The filming locations for the acclaimed K-drama, Legend of the Blue Sea, are as diverse and enchanting as the story itself, spanning from the crystal-clear waters of Palau and Spain to the vibrant cityscapes of South Korea. This multifaceted approach to location scouting ensured that the series visually captured both the ancient mermaid mythology and the modern-day romance at the heart of the narrative.
The Allure of International Backdrops
Palau: A Tropical Paradise Found
One of the most striking aspects of Legend of the Blue Sea is its breathtaking underwater scenes, primarily filmed in Palau. This island nation in Micronesia offered the ideal environment for portraying the mermaid’s natural habitat. The production team meticulously captured the allure of the ocean, using Palau’s diverse marine life and pristine coral reefs as a stunning backdrop. The turquoise waters and the untouched beauty of Palau created a truly believable and mesmerizing setting for the mermaid’s origins. The island of Rock Islands Southern Lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was particularly prominent, providing visual richness and authenticity to the underwater sequences.
Spain: A Land of History and Romance
The European leg of the filming journey took the cast and crew to Spain, specifically to regions like A Coruña and Girona in Catalonia. The historical architecture and romantic atmosphere of these locations beautifully complemented the drama’s flashback sequences, which are essential to understanding the characters’ past lives. The picturesque coastal towns and grand castles of Spain provided a believable backdrop for the Joseon era storyline. A Coruña’s harbor and the stunning landscapes of Girona lent themselves perfectly to portraying the tumultuous love story between the mermaid and her human counterpart in their previous incarnation.
South Korea: The Heart of the Modern Narrative
Seoul: A Vibrant Urban Canvas
While international locations added exotic flair, much of the modern storyline was filmed in South Korea, primarily in Seoul. The bustling streets, modern architecture, and iconic landmarks of Seoul served as the backdrop for the contemporary romance and intrigue that unfolded throughout the series. Key locations within Seoul, such as the 63 Building and various cafes and restaurants, were repeatedly featured, creating a sense of familiarity and grounding the fantastical elements of the story in a real-world setting.
Other Korean Locations
Beyond Seoul, the filming expanded to other regions within South Korea, including coastal areas like Jeju Island. The dramatic coastlines and scenic landscapes of these locations offered diverse backdrops for various scenes, reinforcing the emotional depth of the narrative and highlighting the characters’ evolving relationships. The decision to diversify locations throughout South Korea not only broadened the visual appeal of the series but also showcased the country’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Why were Palau and Spain chosen as filming locations?
Palau’s pristine waters and abundant marine life were essential for portraying the mermaid’s underwater world authentically. Spain’s historical architecture and romantic atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for the flashback sequences set during the Joseon era. Both locations contributed significantly to the series’ visual appeal and narrative depth.
FAQ 2: What specific locations in Spain were used?
Key Spanish filming locations included A Coruña and Girona in Catalonia. A Coruña’s harbor and surrounding coastal areas were featured, while Girona’s historical buildings and landscapes served as the backdrop for the Joseon era scenes. The Girona Cathedral was particularly memorable.
FAQ 3: Were there any challenges filming underwater scenes in Palau?
Yes, filming underwater scenes presented numerous challenges, including maintaining clear visibility, ensuring the safety of the actors and crew, and capturing high-quality footage. The production team employed specialized underwater filming equipment and techniques to overcome these obstacles.
FAQ 4: What iconic landmarks in Seoul were featured in the series?
Several iconic landmarks in Seoul were prominently featured, including the 63 Building, offering panoramic views of the city, and numerous cafes, restaurants, and shopping districts that provided a backdrop for the characters’ daily lives.
FAQ 5: How did the diverse filming locations contribute to the series’ overall success?
The diverse filming locations significantly contributed to the series’ success by creating a visually captivating and believable world. The contrasting landscapes of Palau, Spain, and South Korea enhanced the narrative’s emotional depth and broadened its appeal to international audiences.
FAQ 6: Did the actors have to learn to swim for their roles?
Lee Min Ho, the male lead, is known to be a strong swimmer. Jun Ji-hyun, playing the mermaid, underwent rigorous training to prepare for her underwater scenes, learning to hold her breath for extended periods and perform underwater stunts.
FAQ 7: How did the production team transport equipment and crew to these international locations?
Transporting equipment and crew to international locations like Palau and Spain required meticulous planning and logistical coordination. The production team worked closely with local authorities and logistics companies to ensure the safe and timely delivery of equipment, as well as accommodation and transportation for the cast and crew.
FAQ 8: What was the budget allocated for location filming?
While the exact budget allocated for location filming is not publicly available, it is estimated to be a significant portion of the overall production budget. The decision to film in multiple international locations indicates a considerable investment in creating a high-quality and visually stunning series.
FAQ 9: Did the local communities in Palau and Spain benefit from the filming?
Yes, the local communities in Palau and Spain benefited from the filming through increased tourism, job creation, and economic activity. The production team also worked with local businesses and organizations to minimize its environmental impact and contribute to the local economy.
FAQ 10: What are some tips for visiting the “Legend of the Blue Sea” filming locations?
When visiting the filming locations, it’s recommended to research the specific spots featured in the series and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider booking tours that focus on the K-drama filming locations and be mindful of respecting the local environment and communities. Be sure to check for any permits or restrictions before visiting certain locations.
FAQ 11: Are there any “Legend of the Blue Sea” themed tours available?
Yes, numerous tour operators offer “Legend of the Blue Sea” themed tours in South Korea, Spain, and occasionally even Palau. These tours typically include visits to key filming locations, opportunities to take photos, and insights into the behind-the-scenes production process.
FAQ 12: How can I find more information about the filming locations used in “Legend of the Blue Sea”?
Online resources, such as travel blogs, fan forums, and official tourism websites, offer extensive information about the filming locations used in “Legend of the Blue Sea”. Additionally, social media platforms often feature photos and videos from fans who have visited these locations, providing valuable insights and inspiration.