South Korea’s Crash Landing On You Filming Locations

Crash Landing On You Filming Locations South Korea: Your Ultimate K-Drama Trip Guide

Annyeong, fellow K-drama lovers! Your resident K-drama travel expert here, ready to whisk you away on another unforgettable journey. Today, we’re diving deep into the heartwarming, thrilling, and utterly unforgettable world of Crash Landing On You (CLOY). Oh, what a ride it was, wasn’t it? From the breathtaking Swiss Alps to the bustling streets of Seoul, CLOY captured our hearts with its unique story and undeniable chemistry between Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok and Yoon Se-ri.

While many of CLOY’s most memorable scenes took place in North Korea (beautifully recreated for the drama, of course!) and the stunning landscapes of Switzerland, South Korea played a crucial role too. These are the places where our beloved characters shared tender moments, faced challenges, and ultimately, found their way back to each other. Visiting these real-life CLOY filming locations in South Korea isn’t just about seeing where the magic happened; it’s about feeling the lingering emotions, taking iconic photos, and experiencing the beauty of Korea through the lens of one of our most cherished dramas. So, grab your imaginary paragliding gear, and let’s explore!

Hantan River Sky Bridge, Pocheon

Remember that incredibly emotional, long-awaited reunion scene between Se-ri and the North Korean F5 members? The one that had us all reaching for tissues as they finally found each other in South Korea? That powerful moment took place at the stunning Hantan River Sky Bridge. It’s where the bond forged in adversity shone brightest, and the bridge itself became a symbol of connection across divides.

In real life, the Hantan River Sky Bridge is a magnificent pedestrian bridge stretching over the picturesque Hantan River in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hantan River Geo Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and deep gorges. Walking across this bridge, you can almost feel the anticipation and relief that radiated from our characters in that iconic scene.

How to get there

The Hantan River Sky Bridge is located in Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do, a bit outside of central Seoul but definitely worth the trip. While it’s not directly accessible by subway, you can combine subway and bus travel for a scenic journey:

1. Take Seoul Subway Line 1 or 7 to Uijeongbu Station (의정부역).
2. From Uijeongbu Station, head to the Uijeongbu Intercity Bus Terminal (의정부시외버스터미널), which is a short walk away.
3. Take an intercity bus bound for Pocheon (포천). Look for buses heading towards Sanjeong Lake (산정호수) or Unaksan (운악산).
4. Get off at the Hantan River Sky Bridge bus stop (한탄강 하늘다리). The bus ride from Uijeongbu takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific bus route.

Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Pocheon Bus Terminal or Cheorwon Intercity Bus Terminal directly to the Sky Bridge. Since bus routes and times can change, always check local transit apps like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most up-to-date schedules before you go.

Byeolmaro Observatory, Yeongwol

Long before our beloved OTP met, CLOY opened with a visually stunning scene of Yoon Se-ri paragliding through the beautiful Korean mountains before her fateful crash. While the “crash” itself took place elsewhere, the majestic, sweeping shots of her paragliding adventure, showcasing Korea’s incredible natural beauty, were filmed around the Byeolmaro Observatory. It perfectly set the stage for Se-ri’s free-spirited nature and the grand scale of her unexpected journey.

The Byeolmaro Observatory, nestled atop Bongnaesan Mountain in Yeongwol, Gangwon-do, is a haven for stargazers and panoramic view seekers. “Byeolmaro” means “the peak where you can see the stars,” and it lives up to its name with incredibly clear night skies. During the day, it offers spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and the winding Donggang River, making it an ideal spot for appreciating Korea’s diverse landscapes.

How to get there

Yeongwol is in Gangwon-do, a bit further out from Seoul than Pocheon, making it more of a day trip or an overnight stay to fully enjoy the area.

1. From Seoul, take an intercity bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) to Yeongwol Intercity Bus Terminal (영월시외버스터미널). This bus ride usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
2. From Yeongwol Intercity Bus Terminal, the Byeolmaro Observatory is still a climb up Bongnaesan Mountain. You’ll need to take a local bus or, more conveniently, a taxi directly to the observatory. Taxis are readily available at the bus terminal.

Be aware that public transport options directly to the observatory might be limited, especially in the evening if you plan to stay for stargazing. Plan your return trip in advance, and consider combining this visit with other attractions in Yeongwol for a comprehensive Gangwon-do experience.

Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum, Jeongseon

The vibrant, bustling “North Korean market” scenes, filled with colorful goods, lively chatter, and a sense of close-knit community, were a staple of CLOY’s earlier episodes. These scenes, where Se-ri often encountered the villagers and even managed to pull off some clever business dealings, were primarily filmed at what is now known as the Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum. It brilliantly transformed into an immersive set, bringing the fictional North Korean setting to life.

In reality, the Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum, located in Jeongseon, Gangwon-do, is an intriguing art space dedicated to showcasing works inspired by the unique cultural and historical narratives of the region. It’s not a permanent market, but its adaptable spaces made it perfect for the drama’s production. Visiting here, you can appreciate the architecture and layout that so convincingly mimicked a vibrant marketplace, perhaps even imagining our beloved characters walking through its aisles.

How to get there

Jeongseon, like Yeongwol, is in the scenic Gangwon-do province and requires a bit more travel time from Seoul. It’s an excellent destination for those looking to explore Korea’s natural beauty beyond the capital.

1. From Seoul, the most straightforward way is to take an intercity bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (동서울종합터미널) to Jeongseon Intercity Bus Terminal (정선시외버스터미널). This bus journey typically takes around 3 hours.
2. From Jeongseon Intercity Bus Terminal, the Syndrome Art Museum is a short taxi ride away. You can also inquire about local bus routes, but a taxi will likely be the most convenient option to reach the specific location.

Jeongseon is famous for its five-day market (Jeongseon Arirang Market), which operates on days ending in 2 and 7 (2nd, 7th, 12th, 17th, 22nd, 27th of each month). If your visit aligns, you can experience a real, traditional Korean market that is just as lively as the one depicted in CLOY!

Daehan Bowling Center, Gwangju

Who could forget the hilarious and surprisingly intense bowling scene where Captain Ri, Se-ri, and the F5 team (plus Jung Man-bok!) bonded over strikes and spares? It was a moment of pure joy and camaraderie, showcasing their growing family dynamic. The Daehan Bowling Center served as the backdrop for this memorable game, where everyone, even stoic Captain Ri, let loose a little.

The Daehan Bowling Center is a real, operational bowling alley located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do. It’s a modern facility where you can actually go and bowl a few frames yourself! It’s fun to imagine the CLOY cast here, sharing laughs and showing off their bowling prowess (or lack thereof!). It’s a great spot for fans to visit if they want a more interactive experience, perhaps even trying to beat Captain Ri’s score!

How to get there

Gwangju in Gyeonggi-do is much closer to Seoul than the Gangwon-do locations, making it an easier half-day trip.

1. Take the Gyeonggang Line (경강선) subway from Pangyo Station (판교역 – accessible via Shinbundang Line) to Gwangju Station (경기광주역). The journey from Pangyo takes about 20-25 minutes.
2. From Gwangju Station, the Daehan Bowling Center is a short taxi ride or a local bus journey away. You can find local buses heading towards the city center or use a taxi service. The center is located near Gwangju City Hall area.

Always use a navigation app like Naver Maps or Kakao Maps for the most precise real-time directions from Gwangju Station to the bowling center, as local bus routes can sometimes be tricky for first-time visitors.

Seoul Botanic Park, Seoul

After her dramatic return to South Korea, Yoon Se-ri continued to navigate her life, including her role as the CEO of Se-ri’s Choice. The Seoul Botanic Park served as the beautiful, lush backdrop for several key scenes, often involving Se-ri meeting with her staff or having contemplative moments. It also beautifully showcased a more modern, serene side of Seoul, contrasting with the dramatic earlier settings.

The Seoul Botanic Park, situated in Magok-dong, Gangseo-gu, is a fantastic urban park blending a botanic garden and a city park. It’s an oasis in the bustling city, featuring diverse themed gardens, a lake garden, and a stunning greenhouse (Plant Culture Center) with plants from 12 different “city forests” around the world. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to enjoy nature without leaving Seoul.

How to get there

The Seoul Botanic Park is conveniently located and easily accessible by public transportation within Seoul.

1. Take Seoul Subway Line 9 to Magongnaru Station (마곡나루역).
2. Use Exit 3 or 4, and the park entrance is just a short walk (about 5 minutes) away.

Alternatively, you can also reach the park via Seoul Subway Line 5 to Magok Station (마곡역) and then walk for about 10-15 minutes to the main entrance. It’s a very straightforward and pleasant journey!

