In all its years of creating original content, rarely has Netflix seen a response like the one that came from “Squid Game“. The Korean series arrived on the streamer in September 2021 from the mind of Hwang Dong-hyuk; in its first four weeks, the dystopian story amassed 1.65 billion viewing hours, according to Giggster. Initially, “Squid Game” was meant to be a movie, but the creators decided it would be more impactful in a series format, and audiences clearly agreed. If you somehow missed season one when it landed, now’s the perfect time to play catch-up before the second installment hits Netflix in December.
Dong-hyuk’s hit series is set in South Korea, where citizens are given a chance to win $45.6 billion won while competing in what seems like simple childhood games. However, they quickly realize that losers are brutally murdered, and each death adds more money to the final prize pool. Along the way, some take a risk and learn that killing others isn’t frowned upon and chaos ensues as players turn their back on each other. Audiences were first intrigued by the dramatic storyline, but now some are hoping to visit “Squid Game” filming locations in real life.
‘Squid Game’ Filming Locations Will Make You Want To Explore South Korea
Crews captured the beauty of South Korea nicely in the foreign series, which was mostly shot in the country’s fifth biggest city, Daejeon. Seoul and Incheon provided city landscapes when necessary, and beautiful Namsan Mountain Park served as a filming location too. The latter is where Seong Gi-hun and Kang Sae-byeok are set free after the “Squid Game” vote takes place. Elsewhere, episode six includes a mention of Jeju, known as the “Hawaii of Korea.” It’s home to lush forests, volcanoes and beautiful white beaches, but on-screen viewers are actually looking at Seongapdo Island, an area that’s mostly home to local fishermen.
Sets Were Constructed In The City Of Daejeon
Key Scenes: Several key scenes from Netflix’s “Squid Game” were filmed in Daejeon, South Korea, particularly at the Daejeon Expo Science Park and Studio Cube. These locations served as the primary settings for the show’s iconic game arenas, including the dormitory, the “Red Light, Green Light” field, the glass bridge and the maze-like staircases inspired by M.C. Escher’s artwork, as Moviedelic notes.
Best Time to Visit: In spring, the city experiences mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring local attractions. This period also coincides with the cherry blossom season, offering picturesque views throughout the city. Autumn brings similarly pleasant weather, with temperatures between 15°C and 23°C, and is renowned for its vibrant fall foliage, especially in areas like Gyeryongsan National Park. These seasons provide comfortable climates and fewer weather-related disruptions, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Transportation Options: Daejeon boasts a comprehensive and efficient transportation system, making it easy for both residents and visitors to navigate. Operating daily from 5:30 a.m. to midnight, the metro offers a reliable mode of transit across the city. A second line, Metro Line 2, is currently under construction and is expected to open in 2028, further enhancing the city’s rail network. Buses run frequently, with signs and announcements available in both Korean and English, facilitating ease of use for international travelers.
The “Squid Game” production team constructed elaborate, full-scale sets within Studio Cube, allowing actors to interact with tangible environments, which enhanced the show’s immersive and surreal atmosphere. Although the original sets have been dismantled, the Expo Science Park remains a popular destination for fans interested in the series’ filming locations. Additionally, the giant doll from episode one can be found at Seoul Olympic Park for the perfect photo opportunity. Plenty of other projects have used Daejeon’s beauty as their backdrop. Among them are “Train to Busan,” “New World,” “The 8th Night” and “Mr. Sunshine.”
Things to Do: Visit the animals at Daejeon O-World, wander through Uam Historical Park and pick up some knowledge from the National Science Museum.
Where to Eat: If you’re craving Italian while in Asia, you can find it at Nuovo Napoli. When you’ve got a giant doll-sized appetite, be sure to head to Vesta Buffet!
Where to Stay: The Lotte City Hotel is a top-rated best seller in Daejeon, or The Empress Hotel offers breakfast with your stay.
Select Scenes Filmed On The Private Seongapdo Island Of South Korea
Key Scenes: The entire fictional island in season three of “Squid Game” was filmed on Seongapdo Island, according to Moviedelic.
Best Time to Visit: This island is privately owned and not open to the public. However, the best time to visit the coast of Incheon, which is around Seongapdo Island, is during the spring or fall months.
Transportation Options: There is no public access to this island. So travelers can not expect to be able to explore it. The island does not have readily accessible public transportation or regular ferry connections.
Season three of “Squid Game” was produced on Seongapdo Island, which is located in Ongjin County. The scenes filmed on this island include those involving the character Hwang Jun-ho. Scenes there include when he is on a journey to find his brother, In-ho/Front Man (Lee Byung-hun). Despite the change in scenery, things weren’t too difficult for the actor playing Hwang Jun-ho. As Wi Ha-jun shared with Deadline, “I grew up on an island and have had a lot of experiences riding boats […] so it was easy for me to film.”
Things to Do: Since Seongapdo Island is private, travelers may be interested in exploring the county it is in. In Ongjin County, many travelers visit popular beaches like Janggol and Janggeong-ri to take in the natural beauty of the area.
Where to Eat: Although there are not too many options in the area, Oven Maru is one of the most popular restaurants around, with quick and friendly service.
Where to Stay: In Ongjin County, holiday rentals and rented apartments are the main options, so these privately booked accommodations are popular with travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used in “Squid Game”?
According to The Currency Club, Korean Won (₩) are used for the Squid Game prize money. This is the legal currency of South Korea.
Why is it called the “Squid Game”?
The name of the show is inspired by the name of a children’s game, according to Radio Times. Despite the fatal consequences of losing games in the show, it is based on a schoolyard game. This game is a recurring theme, with symbols from the game appearing on player’s uniforms and it being the final round of the tournament.
Can South Koreans go to North Korea?
Generally, no, South Koreans do not go to North Korea. Due to political restrictions and the required governmental approval, it is not common to travel between the two in general.
