Calling all K-drama fans and travelers! If you’ve been loving the drama When Life Gives You Tangerines (폭싹 속았수다), why not relive the magic by visiting the real-world locations from the show? This guide will take you through 11 memorable filming sites across Korea from episodes 1-8 – from Jeju’s sunny shores to bustling Seoul.
1. Cheongshim International Marine Youth Training Center (청심국제해양청소년수련원) – Ep 1
Address: 183-5 Jangsu-ro, Hwayang-myeon, Yeosu-si, Jeollanam-do
주소: 전남 여수시 화양면 장수로 183-5
The drama opens in Episode 1 with a scene at this seaside center. Remember the lush green lawn with the elderly people relaxing at a “nursing home”? That heartfelt moment was actually filmed on the grounds of this youth training center by the Yeosu coast. The center boasts gorgeous ocean views from every room and even offers marine activities and rock climbing – not your typical K-drama nursing home! Fun fact: Cheongshim opened in 2021 as Yeosu’s only youth retreat facility, and when it’s not hosting youth programs, you can book a stay here. Imagine waking up to the same ocean vista seen in the show! (Travel tip: If you visit in summer, bring mosquito repellent – the seaside breeze comes with a few mozzies at dusk, but the view is totally worth it.)
2. Gimnyeong Coast (김녕 해안) – Ep 1
Address: 4-3 Gimnyeong-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
주소: 제주특별자치도 제주시 구좌읍 김녕리 4-3
Also in Episode 1, we get to see Jeju Island’s stunning Gimnyeong Coast. This is where Ae-soon’s mother and the village haenyeo (해녀, female divers) plunge into the emerald-blue sea for their daily catch. The scene of the divers bobbing in the water against a backdrop of white sand and black lava rock is simply unforgettable. In real life, Gimnyeong Beach is known for its crystal-clear water and soft white sands – perfect for a scenic stroll or a beach picnic. Fun fact: Jeju’s haenyeo culture is so special that there’s a museum dedicated to these lady divers nearby! If you’re lucky, you might catch local haenyeo in action, or even walk on a “mysterious sea road” that appears at low tide. (Travel tip: Bring aqua shoes or sandals – exploring the tidal pools among the rocks can reveal colorful fish and shells, but those volcanic rocks are sharp!)
3. Seopjikoji – Canola Flower Fields (섭지코지) – Ep 3
Address: Sinyang-ri, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do
주소: 제주특별자치도 서귀포시 성산읍 신양리
In Episode 3, the romance is in full bloom – literally – at Seopjikoji’s famous canola flower fields. This scenic cape on Jeju’s east coast is blanketed in vibrant yellow flowers every spring, setting the stage for a dreamy scene. Seopjikoji is just as enchanting off-screen: a gentle hill by the sea, a quaint lighthouse, and views of the iconic Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) in the distance. Fun fact: “Seopji” means a narrow land spit in Jeju dialect, and “koji” means cape – this spot has been a filming darling for years (remember it from older dramas?). For travelers, it’s best to visit in April when the canola flowers are at their peak. (Travel tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and catch the soft glow of sunrise – you’ll feel like the star of your own K-drama, guaranteed!
