With a whopping 21.68% percent in ratings, it’s the second-highest-rated Korean drama in cable television history receiving worldwide stardom. The plot involves a South Korean woman called Se-ri (Son Ye-jin), who accidentally crash-lands in North Korea, soon finding herself falling for a North Korean army officer called Jeong-hyuk (Hyun Bin).
If you’ve already finished the drama, why not check out some of the filming sites next time you’re in Korea? But don’t go trying to catapult yourself to North Korea in hopes of falling in love with a handsome North Korean man, because the chances of that happening are slim to none.
1. DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
If you’re a history nut or want to learn more about North Korea, check out the DMZ. DMZ refers to the buffer zone between the two Koreas, and the only way you can visit is through a tour. They usually involve visiting a history museum, underground tunnels that served as hide-outs, and even real war tanks. For more information and tours available, click here
You also won’t want to miss out on visiting JSA (Joint Security Area), the only zone in the DMZ where you’ll see North and South Korean forces facing each other. You’ll almost be able to feel the tension between them. Check it out here.
2. Seolbong Park 설봉공원
Located in Icheon in Gyeonggi-do, this park is the backdrop in episode 6 where Jeong-hyuk and Se-ri take a night stroll.
The area boasts a long history in ceramics and holds an annual festival, where you can view and partake in calligraphy and pottery exhibitions while enjoying delicious food like cold noodles and seafood pancake. You’ll also see ceramic sculptures surrounding the tranquil lake and there’s even a rock-climbing wall.
Location｜355-11, Gwango-dong, Icheon-si, Gyeonggi-do
Transport｜Bus No. 28 from Icheon Terminal Bus Stop, alight at Seolbong Park
3. Jungangtap Park 중앙탑사적공원
Overlooking the Namhangang River, this park has a seven-story stone pagoda called “Jungangtap Tower” (“jungang” meaning middle). Its name is derived from being constructed at the center of the country during King Wonseong’s reign in the Silla Kingdom.
Here you can find gazebos, sculptures, fountains, a museum, and hiking paths. Bicycles are also available for rent from the Chungju Tourism Center nearby. The recent installation of a huge illuminating moon sculpture is drawing major crowds and makes for a perfect insta-moment.
April is the best time to visit Namhangang River as the cherry blossoms are blooming. Why not also try activities like zip wire or alpine coasterwhile you’re there? If you’d like to take in the sights to the fullest, try a breezy ferry cruise that includes visits to an island housing gorgeous scenery and a temple that’s headquarters to the biggest Buddha sanctuary in Korea.
Location｜112-28, Jungangtap-gil, Gageum-myeon, Chungju-si, Chungcheongbuk-do
Transport｜Bus No. 400,411, 413 from Chungju Bus Terminal Bus Stop, alight at Jungangtap Park
4. Tangeum Lake Rainbow Bridge 탄금호 무지개길
Located in Chungju, the heart-fluttering scene where Seung Joon and Seo Dan confess their ardent love for each other and exchange a kiss was filmed here.
Known for its gorgeous nightscape, the rainbow lights on this bridge flicker on from 07:30 to 10:00 pm daily, closely resembling Rainbow Road (any Mario Kart fans here?). It was originally made to be used as a subsidiary facility for the Tangeum Rowing Stadium, so it’ll be bustling with broadcasters and athletes with their coaches during competition season.
Even if you don’t have a warm hand to hold as you stroll down the bridge, it’s a great place to visit regardless, so check it out!
Location｜Tapjeongan-gil, Jungangtap-myeon, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-dp 27447, South Korea
Transport｜Bus No. 112-1, 404, 411, 412 from Chungju Bus Terminal Bus Stop, alight at Post Office and walk for approximately 250 meters
5. Binae Island 비내섬
The place where Se-ri invited the soldiers for a picnic in episode 6 is actually a camping site. The size is roughly 138 times a football field, and overflowing with thickly growing reeds (tall, grass-like plants seen in the background below).
Even before being featured in the drama, the area has been a hot spot for many people camping out of their car. Why not rent a car and give it a try with your friends on your next road trip?
Location｜Chungju, Chungbuk, South Korea
Transport｜Bus No. 360, 361, 369 from Chungju Bus Terminal Bus Stop, alight at Neungam
6. Binhaewon Chinese Restaurant 빈해원 식당
This restaurant is probably older than your parents. Opened in the 1950s, Binhaewon boasts traditional-looking interior and decor, complete with colorful lamps and wooden chairs. It has even become an officially registered cultural heritage site!
In episode 11 and 12, Jeong-hyuk faces a large group of gangsters and Se-ri buys the restaurant with the request to the tenants to locate Jo Cheol-kang.
It’s not the first time this restaurant has been featured in a drama. Prior to this, it was the backdrop in “Tazza: The High Rollers” and “Man in Love”, both iconic Korean movies. Head on early to grab a seat and tuck into some “jjajangmyeon” (noodles in blackbean sauce), “jjamppong (noodle soup with red, spicy seafood), or “tangsuyuk” (sweet and sour pork).
