Lights, camera, adventure! South Korea’s dramatic landscapes and historic sites have starred in countless films, blending reality with cinematic magic. For foreign travelers, visiting these locations offers a unique way to experience Korea’s culture. Here’s your passport to four legendary filming spots:
1. Nami Island (Namiseom) – Winter Sonata
📍 Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province
This fairy-tale island became a global sensation after the K-drama Winter Sonata (2002). Wander beneath towering metasequoia trees where Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo filmed their iconic scenes. Rent a bike, enjoy waterfront cafés, and visit in autumn for fiery foliage or winter for snow-laden romance.
How to get there: Take the ITX train from Seoul to Gapyeong Station, then a 10-minute taxi to the ferry terminal.
2. Gyeongbokgung Palace – The Throne & Kingdom
📍 Jongno-gu, Seoul
Korea’s largest royal palace has set the stage for historical epics like The Throne (2015) and Netflix’s Kingdom. Stroll through Geunjeongjeon Hall (the throne room) or Hyangwonjeong Pavilion, where political intrigue and zombie battles unfolded. For the full experience, wear hanbok (traditional clothing) – rentals start at ₩15,000 near the palace gates.
Tip: Catch the reenactment ceremony at the main gate (10AM/2PM daily).
3. Jeonju Hanok Village – The Face Reader
📍 Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do
With 800+ traditional hanok houses, this village transported viewers to the Joseon era in The Face Reader (2013). Lose yourself in winding alleys adorned with paper lanterns, sample bibimbap (Jeonju’s birthplace!), and stay overnight in a hanok guesthouse. Don’t miss Omokdae Pavilion for panoramic views.
Film trivia: The village also appeared in The Royal Tailor (2014).
4. Busan – Train to Busan & Haeundae
📍 Busan
Busan’s coastal energy fuels blockbusters like Train to Busan (2016) and disaster film Haeundae (2009). Key spots:
- Busan Station: The zombie apocalypse’s starting point.
- Haeundae Beach: Featured in tsunami scenes (Haeundae).
- Gamcheon Culture Village: Rainbow-hued houses seen in Speedy Scandal (2008).
End your tour at the Busan Cinema Center (BIFF Square), home to Asia’s largest film festival.
Why Visit?
These sites merge art, history, and nature – perfect for Instagram or quiet reflection. Korea’s film industry (Hallyuwood) actively preserves locations, so you’ll find movie posters, statues (like Winter Sonata’s bronze hands on Nami Island), and themed cafes.
Pro tips:
- Use apps like Naver Map for navigation.
- Visit weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Ask about “drama tours” at local tourist centers.
Ready for your close-up? Korea’s cinematic wonders await! 🎬🇰🇷
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