While “When life gives you mandarins” He accompanies the audience with his sincere love story between AE-Soon (played by Lee Ji-Eun, better known as IU) and Gwan-Sik (played by Park Bo-Gum), is the island of Jeju who steals the show in many scenes, emerging not only as a background but as a central presence, living in the drama.
Set in the 1960s, the series lovingly recreates an uncontaminated quiet Jeju not touched by modernity. From the serene fishing villages and orchards of lush mandarin to the sparkling blue fried foods of the island, each frame offers a cinematographic visual party. Through wide angle shots and a slow and engaging rhythm, the island speaks directly to the public, its charm takes place as a history whispered in the wind.
Among the most surprising places in the series there is Seongsan Ilchulbong, the iconic volcanic peak that witnesses several emotional moments among the main characters. The scenes of the dawn captured here are simply breathtaking, while the light morning light filters through the branches and roofs of the trees, painting a peaceful and dreamlike tableau.
Equally enchanting are the brilliant yellow canland fields that cover the island in spring. Longing along the famous Noksan-Ro, a stretch of 10 km in which the cherry and cherry flowers flourish side by side, these golden meadows act as a background for one of the most unforgettable scenes of the drama, AE-Soon and Gwan-Siking standing together between the flowers, under a clear sky and a soft blowing. The moment is so vivid and romantic, it transforms Jeju into a symbol of first love and innocence.
The series also highlights Gimnyeong Beach, located in Gujwa, in the city of Jeju, known for its crystal clear waters and dusty white sands. It is here that AE-SOON, GWAN-SIK AND THE HAENYEO (Underwater Fames) often gather after long diving. The scenes shot here not only show the natural beauty of Jeju, but also provide an authentic look at the humble and resilient lives of the island’s fishing communities, in particular Haenyeo, whose inheritance is a proud and unique part of local culture.
What really makes the Jeju fascinating “When life gives you mandarins” It is the artistic approach to color and cinematography. The series embraces a warm and nostalgic palette, with a soft sunlight that pours through narrow alleys of the village and shiny from the surface of the ocean. The night scenes are also gently illuminated, the lanterns tremble along the streets of pebbles, gently swaying in the wind, creating a world that feels both romantic and melancholy. One of the most poetic moments occurs while AE-Soon walks silently along the coast, where the shadow and light merge into an obsessively beautiful composition.
Before “When life gives you mandarins”Jeju had already enchanted spectators in the beloved drama “Our blues”, which also used the island as a key element of narration. Screenwriter Noh Hee-Kyung Previously he shared his thoughts on the setting, “I think Jeju still preserves the authentic local spirit and Korea’s emotional values. Here, you can find communities in which almost everyone is connected or, otherwise, they are close to the family. That deep bond between people is the perfect material to interpret Jeju’s unique culture.”
“Our Blues” He did not just entertain, he offered a portrait of the lively working life and the local color of Jeju. Scenes shot in places like Goseong 5-day market, Geumneung Stone Wall and Gavado Island have provided glimpses in the life of the daily island and contributed to enhancing tourism, since fans tried to experiment with the recovery sites themselves.
Now, “When life gives you mandarins” The same interest in Jeju is doing as a travel destination full of feeling. With its rich visions and emotional narrative, the series does not only show a place, honors the mandarin, the iconic fruit of Jeju, right from the title, adding another layer of charm and curiosity for the spectators.
According to the Jeju Tourism Association, the popularity of the drama should trigger an increase in foreign tourism. The provincial government of Jeju is already working with the Jeju Content Agency to promote the series globally and organize tourist programs focused on its main resumption locations.
With every shot skillfully composed, the Korean dramas like it “When life gives you mandarins” Go beyond the narrative. They become emotional postcards, delicately made invitations that transport the global public to real places full of meaning, beauty and timeless charm.
