Exploring the Real-Life "Paraisite" filming locations in Seoul: Ever since the South Korean film "Paraisite" won Best Picture at the Oscars, the interest in visiting the filming locations in Seoul has skyrocketed. One such location is Pizza Generation, which in reality is named Sky Pizza. If you're planning to explore these unique and fascinating movie spots, you might want to consider staying somewhere central to easily reach them all. Especially when staying overnight, you would prefer a comfortable and relaxing environment after a long day of sightseeing. Check out this hotel, it's a great place that provides easy access to many of the "Parasite" filming locations. So, you can make the most out of your Seoul adventure.
Immerse yourself in the world created by director Bong Joon-ho by visiting these iconic sites in Seoul. Take a stroll through the neighborhood where the Kim family lived, see the extravagant Park mansion, and discover the memorable street where the famous flood scene took place. It's a unique opportunity to step into the traces of this groundbreaking film and appreciate the city's vibrant atmosphere.
Discover the Filming Locations of the Hit Movie Parasite: One of the most memorable scenes from Parasite takes place outside the Woori Supermarket, where Kim Ki Woo learns of a life-changing opportunity. In reality, this captivating scene was filmed at Seoul's very own Doijissal Supermarket, also known as Pig Rice Supermarket. Located in the heart of Seoul, this bustling supermarket is a must-visit spot for fans of the film.
If you're planning a trip to Seoul, make sure to stop by Doijissal Supermarket to experience the same atmosphere that captivated audiences in Parasite. Marvel at the detailed set design and imagine yourself in the shoes of the characters. This unique filming location adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already fascinating storyline of the movie.
Popular Photo Spot: The front entrance of Doijissal Supermarket has gained popularity as a photo shoot location due to its nostalgic Lotte ice cream fridge, prominently featured in the movie.
Uncover the Staircase to the Park house:
Imagine strolling through Seoul, retracing the steps of the Kim family from the Oscar-winning film 'Parasite.' One memorable location from the movie is the staircase where Kim Ki Jung, played by Park So Dam, purchased peaches before embarking on a sly plot to secure her mother a job. This pivotal scene takes place just a short distance away from the Doijissal Supermarket, allowing fans of the film to immerse themselves in the intricate storytelling of Bong Joon Ho.
As you stand at the foot of the staircase, you can't help but feel the residue of anticipation and cunning that permeated the film. The proximity to Doijissal Supermarket adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience. Don't miss the chance to witness this iconic location and delve deeper into the world of 'Parasite' during your visit to Seoul.
Not just your ordinary pizza place: Sky Pizza has emerged as a popular destination for "Parasite" enthusiasts. Don't miss out on their delectable fried chicken option as well.
Sky Pizza: This small, family-owned pizza restaurant has been in business for 17 years. In the movie, it supplied the film crew with green and orange pizza boxes that the character Kim Ki-taek, played by Song Kang Ho, folds.
is now displayed in the shop.">
Photo of Bong Joon Ho: The shop proudly showcases a photograph of Bong Joon Ho, the renowned director of the critically acclaimed film "Parasite," who also happens to be the owner of Sky Pizza.
Journey through Jahamun Tunnel: This particular scene serves as a crucial turning point in the film, evoking deep emotions from the audience. The Kims, filled with desperation, urgently flee from the Parks, racing down a lengthy staircase amidst a torrential downpour into the heart of Seoul's Jahamun Tunnel.
Symbolizing class disparities: Director Bong ingeniously used the stars and a tunnel in "Parasite" to visually represent the stark contrasts between the rich and the poor.
In light of South Korean director Bong Joon Ho's groundbreaking accomplishment at the 2020 Oscars, where "Parasite" became the first non-English film to win the Best Picture award, there has been a surge of interest in the film's shooting locations in Seoul.
This intriguing film serves as a thought-provoking social commentary on the gap between socioeconomic classes, with much of the story unfolding within the contrasting homes of the Kims and the Parks. One is a modest semi-basement apartment, while the other is an architectural masterpiece.
Although both of these homes were specially constructed sets unique to the film, there are still numerous real-life locations that fans of "Parasite" can explore.
To assist avid followers, the official tourism boards of Seoul and South Korea have curated guides showcasing some of the prominent film locations, several of which are featured below.
Warning: Spoilers ahead.
South Korea may consider allowing its citizens to embark on solo trips to North Korea.
Where “Parasite” begins: Woori Supermarket
The iconic Doijissal Supermarket, known as Woori Supermarket in the film "Parasite," has become a must-visit location for film enthusiasts and tourists alike in Seoul. This is where the film's protagonist, Kim Ki Woo, was introduced to a life-changing opportunity while sipping on soju with his friend.
The real-life Doijissal Supermarket, located in Seoul's Mapo District, has experienced a surge in visitors since the release of "Parasite." Foreigners from all over the world flock to this neighborhood grocery store to capture a piece of the film's magic against the backdrop of its familiar Lotte ice cream fridge.
