Vincenzo Filming Locations in Seoul: Your Ultimate Fan Guide!

An Offer You Can’t Refuse: Touring Vincenzo’s Seoul!

Annyeonghaseyo, fellow K-drama travelers! Your local K-drama fan here, ready to take you on an unforgettable journey through the streets of Seoul, tracing the footsteps of our beloved consigliere, Vincenzo Cassano. If you’re anything like me, you fell head over heels for the sharp suits, even sharper wit, and the thrilling blend of dark comedy and high-stakes justice in tvN’s Vincenzo. From the iconic Geumga Plaza to the sophisticated backdrops of Seoul, this drama perfectly showcased the city’s diverse charm.

While some of the most memorable interiors, like Jipuragi Law Firm or the various quirky shops of Geumga Plaza, were actually elaborate sets built for the drama, Seoul itself served as a magnificent co-star for many exterior scenes. It’s truly magical to walk through these spots, recalling Vincenzo’s dramatic entrances, Cha-young’s fierce speeches, and the hilarious antics of the Geumga residents. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Vincenzo as we explore these must-visit filming locations!

Sewoon Plaza (세운상가): The Real Geumga Plaza Exterior

Remember the aging, eclectic charm of Geumga Plaza, the unexpected fortress where Vincenzo found his chosen family (and hidden gold)? The exterior shots that gave Geumga Plaza its distinct character were largely filmed at Sewoon Plaza, an iconic architectural complex in central Seoul. This place perfectly embodies the drama’s retro-meets-gritty aesthetic. While you won’t find Mr. Cho’s gold hidden beneath, nor the actual Jipuragi Law Firm, you can certainly feel the spirit of Geumga Plaza as you walk through its unique elevated walkways and see the surrounding cityscape that so often framed Vincenzo’s thoughtful gazes.

How to get there

Sewoon Plaza is easily accessible by subway. Take Seoul Subway Line 3 (Orange Line) to Jongno 3-ga Station (종로3가역). From there, take Exit 12 and walk straight for about 5 minutes. You’ll see the distinct structure of Sewoon Plaza. Alternatively, you can take Line 2 (Green Line) or Line 5 (Purple Line) to Euljiro 3-ga Station (을지로3가역), use Exit 4, and walk north for about 7-10 minutes towards Cheonggyecheon Stream.

Namsan Seoul Tower (남산서울타워): A Romantic Escape with a View

Even a ruthless consigliere and a fiery lawyer need a break for romance, right? One of the most beautiful and heartwarming scenes between Vincenzo and Cha-young takes place high above the city at Namsan Seoul Tower. This iconic landmark, a symbol of Seoul, offered a stunning backdrop for their shared moments of vulnerability and budding affection. While the drama hinted at a special connection here, the tower is a classic romantic spot for couples and offers unparalleled panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis. It’s a perfect spot to reminisce about their evolving relationship and capture your own memorable photos.

How to get there

Reaching Namsan Seoul Tower requires a bit of a journey but it’s well worth it! The most popular ways are:

• Cable Car: Take Seoul Subway Line 4 (Light Blue Line) to Myeongdong Station (명동역), Exit 3. Walk about 10-15 minutes up the hill to the Namsan Cable Car platform.
• Namsan Shuttle Bus: From Myeongdong Station (명동역), Exit 3, walk to the bus stop in front of Olive Young and take Namsan Circulation Bus No. 01. Or, from Chungmuro Station (충무로역) (Line 3 or 4), Exit 2, take Namsan Circulation Bus No. 01.
• Walking: For the more adventurous, you can hike up Namsan mountain from various starting points, offering beautiful views along the way.

Remember to check the Namsan Cable Car and bus schedules as they can vary.

Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP, 동대문디자인플라자): Modernity’s Bold Statement

Vincenzo wasn’t just about old-school charm; it also showcased Seoul’s modern, sleek side, especially when dealing with the powerful Babel Group. The Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), with its futuristic, curvilinear architecture designed by Zaha Hadid, served as a striking contemporary backdrop for several scenes, often contrasting with the more classic settings. Its unique exterior and vast open spaces make it a perfect spot for dramatic encounters or showcasing the fast-paced, high-tech vibe of Seoul. While not a primary location for the Geumga Plaza crew, it’s an undeniable part of Seoul’s visual identity often featured in K-dramas, including Vincenzo.

How to get there

DDP is extremely easy to reach as it’s directly connected to a major subway interchange. Take Seoul Subway Line 2 (Green Line), Line 4 (Light Blue Line), or Line 5 (Purple Line) to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station (동대문역사문화공원역). Use Exit 1 or Exit 2, and you’ll emerge right inside or beside the DDP complex.

