Squid Game Filming Locations

Annyeong, Fellow K-Drama Fans! Let’s Explore Squid Game’s Real-Life Backdrop!

It’s your friendly neighborhood K-drama enthusiast from KDrama Trip, and today, we’re diving into a global phenomenon that kept us all on the edge of our seats: Squid Game! While the drama transported us to a mysterious, isolated island for its deadly games, many of the poignant, character-defining moments actually unfolded right here in the bustling, everyday streets of South Korea. For those of you planning your dream K-drama trip, I know you’re eager to walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters, and Squid Game offers a unique, albeit sometimes melancholic, opportunity to do just that.

Before the iconic green tracksuits and the chilling ‘Red Light, Green Light’ doll, there was Gi-hun, struggling with life’s harsh realities, just like many of us. The drama masterfully used real-life Korean locations to paint a picture of his desperate circumstances, making his eventual choice to join the games all the more understandable. These are the places where the seeds of the story were sown, where the human drama began long before the brutal competition. So, let’s explore the Squid Game real locations – the ordinary spots that became extraordinary backdrops for one of the most talked-about series in recent memory!

The Marble Game Alley: KT&G Sangsang Madang, Hongdae/Hapjeong, Seoul

Who could forget the heart-wrenching marble game? It was a test of trust, a battle of wits, and for Gi-hun, a moment of unexpected connection with Player 001, Oh Il-nam. The alleyway where they played their fateful match, sharing stories and humanity amidst the desperation, is one of the most memorable non-game locations from the series. It’s where their gganbu relationship truly solidified, making the eventual twist all the more impactful.

In reality, this atmospheric spot is nestled behind the KT&G Sangsang Madang complex in the vibrant Hongdae/Hapjeong area of Seoul. Sangsang Madang itself is a multi-cultural art space featuring a cinema, art gallery, design shop, and cafe. The alley, however, offers a glimpse into a slightly grittier, more authentic side of the neighborhood, with its distinct brick walls and subtle graffiti, providing a stark contrast to the polished streets nearby. It feels like a hidden gem, full of character and untold stories, much like the one Gi-hun and Il-nam shared.

How to get there

Take Seoul Subway Line 2 or 6 to Hapjeong Station (합정역), and use Exit 3. Walk straight for about 5-7 minutes along Eoulmadang-ro (어울마당로) until you see the large KT&G Sangsang Madang building on your right. The alley is located just behind this building. Alternatively, you can take Line 2 to Hongik University Station (홍대입구역), Exit 9, and walk towards Sangsang Madang, which is about a 10-15 minute stroll through the lively streets.

Gi-hun’s Neighborhood Market: Baegun Market (백운시장), Ui-dong, Seoul

We first meet Gi-hun struggling with daily life, and one of the most vivid scenes showing his desperation is when he tries his luck at a claw machine in a bustling local market, hoping to win a prize for his daughter’s birthday. This market truly captures the essence of everyday Korean life, with its vibrant energy and the sounds of vendors calling out their wares. It perfectly sets the stage for the grounded reality from which Gi-hun emerges.

This authentic slice of Seoul is none other than Baegun Market (백운시장), located in the Ui-dong area of northern Seoul. It’s a traditional market that has retained its charm and local feel, far from the tourist-heavy shopping districts. Here, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and seafood to delicious street food, clothing, and household goods. Visiting Baegun Market offers a genuine immersion into a local Korean community, providing a stark reminder of the everyday struggles and simple joys depicted in the early parts of Squid Game.

How to get there

The easiest way to reach Baegun Market is by taking the Ui-Sinseol Line (light rail) to Baegun Station (백운역). From the station, the market is just a short 2-3 minute walk. If you’re coming from central Seoul, you can transfer to the Ui-Sinseol Line from Line 4 at Sungshin Women’s University Station (성신여대입구역) or from Line 1 at Sinseol-dong Station (신설동역). Remember, local markets often have varying hours, so it’s always good to check if you’re looking for something specific, though the general market atmosphere is usually present throughout the day.

