🌸 Introduction — When Love Falls from the Sky

Released in December 2019 on tvN and Netflix, Crash Landing on You (사랑의 불시착) is one of the most memorable Korean dramas of the past decade. Created by screenwriter Park Ji-eun (My Love from the Star), the series masterfully blends romance, comedy, drama, and social commentary against the backdrop of Korea’s division.

The story begins with Yoon Se-ri, a brilliant yet lonely South Korean businesswoman. As the heiress of a large conglomerate, she has built her own cosmetics empire—a symbol of independence and ambition. But behind her confident smile lies a profound loneliness.

During a paragliding flight meant to test a new product for her brand, a sudden gust of wind blows her across the border into North Korea. There, she meets Ri Jeong-hyeok, a calm and principled elite North Korean officer—and a pianist in his spare time.

Everything should keep them apart: politics, culture, danger, mistrust. And yet, as days pass in a hidden North Korean village, a forbidden love blossoms—tender, moving, and impossible.
Their relationship becomes a powerful metaphor for fate and the invisible borders that love sometimes dares to cross.

More than just a K-drama, Crash Landing on You became a global phenomenon, captivating viewers from Seoul to Paris, Tokyo to New York.
Its ability to balance humor and political tension while offering a deeply human perspective on North Korea makes it a truly unique work.

With its breathtaking landscapes, heartfelt dialogue, and unforgettable soundtrack, the series embodies Korean-style romance in all its splendor.
It touched hearts around the world, becoming a symbol of resilience, destiny, and love without boundaries.

💫 Main Cast — When Fiction Becomes Reality

Behind the worldwide success of Crash Landing on You lies an exceptional cast. Each character—main or supporting—brings sincerity and humanity to this timeless love story.

🩷 Son Ye-jin (손예진) — Yoon Se-ri

A true icon of Korean cinema, Son Ye-jin lends Yoon Se-ri natural elegance and rare emotional depth.
Her character embodies the modern woman: independent, strong, brilliant… yet vulnerable. Beneath her image as an unshakable CEO, Se-ri hides immense loneliness—born from a family that misunderstands her and a life centered on achievement.

Throughout the series, she evolves from superficiality to sincerity, rediscovering warmth and connection among North Korean villagers and through Ri Jeong-hyeok.
Her transformation mirrors what many long for: a search for genuine love beyond appearances.

🎬 Fun fact: The role of Yoon Se-ri was written specifically for Son Ye-jin after her success in Something in the Rain. She hesitated before accepting, fearing the story of a South Korean woman stranded in North Korea was too daring. The result? A masterpiece.

And fate played along—years later, Son Ye-jin married her co-star Hyun Bin. Their 2022 wedding was dubbed by fans “the most beautiful crash landing in real life.” 💍

💚 Hyun Bin (현빈) — Ri Jeong-hyeok

With his calm gaze and quiet charisma, Hyun Bin embodies the perfect North Korean officer: loyal, reserved, yet deeply human.
Ri Jeong-hyeok is a man of honor living in the shadow of his late brother. A trained pianist who chose the army over music, he slowly reconnects with his emotions through Se-ri.

Every gesture, every word, carries restraint and tenderness. Hyun Bin expresses love without exaggeration—a rare feat in K-dramas.
It’s this sincerity that won over audiences worldwide.

🗝️ Behind the scenes: Hyun Bin trained for weeks to master the linguistic and behavioral nuances of a North Korean officer. Even his posture was carefully studied to reflect the regime’s rigidity.

💜 Seo Ji-hye (서지혜) — Seo Dan

Beautiful, proud, and deeply tragic, Seo Dan is Ri Jeong-hyeok’s official fiancée. Coming from a wealthy North Korean family, she represents the educated youth trapped between tradition and modernity.
Her character shines through dignity—even in heartbreak.
Over time, Seo Dan transforms from a cold woman into a figure of courage and renewal.

✨ Did you know? Seo Ji-hye was praised for portraying a North Korean woman with grace and authenticity, avoiding caricature.

💛 Kim Jung-hyun (김정현) — Gu Seung-jun (Albert Gu)

A secondary yet unforgettable character, Gu Seung-jun is a conman on the run who finds refuge in North Korea.
Behind his playboy charm hides a sincere heart and a painful past. His relationship with Seo Dan forms a parallel, more melancholic romance that’s equally moving.