Euljiro Alleyways (을지로 골목): The Retro Heart of Seoul

While not a single, specific filming spot for a major plot point, the general atmosphere of the Euljiro neighborhood and its charming, often gritty alleyways perfectly encapsulate the vibe surrounding Geumga Plaza. Euljiro, affectionately known as ‘Hipjiro’ by younger Koreans, is famous for its blend of old manufacturing shops, hidden cafes, and retro restaurants. Vincenzo and Cha-young often navigated similar backstreets, meeting informants or simply grabbing a bite. Exploring these alleyways offers a chance to experience the authentic, vintage Seoul that provided the drama’s unique backdrop, creating a fascinating contrast with the city’s modern skyscrapers. You can imagine the Geumga residents strolling here!

How to get there

Euljiro is a large area, but its most atmospheric parts are easily accessible. You can start by taking Seoul Subway Line 2 (Green Line) or Line 3 (Orange Line) to Euljiro 3-ga Station (을지로3가역). From any exit here, simply start wandering into the smaller side streets and alleys. This area is right next to Sewoon Plaza, so you can easily combine these two locations for a full Geumga Plaza experience.

Make a Day of It: Exploring Beyond the Drama!

Turning your Vincenzo filming location hunt into a full day of Seoul exploration is part of the fun! Since Sewoon Plaza and Euljiro are practically neighbors, you can start your day there. After soaking in the Geumga Plaza vibes, wander through the hidden cafes and craft beer spots in Euljiro’s alleyways. Many of these have repurposed old workshops, offering a unique, ‘hip’ atmosphere. Grab some authentic Korean street food from a nearby vendor or enjoy a traditional lunch in a historic eatery.

From Euljiro, DDP is just a short subway ride away. Explore its futuristic architecture, pop into one of the design shops, or catch an exhibition if one is running. Dongdaemun is also famous for its massive fashion markets, so if you’re into shopping, you could easily spend hours there! As evening approaches, make your way to Namsan Seoul Tower. The views are absolutely breathtaking at sunset and after dark, when the city lights twinkle below. Consider having dinner at one of the restaurants at the base or within the tower itself for a truly memorable end to your Vincenzo-themed day.

Photo Tips

• Sewoon Plaza: For the iconic Geumga Plaza exterior shot, position yourself at the base of the plaza, looking up at its multi-layered structure, especially near the main entrance areas. Try to capture the aged concrete and the surrounding traditional buildings. Late afternoon offers warm, golden light.
• Namsan Seoul Tower: Recreate Vincenzo and Cha-young’s romantic moments with the sparkling Seoul skyline as your backdrop. The best time for photos is definitely sunset, capturing the transition from daylight to the city of lights. Don’t forget to visit the ‘Locks of Love’ area!
• Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): Capture the DDP’s unique curved exterior from a wide angle, emphasizing its futuristic design against the sky. The best time is either early morning for minimal crowds and soft light, or at night when the building is beautifully illuminated, creating a dramatic, otherworldly effect.
• Euljiro Alleyways: Focus on candid shots that capture the contrast of old shops with new, trendy cafes. Look for interesting textures, neon signs, and the everyday life of locals. Overcast days or late afternoons are great for even, atmospheric lighting.

FAQ: Your Vincenzo Filming Location Questions Answered!

Was the entire Geumga Plaza filmed at Sewoon Plaza?

No, only the exterior shots of Geumga Plaza were primarily filmed at Sewoon Plaza. The quirky interior of Geumga Plaza, with all its unique shops and the Jipuragi Law Firm office, was a specially constructed set. While you can’t step inside the exact fictional shops, visiting Sewoon Plaza will give you a strong sense of the plaza’s exterior look and overall atmosphere.

Can I visit the exact Jipuragi Law Firm office?

Unfortunately, the interior of the Jipuragi Law Firm, including the actual office space, was a purpose-built set on a sound stage, not a real-life office you can visit. However, the general architectural style and surrounding areas of Sewoon Plaza and Euljiro give a strong impression of the kind of building where the law firm would have been situated in the drama’s world.

Is it easy to visit all these locations in one day?

Yes, it’s definitely manageable to visit Sewoon Plaza, Euljiro, and DDP in one day as they are relatively close by and well-connected by subway. Adding Namsan Seoul Tower might make for a longer day, especially if you want to enjoy the sunset views, but it’s certainly possible with good planning and efficient use of Seoul’s excellent public transport system. Always check subway and bus schedules, especially if traveling late!