Nationwide travel buzz is exploding as on-screen hits leap into real life: filming locations are turning into fan-favorite destinations where visitors can relive the magic, and local governments are racing to build photogenic streets and themed routes to keep the hype going.
With director Na Hong-jin’s new film Hope about to premiere, the area around Namchang-ri, Bukpyeong-myeon in Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do—where the movie was shot—will be recreated as a Culture Street. When a project becomes a sensation, foot traffic surges to its filming sites and sets, and municipalities transform them into themed streets or tour courses to promote their cities. A simple filming spot evolves into a full-fledged tourism asset.
As viral content fuels fresh regional travel momentum, filming locations across Korea are emerging as must-visit hubs that seamlessly connect stories and trips.
Spotlight on iconic filming locations you’ve seen on screen
1. Haenam, Jeollanam-do — Around Namchang Bus Stop
The main filming area for Na Hong-jin’s new movie Hope—around Namchang-ri, Bukpyeong-myeon in Haenam-gun—was reborn on screen as the isolated harbor village “Hopo Port” near the DMZ. The story follows Hopo Port substation chief Beom-seok (played by Hwang Jung-min), who, after hearing of a tiger sighting, faces a string of unbelievable events that shake the town in this high-octane sci-fi action thriller. Haenam plans to build a retro Culture Street evoking the 1970s–1980s vibe here, turning it into a photo-ready spot where visitors can savor the film’s lingering emotions.
2. Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do — Mungyeong Saejae Open Set
Set inside Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, the Mungyeong Saejae Open Set is a go-to location for historical dramas. It’s a familiar backdrop from countless Korean period and epic series, including Kingdom and Moon Embracing the Sun. With Gwanghwamun Gate, Gyeongbokgung Palace, an Eastern Palace, market streets, and a hanok village, the site feels like stepping into the Joseon era. It’s perfect for strolling through sets while recalling your favorite scenes. Pair it with a walk along the old Mungyeong Saejae trail to enjoy history and nature in one trip.
3. Nonsan, Chungcheongnam-do — Sunshine Land and Sunshine Studio
Sunshine Land is a cultural complex where drama vibes meet hands-on experiences. At the “Romance Studio,” a street recreated from the 1950s, you can snap cinematic photos against backdrops like an old-school soup eatery, a theater, and vintage signage. Sunshine Studio captures the turn-of-the-century Hanseong (old Seoul) atmosphere from the drama Mr. Sunshine. With added military and survival experiences, it’s a popular pick for family and friend getaways.
4. Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do — Hapcheon Image Theme Park
Hapcheon Image Theme Park is a premier period-filming destination that recreates streets from the 1920s to the 1980s. It has served as the backdrop for numerous productions, including the films Kingmaker, Hunt, and Mal-Mo-E: The Secret Mission. With Seoul-style streets, streetcars, a theater, and government offices strung together, it feels like walking through a living scene from dramas and movies. Nearby, you can also visit the Blue House (Cheongwadae) filming set, a bonsai park, and an ecological forest experience zone—making it a great spot for photos, walks, and family outings.