The Melancholy Underpass: Sanchon Village Tunnel (산촌마을 터널), Ui-dong, Seoul

The journey of Gi-hun is often underscored by his walks through a distinctive, somewhat melancholic tunnel. It’s an ordinary part of his commute, a backdrop to his anxieties and the weight of his responsibilities. This tunnel becomes a recurring visual motif, symbolizing the path he repeatedly traverses, trapped in a cycle until the Squid Game offers a terrifying escape. It’s a subtle but powerful visual element in the drama.

This unassuming yet iconic tunnel is the Sanchon Village Tunnel (산촌마을 터널), nestled within the residential fabric of Ui-dong, Dobong-gu. It’s a quiet, everyday structure that might go unnoticed by most, but for Squid Game fans, it holds a special significance. Walking through it, you can almost feel the weight of Gi-hun’s worries, the echoes of his footsteps. It’s a testament to how ordinary places can be imbued with deep narrative meaning through the magic of cinema. Remember, this is a residential area, so please be extra respectful of the local residents when visiting.

How to get there

Similar to Baegun Market, the Sanchon Village Tunnel is best accessed via the Ui-Sinseol Line. Take the Ui-Sinseol Line to Solbat Park Station (솔밭공원역), Exit 1. From there, it’s a pleasant walk of about 10-15 minutes through the neighborhood. You can use a mapping app to pinpoint ‘Sanchon Village Tunnel’ (산촌마을 터널) for precise navigation. It’s a peaceful area, so take your time and soak in the atmosphere.

The Game’s Imposing Exterior: Daejeon Oval (대전 오벌), Daejeon

While the internal game sets were custom-built, the chillingly vast and anonymous exterior of the facility where the Squid Game takes place needed a real-world counterpart. The show cleverly used an existing, imposing structure to convey the sheer scale and mystery of the game organizers’ operations. The shots of this building often appear just before the players arrive, or as a looming presence throughout the series, reminding us of the ultimate destination of the participants.

This striking building is the exterior of the Daejeon Hanbat Sports Complex’s Baseball Stadium, commonly referred to by fans as the ‘Daejeon Oval’ due to its distinctive, oval-shaped facade. Located in Daejeon, Korea’s fifth-largest city, this stadium is a prominent landmark, usually bustling with sports fans, not secret game participants! It’s a public venue, so you can easily observe its unique architecture from the outside. It’s fascinating how a place designed for public recreation can be transformed into something so ominous with just a change of context and a bit of camera magic!

How to get there

Visiting Daejeon involves a bit more travel, but it’s well worth it for dedicated fans! From Seoul, take a KTX high-speed train from Seoul Station (서울역) or Yongsan Station (용산역) to Daejeon Station (대전역). The KTX ride is approximately 1 hour. From Daejeon Station, you can take a taxi directly to ‘Daejeon Hanbat Sports Complex’ (대전 한밭 종합운동장) or ‘Hanbat Baseball Stadium’ (한밭야구장), which will take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use Daejeon’s subway (Line 1) to Jungangno Station (중앙로역) or Daejeon City Hall Station (대전시청역) and then transfer to a local bus or taxi. Allow ample time for travel if you’re making this a day trip from Seoul.

Make a Day of It: Beyond the Filming Locations!

Exploring these Squid Game real locations offers a unique itinerary, blending pop culture with authentic Korean experiences. But why stop there? Let’s turn these visits into full-blown Korean adventures!

