Relive Romance at Legend of the Blue Sea Film Sites

Annyeong, Fellow K-Drama Lovers! Your Legend of the Blue Sea Journey Begins Here!

As a lifelong K-drama fan and a proud Korean local, I’m absolutely thrilled to guide you through the magical world of Legend of the Blue Sea (푸른 바다의 전설)! This drama holds a special place in our hearts, isn’t it? With its stunning visuals, enchanting fantasy romance, and the undeniable chemistry between Jun Ji-hyun and Lee Min-ho, it truly captivated us all. From the ancient Joseon dynasty to modern-day Seoul, the drama whisked us away on an unforgettable journey of fated love, reincarnation, and a mermaid’s first steps into the human world.

The beauty of Legend of the Blue Sea locations lies in how perfectly they blend the fantastical with the familiar. Each spot feels like a piece of Shim Cheong and Heo Joon-jae’s intertwined destiny, beckoning us to relive their most iconic moments. So, grab your imaginary pearl, pack your bags, and get ready to explore these legendary spots where the blue sea meets the bustling city. Let’s make your K-Drama trip dreams a reality!

N Seoul Tower (Namsan Tower): A Love Locked in Time

Remember that heartwarming scene where Joon-jae and Shim Cheong, after a series of hilarious misunderstandings and sweet moments, find themselves at the iconic N Seoul Tower? It’s where they share a pivotal moment, looking out at the city lights and promising to meet again. The romantic atmosphere, amplified by the countless ‘love locks,’ perfectly set the stage for their growing affection, even echoing their past lives.

In real life, N Seoul Tower, often simply called Namsan Tower, is one of Seoul’s most beloved landmarks, perched atop Namsan Mountain. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city, especially dazzling at sunset and night. The ‘love lock’ fences are a hugely popular spot for couples to declare their everlasting love, making it a must-visit for any romantic at heart – and certainly for Legend of the Blue Sea fans!

How to get there

The easiest way to reach N Seoul Tower is by taking the subway to Myeongdong Station (Seoul Subway Line 4) and exiting at Exit 3. From there, you can walk for about 10-15 minutes to the Namsan Cable Car platform, which offers a scenic ride up the mountain. Alternatively, you can take a Namsan 순환버스 (Namsan Circular Bus) from Myeongdong, Chungmuro (Line 3/4), or Dongguk University (Line 3) stations. Look for bus numbers 01, 03, or 05, which will take you directly to the tower complex.

Aqua Planet Jeju: Shim Cheong’s Modern Underwater Kingdom

For Shim Cheong, the vast, mysterious waters of Aqua Planet Jeju were a poignant reminder of her true home beneath the waves. She was often seen gracefully swimming amidst the marine life, a melancholic beauty in her natural element, while Joon-jae (unaware of her true identity) would sometimes visit, feeling a strange pull to the enigmatic woman. It’s where parts of her human and mermaid worlds subtly intertwined.

Aqua Planet Jeju is one of Asia’s largest aquariums, a magnificent facility located on the beautiful island of Jeju. It boasts an incredible array of marine creatures, including majestic sharks, rays, and countless colorful fish, housed in enormous tanks and an impressive underwater tunnel. Beyond just an aquarium, it often features educational programs and captivating performances, making it a fantastic destination for families and anyone fascinated by ocean life.

How to get there

First, you’ll need to fly to Jeju International Airport (CJU) from mainland Korea (Seoul Gimpo Airport is the main hub for domestic flights to Jeju). Once on Jeju Island, Aqua Planet Jeju is located in the Seopjikoji area on the eastern coast. From Jeju International Airport, you can take an express bus (like Bus 111 or 112) towards Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) or Seopjikoji. Get off at the Seongsan Port entrance or near Seopjikoji, and it’s a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from there. Renting a car on Jeju is also a very popular and convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace.