The enthusiasm surrounding the filming location is evident, as owner Kim Kyung Soon reveals that tourists from Japan, Spain, and beyond have come to explore and take photographs. Alongside the supermarket, Mapo District is also home to other attractions such as the Seoul Trickeye Museum and the beautifully transformed Mapo Oil Tank Culture Park, making it an ideal spot for a day of exploration.
If you're planning a visit to Seoul, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of "Parasite" by stopping by Doijissal Supermarket. You can find this iconic filming location at 32 Songijeong-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., this supermarket offers visitors the opportunity to retrace the steps of the characters they grew to love on the big screen. So grab your camera, indulge in a bit of nostalgia, and create your own unforgettable memories at Doijissal Supermarket, the heart of "Parasite."
Explore the Fascinating Seongbuk-dong Neighborhood
As Kim Ki Woo sets out on his journey to his tutoring job interview in "Parasite," he stumbles upon the captivating village of Seongbuk-dong.
Seongbuk-dong, situated on a picturesque hillside in Seoul, is not just known for its charming streets but also for its prestigious ambassadors' residences, renowned art galleries, and delightful cafes.
For history enthusiasts, nearby attractions like the Hanyang City Wall (also known as the Seoul City Wall) offer a glimpse into the city's past. Nature lovers can explore the tranquil surroundings of Kilsang Temple.
If you're interested in experiencing Korean culture, make sure to visit the Korea Furniture Museum, located in Seongbuk-dong. This appointment-only museum showcases an exquisite collection of Korean traditional furniture.
Discover the allure and elegance of Seongbuk-dong:
A peachy scheme: Staircase to the Park house
If you remember the scene in "Parasite" where Kim Ki Jung carries a load of peaches up the stairs to the Park's home, you might be interested to know that those very stairs are located just a short distance from Doijissal Supermarket. It's fascinating to think about how this ordinary location played a crucial role in the plot of the movie.
While exploring the area, make sure to be considerate of the residents as the neighborhood is mainly residential. To enhance your visit, you can also check out other nearby attractions such as the Ahyeon-dong Furniture Complex, Seosomun Park, and the Songijeong Sports Park. These additions will make your experience memorable and will allow you to further delve into the world of the film.
Address: 3 Songijeong-ro, 6-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
Close call: Staircase to Jahamun Tunnel
The Jahamun Tunnel staircase in Seoul serves as a captivating symbol of social inequality portrayed in the film Parasite. This particular location is significant as it is featured in a pivotal scene where the Kim family seeks refuge under a coffee table from unexpected Park family return.
After an intense turn of events, the Kims ultimately make a daring escape through the pouring rain, running down a long staircase and into the Jahamun Tunnel. Director Bong intentionally chose this site to vividly depict the contrasting realities faced by the rich and the poor in Parasite.
Located at the entrance of the green-striped tunnel, the staircase stands as a powerful reminder of the wealth gap prevalent in society. If you find yourself in the area, you might also want to explore the nearby Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent example of a royal palace built during the Joseon Dynasty. Additionally, the nearby Changgyeonggung Palace and Changdeokgung Palace offer historical charm and preservation.
Address: 219, Jahamun-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
For more captivating destinations, check out the article on the world's safest city to visit in 2019, as revealed by the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Discover Party Supplies at Orga Whole Foods
A memorable scene in the movie Parasite takes place at the enchanting Orga Whole Food Supermarket, located in Bangi-dong, Seoul. This grocery store is not only a filming location, but also a popular spot for individuals looking to stock up on party supplies.
Within the film, Park Yeon Kyo, a devoted mother, visits Orga Whole Foods to gather all the necessary items for her son's unforgettable birthday celebration. In reality, this supermarket is known for its eco-friendly selection of wholesome food, aiming to bring harmony to both individuals and communities, as well as the relationship between humans and nature.
If you're interested in experiencing the charm of Orga Whole Foods, you can pay a visit to its location at 4, Yangjae-daero 71-gil, Songpa-gu, Seoul. Immerse yourself in the ambiance that captured the attention of moviegoers worldwide.
Don't miss out on other fascinating destinations in South Korea, such as Ulleungdo, a captivating island that draws travelers with its mysterious allure.
The must-visit: Pizza Generation
If you're a fan of the movie "Parasite" and interested in exploring real-life filming locations, make sure to check out Sky Pizza. This popular pizzeria served as the inspiration for the fictional Pizza Generation in the film.
Since its opening 17 years ago, Sky Pizza has become a beloved mom-and-pop establishment in Seoul. In the movie, father Kim Ki-taek, played by Song Kang Ho, can be seen clumsily folding green and orange pizza boxes, which were provided by Sky Pizza for the filming.
The Seoul Tourism Organization revealed that the owners of Sky Pizza had to personally teach the actor how to fold the uniquely shaped pizza boxes for the movie. Nowadays, the pizzeria proudly showcases an autograph from director Bong Joon Ho, as well as a photo of the store owner with the famous director.
Aside from their delicious pizzas, Sky Pizza is also renowned for their mouthwatering Korean fried chicken. So, if you're on a "Parasite" tour of Seoul, this spot is a must-visit.
You can find Sky Pizza at 86, Noryangjin-ro 6-gil, Dongjak-gu, Seoul. They are open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.