Location｜57 Dongnyeong-gil, Jangmi-dong, Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do
Transport｜From Gunsan Express Bus Terminal, walk straight for 215 meters to the Intercity Bus Terminal. Board Bus No. 3, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 19 and alight at Jinpo Maritime Theme Park. Walk for approximately 230 meters. The restaurant will be to your right with a purple sign
Opening Hours｜10:30 am – 09:00 pm, every day except every third Sunday of the month (subject to change depending on circumstances)
7. BBQ Olive Chicken 비비큐올리브치킨
A great example of product placement making sales skyrocket. Ever since the drama “My Love from the Star” in 2014, the craze for fried chicken and ice-cold beer (referred to as “chimaek”) has gained immense popularity, with chicken franchises worldwide.
BBQ Olive Chicken’s sales increased by 100% after being featured in the drama. I mean, how could it not with these mouth-watering, succulent-looking visuals. Be sure to try the olive chicken, which is the bestseller.
Location｜Over 20 locations all across Seoul
8. Pyeongyang Pub 평양술집
Though it wasn’t featured in the drama, this pub is the closest thing to experiencing North Korean culture and vibes.
Head to the hip and trendy neighborhood of Hongdae, and it’ll be hard to miss this huge red and blue colored pub, complete with a huge old-fashioned painting of a girl wearing “hanbok” (Korean traditional clothes).
Inside, you’ll find propaganda posters with fun Korean phrases like “more and more alcohol for our dongmus” (a word used exclusively in the North to refer to a friend or comrade) and “let’s develop medicine for a healthy liver”. There’s also a display area with North Korean snacks and sweets, cosmetics, and beer bottles. You can even wear a hanbok during your meal to get the full experience.
Try the sweetcorn pancakes, mushroom stir-fry, and cold buckwheat noodles for a scrumptious meal.
Location｜6, Wausan-ro 19-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04041, South Korea
Transport｜Bus No. 7011, alight at Hongik University. Walk straight to the right of the university main entrance. Keep walking straight, then turn right when you see Coffine Gurunaru.
Opening Hours｜05:00 pm – 03:00 am, every day (subject to change depending on circumstances)
9. Hallasan National Park
Did you know that Crash Landing on You was filmed in Jeju Island as well? The iconic scene of Yoon Se-ri accidentally landing on the North Korea DMZ while paragliding was filmed at Hallasan National Park in Jeju Island!
Hallasan National Park was designated as the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and there are six hiking courses in total. If you are a nature and hiking lover, this is the must-go spot in Jeju Island!
If you want to book hassle-free Jeju Island 1 day guided bus tour package, click here! Lunch and entrance fees are all included and there are English and Chinese speaking tour guides ready for you.
10. Taean
The village where Ri Jeong Hyeok lives in the drama was filmed in Taean, which is about three hours away from Seoul. Taean is a beautiful place, which is definitely worth visiting!
Taean is well known for holding the famous Taean Tulip Festival every spring, from April to May. Also, you can see the dazzling light festival in the evening.
Why don’t you check out Captain Ri’s village and then head to Taean Tulip Festival in Spring? If you want to book the round-trip shuttle bus package to Taean Tulip & Light Festival from Seoul, click here.
11. Commodore Hotel Busan
The fictional Pyongyang hotel that appears in the drama is the Commodore Hotel in Busan. This is the place where Yoon Se-ri meets Gu Seung Joon.
If you happen to visit Busan, you will get the chance to book a room at the Commodore Hotel. It’s a hotel with one of the best Korean architectural design that depicts the murals of Gyeongbokgung Palace. You will be able to feel the exclusive traditional atmosphere.
If you want to explore Busan in a day, you can book Busan 1 Day Bus Tour, Busan Private City Tour, or Busan City Tour Bus.
12. Hantan River Sky Bridge, Pocheon
Are you familiar with this place? This is where the scene of Ri Jeong Hyuk recalls his memory in Switzerland where he asks Yoon Se-ri to take a picture of him and Seo Dan. This magnificent bridge is the Hantan River Sky Bridge in Pocheon!
Pocheon is also well known for Sanjeong Lake, Herb Island, and Art Valley. Check out the two most popular Pocheon tours below!
- Pocheon Private Van Tour
- Pocheon Art Valley & Pocheon Herb Island & Strawberry Farm Tour (Dec~Mar)
13. Byeolmaro Observatory, Yeongwol
Last but not least, let’s go back to the beginning, where all these stories began. Byeolmaro Observatory in Yeongwol is where Yoon Se-ri tested her newly launched product by paragliding in the first episode of the series. This is where everything started.
Yeongwol is in Gangwon-do province, which is a popular place for both the locals and tourists to appreciate the stunning scenery of nature.
One of the most famous mountains in Korea is Seoraksan Mountain which is in Gangwon-do. Many mountain lovers enjoy hiking at Seoraksan Mountain. Check out the best Seoraksan National Park tours below.
- Seoraksan National Park Private Tour
- Seoraksan National Park Hiking Tour
Se-ri’s Choice: Manyo Factory Bifida Complex Ampoule
If you were curious about Se-ri’s skincare product that was featured in the drama, it is Manyo Factory’s Bifida Complex Ampoule. It makes your skin radiant and improves skin in elasticity, moisture, and anti-aging. You can order this product through easy & reliable Trazy Proxy Shopping!
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[Photo Credits]
Pyeongyang Suljib’s Official Facebook Page @평양술집
tvN Official Website
Where is Crash Landing on You filmed?
How accurate is North Korea in Crash Landing on You?
Where was Pyongyang crash landing filmed?
Which country made Crash Landing on You?
Crash Landing on You | |
Country of origin | South Korea |
Original language | Korean |
No. of episodes | 16 (list of episodes) |
Production |