check out our 2026 Ultimate Guide to the K-pop Fandom Economy if you plan on buying any OST albums or merch while you are here.
Sources
- Creatrip - Detailed list of 17 filming locations including specific addresses and directions.
- Visit Korea - Official tourism guide for the Suwon Haenggung-dong walking course.
- Daniel Food Diary - Review of Mong Ted cafe, menu items (Salt Bread), and prices.
- Hey Roseanne - Blog post detailing the exact bridge locations and cherry blossom spots.
- Zapzee - Info on Chuncheon Bridge and Dongtan Lake Park scenes.
About the Author
Korea Experience Team
Written by the Korea Experience editorial team - experts in Korean medical tourism, travel, and culture with years of research and firsthand experience.
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