‘When Life Gives You Tangerines’ : Cast and Filming Locations

“When Life Gives You Tangerines” (Korean title: 《폭싹 속았수다》) is set to premiere in 2025, offering a unique blend of history, romance, and the breathtaking scenery of Jeju Island.

A Tale of Seasons and Rebellion of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”

This highly anticipated drama aims to weave the adventurous life story of two compelling characters through the four seasons of Jeju. At the heart of the narrative are Ae-soon, a “mischievous rebel,” and Gwan-sik, described as an “unwavering iron man.” Their journey, set against the backdrop of 1950s Jeju, promises to be a rollercoaster of emotions and experiences.

The Cast of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”

The drama boasts an impressive cast that spans different age groups, bringing depth and authenticity to the characters’ lifelong journey:

Ae-soon:

• Child: Kim Tae-yeon
• Adult: Lee Ji-eun (IU)
• Middle-aged: Moon So-ri

Gwan-sik:

• Child: Lee Cheon-moo
• Adult: Park Bo-gum
• Middle-aged: Park Hae-joon

Character Spotlight of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”: Ae-soon

Ae-soon, portrayed by the versatile Lee Ji-eun (IU), is described as a “mischievous potato” of a rebel. Despite facing numerous challenges, including being unable to attend school, she dreams of becoming a poet. Her character is a testament to resilience, described as a wildflower that stubbornly turns its face towards the sun, even when growing in the harshest of conditions.

What makes Ae-soon truly captivating is her unfiltered emotional expression. Whether she’s laughing or crying, her emotions resonate across the entire sea, painting a vivid picture of a character full of life and determination.

Character Spotlight of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”: Gwan-sik

Park Bo-gum takes on the role of Gwan-sik, a man of few words but immense inner strength. Described as “iron-like,” Gwan-sik’s greatest weapon is his extreme diligence and sincerity. However, when it comes to matters of the heart, particularly concerning Ae-soon, he becomes as soft as a peach.

One of the most endearing aspects of Gwan-sik’s character is his unwavering love and respect for Ae-soon. He’s portrayed as a silent warrior who, without even checking her family background, dedicates himself entirely to loving and respecting Ae-soon.

A Love Story That Defies Conventions

What sets “When Life Gives You Tangerines” apart is how it challenges the typical narrative flow. At crucial moments in Ae-soon’s life, Gwan-sik metaphorically takes the wheel, turning the steering, pulling the handbrake, and sometimes even stepping on the accelerator. This dynamic promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering how their relationship will evolve against the backdrop of 1950s Jeju.

Supporting Cast and Special Appearances of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”

The drama is further enriched by a stellar supporting cast, including:

• Oh Jung-se
• Lee Jun-young
• Na Moon-hee
• Choi Dae-hoon
• Kim Yong-rim
• Baek Ji-won

Adding to the excitement, Kim Seon-ho is set to make a special appearance, though details about his role are yet to be revealed.

Filming Locations of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”

Jeju Fishing Village Set

As the drama is primarily set on Jeju Island, most of the filming locations are at a special drama set called the Jeju Fishing Village Set.

This Jeju Fishing Village Set is a purpose-built filming location designed to replicate the authentic atmosphere of a traditional Jeju Island fishing village. It provides a realistic backdrop for various scenes in the drama, showcasing the unique architecture, lifestyle, and coastal charm of Jeju’s rural communities. The set allows filmmakers to capture the essence of Jeju’s coastal life without disrupting actual residential areas, while also offering controlled environments for filming. This carefully constructed set helps to bring the fictional world of “Welcome to Samdalri” to life, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the story’s setting.

Cheongshim International Youth Training Center

The filming location for the nursing home where the elderly character Ae-shim paints in the K-drama “When Life Gives Tangerines” is the Cheongshim International Youth Training Center, located in Yeosu, South Jeolla Province. This facility, despite its appearance in the drama, is actually a youth training center rather than a nursing home.

The Cheongshim International Youth Training Center, which opened in August 2021, is designed to provide global marine experience education content for youth. It offers specialized programs centered around three themes: international, ocean, and family. The center aims to help young people establish a healthy and progressive outlook through marine training activities, foster a sense of family community, and develop a proper understanding of the relationship between humans and the natural environment.

Situated in an area of natural beauty, the center strives to be a place where young people can challenge themselves towards their dreams, and where adults can find healing and create warm memories.

Gochang Barley Field at Hakwon Farm

The filming location for the canola field scenes in the drama is the Gochang Barley Field at Hakwon Farm. This location is renowned for its vast fields of green barley and yellow canola flowers, creating a picturesque landscape.

Hakwon Farm, located in Gochang-gun, North Jeolla Province, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery. The farm covers an area of approximately 1 million square meters and hosts the annual Gochang Barley Festival, which typically runs from mid-April to early May.