Photo Tips for Your Squid Game Journey

• Sangsang Madang Alley: To capture the moody, atmospheric vibe of the marble game scene, try shooting down the alleyway itself, focusing on the distinct brick textures and any subtle street art. Early mornings or late afternoons will give you softer, more dramatic light and fewer crowds. A slightly low angle can emphasize the alley’s length and depth.
• Baegun Market: This place is all about vibrant life! Focus on candid shots of the market’s hustle and bustle – colorful produce, street food vendors, and the general energy. Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Mid-morning to early afternoon is best for natural light to bring out the colors.
• Sanchon Village Tunnel: To recreate the sense of Gi-hun’s routine, stand at one end of the tunnel and shoot straight through, capturing its length and the light at the other end. This emphasizes the ‘pathway’ feel. Early morning for soft, even light and minimal traffic is ideal.
• Daejeon Oval: For that imposing ‘game facility’ shot, find a spot across the street or in the surrounding park that allows you to capture the entire curved facade of the stadium. A wide-angle lens would be perfect. Daytime is best to show off its scale and unique architecture.

Seoul’s Northern Charms (Hongdae/Hapjeong & Ui-dong/Suyu)

If you’re starting your day in the Hongdae/Hapjeong area after visiting Sangsang Madang, you’re already in one of Seoul’s most happening spots! Spend time exploring Yeontral Park (Gyeongui Line Forest Park), a beautiful urban green space perfect for a relaxing stroll, or dive into the countless cafes, indie shops, and street art alleys. Hongdae is famous for its youthful energy, delicious street food, and busking performances, especially in the evenings.

For Baegun Market and Sanchon Village Tunnel in Ui-dong/Suyu, you’ll be experiencing a more residential, local side of Seoul. These neighborhoods offer a fantastic opportunity to try authentic Korean street food and local eateries, often at more affordable prices than downtown areas. Don’t miss out on trying some traditional market snacks! You’re also relatively close to the magnificent Bukhansan National Park, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to enjoy some hiking with breathtaking city views (though a dedicated trip might be needed).

Discovering Daejeon

If you’ve made the trip to Daejeon to see the ‘Oval,’ make sure to explore this often-overlooked city! Daejeon is known as Korea’s science and technology hub. You could visit the Expo Science Park or the National Science Museum. For a more relaxed experience, stroll through the beautiful Hanbat Arboretum, one of Korea’s largest urban arboretums. And no visit to Daejeon is complete without trying their famous ‘Twikim Ssoboro’ bread from Sungsimdang Bakery, a local institution!

Frequently Asked Questions About Squid Game Filming Locations

Can I visit the actual Squid Game sets, like the dormitory or game arenas?

Unfortunately, no. The elaborate sets for the dormitory, the ‘Red Light, Green Light’ field, the glass bridge, and other game arenas were custom-built for the production and have since been dismantled. They were temporary structures, primarily filmed on soundstages or purpose-built outdoor sets, not permanent public attractions. The locations we’ve discussed are the real-world places that served as backdrops for the characters’ lives before the games began, offering a different but equally compelling connection to the drama.

Are there any official Squid Game tours endorsed by Netflix or the production company?

As of now, there are no official, Netflix- or production company-endorsed tours specifically focused on Squid Game filming locations. While many local tour operators might offer K-drama themed tours that *include* some of these publicly known locations, these are independent ventures. Always verify the itinerary and what’s included if you choose to book such a tour. This guide, however, gives you all the information you need to create your own self-guided Squid Game adventure!

Is it respectful to visit residential areas or markets featured in the show?

Absolutely! Most Koreans are proud of their culture and the global recognition K-dramas bring. However, when visiting residential areas like Ui-dong or local markets like Baegun Market, it’s crucial to be mindful and respectful. Keep noise levels down, especially in residential alleyways. Avoid blocking pathways or entrances, and always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or residents. Remember, these are people’s homes and workplaces, not just tourist attractions. A little common courtesy goes a long way in ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone!

I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Korea, allowing you to connect with Squid Game in a whole new, real-world way. Happy travels, and may your K-drama adventures be endlessly exciting!

Keep Reading

• Bong Joon-ho Locations: Parasite and Beyond
• The Host Movie Locations on the Han River, Seoul
• Korean Movie Set Tours & K-Drama History
• Timeless Journeys: Exploring Classic K-Drama & Film Locations in Korea