City Through the Lens: Seoul, South Korea
Local videographers reveal how they film their hometown — the real locations, permit hurdles, and techniques you won't find in guidebooks.
Quick Takeaways for Filmmakers
- Best filming season: Cold winters (-10°C), hot humid summers
- Top 3 landmarks: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Myeongdong Night Market, Bukchon Hanok Village
- Main airport: Incheon
- Drone rules: banned in Seoul without permit.
- Featured camera: Fujifilm X-T5
3 Must-Film Locations in Seoul
1. Gyeongbokgung Palace
Filming Tip: Changing guard 10 AM/2 PM; rent hanbok for free entry; tripods OK in courtyards.
2. Myeongdong Night Market
Filming Tip: 6 PM-midnight; street food neon; handheld gimbal essential.
3. Bukchon Hanok Village
Filming Tip: Residential area; quiet filming only; no tripods blocking alleys.
Weather Reality Check
Cold winters (-10°C), hot humid summers. Best Apr-Jun and Sep-Nov.
Pro tip: Plan your shoot dates around these conditions. The "best" months mean better light, fewer crowds, and more predictable weather windows.
Airport Transfer & Arrival Tips
Incheon (ICN) 60min AREX or Gimpo (GMP) 30min metro.
Factor in transfer time when booking flights. Arriving early gives you buffer for gear checks and acclimatization before shooting.
Permits, Rules & Local Etiquette
Palace filming OK for personal use. Drones banned in Seoul without permit.
Remember: Always ask before filming people, especially in religious or residential areas. Respect local customs — it's the difference between getting great footage and being asked to delete it.
Coming Soon: Local Videographer Interview
We're currently filming interviews with local creators in Seoul who will share:
- How they capture Gyeongbokgung Palace without the crowds
- Their go-to settings for night markets & palace lighting
- Hidden spots tourists never find
- How to navigate permit requirements as a foreign filmmaker
Are you a videographer based in Seoul? Contact us to be featured in this series.