4 Famous Filming Sites

The global popularity of Korean dramas has many fans visiting where their favorite series were filmed in Korea. From extensively reconstructed sets to scenic backdrops of nature, these four locales will make fans feel like part of a drama.

Written by Yoon Sui

© Sunshine Studio

‘Mr. Sunshine’ in Nonsan

Set against the tumultuous period of the late Joseon Dynasty, this drama revolves around two primary themes: the spirit of resistance of independence fighters and the systemic suppression in Korean society at the time. Sunshine Studio, where much of the series was filmed, is Korea’s first drama theme park jointly built by the private and public sectors. Five modern-styled structures, 19 tile-roof and four thatched-roof homes, and nine imperial Japanese buildings flawlessly simulate the look of Hanseong (the old name for Seoul) during Korea’s Enlightenment Period. The site is closed on Wednesdays.

• Bonghwang-ro 102, Yeonmoo-eup, Nonsan, Chungcheongnam-do Province
• http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6 .jsp?cid=2563936

 

© Gangneung-si

‘Guardian: The Lonely and Great God’ in Gangneung

Culture critic Jung Duk-Hyun said, “The writer tactfully navigates between historical and modern dramas, Eastern and Western tales, prior and current lifetimes, and the boundaries between tragedy and comedy. Such proficiency attests to the astuteness and depth of her perception.” “Guardian: The Lonely and Great God” is the tale of an amnesiac Grim Ripper and a goblin seeking to end his immortality by taking a human bride. Since premiering in 2017, “Guardian” has been a blockbuster both at home and abroad.

The first encounter between the goblin and his bride was filmed at Youngjin Beach in Gangneung, Gangwon-do Province, with translucent ocean waves unfolding beyond the sand arrester. Thanks to the drama, the spot attracts tourists seeking to capture themselves from the same angle the series’ couple was filmed. Strangers awaiting their turns often become each other’s photographer. The city bus 333-1 takes people to and from the spot on weekends. The bus route goes through a picturesque coastline through the beaches of Anmok, Songjeong and Gyeongpo before stopping at the sand arrester (the bus stop’s name Dokkaebi Film Site).

• Haean-ro 1609, Jumunjin-eup, Gangneung, Gangwon-do Province
• http://english.visitkorea.or.krenu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1891502

 

© Buyeo-gun

'Hotel Del Luna' in Buyeo

Set for a U.S. remake, “Hotel Del Luna” features an elite hotelier who by fate runs a hotel under a gorgeous yet aloof and ill-tempered boss. The hotel only takes in spirits waiting to enter the afterlife. K-pop singer-songwriter IU stars as Jang Man-wol. Since premiering last year, aesthetic elements like the show’s soundtrack and the fashion worn by its characters have captivated the many global fans.

The tree where Man-wol rests is nicknamed “IU tree,” though it previously appeared in K-dramas like 2015’s “Six Flying Dragons.” The zelkova at the peak of Garimseong (formerly Seongheungsanseong) Fortress has stood there for more than 400 years. Designated Local Relic No. 88 by Buyeo-gun County, the tree connects to a forest trail and a parking lot allows easy visitation. Sunrise festivities on Jan. 1 and an April event to honor Baekje soldiers who died in the Silla-Tang War (668-676) are held here every year.

• Gunsa-ri, Imcheon-myeon, Buyeo-gun, Chungcheongnam-do Province
• http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=800078

© Buyeo-gun

'Crash Landing on You’ in Chungju

This love story features a wealthy heiress who crash-lands in North Korea in a paragliding accident and a North Korean officer who covertly guards her. Its unique plot development, emotive appeal and gorgeous mise en scène created a hit. The broadcast of the final episode earned a staggering national rating of 21%, setting a tvN record. Since premiering on Netflix in December last year, it has ranked among the 10 most-watched shows in most of Asia, as well as topping ratings in Japan for an impressive duration long after its release.

The idyllic Binaeseom Island in Chungju is where one of the drama’s most memorable scenes was filmed. Before returning to South Korea, the female lead character Se-ri holds a picnic with North Korean troops against a gorgeous backdrop of blue skies, the tranquil Namhangang River, and fluttering reeds and silver grass. Because the island houses training grounds for U.S. troops, however, it is closed to the public during training.

• Jocheon-ri 412, Yangseong-myeon, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do Province
• http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_1_1_1.jsp?cid=1883397

© Chungju City