Pocheon Art Valley: The Quarry of Destiny

Who could forget the heart-stopping scene at the quarry lake where Joon-jae bravely saves Shim Cheong from a car plunging into the deep, emerald waters? The dramatic rock formations and the almost otherworldly color of the water provided an incredibly intense backdrop for this pivotal moment of protection and deepening connection between our leads. It’s a scene that truly highlights their fated bond.

Pocheon Art Valley is a unique cultural and artistic complex that was once an abandoned granite quarry. Transformed into a stunning recreational area, it now features Cheonjuho Lake, formed naturally in the former quarry, with its distinctive jade-green water and towering rock cliffs. The valley also hosts outdoor sculptures, an observatory with scenic views, and various performance spaces, creating a blend of natural beauty and artistic expression.

How to get there

Pocheon Art Valley is located in Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, a bit outside of central Seoul but accessible for a day trip. You can take a subway to Uiijeongbu Station (Seoul Subway Line 1) or Cheongnyangni Station (Seoul Subway Line 1). From either of these stations, you’ll need to transfer to a local bus heading towards Pocheon Art Valley. For instance, from Uiijeongbu, look for buses like 138, 138-5, or 138-6. Another option is to take an intercity bus from Dong Seoul Bus Terminal (Gangbyeon Station, Seoul Subway Line 2) to Pocheon Intercity Bus Terminal, and then take a local bus or taxi to the Art Valley.

Gwanghwamun Square & Cheonggyecheon Stream: Shim Cheong’s First Glimpse of Seoul

These iconic Seoul landmarks are where Shim Cheong first truly experiences the human world’s bustling chaos and wonder. We see her bewildered but curious face as she navigates the vibrant city, crossing busy streets and encountering the stream. It’s here that Joon-jae, initially annoyed but inevitably drawn to her, finds her and begins to truly engage with her unique, fish-out-of-water charm.

Gwanghwamun Square is a grand public space at the heart of Seoul, flanked by impressive statues of King Sejong the Great and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, leading up to the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace. Cheonggyecheon Stream, a beautifully restored urban waterway, provides a tranquil oasis amidst the city’s concrete jungle, offering a popular spot for leisurely strolls, especially in the evenings when the lights reflect on the water. These areas are central to Seoul’s history and modern life.

How to get there

For Gwanghwamun Square, take the Seoul Subway Line 5 to Gwanghwamun Station, and exits 2 or 9 will lead you directly into the square. For Cheonggyecheon Stream, multiple subway stations are convenient, depending on which part of the stream you want to visit. Jonggak Station (Line 1) or Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2) are good starting points, offering easy access to the stream’s central sections.

Taejongdae Park, Busan: Whispers of the Joseon Past

While much of the drama is set in Seoul, the breathtaking coastal cliffs of Taejongdae Park in Busan were vividly used for stunning flashback scenes. Here, we witnessed the Joseon-era mermaid Se-hwa, often by the dramatic lighthouse and rocky shores, showcasing her profound connection to the sea and the poignant loneliness of her existence. These scenes beautifully emphasized the timeless nature of her legend and fate.

Taejongdae Park is a spectacular natural park located on the southernmost tip of Yeongdo Island in Busan. It’s renowned for its dramatic rocky cliffs, dense pine forests, and a picturesque lighthouse that offers magnificent views of the open sea, including the distant islands of Japan on a clear day. A popular way to explore the park is by riding the ‘Danubi’ train, which stops at various scenic points, including the iconic lighthouse and observatory.

How to get there

To reach Taejongdae Park in Busan, first take the Busan Subway Line 1 to Nampo Station. From there, exit at Exit 6 or 8 and look for local buses heading to Taejongdae. Buses such as 8, 30, 88, 101, or 103 will take you directly to the park’s entrance. The ride is approximately 30-40 minutes, offering glimpses of Busan’s port city charm along the way.

Make a Day of It! Explore Beyond the Drama

Visiting these filming locations is just the beginning of your Korean adventure! To truly immerse yourself, why not make a full day of exploring the surrounding areas?