❤️ Behind the role: Already known for School 2017 and Time, Kim Jung-hyun gave this character a tragic depth that proved he’s far more than a rom-com actor.

Together, these four actors created rare chemistry.
Their nuanced performances, strong writing, and emotional sincerity allowed Crash Landing on You to transcend drama conventions and become a universal story—one of love that defies all borders.

🎬 Iconic Filming Locations — Following Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok’s Footsteps

One of Crash Landing on You’s greatest strengths lies in its breathtaking settings.
Each location tells part of their story—loneliness, separation, freedom rediscovered.
From the reconstructed North Korean village to the alpine beauty of Switzerland, the series feels like a living postcard.

🇨🇭 Switzerland — Where It All Began
Even before their official meeting, Se-ri and Jeong-hyeok unknowingly cross paths amidst Switzerland’s serene landscapes.
These scenes, filmed in dreamlike light, have become iconic.

📍 Lake Brienz (Brienzersee)
This is where Ri Jeong-hyeok plays the piano, gazing into the horizon. The deep blue lake surrounded by snowy mountains perfectly mirrors his melancholy.
Today, many fans visit the lake’s shores to recreate the famous piano scene—a moment suspended between art and emotion.

📍 Sigriswil Panorama Bridge
On this suspension bridge, Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok cross paths years before their actual encounter.
Stretching 340 meters long, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Thun.
It beautifully symbolizes the fragility of fate—two souls brushing past each other without realizing it.

📍 Zurich & Lindenhof Hill
The scenes where Se-ri strolls through Zurich’s peaceful streets were filmed in the historic Lindenhof district.
The European calm contrasts with the emotional intensity of the story.
Cafés, cobblestones, narrow streets—all evoke a romantic, timeless charm.

🧭 Traveler’s tip: These Swiss locations are easily accessible from Interlaken or Zurich. Many “Crash Landing on You Tours” already exist, but you can also explore them freely with a simple rail pass.

🇰🇷 South Korea — Between Seoul and the Mountains of Gangwon-do
Although much of the story takes place in North Korea, most of the filming actually happened… in South Korea!

📍 Jeongseon County (정선군, Gangwon-do)
The North Korean village scenes were filmed here, in a specially built set for the series.
Nestled in the mountains, this region offers an authentic rural landscape of forests, fields, and traditional houses.
The village has been preserved and is now an official tourist site, where visitors can relive Se-ri’s daily life and that of the North Korean villagers.

📍 Hallasan, Jeju Island
Some of the aerial and mountain landscape shots were filmed on Jeju Island, particularly around Mount Hallasan.
Its hiking trails and sea views perfectly capture the majestic scenery seen in the drama.

📍 Seoul — Se-ri’s World
The modern offices, luxury boutiques, and minimalist apartments of Yoon Se-ri were filmed in Cheongdam-dong, the symbol of trendy, upscale Seoul.
This is also where the series anchors its duality: the modernity of the South versus the simplicity of the North.

🌸 Traveler’s Tip:
If you want to follow in Se-ri’s footsteps, stroll through Cheongdam or Apgujeong, stop at a designer café, and visit the area’s contemporary art galleries.

🇲🇳 Mongolia — Recreating the Northern Landscapes
The vast road and plain scenes of the North were shot in the Khongoryn Els desert and around Ulaanbaatar.
These sweeping expanses allowed the crew to recreate the North Korean atmosphere with striking realism.

🎥 Did you know?
Filming in Mongolia lasted over two weeks, with extreme weather conditions — the actors even filmed in -15°C temperatures!

🌍 Between Reality and Fiction
The blend of real locations and carefully designed sets allowed Crash Landing on You to create a universe that feels both believable and poetic.
Each place becomes a character in its own right, reflecting the emotions of the protagonists:

• Switzerland for freedom,

• North Korea for hidden tenderness,

• South Korea for golden solitude.

This contrast, subtly captured through cinematography and direction, turns the series into a true visual and emotional journey.

