‘폭싹 속았수다’ 아이유+박보검 코스…전세계 인기에 제주 신났다

As popular K-dramas continue to capture global attention, locations like Jeju Island have managed to capitalize on the trend, incorporating Seoul’s recent hits like ‘How does Martha do it’ into their tourism strategies. But what does the future hold for this unique blend of drama and adventure?

Juggling between building on momentum from previous hits like ‘Welcome to the Village of Three Smiles’ and ambitious projects like ‘Hobgoblin Isn’t It?,’ Jeju showcases a strategic shift. The island’s approach draws from lessons learned with these dramas, utilizing them as powerful tools for local tourism development. According to Jeju Tourism officials, the economic stimulation from past dramas indicated the potential for large-scale promotion using upcoming series.

With K-dramas spilling into fashion, cuisine, and travel, Japan stands at the forefront of this cultural shift. Japanese travel companies are actively looking at series like ‘Welcome to the Village of Three Smiles’ as starting points for crafting travel packages centered around filming locations. This isn’t merely an ad-hoc approach—Jeju’s offers include tailored experiences for Japanese tourists that emphasize indoor fan ceremonies and traditional culture, mirrored in the programming.

The wave of content emanating from Korea—be it through traditional media or streaming platforms—has invigorated tourism destinations worldwide. Beyond promotions and ad campaigns, regions like Jeju are investing in long-term cultural engagement through positive associations with iconic screen productions.

Financial incentives play a pivotal role in coaxing international productions to remote and visually stunning locations. Jeju’s success in hosting significant projects like ‘Hobgoblin Isn’t It?’ and ‘Welcome to the Village of Three Smiles’ is underpinned by substantial production support offerings. For instance, the local council incentivizes through subsidies of up to 300 million won for companies incorporating trending Korean cultural themes into their tour packages.

Shows that rank highly on international platforms tend to receive broader exposure, correlating directly with spikes in tourist inquiries and visits. ‘Hobgoblin Isn’t It?’ clinched the 6th spot on global streaming charts, boosting Jeju’s visibility multitudes.

To leverage drama-based tourism effectively, align location aesthetics with narrative elements, ensuring cohesion between onscreen adventures and real-life experiences.

Have you visited a location made famous by a K-drama? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more insights into how pop culture shapes travel trends!