Must-Visit Filming Locations from When Life Gives You Tangerines in South Korea

K-drama fans, the wait is over! When Life Gives You Tangerines has finally premiered on Netflix, and it's already creating a buzz online. This highly anticipated historical romance takes viewers on an emotional journey through love, resilience, and the breathtaking landscapes of South Korea. Set in the 1950s, it follows the lives of Ae-soon and Gwan-sik as they navigate life’s challenges, with the beauty of Korea’s seasons providing a stunning backdrop.

IU and Park Bogum | ChoHyeri via Wikimedia Commons

If you are a Filipino K-drama enthusiast who dreams of stepping into the world of your favourite series, here are the key filming locations you need to know about.

Also read: The Ultimate South Korea Travel Guide for Filipinos: Best Destinations by Season

Jeju Island: The heart of the story

Oedolgae Rock, Jeju Island | Dmitry Rukhlenko via Canva Pro

Jeju Island is the heart of the drama, shaping its mood and narrative. Dubbed the “Hawaii of South Korea,” it boasts volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and stunning coastal views. Its dramatic seasonal shifts—from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn’s fiery hues—mirror the emotions of the lead characters.

Jeju has long been a favourite K-drama backdrop, featured in Crash Landing on You and Boys Over Flowers. In When Life Gives You Tangerines, the island’s changing seasons play a key role, making it both a visual delight and a must-visit destination for fans.

Jeju fishing village set: A nostalgic throwback to the 1950s

Image credit: Karendotcom127 via Wikimedia Commons

To authentically recreate the atmosphere of 1950s Jeju, the production team built the Jeju Fishing Village Set, a specially constructed location replicating the traditional coastal communities of the time. This set allows filmmakers to capture the essence of Jeju’s rural life without disrupting modern residential areas. The quaint thatched-roof houses, wooden boats, and rustic charm make it a must-visit spot for fans who want to step back in time and immerse themselves in the drama’s world.

Andong: A historic wetting for key scenes

Hahoe Folk Village | Idobi via Wikimedia Commons

While Jeju takes centre stage, some pivotal scenes were filmed in Andong, a city in North Gyeongsang Province known for preserving Korea’s rich cultural heritage. With over 30 filming sessions conducted in Andong, the city played a crucial role in capturing the period setting of the drama. The filming reportedly boosted the local economy, proving how K-dramas continue to impact tourism and local businesses.

Andong is no stranger to the spotlight, having also been featured in All of Us Are Dead (2022) and Pachinko. For travellers who love both history and K-dramas, Andong is a fantastic destination to explore, offering traditional Hanok villages, ancient Confucian schools, and the famous Hahoe Folk Village.

Cheongshim International Youth Training Center: A unique filming spot

Cheongshim International Youth Training Center | Csintacad via Wikimedia Commons

Another key location in When Life Gives You Tangerines is the Cheongshim International Youth Training Center in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province. In the drama, this facility serves as the setting for a nursing home where an elderly character paints. However, in reality, it is a youth training centre designed to provide marine and international education programmes.

Set against a scenic coastal backdrop, the centre offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can reconnect with nature. Though it may not be a typical tourist spot, its appearance in the drama will likely attract curious K-drama fans looking to discover hidden filming locations.

Gochang Barley Field at Hakwon Farm: A dreamy canola paradise

Gochang Hakwon | Seagull via Getty Images

One of the most visually stunning locations featured in the drama is the Gochang Barley Field at Hakwon Farm in North Jeolla Province. Known for its rolling fields of green barley and vibrant yellow canola flowers, this location provides a breathtaking backdrop for some of the most romantic scenes in the series.

Gochang Barley Field is already a popular tourist attraction, hosting the annual Gochang Barley Festival from mid-April to early May. It has also been featured in Goblin and other Korean dramas, making it a favourite among K-drama location hunters. The farm’s golden barley in spring, sunflowers in summer, and buckwheat flowers in autumn create a picture-perfect setting that looks straight out of a fairytale.

Also read: No e-Arrival Card, No Entry? A Must-Read Guide to South Korea’s New Travel Rule!

Why these filming locations matter

Beyond their cinematic beauty, these filming locations contribute to the emotional depth of When Life Gives You Tangerines. Each place tells a story—not just of the characters, but also of Korea’s culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes. For Filipino fans planning a K-drama-inspired trip, these destinations offer the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of their favourite series in real life.

Whether you want to walk through Jeju’s fishing villages, admire the golden fields of Gochang, or explore the historic sites of Andong, these locations are sure to make any K-drama adventure unforgettable.