✈️ In the Footsteps of the Series — A Dreamy Fan Travel Itinerary

What if you, too, could walk in the footsteps of Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok?
From South Korea to Switzerland, the filming locations of Crash Landing on You form a magical route where romance meets cultural discovery.
Here’s a 5-step itinerary to follow — or simply to dream about. 💕

🗺️ Step 1 — Seoul: Where It All Begins
Recommended stay: 2–3 days

The series opens with Yoon Se-ri’s luxurious life in Seoul — a symbol of South Korea’s dynamism and modernity.
Start your journey in the upscale neighborhood of Cheongdam-dong, filled with art galleries, chic cafés, and designer boutiques.

👉 Things to do:

• Visit Apgujeong Rodeo Street, where Se-ri might have gone shopping.

• Have coffee at a Gangnam rooftop café for a skyline view.

• Explore the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), an icon of Korean creativity.

✨ Mood tip:
Listen to “Flower” by Yoon Mi-rae as you walk through Seoul at sunset — instant K-drama vibes guaranteed.

🏞️ Step 2 — Jeongseon (Gangwon-do): The Northern Village
Recommended stay: 1–2 days

Just three hours from Seoul, the recreated North Korean village in Jeongseon offers an immersive step into another world.
The set remains almost unchanged since filming ended — earthen houses, mountain paths, and fields look just as they do in the show.

👉 Things to do:

• Take photos in the heart of the village (it’s open to visitors).

• Try local dishes like bibimbap, cold noodles, and mountain vegetables.

• Spend a night in a traditional pension for an authentic “village life” experience.

💡 Did you know?
The set was initially meant to be dismantled, but fans persuaded authorities to preserve it. It’s now a permanent filming landmark.

🏔️ Step 3 — Jeju Island: Escape and Grand Landscapes
Recommended stay: 2–3 days

Even though Jeju isn’t explicitly mentioned in the drama, several scenic and mountain shots were filmed there.
It’s the perfect stop to experience the freedom and nature that define Crash Landing on You.

👉 Things to do:

• Hike Mount Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak.

• Admire the Jusangjeolli Cliffs and black sand beaches.

• Stay in a traditional hanok house or a seaside hotel.

🌿 Mood:
The sea breeze of Jeju echoes the breath of destiny — the one that carried Se-ri into another world.

🇨🇭 Step 4 — Interlaken & Lake Brienz, Switzerland: The Eternal Meeting
Recommended stay: At least 2 days

Head to Switzerland — the land of memories and reunions.
This is where the two leads crossed paths before officially meeting, in scenes bathed in dreamlike serenity.

👉 Things to do:

• Take a panoramic train ride to Lake Brienz.

• Visit the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge and capture a photo in Se-ri’s footsteps.

• Wander through Interlaken or the Lindenhof Hill in Zurich, where Se-ri walks alone.

🎶 Soundtrack for the moment: “Here I Am Again” by Baek Yerin — the drama’s signature song.

💍 Step 5 — Zurich: Love and Peace Restored
Recommended stay: 1–2 days

Zurich represents fulfilled destiny. The final scenes breathe serenity and reconciliation.
The mountains, quiet cafés, and cobblestone streets invite you to slow down, reflect, and love.

👉 Things to do:

• Enjoy coffee by the Limmat River.

• Climb Lindenhof Hill for a panoramic view.

• Get lost in the narrow streets, hand in hand — just like Se-ri and Jeong-hyeok.

🌸 Why Take This Journey?

Because beyond the drama, Crash Landing on You tells an inner journey — one of self-discovery, courage, and the beauty of unexpected connections.
By visiting these places, you don’t just see landscapes; you experience a universal emotion — love that transcends all boundaries.

🧭 asiaontheway.com’s Tip:

Create your own “Crash Landing Moment” — whether by a lake, on a suspension bridge, or in a quiet foreign street.
Sometimes, it’s when we get lost… that we find ourselves. 🌏💫

🫶 Spoiler — Season 2 (Anticipated, Imagined, and Dreamed)

⚠️ Gentle warning for fans:
If Season 1 made you cry, prepare your heart… 💔
What follows isn’t official, but rather an inspired vision of what Crash Landing on You — Season 2 could be, as imagined by fans worldwide.

🌍 Between Two Worlds
Season 1 ends with a breath of hope: Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok are finally reunited in Switzerland, free to love beyond borders.
But even the strongest love cannot erase the scars of separation.

