Why Are Filmmakers Now Shooting Korean Movies Abroad?

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In recent years, more and more Korean movies have been set and filmed in foreign locations. Although shooting outside Korea isn't new to the filming industry, the growing number of Korean productions opting for international backdrops has become increasingly noticeable. This trend raises questions about what motivates filmmakers to venture abroad.

What’s driving Korean filmmakers to pack their cameras and take their productions overseas? Could it be about aesthetics, storytelling, or something deeper?

This article delves into the beginning of Korean cinema’s foreign filming and rising significance. It also explores the factors influencing this cinematic shift and what it means for the future of Korean storytelling.

 

History of Korean Movies Being Shot Overseas

Korean cinema’s journey into international filmmaking began as early as the mid-20th century. One notable early example is the 1957 film “An Exotic Garden,” shot in Hong Kong. This production marked one of the first instances where Korean filmmakers went beyond their national borders.

Producers chose the lush and vibrant landscapes of Hong Kong as the setting for “An Exotic Garden." It proved to be a perfect decision, offering fresh visual elements and authenticity that were difficult to replicate in domestic studios.

The success of such early ventures demonstrated the possibilities of utilizing international locations to enrich the cinematic experi