If you had to pick the most heart-pounding moment from the anime KpopDemonHunters, many “Prides” would recall the legendary ‘Soda Pop’ busking scene where the Saja Boys turned the middle of Myeongdong into their stage. The refreshing melody bursting through the screen and the dazzling landscape of Seoul’s city center created a perfect harmony.
While watching, didn’t you ever wonder, “Where exactly in Myeong dong is that?” or “I want to stand in the very spot where Jinu stood!”?
This guide is for you. We’ll show you how to turn the anime’s magic into reality and completely conquer Myeong dong, an essential stop for any trip to Seoul.
The Legendary Stage That Made Them Your Bias : Reliving ‘Soda Pop’ in Myeongdong
In episode of K-pop Demon Hunters, the Saja Boys, under the command of the demon king ‘Gwima’, stand before the Myeong dong Art Theater to absorb human souls. However, the moment the group’s leader Jinu—the only member who retains his humanity—begins to sing, the music paradoxically creates a miracle, healing the weary hearts of the crowd. It’s a masterful scene where the show’s core theme of ‘healing and connection through music’ truly shines.
A 100% Realistic Portrayal!
As ‘Soda Pop’ echoes through the animated streets, shoppers, office workers, and foreign tourists all stop in their tracks, captivated by the performance. This stunningly realistic depiction of Myeong dong’s vibrant energy and the global status of K-Pop earned praise from fans for “blurring the line between animation and reality.”
Details That Made the Stage Perfect
The production team’s dedication is evident in these subtle details:
- Fantasy Visuals Blended with Myeongdong’s Neon Signs : When Jinu’s vocals soar, the street’s real-life neon signs light up in sync with the music, and sparkling particle effects follow the members’ dance moves, maximizing the fantasy feel.
- K-Pop Music Video-Level Camerawork : Dynamic camera movements, reminiscent of an actual K-Pop music video, accentuate the Saja Boys’ powerful, synchronized choreography. The shot where the camera jumps with the members is considered a highlight.
- Narrative-Driven Expressions : From Jinu’s emotional face as he gets lost in the song to the other members’ joyful reactions to the crowd’s cheers, the detailed facial expressions brought their complex characters and internal conflicts to life.
KpopDemonHunters, The Pilgrimage Begins : Enjoying Myeongdong 200%
Now, it’s time to step out of the animation and into the real streets of Myeongdong! Let’s begin our pilgrimage right in front of the Myeongdong Art Theater, the very spot where the Saja Boys performed.
Course 1 : Dive into K-Beauty & Fashion Shopping
The dazzling storefronts in the background of the anime are a perfect reflection of the real Myeongdong shopping district. If you want to perfect your style like the Saja Boys, this is the place to be.
- Olive Young Myeongdong Town : This is the holy land of K-Beauty, often called the Sephora of Korea. Snag the latest beauty items here—you might even find the products from the shopping bags seen in the anime!
- Lotte & Shinsegae Department Stores : As landmarks of Myeongdong, these two department stores offer everything from high-end luxury brands to the latest fashion trends.
- Unique Boutiques : Explore the alleys of Myeongdong to find one-of-a-kind items. It feels like discovering an Easter egg from the animation!
💡 Expert Tip : Most stores in Myeongdong offer on-the-spot tax refunds for tourists. Be sure to bring your passport when you shop!
Course 2 : A Feast for the Eyes & Mouth : Myeongdong’s Top 3 Street Foods
Those snacks held by the passersby in the anime? They are an essential part of any Myeongdong pilgrimage!
- Tornado Potato (Hweori-gamja) : The signature snack of Myeongdong. A crispy, savory spiral-cut potato on a stick is the perfect treat after enjoying the “show.” (Approx. ₩5,000 / ~$4.00 USD)
- Cheese Chicken Skewers (Chijeu-dak-kkochi) : The combination of sweet and spicy chicken with savory melted cheese is a perfect match for the Saja Boys’ own “sweet and salty” charm. (Approx. ₩5,000 / ~$4.00 USD)
- Egg Bread (Gyeran-ppang) : This soft, sweet bread with a whole egg inside is a beloved national snack. It’s a great way to cool down after feeling the heat of the busking performance. (Approx. ₩3,000 / ~$2.50 USD)
💡 Expert Tip : Many popular street food stalls may not accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have a small amount of cash (Korean Won) or check if they accept local bank transfers.
Course 3 : A Moment of Peace at Myeongdong Cathedral
An unmissable spot in Myeongdong. After the emotional high of the Saja Boys’ song, this is the perfect place to gather your thoughts and reflect on your pilgrimage. Don’t forget to take a photo with the beautiful, grand cathedral in the background!
Wait, Who Are the Saja Boys in K-pop Demon Hunters?
If this is your first time meeting them, the Saja Boys are a five-member demon boy band. They are destined to absorb human souls, but through their music, they begin to experience internal conflict, making them truly three-dimensional characters.
The group’s name, ‘Saja,’ has a triple meaning: the Lion (獅子), their public animal concept; the Dead (死者), their hidden meaning; and the Messengers (使者), their true identity as grim reapers, hinting at their complex narrative.
Conclusion: Where Anime Magic Becomes Reality
K-pop Demon Hunters* perfectly captured the vibrant energy of Myeongdong, the heart of K-Pop.
Now, it’s your turn. Stand on the very spot where the Saja Boys performed and listen to ‘Soda Pop’ through your earphones. Surrounded by the dazzling neon lights and the bustling crowds, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into the anime. Create an unforgettable memory this weekend with your own Saja Boys Myeongdong pilgrimage.