In this imagined Season 2, the story might open with their parallel lives:

• Se-ri, back in Seoul, managing her cosmetics empire while leading humanitarian projects.

• Jeong-hyeok, quietly living in Switzerland, teaching piano to refugee children in memory of his late brother.

Their love becomes a long-distance symphony, punctuated by secret meetings in the Swiss mountains — in Zurich, Interlaken, and beyond.

💔 The Shadow of the Past
But the past always finds its way back.
A new political incident between the two Koreas reignites tensions, threatening Jeong-hyeok’s safety and that of his comrades.
Some, now refugees in Europe, are trying to rebuild their lives — others are hunted.

As an influential businesswoman, Yoon Se-ri is torn between national loyalty and forbidden love.
She makes a brave choice: to use her power to protect those the world has forgotten.

🎬 In a poignant scene, Se-ri organizes a charity concert in Switzerland, unaware that among the musicians is Jeong-hyeok — playing a melody only she recognizes…

🌸 A Second Chance
Beyond romantic clichés, this sequel would explore the maturity of their love: less explosive passion, more quiet connection, glances, and serene affection.
They learn to love through distance — to live fully in a world that doesn’t always make space for them.

A new generation could emerge:

• A young South Korean pianist inspired by Jeong-hyeok.

• A North Korean refugee student taken under Se-ri’s wing.

• And perhaps… a child — symbol of peace to come. 👶

🎶 A Poetic Finale
The season could close with a mirrored scene from the first:
The wind, the mountains, a paraglider soaring through the sky.
But this time, it’s no accident — it’s a choice.
The choice to fly together, free.

As the “Sigriswil Theme” plays one last time, Se-ri whispers:

“You never really landed in my life… you’ve always been there.” 💞

🕊️ The Final Message
Whether or not there’s a Season 2, Crash Landing on You remains a complete story.
But imagining this continuation keeps the dream alive — a belief in love beyond borders, ideologies, and time.
And perhaps that’s the most beautiful ending of all: the one we continue to write in our hearts.

💫 Where Are the Actors Now? — After Landing, Real Life Begins

The magic of Crash Landing on You didn’t stop on screen.
For many fans, the end of the drama was only the beginning—of a real love story, renewed careers, and lasting cultural impact.
Here’s what happened after the curtain fell on the series.

🩷 Son Ye-jin (손예진) — The Icon Who Became a Mom
After moving audiences worldwide as Yoon Se-ri, Son Ye-jin entered a new chapter of her life.
In 2022, she married her co-star Hyun Bin in an elegant, intimate ceremony dubbed by the media as “the wedding of the century.” 💍

A few months later, the couple welcomed a baby boy—an event celebrated by millions of fans.
Since then, Son Ye-jin has paused her career to focus on family, while staying active on social media where she shares moments of warmth and simplicity.

🌸 Her influence endures: she remains one of the most beloved faces of Hallyu, an ambassador for major brands like Valentino and Baeksang Cosmetics, and a symbol of Korean elegance.

💚 Hyun Bin (현빈) — The Captain Turned Legend of Korean Cinema
Charismatic as ever, Hyun Bin kept evolving.
After Crash Landing on You, he took on ambitious projects, including the action film Confidential Assignment 2 and the thriller The Point Men, in which he plays an undercover agent in the Middle East.

Beyond professional success, his authentic relationship with Son Ye-jin touched the public.
Discreet, elegant, and consistently respectful, Hyun Bin has become a role model in Korea’s entertainment industry.

🎥 Highlight: Following the series, Hyun Bin was named “Asia’s Most Influential Actor” and remains one of the most sought-after faces in advertising, especially for luxury brands and humanitarian campaigns.

💜 Seo Ji-hye (서지혜) — Eternal Northern Elegance
As Seo Dan, she won viewers over with poise and restraint.
Since then, Seo Ji-hye has continued her rise, multiplying projects across genres: romantic comedies, thrillers, and even fantasy series.

She notably shone in Kiss Sixth Sense (Disney+), playing a woman who can see the future through a kiss—a modern, daring role that contrasts with Crash Landing on You.

✨ Her signature: discreet elegance, impeccable diction, and the ability to convey a thousand emotions without a word.
Seo Ji-hye now stands as a leading actress on the Korean small screen.

