Popular Filming Spots in Seoul
Our local fixers know these Seoul locations inside out, helping you navigate permits,
logistics, and timing for the best results.
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Gyeongbokgung Palace
landmark Korea's most iconic royal palace with traditional Korean architecture, grand courtyards, and mountain backdrop. Featured in countless K-dramas and period films.
Complex permits Cultural Heritage Administration approval required. Commercial shoots need 3-4 weeks advance booking. Night filming rarely permitted.
Best times: early morning, golden hour
Note: No drone flights over palace grounds. Traditional attire required for some areas. Closed Tuesdays.
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Bukchon Hanok Village
neighborhood 600-year-old traditional neighborhood with restored hanok houses, narrow alleys, and panoramic city views. Authentic historic Korean atmosphere.
Moderate permits Jongno District permit required. Resident quiet hours enforced (10pm-8am). Popular K-drama filming spot - book early.
Best times: morning, golden hour
Note: Residential area - noise restrictions. Some alleys very narrow for equipment.
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Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)
building Zaha Hadid's neo-futuristic landmark with flowing curves and LED-lit exterior. Perfect for fashion, tech, and sci-fi productions.
Moderate permits Seoul Design Foundation manages exterior. Interior exhibitions require separate approval.
Best times: blue hour, night for LED displays
Note: Event conflicts during fashion weeks. Interior lighting varies by exhibition.
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N Seoul Tower & Namsan
landmark Iconic observation tower with 360-degree city views. Namsan Mountain offers forest settings minutes from downtown.
Moderate permits Tower interior: CJ Foodville approval. Namsan Park: Seoul Metropolitan Government permit.
Best times: sunset, blue hour, night for city lights
Note: Cable car filming requires advance coordination. Peak tourist hours very crowded.
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Gangnam District
street Korea's most affluent district with modern skyscrapers, luxury retail, K-pop agencies, and the famous Gangnam Style crosswalk.
Moderate permits Standard Seoul Film permit for streets. COEX interior requires separate Shinsegae approval.
Best times: evening, night for neon
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Han River Parks
park 12 riverside parks spanning 40km with cycling paths, picnic areas, and iconic bridge views. Popular for lifestyle and commercial shoots.
Easy permits Seoul Metropolitan Government permit. Night shoots and large setups need advance approval.
Best times: golden hour, sunset, night for bridge lights
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Hongdae Street
street Youth culture hub with street performers, indie shops, clubs, and vibrant nightlife. Authentic Korean youth atmosphere.
Easy permits Standard permit for daytime. Night shoots require coordination with local businesses.
Best times: afternoon, evening, night for nightlife
Note: Very crowded on weekends. Street performers may affect audio.
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Changdeokgung Secret Garden
landmark UNESCO World Heritage palace with pristine 300-year-old garden, pavilions, and lotus ponds. Korea's most beautiful royal garden.
Complex permits Cultural Heritage Administration approval. Very limited filming windows. Garden tours must be accommodated.
Best times: early morning, autumn foliage, spring cherry blossoms
Note: No tripods during public hours. Drone strictly prohibited.