4. Gochang Barley Field at Hakwon Farm (고창 학원농장 보리밭) – Ep 4
Address: 150 Hakwon Farm Road, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeollabuk-do
주소: 전북 고창군 공음면 학원농장길 150
One of the most swoon-worthy moments happens in Episode 4 at the vast barley fields of Gochang. Did you catch that scene where Ae-soon and Gwan-shik share their very first kiss? This is where it happened – amid endless waves of green barley swaying in the breeze. The Hakwon Farm barley field is so expansive and picturesque, you might feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. In spring, the young barley is a fresh bright green; by early summer it turns golden. It’s a real-life daydream setting perfect for a romantic milestone. Fun fact: Gochang’s barley field is one of the largest in Korea and even hosts a Barley Festival each year. If you visit around April or May, you’ll see the field in its full glory, just like the backdrop of that drama scene. (Travel tip: There’s a little observation hill and photo spots set up for visitors – bring a wide-angle lens for that endless field shot! And maybe reenact a slow-mo running scene through the barley for fun. )
5. Birojeon Hall at Unmunsa Temple (운문사 비로전) – Ep 4
Address: 1789 Sinwon-ri, Unmun-myeon, Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do
주소: 경상북도 청도군 운문면 신원리 1789
Later in Episode 4, the drama takes a serene turn at the Unmunsa Temple in the mountains of Cheongdo. In a quiet, emotional scene, one of our characters seeks solace in the ancient Birojeon Hall of this temple. The backdrop of weathered wooden architecture and peaceful courtyards adds a spiritual aura to the moment – you can almost hear the monks’ chants in the distance. Birojeon Hall is actually a historic gem: built in 1655, it’s the oldest building in Unmunsa and is a designated treasure of Korea. The temple itself is famous as a training center for Buddhist nuns, nestled in a valley with walking paths that glow with autumn foliage and spring blossoms. Fun fact: “Unmunsa” means “Cloud Gate Temple,” and on misty mornings the whole area truly feels like a gateway in the clouds. Visitors are welcome to wander the grounds (just remember to be respectful and keep noise low). (Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the uphill walk to the temple. And if you time it right in fall, you’ll catch a breathtaking tunnel of golden gingko trees on the road to Unmunsa.
6. Gwangnyeong-ri Village (광령리) – Ep 4
Address: 173-2 San, Gwangnyeong-ri, Aewol-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
주소: 제주 제주시 애월읍 광령리 산 173-2
Jeju’s shines again in Episode 4 with scenes set in Gwangnyeong-ri, a village area on the island. This rustic locale stands in as Ae-soon’s hometown in the drama, depicting the simple rural life and tight-knit community of Jeju in decades past. Think winding paths lined with black lava rock walls, traditional homes with orange-painted doors, and maybe a few tangerine trees in the yard – that’s the vibe here. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and indeed in the show you see neighbors gathering and daily life unfolding against a backdrop of green oreum hills. While much of the “village” in the drama was a set (fun fact: some village scenes were actually filmed on a constructed set in Andong to resemble old Jeju!), Gwangnyeong-ri offers the authentic scenery that made those moments believable. Visitors driving through Aewol-eup can detour into the country lanes to find this spot. There’s not a specific tourist site, but the atmosphere is the attraction – you’ll feel like you slipped into the 1960s for a moment. (Travel tip: Rent a car or scooter to explore Jeju’s countryside. Around Gwangnyeong, keep an eye out for small family-run tangerine orchards; if it’s winter harvest season, some might even let you pick a few! And don’t be shy to say “안녕하수꽈” (annyeonghasukwa) – hello in Jeju dialect – to friendly locals.)
7. Deokwon Restaurant (덕원) – Ep 7
Address: 6, Beodnaru-ro 6-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul
주소: 서울 영등포구 버드나루로6길 6
By Episode 7, our characters find themselves in bustling Seoul, and what better place to have a meaningful chat (or a confrontation) than over a steaming bowl of soup? Enter Deokwon Restaurant, a humble eatery in Yeongdeungpo that’s been ladling out delicious broths since the 1960s. In the drama, this old-school restaurant is the setting for a pivotal meal scene – notice the vintage decor and comforting vibes as the characters savor some soup. Deokwon is famous for its “Oxtail Soup (꼬리곰탕)” and a special dish called Bangchitang, a rich beef stew you’ll rarely find elsewhere. The show’s nostalgia factor was on point here: the Formica tables, metal spoons, and the ajumma server in the background are straight out of a bygone era. Fun fact: Deokwon is a real-life local favorite and even earned a spot in the Blue Ribbon food guide. It’s known as the “Tail Soup Master” in Seoul! If you visit, don’t expect fancy interior – it’s plain and homey, just like in the drama. (Travel tip: Try the bangchitang if you’re an adventurous eater – it’s hearty and perfect for a chilly day in Seoul. Also, note they usually don’t have a break in service except mid-afternoon, so you can drop by for an early dinner after exploring Yeouido nearby.
