Yakhyeon Catholic Church Seoul
Historic European-style Catholic church in Seoul, known for its architecture and as a filming location for 'The Fiery Priest'.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Yakhyeon Catholic Church Seoul
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic European-style Catholic church in Seoul, known for its architecture and as a filming location for 'The Fiery Priest'.
"A beautiful, serene escape with stunning architecture and a touch of K-drama magic."
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture, especially the facade and interior details. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful demeanor. It's an active church, so quiet is appreciated. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Main Sanctuary
Admire the beautiful, classic European-style architecture, a striking contrast to Seoul's modern skyline.
Filming Location
Exterior and Grounds
See where scenes from the popular K-drama 'The Fiery Priest' were filmed, adding a touch of pop culture to your visit.

Peaceful Ambiance
Gardens and Courtyard
Find a moment of quiet reflection in the serene gardens, offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture, especially the facade and interior details. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful demeanor. It's an active church, so quiet is appreciated. :pray:
📍 Easy Access
Located centrally, it's accessible via public transport from major Seoul hubs. :bus:
🎬 K-Drama Spot
Fans of 'The Fiery Priest' will recognize this iconic filming location. :tv:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the stunning architecture, especially the facade and interior details. :camerawithflash:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful demeanor. It's an active church, so quiet is appreciated. :pray:
📍 Easy Access
Located centrally, it's accessible via public transport from major Seoul hubs. :bus:
🎬 K-Drama Spot
Fans of 'The Fiery Priest' will recognize this iconic filming location. :tv:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Yakhyeon Catholic Church for its beautiful European architecture and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape in the heart of Seoul. Its status as a filming location for 'The Fiery Priest' adds an extra layer of appeal for K-drama fans. Some note that interior access can be limited during services.
"Beautiful peaceful journey via the Way of Cross and the Jungnîm-dong Yaekyeon Catholic Church stands proudly at the top of the hill"
John P F
"The church is a short 10min walks from the nearest MRT station. And on the way is up and down petite hilly small street, but you will find several small cute cafe. The way enttance to the chuch is thru stairs as its on the top of a hill but once you reach the top you forget about the stairs. The Church is very beautifull , peacefull and solemn. There is also outdoor Way of The Cross which is also very solemn and beautiful."
Pat P
"Peaceful place. Truly hard to find and the church looks like closed most part of the time. Luckily, if you are visiting as a catholic person, you can see and visit Jesus in the chapel nearby the parish (in the same building). For the people who wants to visit it because of k-drama locations, it`s not good to visit at all, because the inside is not open. Going back to the catholic information: in the chapel nearby, you can visit a lot of relics of Korean martyrs and another saints who helped to spread the Catholicism in Korea. For clear times of masses and confession, it's better going to myeongdong, specially if you don't talk korean properly."
Mari Gomes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Yakhyeon Catholic Church is conveniently located in Jung-gu, Seoul. The nearest subway station is Chungjeongno Station (Lines 2 and 5), which is a short walk away. From Hongdae, you can take subway Line 2 to Chungjeongno Station.
Yes, several bus routes stop near the church. Check local bus schedules for routes serving the Chungjeongno area for easy access. :bus:
From Myeongdong, you can take a short taxi ride or walk to a nearby subway station (like Euljiro 1-ga) and transfer to a line that goes towards Chungjeongno Station. :subway:
Parking is generally limited at religious sites in central Seoul. It's recommended to use public transportation to avoid parking hassles. :car:
Seoul Station is a bit of a walk, but doable if you enjoy exploring on foot. It's approximately a 20-30 minute walk. Alternatively, take a short subway ride or bus. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Yakhyeon Catholic Church is generally free. It is an active place of worship, so visitors are welcome to enter and admire the architecture respectfully. :ticket:
The church is typically open during daylight hours for visitors to explore the exterior and grounds. Specific interior access might be limited during mass or services. It's best to check for any special event schedules. :clock10:
There is no admission fee to visit Yakhyeon Catholic Church. Donations are always appreciated if you wish to contribute to its upkeep. :moneybag:
Yes, you can attend mass. Masses are held regularly, and visitors are welcome to join. Check the church's schedule for specific times.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful attitude as it is a place of worship. Avoid loud noises and disruptive behavior. :pray:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography inside the church may be restricted, especially during services. It's always best to be discreet and respectful. The exterior and grounds offer excellent photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
The front facade with its classic European design is a prime spot. The surrounding gardens and courtyard also provide beautiful backdrops. Capture the contrast between the church and the city. :iphone:
Drone usage is generally prohibited in urban areas and around religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying. :noentrysign:
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Weekday mornings are also ideal for fewer people in your photos. :sunriseovermountains:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the church's architecture. If you plan to shoot interiors (where permitted), a lens with good low-light performance is beneficial. :dslr:
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Yakhyeon Catholic Church is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Seoul, established in 1896. It holds significant historical and architectural value, representing the early spread of Catholicism in Korea. :scroll:
While not as widely known as some major landmarks, it's a popular spot for those interested in history, architecture, and K-drama filming locations. It offers a quieter, more reflective experience. :star2:
The church features a beautiful European-style architecture, reminiscent of Gothic and Romanesque influences, with a prominent bell tower and stained-glass windows. :european_castle:
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, you can explore the grounds and exterior at your own pace. For deeper historical insights, consider a local history walking tour that might include the church. :map:
The atmosphere is generally serene and peaceful, especially on weekdays. It offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city, making it a place for quiet contemplation. :dove:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎬 K-Drama Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Beyond its religious function, Yakhyeon Catholic Church has gained recognition as a filming location for popular Korean dramas, most notably 'The Fiery Priest.' This adds a layer of cultural relevance, attracting fans who wish to visit the sites where their favorite scenes were shot. The church's serene grounds and picturesque facade provide a beautiful backdrop, blending historical charm with modern entertainment appeal.
Visitors often remark on the peaceful ambiance that pervades the church grounds, offering a welcome sanctuary from the city's energetic pace. Whether you're there for spiritual reflection, architectural appreciation, or a connection to Korean pop culture, Yakhyeon Catholic Church provides a unique and memorable experience.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette
As an active place of worship, respectful attire and behavior are paramount. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, avoiding overly casual or revealing clothing. Inside the church, maintain a quiet demeanor, and be mindful of ongoing services. Photography is generally permitted on the exterior and grounds, but it's wise to be discreet and avoid flash photography inside, especially during mass.
While there's no admission fee, donations are welcomed to support the church's maintenance. Visiting during weekday mornings often provides a more tranquil experience, allowing for better appreciation of the architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. The church's blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural connections makes it a worthwhile stop for many travelers.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit