‘Pachinko’ is a drama television series on Apple TV+, created by Soo Hugh. Inspired by the acclaimed bestseller novel by Min Jin Lee, it chronicles the experiences of four generations of a Korean family as they emigrate to Japan and subsequently to America.
Over the years, familial dynamics evolve from the moment they leave their birthplace until they acclimate to the various cultures they experience.
This is intricately linked to the different stages in the life of Sunja, the protagonist, who makes the ultimate sacrifice for her family’s future.
‘Pachinko’ unfolds against the settings of Korea, Japan, and America, with its vivid visual imagery establishing an ideal timeframe for the narrative that extends over several decades. Inquisitive about the filming location of this intriguing show? Here are all the necessary details!
Filming Locations for Pachinko
‘Pachinko’ is predominantly filmed in South Korea and Canada, particularly in locations such as Busan, Andong, Mokpo, and some areas of British Columbia. Filming for season 1 in South Korea likely occurred in late 2020.
Production subsequently transitioned to British Columbia, concluding in April 2021. Let us examine the filming locations in further detail.
Busan, South Korea
The entirety of ‘Pachinko’ is filmed in Busan, a vast port city and marine transportation hub in South Korea. Several sequences from season 1 were filmed at the renowned Haeundae Beach, which hosts numerous events annually.
Busan is renowned for its picturesque beaches, expansive mountains, thermal springs, and environmental reserves.
In addition to the 678 AD Buddhist sanctuary Beomeosa, notable landmarks in Busan include Nampo-dong, Taejongdae, Gamcheon Cultural Village, and Cheonseongjinseong Fortress.
The city is a highly sought-after filmmaking location and holds the esteemed Busan International Film Festival annually in the fall. It is also featured in the blockbuster film ‘Black Panther.’
Andong, South Korea
Segments of ‘Pachinko’ are shot in Andong, the capital of North Gyeongsang Province. Season 1 was filmed at Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the Joseon Dynasty.
It encompasses Joseon-era architecture, literature, and folk traditions, constituting a significant aspect of Korean heritage.
In addition to the Nakdong River traversing the city, it is recognized for tourism attractions such as the Municipal Folk Museum, Seonseonghyun Cultural Heritage Complex, Gyemyeongsan Recreation Forest, and Bongjeongsa Buddhist monastery.
Mokpo, South Korea
Significant segments of the show have been recorded at Mokpo, a city located at the southwestern extremity of the Korean Peninsula. It served as a vital commercial and transportation center during the Japanese Occupation.
Mokpo is home to the National Maritime Museum, showcasing exhibits on Korean navy and shipping traditions. Moreover, each October, the renowned Largehead Hairtail fishing festival occurs at Yeongsan Lake, drawing several tourists.
Vancouver, British Columbia
The port city of Vancouver serves as an additional filming location for ‘Pachinko.’ Commonly referred to as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is a coveted filming locale because to its optimal cloud cover, picturesque mountainous scenery, extensive network of skilled actors and crew, and the availability of numerous advanced film studios.
Moreover, the city offers substantial tax incentives for filming.
Vancouver has produced numerous films over the years, including ‘Honey Girls,’ ‘The Adam Project,’ ‘Rescued by Ruby,’ and ‘Deadpool 2.’ The city, characterized by its ethnic diversity, serves as a center for art, culture, music, and theater.
The Orpheum Theater, Vancouver Art Gallery, and Museum of Anthropology are among notable monuments in Vancouver.
Coquitlam, British Columbia
Another filming location for ‘Pachinko’ is Coquitlam, a city in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia.
The actors and crew filmed several scenes at Riverview Hospital, a former mental health institution situated at 2601 Lougheed Highway. Coquitlam is recognized for its verdant open spaces, such as Pinecone Burke Provincial Park and Como Lake Park, in addition to its numerous theaters and art studios.
Television programs such as ‘The Flash,’ ‘The Good Doctor,’ and ‘Arrow’ have been produced in the picturesque city.
Surrey, British Columbia
The scenic city of Surrey serves as a filming location for ‘Pachinko.’ A significant amount of the inaugural season was filmed at Surrey Film City, an extensive film studio complex situated at the former Pacific Press Plant on 88th Avenue in Kennedy Heights.
The studios’ backlot area was utilized for outside sequences. Surrey has served as a location for numerous films, including the film ‘The Unforgivable’ and television programs such as ‘Riverdale,’ ‘The Stand,’ and ‘Altered Carbon.’
The Museum of Surrey, Surrey Municipal Hall, and Heritage Square are prominent attractions in the city.
Richmond, British Columbia
Key segments of ‘Pachinko’ have been filmed in Richmond, a coastal city notable for its substantial Asian cultural influences, especially in the Golden Village District.
The primary filming locations for season 1 are the Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site at 5180 Westwater Drive and the community of Steveston.
The early 1900s architectural style of the latter has been showcased in the film ‘The Twilight Saga: Eclipse’ and television series such as ‘Chesapeake Shores,’ ‘Bates Motel,’ and ‘Once Upon a Time.’
Find the amazing filming locations of ‘Pachinko’ in South Korea and Canada! Enjoy the cultural depth and stunning landscapes that inspired this masterpiece. Want additional details regarding your preferred shows and films? Visit our website for comprehensive information!
Comments are closed.