In an era where Hallyu (the Korean Wave) continues to redefine global entertainment and cultural landscapes, local governments in South Korea are shifting their strategic focus toward screen tourism. Capitalizing on the explosive global influence of K-dramas and Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming content—which routinely drive international tourism spikes—South Chungcheong Province (Chungnam) has taken a proactive step. The provincial government recently hosted a two-day familiarization (fam) tour on September 9–10, inviting a high-profile delegation of prominent Korean drama writers to the historic cities of Gongju and Buyeo. 

This strategic initiative was designed to showcase the region's rich Baekje historical heritage, profound cultural assets, and picturesque natural landscapes directly to the creative minds behind major television hits. By offering writers an immersive, firsthand experience of Chungnam’s aesthetic and historical depth, the province aims to plant the seeds for future drama settings, transforming these ancient capitals into iconic backdrops for upcoming blockbusters. 

A Star-Studded Delegation of Creators

The event drew widespread attention within the Korean entertainment industry due to the caliber of its participants. A total of 21 esteemed writers belonging to the Drama Research Group of the Korea Broadcasting Writers Association took part in the tour. Among them were heavyweights of the Korean television landscape: Park Jae-bum, head of the Drama Research Group and celebrated writer of acclaimed hits such as Vincenzo and The Fiery Priest; Lee Shin-hwa, the creative force behind the critically praised sports-office drama Stove League; and Go Seon-hee, known for penning Cheese in the Trap. 

The presence of such influential creators underscored the seriousness of the province's outreach. For these writers, scouting locations that offer narrative authenticity, visual variety, and emotional resonance is critical. Chungnam’s dual identity as a custodian of ancient history and a region with modern, serene landscapes provided an ideal canvas for their creative imaginations. 

Day One: Unveiling the Cozy Charm and Historic Elegance of Gongju

The itinerary for the first day, September 9, focused heavily on Gongju, a city deeply rooted in the legacy of the ancient Baekje Kingdom (18 BCE–660 CE). The delegation began their journey at Gongsanseong Fortress, a majestic UNESCO World Heritage site perched along the Geumgang River. Walking along the ancient fortification walls, the writers took in panoramic views of the river and the surrounding city, appreciating how historical architecture seamlessly merges with natural topography. 

The tour then transitioned into the more intimate, lyrical urban spaces of Gongju. The writers strolled down Jemincheon-gil, a revitalized stream path that breathes new life into the old downtown district. They visited the Na Tae-joo Wildflower Literature House, dedicated to one of Korea’s most beloved contemporary poets, experiencing the gentle, reflective atmosphere that defines small-town Korean sentiments—an ideal setting for emotional romance or slice-of-life dramas. 

Further stops included the Gongju Homestay Village, a collection of traditional Korean houses (hanok), a local hanok cafe, and the Gongju National Museum, which houses exquisite artifacts from the royal tombs of Baekje. This blend of ancient artifacts, literary heritage, and cozy alleys demonstrated Gongju’s immense potential for period dramas as well as contemporary emotional narratives. 

Day Two: Immersing in the Epic Scales and Natural Splendor of Buyeo

On the second day, September 10, the focus shifted to Buyeo County, another vital heartland of Baekje history. The day commenced with a visit to the Baekje Cultural Land, a massive historical theme park and filming complex that faithfully recreates the palaces, royal residences, and village life of the ancient kingdom. Having previously served as a popular backdrop for major television programs and variety shows like Running Man, the site offered the writers a clear visualization of how large-scale historical epics or fantasy sageuks (traditional historical dramas) could be brought to life. 

The writers then moved to the Gudrae Ferry Terminal, where they experienced a traditional Hwangpo sailboat ride along the Geumgang River, mirroring historical transit methods and soaking in the tranquil riverside scenery. The journey continued to Busosanseong Fortress, the last defense stronghold of Baekje, where a trek up the forested hill led them to historic cultural treasures such as Goransa Temple and the legendary Nakhwaam Rock, which overlooks the breathtaking river gorge.

In the afternoon, the delegation visited Gungnamji Pond, Korea's oldest artificial garden, renowned for its stunning willow trees, wooden pavilion, and sprawling lotus fields that evoke an ethereal, timeless beauty. The tour concluded at the Seodongyo Theme Park, a specialized filming location designed around Baekje architectures and open-air sets, further emphasizing Buyeo's readiness to accommodate active film crews.

Strategic Advantages: Accessibility and Versatility

Throughout the two-day event, Chungnam officials aggressively marketed the region’s structural and geographical advantages. Located adjacent to the Seoul metropolitan area, Gongju and Buyeo boast exceptional accessibility, allowing production teams to travel easily between Seoul-based studios and on-location shoots without excessive logistical overhead. 

Furthermore, the province emphasized its incredible scenic versatility. Unlike regions restricted to a single aesthetic, Chungnam can seamlessly pivot between grand historical majesty (via ancient fortresses, royal tombs, and cultural theme parks) and quiet, contemporary emotional backdrops (via literary alleys, stream paths, and modern hanok cafes). This flexibility makes the region a goldmine for directors and writers looking to span multiple genres—from historical romance and political intrigue to modern healing dramas. 

Looking Ahead: Fostering Long-Term Collaboration

The provincial government views this fam tour not as a one-off promotional event, but as the beginning of an enduring partnership with the creative community. Local authorities recognize that when a drama successfully captures the unique landscapes of a region, it triggers a long-term economic ripple effect through tourism revitalization, merchandise tie-ins, and international fan pilgrimages.

An official from South Chungcheong Province remarked on the significance of the event, stating, "Continuous and organic exchanges with broadcast writers provide an invaluable opportunity to naturally weave Chungnam’s stunning tourism assets into compelling storylines. Building upon the success of this fam tour, we will institutionalize follow-up support systems, offering administrative, logistical, and financial cooperation to ensure that Gongju, Buyeo, and other regional landmarks are actively selected as primary filming locations for upcoming global K-dramas." 

As global audiences increasingly look to visit the physical settings of their favorite television shows, Chungnam’s strategic outreach positions it to become a premier destination on the global Hallyu map, promising that the timeless stories of Baekje and the serene charms of its modern towns will soon grace screens worldwide.

[Copyright (c) Global Economic Times. All Rights Reserved.]