Places of interest

Sopyonje Filming Site

4.3 · 725 reviews
A quiet and scenic landscape for cultural reflection.
Sopyonje Filming Site, 48-5 Eup-ri, Cheongsan-myeon, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

The filming site is situated within the first registered Slow City in Asia.

2

The 1993 film Sopyonje was the first Korean movie to draw over one million viewers in Seoul.

3

The specific path used for the film was chosen for its long, winding silhouette against the ocean backdrop.

4

The site includes a small exhibition area displaying the film’s history and the history of pansori.

5

The stone walls are protected elements of the island's rural landscape, maintaining agricultural integrity.

Overview

The Sopyonje Filming Site on Cheongsan Island gained cultural significance as a primary location for the 1993 Im Kwon-taek film, Sopyonje. The site features a traditional stone-walled path overlooking the sea, designed to evoke the aesthetic of the Joseon-era pansori music tradition. It is part of the Cheongsando Slow City trail network, which emphasizes sustainable tourism and preservation of local rural landscapes. The area remains a popular destination for those interested in Korean cinema history and folk heritage. The stone walls along the path are constructed in the traditional 'doldam' style, utilizing local stones without mortar.

Photo spot

At the crest of the hill overlooking the stone-walled path with the blue ocean as the horizon background.

Insider tips

Wear sturdy walking shoes as the paths are uneven and primarily composed of dirt and stone.

Bring water and sun protection, as the site is highly exposed with limited natural shade.

Check the island ferry schedule carefully before arriving to avoid missing the final departure.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk the entire island road network without pre-planning, as distances between villages are significant.

Etiquette

Respect the surrounding farmland and do not climb on or dismantle the historic stone walls.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring during the canola flower season, when the surrounding fields are in full bloom.
Address
Sopyonje Filming Site, 48-5 Eup-ri, Cheongsan-myeon, Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do, South Korea
34.172, 126.862
Get directions
Details
Cultural SignificancePrimary filming location for the seminal 1993 film Sopyonje
Landscape TypeTraditional rural stone-walled pathway

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring during the canola flower season, when the surrounding fields are in full bloom..

At the crest of the hill overlooking the stone-walled path with the blue ocean as the horizon background.

Close by you'll find 청산삼현비각, 범바위 전망대, 말탄바위.

South Korea

About Wando-gun