Where was Squid Game filmed?

When Squid Game exploded onto Netflix in September 2021, it quickly became a global sensation. Created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, the South Korean survival drama tells the story of a group of financially desperate individuals who are recruited to compete in a series of deadly children’s games for a massive cash prize – 45.6 billion won (about USD $38,460,270). Sounds crazy? It is – the high-stakes narrative is visually striking and the script touches on many themes with sharp social commentary that transcends borders. At the time of its release, Squid Game broke records as the most-watched show in Netflix history. Inevitably, people want to know the Squid Game filming locations you can visit.

The TV series follows Seong Gi-hun, a down-on-his-luck protagonist, along with a cast of characters that humanize the brutal competition. But where was Squid Game shot? From surreal game sets to city landmarks, Squid Game used real places across South Korea to ground its dystopian premise in real life.

Let’s look at the key filming locations that brought Squid Game to life.

Did you know Trafalgar has a Best of South Korea tour? Join us and see some of these Squid Game filming locations for yourself.

Where was Squid Game filmed in Seoul?

Seoul, South Korea’s shiny capital, serves as the backdrop for a lot of Squid Game‘s real-world setting. Before the players enter the deadly competition, many of their everyday lives are shot in the streets and neighbouorhoods of Seoul. These scenes show a contrast between the city energy and bleak realities faced by the characters.

One of the most recognizable locations is Ssangmun-dong, a quiet residential neighborhood in northern Seoul. This is where we’re introduced to Seong Gi-hun, the show’s central character. You also see Baegun Market in early scenes, with local vendors and narrow walkways typical of Seoul’s traditional markets.

As the players move to the game facility we see scenes filmed at Sangbong Intercity Bus Terminal, located in the northeastern part of the city. Likewise, Yangjae Citizen’s Forest Station, situated in the Gangnam district, appears in some Squid Game.

Filming also took place in some of Seoul’s most famous public spaces. Seoul Olympic Park was originally built for the 1988 Summer Olympics, and was used in Squid Game for some outdoor scenes. Namsan Mountain Park, with its panoramic views and wooded trails, is seen in reflective moments, and the nearby N Seoul Tower makes an appearance on the skyline.

Lastly, IFC Mall, located in the Yeouido district, appears in sequences set in the modern financial world. This contrasts the gritty and modest skyrises of the contestants with the clean, commercial aesthetic of Seoul’s elite districts.

Where was Squid Game filmed in Incheon?

Incheon, a port city west of Seoul, is famous for its islands, theme parks, and international airport.

A key location is Wolmi Theme Park, located on Wolmido Island, just off the coast of Incheon. This amusement park’s brightly colored rides reflect the show’s twisted use of childhood nostalgia. This location may have been inspiration for the show’s surreal, game-like sets and backdrops too.

Incheon International Airport is one of the busiest airports in Asia, and it featured in scenes near the end of the series as characters make some tough decisions. If you fly into South Korea, it’s likely you’ll land here!

Incheon International Airport in South Korea

Where did they film Squid Game island?

The mysterious island where the deadly games take place in Squid Game was filmed using a combination of real-world locations and set design. In the acclaimed TV series we see Seongapdo Island, a secluded and lesser-known island off the coast, used as the base for the mysterious game facility. Although access to the island is restricted, the crew filmed aerial and wide-angle shots to capture the remote, isolated feeling that defines much of the series.

The series also mentions Jeju Island – often called the “Hawaii of Korea”. It is not a filming location, but this mystical place is mentioned in the show as a dream destination. It represents a fresh start, far from danger.

Where was Squid Game filmed in Daejeon?

Daejeon, a major city in central South Korea, was the production hub for Squid Game. Most of the actual gameplay was shot on large scale indoor sets, constructed in Daejeon, The scenes with the dormitories, the giant doll in “Red Light, Green Light”, the candy-colored staircases, and the terrifying glass bridge challenge were all filmed here.

Daejeon has large industrial spaces and film and television production infrastructure, making it an obvious choice for filming. Instead of relying on a lot of digital effects and green screens, actors had real oversized environments to interact with. The sets are not open to the public.

Where were Squid Game Seasons 2 and 3 filmed?

It’s said that production on both began in mid-2023 and used many of the same filming locations as Season 1. The third and final season will premiere on June 27, 2025.

Where is Squid Game Theme Park?

There is no official, permanent Squid Game theme park – but to promote the show, Netflix has created several temporary experiences inspired by the series. Back in 2023 an immersive event called “Squid Game: The Trials” popped up in Los Angeles, United States.

In South Korea, you can visit Wolmi Theme Park on Wolmido Island near Incheon, where lots of scenes were filmed.