💛 Kim Jung-hyun (김정현) — The Rebirth of a Sensitive Actor
Following his unforgettable turn as Gu Seung-jun—the drama’s most unexpected and touching character—Kim Jung-hyun went through a difficult period marked by health issues and a media hiatus.

He made a triumphant return in 2023 with Kokdu: Season of Deity, playing an immortal tasked with guiding souls to the afterlife.
His performance was praised for renewed depth and sensitivity.

🌻 Today, Kim Jung-hyun is seen as an actor in renaissance, a symbol of courage and sincerity. His journey resonates with fans, reminding us—just like in the drama—that everyone deserves a second chance.

🌏 And the Others?
The often-unforgettable supporting cast also thrived:

• The “Northern soldiers” became true comedy icons, appearing on variety shows and in other dramas.

• Yang Kyung-won (Sergeant Pyo Chi-su) is now a beloved comedy figure in Korea.

• Tang Joon-sang, the youngest soldier, moved on to more serious roles, notably in Move to Heaven on Netflix.

🎭 The charm of Crash Landing on You isn’t only its central couple—it’s an entire world of humanity brought into the spotlight.

💞 From Fiction to Reality: Lasting Cultural Impact

What makes Crash Landing on You unique is how it shifted perceptions of the North in South Korea.
No series had ever humanized the North’s residents with such nuance.
Through delicate acting and storytelling, audiences discovered another side of a region often caricatured.

💬 Since 2020, several NGOs and artists have praised the series for spotlighting North Korean culture and daily life, inspiring dialogue and curiosity.

In short, beyond commercial success, Crash Landing on You left a deep emotional and social legacy—and its actors are its ambassadors.

🌍 What Crash Landing on You Changed—In Korea and Beyond
When Crash Landing on You hit screens, no one expected such a cultural earthquake.
It wasn’t just a romance—it was a social phenomenon.
Within months, the series captivated the world, connecting millions of viewers through a shared emotion: the belief, still, in love and peace.

💫 A Bridge Between the Two Koreas
Perhaps the show’s greatest merit is humanizing North Korea.
Far from political clichés, Crash Landing on You showed everyday life—families, laughter, shared meals, friendship.

Thanks to its funny, tender, and endearing North Korean characters, South Korean—and global—audiences discovered that behind the border are human beings, not enemies.

🕊️ Crash Landing on You didn’t tear down the wall between two nations,
but it opened a window of empathy—and sometimes, that’s already a lot.

🇰🇷 A Renewed National Pride
In South Korea, the series boosted the Hallyu Wave, placing the country at the heart of global culture.
Dialogues, fashion, music, and even expressions from the show swept across social media.
Fans worldwide began learning Korean, visiting Seoul, and delving into local culture.

Yoon Se-ri’s outfits, the actors’ accessories, and the beauty products seen on screen sold out in record time.
Even Son Ye-jin’s simple lipstick became a global trend. 💄

📈 According to the Korea Tourism Organization, searches for “Crash Landing on You filming locations” jumped by over 200% after the broadcast.

🏔️ A Global Tourism Boom
From Jeongseon’s mountains to Swiss lakes, fans set out to find the places where their heroes fell in love.
“Crash Landing Tours” blossomed in both Korea and Switzerland.
In Interlaken, cafés sell drinks inspired by the series; in Seoul, pop-up exhibits recreate iconic scenes.

🧳 The best part is that this tourism isn’t mere fan pilgrimage—it’s a celebration of travel as emotion, a link between fiction and reality.

💕 A Couple Turned Symbol
When Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin made their relationship official, the entire K-drama world erupted with joy.
Their real-life union gave the series new meaning: fiction had crossed the screen.
This marriage was seen not just as a romance, but as a symbol of hope and sincerity in an often fleeting entertainment world.

🎬 A Lasting Influence on Global Culture

Since Crash Landing on You, K-dramas have become a pillar of international streaming.
Netflix invested heavily in Korean productions, and global audiences are now fluent in the genre’s codes, emotions, and visual beauty.

The series paved the way for other hits: Vincenzo, Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Twenty-Five Twenty-One, Queen of Tears…
But none has quite matched the show’s perfect balance of romance, drama, and humanistic message.

