Not Jeju? The Surprising City Where Your Favorite K-Dramas Are Now Filmed

For years, destinations like Jeju Island have dominated the Korean film and drama industry as go-to shooting locations, thanks to their stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and cinematic charm. But while Jeju still holds its appeal, a new contender is gaining ground—fast. That city is Jeonju.

Jeonju, long celebrated for its deep artistic roots, is now emerging as a top-tier filming location for dramas and movies. Most recently, the ENA drama Tastefully Yours (당신의 맛) climbed to No. 1 in Netflix Korea’s “Today’s Drama” category and No. 2 globally within days of its premiere. Notably, over 80% of the drama was filmed in Jeonju—and the city’s name appears prominently in the storyline, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into the location itself.

From Jeonju Hanok Village and Nambu Market to Cheongyeonru Pavilion and Nosong Square, the drama showcases iconic local landmarks, blending tradition and modernity into stunning visuals. Scenes set against the backdrop of hanok rooftops, bustling traditional markets, and lush scenery have struck a chord with viewers—turning the city into a character in its own right.

But Jeonju isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it’s an infrastructure-ready city for filmmakers. The Jeonju Film Studio Complex provides a full range of indoor and outdoor sets, helping production crews maximize both convenience and quality. This reputation as a “film-friendly” city is spreading fast among producers and directors alike.

The city’s commitment to becoming a content hub is clear. Under the slogan “Global Film & Media Capital, Jeonju,” the city government is expanding filming incentives, streamlining administrative support, and investing in local talent. As a result, over 100 film and drama productions are shot in Jeonju and surrounding North Jeolla Province every year.

This production boom is also boosting tourism. As content-driven travel becomes a growing trend, Jeonju is no longer seen solely as a city of tradition. Visitors—especially young people and families—are flocking to filming sites, eager to explore the neighborhoods, cafes, markets, and scenic spots they saw on screen. Many combine these visits with culinary tours and cultural experiences, immersing themselves in the full Jeonju atmosphere.

Jeonju Hanok Village, with over 800 traditional Korean houses, remains a major attraction offering hanok stays, hanji (Korean paper) crafts, and traditional cuisine. Nambu Market, with 500 years of history, is home to regional staples like bean sprout soup and blood sausage, as well as its famous gamaek (beer + snack) alley. Cheongyeonru, a hanok pavilion built on a bridge over Jeonjucheon Stream, offers panoramic views that make it a favorite filming location.

Nosong Square serves as a tranquil urban green space, while historical landmarks like Jeondong Cathedral, Gyeonggijeon Shrine, and Omokdae highlight the city’s Joseon-era heritage. The Jeonju Film Studio Complex in Sangnim-dong is equipped with professional-grade sets and production facilities. Meanwhile, art enclaves like Jamandong Mural Village and Seohakdong Art Village are rising as go-to photo and walking spots thanks to their colorful murals and installations.

In Jeonju, the entire city feels like one massive film set—where history, creativity, cuisine, and culture come together in layers. No longer just a traditional heritage site, Jeonju is being reimagined as a vibrant content capital and an irresistible new travel destination.

Now, travelers can walk the alleys they saw in dramas, sip coffee beneath hanok eaves, and experience a day that feels lifted straight out of a film scene—right in the heart of Jeonju.

Global Recognition for 'Tastefully Yours'

Meanwhile, Tastefully Yours (starring Kang Ha-neul and Go Min-si) continues its impressive rise beyond Korea. According to Netflix’s Global Top 10 (Non-English TV) ranking released on May 21, the Genie TV and ENA drama landed at No. 2 worldwide—just behind Dear My Hongrang (Tangeum). The series recorded 6.6 million viewing hours (calculated by dividing total watch time by runtime), reflecting its growing international popularity. As Jeonju shines on screen, Tastefully Yours is helping put the city—and Korean food culture—on the global map.

Episode 4 offered a tender deepening of feelings between the leads, with subtle glances and shared meals heightening the emotional tension. Looking ahead, the Episode 5 preview teases a potential turning point: as the restaurant faces unexpected challenges, new characters stir the plot—and the romance appears to inch closer to a confession. The stakes are rising, both in the kitchen and in their hearts.

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