8. Chonnam National University Gwangju Campus (전남대학교) – Ep 7
Address: 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju
주소: 광주 북구 용봉로 77
Episode 7 also takes a detour to the Chonnam National University campus in Gwangju, adding a burst of youthful energy to the story. The scene filmed here is filled with 1970s campus vibes – think students in retro outfits, bicycles and books in hand, and an undercurrent of youthful hope and rebellion. Walking through Chonnam University today, you can feel echoes of real history – this school was at the heart of Korea’s democracy movement during the 1980s. Fun fact: The university’s front gate and main courtyard, which you glimpse in the show, are symbolic in Gwangju as sites of student gatherings. Don’t worry, though – visiting now is perfectly peaceful. The campus is open to the public and is a lovely place to stroll, with stately trees and a mix of modern and old buildings. (Travel tip: If you find yourself in Gwangju, drop by the campus in spring. The cherry blossom trees along the paths bloom beautifully, making it a popular spot for photos Also, near the front gate is a small May 18th memorial park – a meaningful stop if you’re interested in the city’s history.
9. Chinese Restaurant Shinseongru (신성루) – Ep 8
Address: Jung-gu Uhyeon-ro 19-14, Incheon
주소: 인천 중구 우현로 19-14 신성루
In Episode 8, as the story heads toward its climax, we find ourselves at a Chinese restaurant scene. The setting is none other than Shinseongru, an iconic Chinese small restaurant in Incheon’s old town. With its spinning lazy susan tables, red lanterns, and whiffs of black bean sauce, Shinseongru brought authentic flavor to the drama. One can easily imagine Ae-soon and Gwan-shik (now older and wiser) sharing a plate of jajangmyeon or reminiscing about old times over tea here. This restaurant isn’t just a set piece – it’s a living piece of history. Fun fact: Shinseongru has been serving customers since the 1940s, spanning two generations! It’s famous for its old-fashioned jajangmyeon and spicy jjamppong, sticking to recipes that haven’t changed for decades. (Travel tip: It’s located in Incheon’s Chinatown area, which is a great place to explore after your meal. Try to visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, and definitely come hungry. After eating, you can stroll the colorful streets, and maybe reenact a dramatic noodle-twirl scene with your travel buddies.)
10. Jeju-mok Government Office (제주목 관아) – Ep 8
Address: 25 Gwandeok-ro, Jeju-si, Jeju-do
주소: 제주 제주시 관덕로 25
The final location on our list brings us back to where it all began: Jeju Island. In Episode 8, the Jeju-mok Gwana (Government Office) serves as a backdrop that beautifully highlights Jeju’s heritage. During a significant late-story scene (we won’t spoil it!), this historic compound’s traditional buildings and courtyard add weight and authenticity to the moment. You might recall the characters walking through a gate or standing in a stone-paved yard with old tile-roofed pavilions around – that’s the Jeju-mok Government Office, once the center of administration back in the Joseon Dynasty era. It’s almost as if the drama’s timeline of decades came full circle, connecting modern storylines to Jeju’s deep history. Fun fact: The Jeju-mok Government Office site dates back hundreds of years and includes structures like Gwandeokjeong Pavilion (관덕정), which is one of the oldest standing buildings in Jeju City (built in 1448!). Today, this place is a lovingly restored heritage park. Visitors can wander through the old meeting halls, exam rooms, and gardens and get a feel for classical Jeju architecture and life. (Travel tip: The office is right in downtown Jeju City, super easy to visit. Go on a weekday morning for a quiet atmosphere, and consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for a short tour – the stories they tell really bring the stone walls to life.
Visiting these When Life Gives You Tangerines filming locations is like taking a trip through time and story. From Jeju’s sparkling seas and golden fields to Seoul’s cozy eateries and beyond, each spot has its own charm. So why not turn your next Korea trip into a K-drama adventure?
