DramaThrillerDark ComedyUrban

🎬 Where Was Parasite Filmed? Complete Seoul Location Guide

2019

Bong Joon-ho

Added January 15, 2024

5 Locations

Dive into a chilling vision of Seoul through Bong Joon-ho's lens. Uncover the real locations that shaped Parasite's masterpiece.

About 🎬 Where Was Parasite Filmed? Complete Seoul Location Guide

🎬 Where Was Parasite Filmed? Complete Seoul Location Guide

Ever wondered how "Parasite," the Academy Award-winning masterpiece, managed to blend such sharp social commentary with spine-tingling suspense? A huge part of its genius lies in its visually striking, incredibly intentional use of real-world locations!

Forget lavish CGI; director Bong Joon-ho meticulously chose and built sets that elevate the story, transforming Seoul's diverse urban landscape into a character itself. The film’s brilliant depiction of wealth disparity is woven directly into its geography, from sprawling mansions in affluent districts to cramped semi-basement apartments in older neighborhoods.

These aren't just backdrops; they're vital organs of the film’s narrative, symbolizing the literal and metaphorical journeys of its characters. And guess what? Many of them are real places you can visit today!

Ready to step into the world of the Kims and the Parks? Join us as we explore the actual spots that brought "Parasite" to life, offering a unique cinematic tour through the heart of Seoul.

---

🗺️ Major Filming Locations

🎬 Woori Supermarket (우리슈퍼) - Where Plans Are Brewed 🏪

A small, corner supermarket with a green awning, shelves visible through the windows, located on a quiet street in Mangwon-dong.

🏛️ The Location

Tucked away in the charming Mangwon-dong district, Woori Supermarket is a quintessential neighborhood convenience store. It's the kind of place where locals grab their daily necessities, embodying the everyday charm of Seoul's residential areas.

🎥 In the Film

This humble shop is where Kim Ki-woo gets the fateful scholar's rock from his friend Min-hyuk and learns about the lucrative tutoring gig at the Park's home. It’s the unassuming launchpad for the Kim family's ambitious infiltration plan, setting the stage for everything that follows.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 32, Songijeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, South Korea (서울 마포구 송정로 32)

🕒 Hours: Daily, typical small market hours (approx. 9 AM - 10 PM)

💰 Admission: Free to visit, purchases optional

🌐 Website: N/A (local business)

💡 Pro Tip: Grab a a bag of chips or a drink inside! It's a great spot to soak in local life and imagine the movie's pivotal conversation. 🎬 Fun Fact: The supermarket owner initially didn't want the store to be associated with the film due to the dark plot, but eventually allowed it to be filmed. Now, it's a popular spot for fans!

---

🎬 Stairs by Ja-ha-mun Tunnel (자하문터널 언덕길) - The Descent into Reality 🏞️

Long, steep concrete stairs leading down a hillside, bordered by railings and a stone wall, with lush greenery and urban structures in the background.

🏛️ The Location

These steep, seemingly endless stairs wind down from the affluent Buam-dong neighborhood, leading towards the lower-income areas of Seoul. They represent a stark geographical divide, mirroring the social stratification seen throughout the film.

🎥 In the Film

This iconic staircase is central to one of the movie's most powerful sequences. After fleeing the Park house during the torrential rain, the Kim family descends these dizzying steps, each step amplifying their return to their harsh reality below.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: 219, Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea (서울 종로구 자하문로 219)

🕒 Hours: 24/7

💰 Admission: Free

🌐 Website: N/A

💡 Pro Tip: Visit on a clear day to fully appreciate the views, but perhaps avoid it during heavy rain to avoid recreating the Kims' soggy journey! 🎬 Fun Fact: The contrast between the Kims' uphill journey to the Park house and their downhill sprint after the storm is a key visual metaphor carefully planned by Bong Joon-ho.

---

🎬 Ahyeon-dong (아현동) - The Echo of the Banjiha 🏘️

A dense collection of old, faded residential buildings cascading down a hillside in a Seoul neighborhood, showing aged facades and narrow alleys.

🏛️ The Location

Ahyeon-dong is a historic neighborhood in Seodaemun-gu, characterized by its winding alleys, steep inclines, and traditional working-class homes. It offers a glimpse into an older, less gentrified side of Seoul.

🎥 In the Film

While the Kims' banjiha (semi-basement) home was a meticulously built set, the surrounding streets and the general atmosphere of Ahyeon-dong heavily inspired its design. This area captures the essence of the "verticality" and close-knit, yet often challenging, urban living depicted for the Kim family.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Ahyeon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea (아현동, 서대문구, 서울) (Explore the general area, no single specific spot)

🕒 Hours: Always open

💰 Admission: Free

🌐 Website: N/A

💡 Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes! The hillsides here can be quite steep, but they offer fascinating insights into Seoul’s urban development and social fabric. 🎬 Fun Fact: Bong Joon-ho's team scouted countless banjiha homes and 'daldongne' (moon villages) in areas like Ahyeon-dong to faithfully recreate the Kims' living environment.