🌸 An Emotional, Universal Legacy
Beyond numbers and awards, Crash Landing on You touched something intimate in each of us:
the dream of loving freely, believing in chance, and finding peace—even in the midst of storms.

✨ “It isn’t distance that separates people,
but the silence between them.”

This line, still quoted by fans today, sums up the spirit of the series:
the strength of human connection—beyond borders, languages, and differences.

🌏 In Conclusion — A Landing in Our Hearts
Crash Landing on You is not just a series: it’s a journey, a feeling, a promise.
That a simple gust of wind can change everything—our lives, our choices, our destinies.

And if, in the end, the most beautiful crash landing
is the one that makes us fall… in love with humanity? 💫

🧭 Personal Conclusion
Creating AsiaOnTheWay allowed me to share general information about Asia—its culture, current events, and many facets. But beyond facts and analysis, I also wanted a more personal space for my own discoveries and favorites. That’s why I chose to dedicate a page to the Korean series Crash Landing on You.

This choice may seem surprising on a general-information blog, but to me, this series perfectly illustrates the cultural and emotional richness of modern Asia. It isn’t limited to a simple love story: it gracefully explores profound themes—separation, resilience, social contrasts, and bridges between two worlds that seem irreconcilable. Through Crash Landing on You, it’s another way to talk about Korea—its values, its evolution, and how popular culture becomes a vehicle for unity and understanding.

By integrating this page into the blog, I embrace a more human, subjective approach: that of a curious observer who believes information is not only made of numbers and facts, but also of emotions, stories, and shared experiences. In the end, AsiaOnTheWay reflects this idea: Asia isn’t just a continent to discover; it’s a network of paths to travel—whether through a documentary, a news article… or a series that moves us deeply.

🌸 FAQ — In the Footsteps of Crash Landing on You: Travel, Nature, and Behind-the-Scenes

🏞️ Where are the most beautiful trails and valleys seen in the series?

The mountain landscapes featured in the drama were filmed mainly around Jeongseon in the Gangwon-do nature park.
These hiking paths and green valleys echo the peaceful atmosphere of the reconstructed North Korean village.
Hikers can find similar panoramas here—ridges, waterfalls, and picturesque hamlets.

🧺 Can you have a picnic or a quirky stroll at the filming sites?

Yes! Certain sets—especially those in Jeongseon and near Mount Hallasan’s valley—are open to the public.
Visitors can enjoy a nature picnic or join a guided walking tour, much like a scenic hike.
It’s an immersive way to relive Yoon Se-ri and Ri Jeong-hyeok’s most iconic moments.

🎥 What was the total footage and how many locations were explored?

Filming lasted several months and required extensive footage of natural settings across South Korea, Switzerland, and Mongolia.
More than twenty sites were used—hillsides, gorges, canyons, and regional natural parks—offering a uniquely diverse visual palette.
The production team even collaborated with local tourism boards to showcase these places.

🦋 What wildlife and botany can you observe while following the drama’s trail?

Around the nature parks, wildlife is abundant: deer, birds, butterflies, foxes.
Botany lovers will appreciate wildflowers and pine trees in Jeongseon’s natural park.
Forest walk and hiking scenes reflect the strong bond between nature and emotion so dear to K-dramas.

🎭 Who are the main actors and what role did the director play?

Leads Son Ye-jin and Hyun Bin were directed by Lee Jung-hyo, known for realism and rhythm.
Their chemistry turned fiction into pure emotion.
Costumes, the North Korean hamlet set, and interior stages were conceived as living tableaux—close to an art-house film aesthetic.

🚣 Are there nature activities like kayaking or exploring gorges linked to the series?

Some scenes shot in Switzerland—near Lake Thun’s bay and the gorges around Interlaken—offer ideal routes for kayaking or hiking.
Fans can pair their love of the drama with an active outing through these stunning natural settings.

🌄 Can hikers follow an official “Crash Landing Tour” route?

Yes, several drama-inspired circuits exist.
Swiss and Korean tourism offices offer guided tours connecting hillsides, ridgelines, and valleys seen on screen.
It’s a unique experience for hikers who want to relive the love story while exploring landscapes in protected regional parks.

🎬 Which theaters and cultural venues still celebrate Crash Landing on You?

