The success of the K-drama sensation, “When Life Gives You Tangerines,” has turned its stunning filming locations into must-visit tourist hotspots. If you’re visiting South Korea this spring (or any season, really), walking through these picturesque spots is the perfect way to relive the heartfelt journey of Ae Sun and Gwa Sik. Their story of love, resilience, and growth unfolds against the breathtaking landscapes of Jeju Island, charming towns, and hidden cultural gems.
Today, we’re going to help you immerse in the romance, resilience, and nostalgia of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” with the most unforgettable travel experience.
“When Life Gives You Tangerines” K-drama: Must-Visit Travel Experience
K-dramas often capture the beauty of South Korea, but “When Life Gives You Tangerines” takes it to another level. Unlike those mediocre productions, this Netflix series offers a deeply emotional journey that captures life’s highs and lows with stunning visuals and a moving narrative.
The 16-episode series spans from the 1950s to the present, following Ae Sun and Gwan Sik as they navigate love, family struggles, and societal constraints.
Set primarily on Jeju Island and various locations across Korea, the drama’s beautiful cinematography showcases vibrant landscapes that feel like a character in the story. For fans who’ve laughed, cried, and fallen in love with Ae Sun and Gwan Sik’s tale, visiting these locations offers a unique opportunity to relive those emotions firsthand.
Each site holds a special significance in this series and walking through these filming locations not only brings “When Life Gives You Tangerines” K-drama story to life but also offers a glimpse into South Korea’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
All the Immersive Filming Locations You CANNOT Miss
1. Cheongshim International Youth Training Center, Yeosu (Episode 1)
In the opening episode, we meet the elderly Ae Sun (Moon So-ri), who reflects on her life through poetry at a serene nursing home.
This is a note to self. Whenever Moon Sori's in a series there's always the element of mother-daughter complex relationships in it. You've been warned 😭😭#WhenLifeGivesYouTangerines#WhenLifeGivesYouTangerinesEp1pic.twitter.com/yNkjPXEplU
— kacey ∘.∘ 🍊 (@selplauv) March 9, 2025
While the drama portrays this location as a nursing home, it’s actually the Cheongshim International Youth Training Center in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province. Nestled along the coastline, the center offers panoramic ocean views and a peaceful ambiance that mirrors Ae-sun’s introspective journey.
Visitors can explore the lush lawns and modern architecture, soaking in the tranquil beauty that sets the tone for the entire series.
Cheongshim International Youth Training Center, Gyeonggi
- Address: South Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Gapyeong-gun, Seorak-myeon, Misari-ro, 278-64 청심청소년수련원
- Phone: +82 3 1589 1700
- Website: Official Site
2. Gimnyeong Coast, Jeju (Episode 1)
As Ae Sun narrates her longing for her mother, the serene Gimnyeong Coast provides a breathtaking backdrop.
This quiet stretch of coastline, with its white sand and crystal-clear waters, is where elderly Ae Sun walks along the shore, reminiscing about her life. Known for its lava rock formations and tranquil atmosphere, Gimnyeong Coast is a perfect spot for visitors seeking a reflective moment, just like Ae Sun.
Gimnyeong Coast, Jeju
- Address: 1270-2 Gimnyeong-ri, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Opening Hours: 24 hours (every day)
3. Gimnyeong Seonsegi Beach, Jeju (Episode 2)
Episode 2 takes us to Gimnyeong Seonsegi Beach, where young Ae Sun waits for her mother, a haenyeo (female diver), who stays out at sea longer than the others.
This pristine beach, part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to witness the daily lives of Jeju’s iconic haenyeo. The striking contrast between the sparkling white sand and the dark lava rocks makes it a picturesque location that perfectly captures Ae Sun’s yearning and quiet strength.
Gimnyeong Seonsegi Beach, Jeju
- Address: Gimnyeoung Beach, Gujwa-eup, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
4. Hakwon Farm, Gochang (Episode 3)
The romantic kiss scene in Episode 3, where Ae Sun and Gwan Sik share an intimate moment, was filmed in the enchanting green barley fields of Hakwon Farm in Gochang, North Jeolla Province.
Often mistaken for Jeju’s canola fields, this farm offers a seasonal palette of sunflowers, zinnias, and cosmos that create a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for couples looking to recreate the magic of that unforgettable scene.