---

🎬 Gyejeong-ro 9-gil (계정로9길) - The Long Road Home 🌃

A narrow, damp, and dimly lit alleyway at night, surrounded by faded, concrete residential buildings and steps leading down.

🏛️ The Location

Located in Seodaemun-gu, Gyejeong-ro 9-gil is one of the many steep, winding streets that characterize Seoul's older, densely populated residential neighborhoods. These lanes can feel like a labyrinth, revealing hidden corners at every turn.

🎥 In the Film

This specific street segment forms part of the Kims' arduous downhill journey home after the Parks’ camping trip is cut short by the storm. The long, seemingly endless descent through these alleys powerfully underscores their return to poverty and the impending disaster.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Gyejeong-ro 9-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea (계정로9길, 서대문구, 서울)

🕒 Hours: 24/7

💰 Admission: Free

🌐 Website: N/A

💡 Pro Tip: Visit after dark to truly experience the moody atmosphere seen in the film, but always prioritize safety and bring a flashlight. 🎬 Fun Fact: The specific path the Kims take downhill is a meticulously choreographed sequence designed to highlight the spatial divide between the rich and poor areas of Seoul.

---

🎬 Keunsaem-gil (큰샘길) - Another Step Down 💧

🏛️ The Location

Also nestled within Seodaemun-gu, Keunsaem-gil is another one of these characteristic Seoul alleys. It shares the same visual language of tight spaces, varied levels, and the worn charm of an established urban landscape.

🎥 In the Film

Much like Gyejeong-ro 9-gil, this stretch of road contributes to the powerful sequence of the Kims' frantic, rain-drenched journey home. It's another segment of their descent, emphasizing the physical and emotional burden of their reality.

📍 Visitor Info

📍 Address: Keunsaem-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea (큰샘길, 서대문구, 서울)

🕒 Hours: 24/7

💰 Admission: Free

🌐 Website: N/A

💡 Pro Tip: These residential alleys are quiet. Be respectful of local residents when exploring and taking photos. 🎬 Fun Fact: The realism of these "downhill" scenes resonated deeply with Korean audiences who recognized these iconic urban landscapes and the social implications they carried.

---

🎬 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets

"Parasite" wasn't just a cinematic triumph; it was a masterclass in filmmaking. Bong Joon-ho's vision, combined with incredible production design, crafted a world that felt both hyper-real and highly symbolic. Let's peek behind the curtain!

🎭 Director's Vision

🎯 Location Strategy: Bong Joon-ho carefully chose specific locations that visually and symbolically represented the film's class divide. He emphasized verticality – the Kims constantly descending to their home, the Parks living atop a hill – to underscore social hierarchy.

🎨 Visual Style: Every element, from the stark contrast between the bright, spacious Park home and the cramped, dark Kim apartment, was designed to enhance the narrative. Even the rain sequence was a deliberate choice to wash away their temporary success and plunge them into despair.

🎪 Production Highlights

🎬 The Park House (Set, Not Real): While the film uses real Seoul streets, the striking, minimalist Park family house was a meticulously built set, constructed piece by piece on varying levels to control light and camera movement.

🎭 Flood Scene Reality: For the devastating flood sequence, the Kim family's semi-basement apartment set was actually submerged in a massive water tank. Everything, from props to furniture, was real debris that floated and crashed, adding to the visceral impact.

🎨 Art Department's Role: The production design team immersed themselves in research about 'banjiha' homes and wealthy Korean residences to accurately portray both ends of the socio-economic spectrum.

🎯 Language Barrier: Bong Joon-ho famously stated, "Once you overcome the 1-inch-tall barrier of subtitles, you will be introduced to so many more amazing films," referring to the film's global success.

🌟 Cast & Crew Stories

😄 Bong Soo-Park: The dog in the film, who was originally slated to be a stray, was actually a well-trained actor dog named Bong Soo-Park. He was so good, he even had an agent!

😮 Set Design Challenges: The detailed set of the Park family home was incredibly challenging to build, requiring precise architectural plans to control the flow of light and sightlines crucial for the film's voyeuristic themes.

🎉 Making History: "Parasite" made history as the first non-English language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, solidifying South Korea's place on the global cinematic map.

---

🗺️ Plan Your Visit

Ready to trace the footsteps of the Kims and the Parks? Seoul is an incredibly vibrant and accessible city, perfect for a cinematic adventure!

🏨 Where to Stay

💰 Budget: Nabi Hostel - $30-50/night - Located near Mangwon-dong, it's perfect for budget travelers wanting to explore the Kim's neighborhood.

🏛️ Mid-Range: L7 Hongdae by Lotte - $100-150/night - A stylish, centrally located hotel in the lively Hongdae district, offering great access to various parts of the city.

✨ Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Seoul - $300+/night - Experience a taste of the Park family's luxury in this exquisite hotel, not far from the sophisticated neighborhoods.

🚗 Getting Around

🚇 Metro: Seoul's subway system is world-class, efficient, and incredibly easy to navigate. It's the best way to get between most filming locations. Pick up a T-Money card upon arrival.