• Near N Seoul Tower: After soaking in the views, descend to Namsan Hanok Village for a taste of traditional Korean architecture and culture. Or, for a different vibe, dive into the bustling shopping streets and incredible street food of Myeongdong.
• Near Gwanghwamun & Cheonggyecheon: You’re right in the historical heart of Seoul! Spend hours exploring Gyeongbokgung Palace, wander through the charming alleys of Bukchon Hanok Village, or browse for traditional crafts and enjoy a tea ceremony in Insadong.
• Near Pocheon Art Valley: If you have time, consider a visit to nearby Sanjeong Lake, a scenic reservoir surrounded by beautiful walking paths. For a truly unique experience, Herb Island, a large botanical garden with various themed zones, is also in Pocheon, though it requires further travel.
• Near Aqua Planet Jeju: You’re already on beautiful Jeju Island! Explore the dramatic coastal landscape of Seopjikoji itself, right next to the aquarium. Don’t miss the chance to hike up Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak (Sunrise Peak) for incredible views, or delve into the ancient wonders of Manjanggul Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Near Taejongdae Park, Busan: Busan is full of amazing places! Head to Jagalchi Fish Market for the freshest seafood, wander through the colorful alleyways of Gamcheon Culture Village, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of BIFF Square.

Photo Tips for Your Legend of the Blue Sea Pilgrimage

• N Seoul Tower: Capture the famous ‘love locks’ fence with the cityscape stretching behind it. The best time for photos is at sunset, as the sky changes colors and the city lights begin to twinkle. A wide-angle lens works wonders here.
• Aqua Planet Jeju: Focus on the vibrant marine life through the large main tank windows or in the underwater tunnel. Try to visit during off-peak hours for clearer shots without too many people. The ‘mermaid show’ (check schedules!) offers dynamic photo opportunities.
• Pocheon Art Valley: The emerald green Cheonjuho Lake against the dramatic rock face is a must-capture. Experiment with different angles from the various viewing platforms. Early morning or late afternoon light will bring out the most vivid colors.
• Gwanghwamun Square & Cheonggyecheon Stream: Photograph the statues of King Sejong and Admiral Yi against the backdrop of Gyeongbokgung Palace for a grand shot. For Cheonggyecheon, try a long exposure shot at night to capture the serene flow of water and the reflection of city lights.
• Taejongdae Park, Busan: The iconic Taejongdae Lighthouse offers stunning coastal views. Capture the dramatic cliffs and the vast ocean from the observatory or along the walking paths. Sunrise or sunset here can be truly breathtaking.

FAQ: Your Top Legend of the Blue Sea Travel Questions Answered!

Can I visit all these Legend of the Blue Sea locations in one day?

Unfortunately, no. These filming locations are geographically spread out across South Korea, from Seoul to Gyeonggi-do, Jeju Island, and Busan. Visiting all of them would require at least 3-5 days, ideally, to account for travel time between cities and to fully enjoy each area. We recommend choosing a few key locations that resonate most with you for your trip!

Are the Legend of the Blue Sea filming locations free to visit?

Some areas, like Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream, are public spaces and are free to visit. However, many attractions, such as N Seoul Tower (for observatory access), Aqua Planet Jeju, and Pocheon Art Valley, do have admission fees. We always recommend checking their official websites or reliable travel guides for the most current information on operating hours and ticket prices before your visit.

Is it easy to get around using public transportation to reach these locations?

For locations within Seoul (like N Seoul Tower, Gwanghwamun, and Cheonggyecheon), South Korea’s public transportation system (subway and bus) is excellent, efficient, and very easy to navigate. Locations further afield, like Pocheon Art Valley, may require a combination of subway and local buses. For Jeju Island and Busan, you’ll need to factor in domestic flights or KTX high-speed trains to get to those cities first, then utilize local buses, taxis, or rental cars to reach specific sites. Detailed directions are provided for each location, but local transport apps can also be incredibly helpful!

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