Filming Scene of The Solitary Gourmet: The Movie (Image provided by Media Castle)
GEOJE, South Korea, Jan. 18 (Korea Bizwire) — Once known primarily as a shipbuilding hub, Geoje City in South Gyeongsang Province is gaining new recognition as a premier filming location for movies and television dramas.
According to city officials, over 120 productions—including dramas, films, and variety shows—have been shot in Geoje since 2017.
One of the most notable recent projects is The Solitary Gourmet: The Movie, adapted from the popular Japanese drama. The film prominently features Geoje’s Gojura Port, chosen by director and lead actor Yutaka Matsushige, who was captivated by the area’s stunning natural scenery.
Local restaurants were scouted for authenticity, and the daughter of a restaurant owner was even cast in a serving role to enhance realism.
The film was invited to the Busan International Film Festival last year and is slated for release in the first half of 2025.
Additionally, the 2024 film Victory, based on the true story of a Geoje cheerleading club, was filmed in locations such as Palangpo in Okpo-dong and the Okpo Great Victory Memorial Park.
The 2024 drama Barking Dogs also featured several of Geoje’s scenic spots, including Hakdong Pebble Beach and the Jangseungpo coastal trail.
One of Geoje City’s top tourist attractions is the renowned Windy Hill (Baramui Hill). ((Photo provided by the Korea Tourism Organization)
Geoje City has actively supported these productions by assisting with site scouting, administrative permits, and managing public concerns. This proactive approach has earned the city a reputation for being film-friendly within the industry.
City officials believe that serving as a filming destination not only boosts the local economy but also attracts tourists and enhances Geoje’s image as a vibrant city. “Audiences can look forward to seeing Geoje’s breathtaking landscapes in various films and dramas throughout 2025,” a city spokesperson said.
As Geoje continues to blend its industrial legacy with its natural beauty, the city is poised to become a leading cultural and tourism destination in South Korea.
Panoramic View of Dadaedapo Port in Nambu-myeon, Geoje City (Image provided by Geoje City/Yonhap)
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