🚗 Car: Driving in Seoul isn't recommended for tourists due to heavy traffic and complex parking. Taxis and ride-sharing apps (like Kakao T) are readily available and affordable.

🚶 Walking: Many of the locations, especially in older neighborhoods like Seodaemun-gu, are best explored on foot. Be prepared for hills and stairs!

📸 Photo Tips

🌅 Best Times: Visit the exterior locations in the late afternoon for a soft, cinematic light. For the 'dalgongne' areas, early morning or dusk can capture a unique atmosphere.

📱 Instagram Spots: Don't miss recreating the iconic "stairs scene" by Ja-ha-mun Tunnel and posing outside Woori Supermarket!

🎬 Movie Moments: Re-watch the film before you go to get your favorite moments fresh in your mind. Try to match the angles and capture the same emotions!

---

❓ Quick Answers

🎬 Is this based on a true story?

No, "Parasite" is a work of fiction, though its themes of class disparity and socio-economic tension are very much rooted in real-world issues in South Korea and globally.

🗺️ Can I visit all locations in one day?

It's possible but might feel rushed. The locations are spread across Seoul. We recommend dedicating a full day for a relaxed tour, perhaps combining a few with nearby attractions.

💰 How much should I budget?

Excluding flights and accommodation, budget around $30-50 per day for food, local transport (subway), and minor entry fees. Most "Parasite" locations are public spaces, so they are free to visit.

📱 Are there guided tours?

Yes, several local tour operators in Seoul offer "Parasite" themed tours which provide transportation and expert commentary. Check Klook or Viator for options.

🎭 When was this filmed?

Principal photography for "Parasite" took place from May to September 2018. The film premiered in May 2019 at the Cannes Film Festival.

🌍 Is Seoul safe for tourists?

Absolutely! Seoul is considered one of the safest major cities in the world. Solo travelers, including women, generally feel very secure, even at night.

---

🎬 Ready for Your Cinematic Adventure?

From the bustling streets of Mangwon-dong to the steep alleys where the Kims descended, "Parasite" offers a unique lens through which to explore the vibrant, multifaceted city of Seoul. These locations aren't just backdrops; they're echoes of the film's powerful narrative, inviting you to reflect on its themes long after the credits roll.

So, pack your bags, queue up "Parasite" for a re-watch, and get ready to experience Seoul like never before. Whether you're a die-hard film buff or a curious traveler, this journey into the heart of Bong Joon-ho's masterpiece promises an unforgettable experience. Share your adventures with us using #WhereWasItFilmed and tag us on your social media – we can’t wait to see your cinematic explorations!

Year Released

2019

Director

Bong Joon-ho

Filming Locations

5 locations

Behind the Scenes

Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' captivated global audiences not just with its gripping story, but also with its masterful use of space. The director meticulously crafted the physical environments to reflect the stark socio-economic divides at the film's core, turning Seoul's everyday streets and hidden corners into powerful characters in their own right. Every location choice was deliberate, amplifying the narrative's tension and emotional depth.

The lavish Park family home was an elaborate, custom-built set, designed from scratch to serve the director's specific spatial storytelling needs.
Bong Joon-ho reportedly built the Park house set in two sections: a first floor and a second floor, each on different sound stages, to allow for specific framing and camera movements.
The Kits family's cramped semi-basement apartment was also a purpose-built set, allowing the filmmakers to flood it with real water for the climactic rain sequence.
To achieve the realistic look of the semi-basement apartment, Bong Joon-ho studied numerous real-life 'banjiha' (semi-basement) homes in Seoul.
The famous 'ram-don' (Jjapaguri) dish became an instant global sensation, leading to a surge in sales of the instant noodles used.
The film's distinct visual contrast between the Kims' dark, descending journey and the Parks' bright, ascending one was a core directorial choice.
Bong Joon-ho storyboarded 'Parasite' with extreme precision, often shooting scenes exactly as drawn, which expedited the production process.
The film's title, 'Parasite,' refers not only to the Kims feeding off the Parks but also ironically to the Parks' own dependence on the Kims for their lifestyle.
Kang-ho Song, who plays Kim Ki-taek, improvised many of his character's more comedic moments, adding to the film's unique tone.
The iconic peach fuzz allergy was a detail added by Bong Joon-ho to create a specific, unsettling vulnerability for the Park family.
The film was initially conceived by Bong Joon-ho as a stage play, highlighting its strong character-driven narrative and confined setting dynamics.
The sequence of Ki-woo carrying the scholar's rock up the hill symbolizes his ambition and burden, subtly foreshadowing the events to come.

Location Gallery

Woori Supermarket (우리슈퍼)

Stairs by Ja-ha-mun Tunnel (자하문터널 언덕길)

Ahyeon-dong (아현동)

Gyejeong-ro 9-gil (계정로9길)

Keunsaem-gil (큰샘길)

Travel Tips

Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.
Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.
Guided tours are available that cover Woori Supermarket (우리슈퍼), Stairs by Ja-ha-mun Tunnel (자하문터널 언덕길), Ahyeon-dong (아현동) in one day.