My Love from the Star Travel Guide: The Fantasy Romance That Struck Asia & City Tour
Aired on SBS from 2013 to 2014, My Love from the Star is a fantasy romance depicting the love story between an alien who fell to Earth 400 years ago and a modern-day top Hallyu star. Starring Kim Soo-hyun and Jun Ji-hyun as the male and female leads, this masterpiece achieved a monumental peak viewership rating of 28.1%.
This drama went beyond South Korea to create a massive social syndrome across China and all of Asia. In particular, 'Chimaek' (fried chicken and beer), the favorite food of the female lead, boasted such immense influence that it literally changed the dining culture across Asia, cementing this work at the absolute pinnacle of the K-drama Hallyu wave.
The Asian Syndrome of a 28.1% Rating: Romance Between an Alien and a Top Star
This drama convincingly unraveled the somewhat absurd premise of "an alien with superpowers and the world's most famous top star" through outstanding directing and comical dialogue. The hidden loneliness behind the glamorous entertainment industry meets the solitary sorrow of a man who has lived alone for hundreds of years, deeply touching the hearts of viewers.
The more the two are drawn to each other, the higher the risk of his identity being discovered, and the approaching time of their inevitable separation maximizes the narrative tension. Fantasy elements are perfectly blended with comedy and thriller, creating a flawless narrative pace.
Radiant Loneliness and Healing in a Glamorous City
The characters in the show live in luxurious apartments and sophisticated spaces, but they are lonelier than anyone else. The drama shows how these individuals heal each other's wounds amidst Seoul's dazzling night views and flashing billboards.
In Korean dramas, food is not just a prop but acts as an emotional switch. The combination of fried chicken and beer, which the protagonist sought out on her depressing days, has been imprinted on global viewers as a symbol of everyday comfort that soothes an exhausting day.
A Romantic Tour Course for Travelers to Korea
Plan an itinerary to enjoy Seoul's sophisticated night views and delicious local food, just like the main characters in the drama.
Locks of Love at Namsan Seoul Tower
Visit N Seoul Tower, where the protagonists enjoyed a date and promised eternal love in the latter half of the drama. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain to enjoy a fantastic 360-degree night view of Seoul, and leave a romantic photo in the 'Locks of Love' area where countless lovers have left their marks.
Local 'Chimaek' Experience at a Neighborhood Chicken Joint
Experience 'Chimaek', the ultimate catchphrase born from the drama, right in its home country. Large franchise restaurants are great, but we highly recommend stepping into a small neighborhood chicken joint near your hotel or in a local alleyway to order crispy fried chicken and cold draft beer. You can taste the most authentic Korean way locals relieve their daily stress.
A Night Stroll at Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
Visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), the filming location where a dramatic incident occurred while the female lead was shooting a wire action scene. The silver architecture, which looks like a giant spaceship has landed, matches perfectly with the drama's alien concept. When night falls and the soft lights turn on, you can enjoy a mysterious night stroll feeling as if you've entered a futuristic city.
Travel Precautions
If you take the cable car to go up to Namsan Seoul Tower, the waiting line to board can become extremely long during weekend evenings. If you want to save time, it is highly recommended to go up early in the late afternoon before sunset to enjoy both the sunset and the night view simultaneously.
When experiencing Chimaek, keep in mind that Korean chicken portions are generally quite large, easily enough for two people to share one whole chicken. Also, the 'Yangnyeom' (seasoned) chicken covered in spicy sauce might be a bit strong at first, so it is a wise choice to order the 'Half & Half' (Ban-ban) menu.
Key Summary
- This is a fantasy rom-com starring Kim Soo-hyun and Jun Ji-hyun that achieved a peak rating of 28.1% and sparked a massive Hallyu syndrome across Asia.
- Through the romance between a lonely top star and an alien who has lived for hundreds of years, it delightfully portrays the wounds and healing of modern city dwellers.
- Go up to the observatory of Namsan Seoul Tower, the drama's date spot, and enjoy the glamorous night view of Seoul and the Locks of Love.
- We strongly recommend experiencing 'Chimaek' (chicken and draft beer), which created a global craze, at a local alley restaurant or Han River park.
- When riding the Namsan cable car, schedule your visit for the late afternoon to avoid the heavy weekend queues.
▶ Check 'My Love from the Star' info on Wikipedia
▶ Visit Korea Official Travel Guide