Spending a Day in SEVENTEEN Wonwoo’s Hometown, Changwon
My friend Uldana and I have been wanting to visit Changwon mainly because our ultimate bias in SEVENTEEN is Wonwoo and Changwon is his hometown. Aside from that, it’s just beside Busan, so it’s really easy to go to.
I told her that we should visit Changwon during the Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival because the trees are definitely beautiful at that time. Changwon is known for this festival, and a lot of tourists visit to take stunning photos. Unfortunately, Uldana and I were busy the past few weeks, so we missed the festival.
Still, we decided to go a little later, hoping there would still be cherry blossoms when we arrived.
How to go to Changwon
Since we live in Busan and we're near the bus station, we just booked a ticket at the bus station to Changwon. It costs us around 4500 krw - 6200 krw if I'm not mistaken. It depends on which bus we are going to ride.
But for those going to Changwon from Seoul, here are some options you can try
Bus from Seoul Express Bus Terminal
You can ride a bus from the Seoul Express Bus Terminal going to Changwon Bus Terminal. You can either book it on the station or if you want to book in advance, you can also book it via Klook: Korea Bus Ticket
KTX to Changwon
You can also book a KTX going to Changwon. This is much faster than bus. Just like the bus, you can either book it on the station or you can also book it in advance via Klook: KTX ticket
Wonwoo Spots We Visited in Changwon
Palryong Middle School & Sahwa Elementary School
These two schools are right next to each other, so they’re easy to find. Wonwoo has mentioned his schools in some content, so fans know he studied here.
It’s just a normal school. But of course, it feels special knowing that the Wonwoo we know today once walked these halls.
Saelleop Chapchap (샐럽찹찹)
Saelleop Chapchap is a sandwich and salad specialty shop in Changwon. Wonwoo visited this place and even took a photo with the owner.
Since then, Carats have been visiting and leaving Wonwoo-related items in a small shrine set up by the owner. It’s such a cute and meaningful stop if you’re a fan.
Pingpong Coffee
Pingpong Coffee is located right beside Saelleop Chapchap. Wonwoo once posted Instagram photos of himself here with Seol, which made it a must-visit spot for fans.
Of course, since we were already there, we had to recreate the photo.
Other Places to visit in Changwon
Gyeonghwa Station Cherry Blossom Street
Gyeonghwa Station is one of the best places to visit during cherry blossom season.
This used to be a train station but stopped regular passenger service in February 2015. Now, it has become a popular tourist attraction known for its cherry blossom tunnel and a stationary exhibition-style train which is definitely perfect for photos.
It was also a filming location of 2 Days 1 Night. As a fan of 2 Days 1 Night, I really enjoyed going here and taking photos.
It's just a bit sad that the cherry blossoms are no longer that blooming the time we came (since we came late). But at least there are still some left.
Mini Vlog
Here's a mini vlog of the places we visited
@annyeongruth A little bit late for the cherry blossom but we got to visit Changwon, Wonwoo’s hometown! 🥰 #kpop #seventeen #세븐틴 #wonwoo #전원우 ♬ 99.9% (WONWOO Solo) - SEVENTEEN
I would love to visit Changwon again during the actual festival next time, just to experience the cherry blossoms in full bloom and take those dreamy spring photos 🌸