Make a Day of It: Exploring Beyond the Filming Spots

Why stop at just one filming location when you can immerse yourself in the local charm? Here are some ideas to make your CLOY-themed trip even richer:

• Around Hantan River Sky Bridge (Pocheon): After soaking in the views, explore more of the Hantan River Geo Park. Consider visiting the Pocheon Art Valley, an abandoned quarry transformed into a stunning cultural and artistic space with a beautiful lake and sculptures. For food, try some traditional Korean barbecue or makguksu (buckwheat noodles), a regional specialty.
• Around Byeolmaro Observatory & Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum (Gangwon-do): Since these are both in Gangwon-do, you could potentially combine them into a multi-day trip. In Yeongwol, don’t miss the Seonam Village, known as the “Korean Peninsula Shaped Land” due to its unique topography. In Jeongseon, if your visit aligns with market days (days ending in 2 or 7), the Jeongseon Arirang Market is a must for traditional food, local crafts, and lively atmosphere. Try the local gondeurebap (seasoned thistle rice) or gamjajeon (potato pancake).
• Around Daehan Bowling Center (Gwangju, Gyeonggi-do): Gwangju is known for its ceramics! Explore the Gyeonggi Ceramic Museum or visit some of the many pottery workshops in the region. You can even try making your own pottery. For a sweet treat, look for local bakeries that specialize in Korean-style pastries.
• Around Seoul Botanic Park (Seoul): Being in Seoul, the options are endless! The park is a fantastic place for a picnic or a leisurely afternoon. Afterwards, you can easily head to nearby Hongdae or Sinchon for vibrant nightlife, shopping, and diverse dining options. Alternatively, explore other green spaces in Seoul or check out the Han River parks for a relaxing evening.

Photo Tips for Your CLOY Pilgrimage

• Hantan River Sky Bridge: For the iconic reunion shot, stand near the middle of the bridge, facing upstream towards the dramatic cliffs. Early morning or late afternoon golden hour lighting will give you the best, softest glow for your photos and help avoid harsh shadows. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
• Byeolmaro Observatory: To capture the sweeping vista seen in Se-ri’s paragliding scenes, head to the observation deck. Wide-angle shots are best here. Sunrise or sunset offers incredible colors across the sky and mountains. Evenings are perfect for astrophotography if you have the gear and clear skies.
• Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum: While it won’t look exactly like the bustling market, focus on the architectural details and the overall structure. Try to capture the unique elements that hint at its dramatic transformation. Overcast days provide even lighting, which is great for architectural shots.
• Daehan Bowling Center: Get a shot of yourself (or your travel buddy!) bowling a strike, just like Captain Ri! Aim for photos that capture the retro-modern vibe of the alley. Anytime the alley is open works, but weekdays might be less busy for a more relaxed photo session.
• Seoul Botanic Park: The Plant Culture Center (greenhouse) is a fantastic spot for photos, especially near the different “city forest” displays. Look for the iconic “leaf-shaped” architecture. Early morning light filtering through the glass is magical. For outdoor shots, the lake garden and themed gardens offer countless picturesque backdrops.

FAQ: Your Top CLOY Filming Location Questions Answered

Are all CLOY filming locations in South Korea?

No, not all of them! While many pivotal moments and beautiful landscapes were indeed filmed across South Korea, a significant portion of the drama’s iconic scenes, especially those depicting North Korea and Se-ri’s initial crash, were filmed in Switzerland and Mongolia. The production team masterfully blended these international locations with South Korean sets and locations to create the show’s distinctive visual world.

Can I visit the “North Korean village” set?

While the Jeongseon Syndrome Art Museum served as the vibrant market, the main North Korean village set, including Captain Ri’s house and the homes of the villagers, was largely a purpose-built set. These types of temporary sets are usually dismantled after production to avoid environmental impact and for safety reasons. So, unfortunately, the specific village set is no longer accessible to the public. However, visiting the real-life market location at the art museum gives a taste of that creative spirit!

What’s the best time of year to visit CLOY filming locations?

Each season offers a unique charm! Spring (April-May) is lovely with blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor locations like the Seoul Botanic Park and Hantan River Sky Bridge. Autumn (October-November) offers breathtaking foliage, especially around the mountainous regions like Yeongwol and Jeongseon, providing truly picturesque backdrops. Summer (June-August) is warm but lush and green, while winter (December-February) can be beautiful with snow, but some outdoor locations might be less accessible or require warm clothing. Consider your tolerance for crowds and weather when planning!

There you have it, my dear CLOY enthusiasts! A journey through some of the most memorable filming locations in South Korea. Each spot holds a piece of our beloved drama’s magic, waiting for you to discover. Remember to always double-check opening hours and transit schedules before you go, and most importantly, enjoy your K-drama trip! Until next time, stay safe and keep watching those dramas!

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