In Seoul, several theaters and temporary exhibitions pay homage to the series.
Iconic scenes are reenacted with original costumes and screenings of previously unseen footage.
Supported by tourism offices, these events bridge culture, travel, and emotion.

🌸 Why did the series become a national and international phenomenon?

Because it subtly weaves love, nature, and peace.
A national hit, Crash Landing on You is also an ode to Asia’s beauty—its valleys, marshes, trails, and ridges—and to the humanity of its characters.
It’s a universal work, poetic yet engaged, that continues to touch hearts far beyond borders.

🏞️ Where are the most beautiful trails and valleys seen in the series?

The mountainous scenery of Crash Landing on You was filmed in Gangwon-do’s national park—an emblematic destination for hikers.
Marked paths wind through lush valleys, flowered alpine meadows, and steep slopes.
This discovery trail, open year-round, is perfect for scenic walks or full hikes in pristine nature.

🚶‍♀️ What is the drama’s most symbolic trail?

Arguably, the reconstructed North Korean village trail in Jeongseon.
This is where Yoon Se-ri discovers the simple beauty of life—strolling past earthen homes and alpine fields.
Today, it’s an official marked route, easy to access for a family walk or a major mountain trek.

🧺 Can you picnic or stroll in a park at the filming locations?

Yes! Around Jeongseon’s nature park and nearby ponds, you can take a short walk or enjoy a picnic with views of alpine peaks.
Some guided tours even offer a walking traverse through the drama’s sets.
The local tourism office provides maps and waymarking so every hiker can follow safely.

🏔️ Is there a connection between the drama’s scenery and the Alps or Mont Blanc?

Absolutely. The Swiss scenes strongly evoke Mont Blanc landscapes—glaciers, alpine chalets, snow-capped summits.
Lake Brienz and the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge offer vistas comparable to France’s Mercantour valleys or the ridges of the Écrins National Park.
These areas invite hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on impeccably maintained mountain paths.

🦋 What wildlife and flora can you find in these places?

The biodiversity is remarkable.
You may spot eagles, roe deer, or foxes, and rare mountain flowers.
The ponds, marshes, and valleys of Mercantour National Park provide an ideal backdrop for nature lovers and photographers.
Interpretive trails let you observe native plants, with educational signage from local tourism offices.

🎬 What elevation gain and logistics did the shoot involve?

Filming in Switzerland and Korea meant serious elevation: some scenes were shot above 2,000 meters.
Crews hiked ridge to ridge, hauled gear across hillsides and meadows, and sometimes used snowshoes to reach snowy locations.
A true alpine feat for a production of this scale!

🧭 Can you do a long hike inspired by the drama?

Yes! Some “Crash Landing Trail” routes retrace the main filming steps.
They pass through regional natural parks, ponds, alpine pastures, and Swiss valleys.
Waymarks guide visitors along the route, and several chalets welcome hikers for a coffee break or an overnight stay.
It’s an unforgettable experience—where romance meets the wild.

🚣 Are there water activities like kayaking or lake crossings?

Yes—especially in Switzerland, where scenes near Lake Thun’s bay and Lake Brienz became legendary.
You can kayak, take a family boat ride, or do a shoreline hike along marked paths.
The setting recalls the gorges, canyons, and ponds you find in Mercantour National Park.

🌸 What’s the best season to hike in the series’ footsteps?

Spring and autumn are ideal for beautiful walks in alpine valleys.
In winter, snow lovers can follow snowshoe trails; summer is perfect for classic hikes and alpine trail runs.
Tourism offices recommend checking waymarks and elevation gain before departure to fully enjoy the route.

🏡 Can you stay in a chalet or hamlet near the filming locations?

Yes, several traditional chalets and hamlets now host fans of the series.
These stays offer full immersion in the Crash Landing on You vibe—nature parks, lakeside walks, and village strolls on foot.
It’s the perfect place to recharge after a hike or park walk inspired by the drama.

💫 Why does the series attract hikers and nature lovers?

Because beyond its love story, Crash Landing on You is an ode to landscapes and slow discovery on foot.
From national parks and snowy ridges to Swiss valleys, quiet ponds, and alpine meadows, it sparks the urge for short strolls or grand treks.
It’s an invitation to slow down, contemplate, and let the world’s beauty carry you.