Hakwon Farm, Gochang
- Address:산119-1 Seondong-ri, Gongeum-myeon, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk State, South Korea
- Phone: +82 6 3564 9897
- Opening Hours: 9.30 AM to 6 PM (every day)
- Website: Official Site
5. Seopjikoji Canola Flower Fields, Jeju (Episode 3)
In the same episode, Ae Sun and Gwan Sik’s heated argument then unfolds. You may think that this scene was also taken at the same place as the kissing scene, but no. This scene actually took place in the actual Seopjikoji Canola Flower Fields.
Located in Seogwipo, Jeju, these endless fields of yellow canola flowers create a stunning visual contrast to the tension of their conversation. The fields are a must-visit during spring when the canola flowers bloom in full splendor, offering a mesmerizing sight and a chance to relive one of the most emotionally charged scenes of the series.
Seopjikoji, Jeju
- Address: Seopjikoji-ro, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Phone: +82 6 4782 0080
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 7 PM (every day)
- Website: Visit Korea Site
6. Birojeon Hall at Unmunsa Temple, Cheongdo (Episode 4)
Meanwhile, episode 4 introduces us to the serene beauty of Birojeon Hall at Unmunsa Temple in Cheongdo.
This sacred hall, steeped in history and spiritual tranquility, serves as a backdrop to Ae Sun’s quiet contemplation. Surrounded by towering trees and ancient architecture, the temple offers visitors a chance to experience the same peaceful atmosphere that influenced Ae-sun’s reflections.
Unmunsa Temple, North Gyeongsang
- Address: 264 Unmunsa-gil, Unmun-myeon, Cheongdo-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea
- Phone: +82 5 4372 8800
- Website: Official Site
7. Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), Jeju (Episode 5)
In the meantime, a powerful moment of penance unfolds when Ae Sun performs 3,000 prostrations at Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak) in Episode 5.
This UNESCO World Heritage site, formed by an underwater volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, offers panoramic views of Jeju’s dramatic coastline. Climbing to the summit feels like a spiritual journey—one that mirrors Ae Sun’s quest for redemption and understanding.
Seongsan Ilchulbong, Jeju
- Address: 78 Seongsan-ri, Seongsan-eup, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Phone: +82 6 4783 0959
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 8 PM (Tue to Sun)
- Website: Visit Jeju
8. Jejumok Gwana Government Office, Jeju (Episode 8)
Episode 8 takes us to the Jejumok Gwana Government Office, where Ae Sun participates in a writing contest.
This fully preserved Joseon-era government complex gives visitors a glimpse into Korea’s rich history and offers a deeper understanding of the cultural backdrop of Ae Sun’s world. Exploring the grounds, you’ll feel the weight of history echoing through the courtyards and corridors.
Jejumok Gwana Government Office, Jeju
- Address: 13 Gwandeok-ro 7-gil, Jeju-si, Jeju-do, South Korea
- Phone: +82 64 710 6717
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (every day)
- Website: Jeju Government’s Site
9. Shinseongru Restaurant, Incheon (Episode 8)
In the same episode, adult Geum Myeong and her father Gwan Sik share a heartfelt meal at Shinseongru, a renowned Chinese restaurant in Incheon.
This emotionally charged scene highlights the complexities of their relationship, making the restaurant a must-visit for fans eager to retrace their steps.
Sinseonglu (Shinseongru), Incheon
- Address: 19-14 Uhyeon-ro, Jung-gu, Incheon, South Korea
- Phone: +82 32 772 4463
- Opening Hours:
- 11 AM to 3 PM, 4.30 to 9:30 PM (Tue to Fri)
- 11 AM to 9.30 PM (Sat and Sun)
10. Gwangju Theater, Gwangju (Episode 10)
Finally, the nostalgic Gwangju Theater serves as the one of the most iconic filming locations in Episode 10 of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” K-drama. This is where Geum Myeong works at the ticket booth and Park Choong Seob paints movie posters.
As Korea’s oldest single-screen theater, Gwangju Theater exudes an old-world charm that adds emotional weight to every scene filmed there.
Gwangju Cinema, Gwangju
- Address: 10 Chungjang-ro 46beon-gil, Dong-gu, Gwangju, South Korea
- Phone: +82 62 224 5858
- Website: Naver
Ready to Walk in the Footsteps of Ae-sun and Gwan-sik?
Exploring the filming locations of “When Life Gives You Tangerines” K-drama means you’re stepping right into the heart of the story. Try standing by the ocean where Ae Sun gazed in longing, walk through vibrant flower fields, and relive every dramatic moments in the series. Believe us, each location will give you a unique piece of the story’s heartbreaking stories.
So, pack your bags, follow the footsteps of Ae Sun and Gwan Sik, and make your own unforgettable memories.
When life gives you tangerines, South Korea gives you the perfect K-drama adventure.
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