🧭 AsiaOnTheWay’s Tip

Before a family walk or a full-day hike, stop by the local tourism office to pick up a map of marked trails, check the elevation gain, and find the most photogenic viewpoints.
And above all: look up, breathe, and let yourself be surprised—sometimes the most beautiful trail is the one your heart chooses. 💞

🏞️ What kind of terrain can I expect on the filming sites?

The Crash Landing on You filming areas feature a variety of terrain — from gentle forest paths to rocky ridge trails and alpine meadows.
In Jeongseon County, the trailheads begin near local villages, leading to valleys, creeks, and open hillsides.
Expect terrain similar to the Great Smoky Mountains or Appalachian landscapes — lush, green, and full of quiet charm.

🥾 Are there designated hiking trails or backcountry routes?

Yes! Several hiking trails and loop trails have been developed in both state parks and national scenic areas where the series was filmed.
In Korea’s Gangwon-do, you’ll find trails ranging from easy day hikes to strenuous multi-hour climbs.
Some areas even offer backcountry paths for experienced hikers who prefer solitude.

📍 Where can I start the trail — is there a specific trailhead or visitor center?

Most routes begin near an official trailhead or visitor center, where you can pick up a trail map and information on distances and elevation gain.
In Jeongseon, the main trailhead is near the reconstructed North Korean village set, with parking areas close by.
In Switzerland, popular trailheads include those at Lake Brienz and the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge, perfect starting points for your own cinematic adventure.

🌲 How long are the trails and are they suitable for day hikes or round trips?

You can choose short nature trails for relaxing day hikes or longer round-trip routes that explore multiple filming locations.
Some loop trails cover 3–5 miles, while others extend into national forest areas for 10–15 miles of trails through untouched scenery.
Each offers varying levels of difficulty, so whether you’re up for a peaceful walk or a strenuous climb, there’s something for every traveler.

🏔️ Can I hike in areas similar to the Great Smoky Mountains or Appalachian Trail?

Absolutely! The alpine landscapes of Switzerland and Korea’s Gangwon-do region evoke the same sense of wonder as the Appalachian Trail or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The combination of mountain ridges, forest creeks, and serene ponds makes these routes ideal for hiking and photography.
Some ridge trails even offer breathtaking overlooks and waterfalls, just like the hidden gems along the Smoky Mountains’ scenic byways.

💧 Are there creek trails or waterfalls to explore?

Yes — several! The creek trails around Jeongseon’s valleys lead to crystal-clear streams, while Switzerland’s alpine waterfalls near Interlaken mirror the show’s romantic scenery.
These spots are perfect for a quick day hike or photo stop before continuing your round trip.

🚗 Is there parking and access near the filming locations?

Most filming areas provide a parking lot or parking area near the trailheads, making it easy to start your hike.
In popular spots like Lake Brienz and Hallasan, early arrival is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, as state parks can get crowded.

🐕 Can I bring my dog on the trails?

Yes, many state parks and national forest trails are pet-friendly, as long as your dog is on a leash.
Always check local rules at the visitor center or trailhead before starting your hike.

🌅 What are the best overlooks or scenic points for photos?

The most famous overlook is the Sigriswil Panorama Bridge in Switzerland — a breathtaking view featured in the drama.
In Korea, the ridge trails of Gangwon-do offer incredible overlooks at sunrise and sunset, often near small ponds or hidden waterfalls.
Bring your camera — these are the true “crash landing” moments for hikers and fans alike.

🎒 Can I combine backpacking or overnight hiking with the Crash Landing trail?

Definitely. Several routes in Jeongseon and the Swiss Alps can be done as backpacking trips, with mountain lodges and state park shelters available along the way.
A round-trip or loop trail can include overnight stays for those wanting to fully experience the backcountry beauty.

🌸 AsiaOnTheWay’s Adventure Tip

Before setting out on any Appalachian-trail-style hike, check local maps and weather at the nearest visitor center.
Download the trail map, note your miles to the next trailhead, and bring enough water for strenuous climbs.
Whether it’s a short nature trail through a forest state park, or a backpacking loop in the Great Smoky Mountains, let the landscapes remind you of Se-ri and Jeong-hyeok’s unforgettable journey — a love story written on the trails of the world. 🌏💞