This location has been featured in various TV dramas and films, including the popular drama “Goblin”. The farm offers stunning views throughout the year, with green barley fields in spring, sunflowers in summer, and buckwheat flowers in autumn. The combination of golden barley and vibrant yellow canola flowers creates a breathtaking backdrop that has made it a favorite spot for photographers, couples taking wedding photos, and tourists seeking to capture the beauty of rural Korea.

Gwandeokjeong Pavilion

Gwandeokjeong Pavilion, located in downtown Jeju City, is one of the oldest and most historically significant buildings on Jeju Island. Built in 1448 during the reign of King Sejong, it originally served as a military training ground for local soldiers.

The pavilion is notable for its architectural and artistic features:

1. Intricate paintings on its girders depicting the ten symbols of longevity, scenes from the Battle of Red Cliffs, and hunting imagery.
2. A signboard believed to feature the handwriting of Prince Anpyeong, a prominent figure from the Joseon era.

Gwandeokjeong Pavilion played a crucial role in Jeju’s political history:

1. It was the political heart of Jeju throughout the Joseon era (1392-1910).
2. The pavilion remained politically important during the Japanese occupation period (1910-1945).
3. It was a site of protests against both Japanese occupation and later, the American presence after liberation in 1945.

Most significantly, Gwandeokjeong Pavilion was at the center of events that led to the Jeju Uprising and Massacre:

1. On March 1, 1947, a large protest near the pavilion resulted in police firing on the crowd, killing six people and injuring eight.
2. This incident, known as “The Shooting Incident,” sparked widespread anger and a general strike, setting in motion the events that would lead to the Jeju Uprising on April 3, 1948.

Today, Gwandeokjeong Pavilion stands as a silent witness to Jeju’s painful history. It is part of the Jeju-mok Government Office complex and serves as a reminder of the island’s complex past. Despite its historical significance, visitors may find little information about its role in the 20th-century events at the site itself

Yongsu-ri, Jeju

The neighborhood where Ae-soon and Gwan-sik were born and raised: Yongsu-ri, Jeju, Haemaji Haean-ro in Gujwa-eup

Yongsu-ri is a village located in Gujwa-eup, on the eastern coast of Jeju Island, South Korea. It is known for its beautiful coastal scenery along the Haemaji Haean-ro (Sunrise Coast Road). This area is famous for its stunning sunrises, making it a popular spot for tourists and photographers.

The village is characterized by its traditional Jeju stone walls, volcanic landscapes, and picturesque beaches. Yongsu-ri is part of the Jeju Olle Trail, a long-distance footpath that circles the island, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Jeju.

Gyesan Cathedral, Daegu

The place where Ae-soon and Gwan-sik got married: Gyesan Cathedral, famous for its modern architecture in Daegu (located in Jung-gu, Daegu

Gyesan Cathedral, also known as Gyesan Catholic Church, is an iconic modern building located in Jung-gu, Daegu, South Korea. Built in 1899, it is one of the oldest and most significant Catholic churches in the country. The cathedral is renowned for its unique architectural style, blending Western and Korean elements.

Key features of Gyesan Cathedral include:

1. Architectural style: The building showcases a mix of Romanesque and Gothic revival styles, with distinct Korean influences.
2. Historical significance: It played a crucial role in the spread of Catholicism in the Daegu region during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
3. Cultural heritage: The cathedral is designated as Tangible Cultural Property No. 290 of Daegu Metropolitan City, recognizing its historical and architectural importance.

Gyesan Cathedral has become a popular location for both religious services and cultural events. Its striking appearance and historical significance make it a favored spot for tourists and a frequent filming location for Korean dramas and movies.

Gimnyeong Beach

In the drama, the beach where young Ae-sook and Gwan-sik, along with the haenyeo (female divers) aunts, gathered after diving is none other than Gimnyeong Beach.

Gimnyeong Beach, located in Gujwa-eup, Jeju City, is a picturesque coastal area that has gained popularity as a filming location for Korean dramas. This beach is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance.

Key features of Gimnyeong Beach include:

1. Crystal clear waters: The beach is famous for its emerald-colored sea and clean sandy shores.
2. Shallow waters: With an average depth of 1-2 meters, it’s ideal for swimming and water activities.
3. Scenic landscape: The beach offers a 200-meter long and 120-meter wide stretch of white sand.
4. Cultural significance: Gimnyeong village is renowned as a haenyeo (female diver) village, showcasing Jeju’s unique cultural heritage.
5. Unique backdrop: Wind turbines visible from the beach create a distinctive atmosphere.

Gimnyeong Beach has been featured in several popular K-dramas, including “Welcome to Samdalri,” where it served as a significant location for character interactions and emotional scenes. The beach’s natural beauty and cultural importance make it an ideal setting for storytelling, particularly for scenes involving traditional Jeju elements like haenyeo culture

Conclusion: A Must-Watch Drama on the Horizon

“When Life Gives You Tangerines” is shaping up to be a must-watch drama for fans of historical romances and stunning locations alike. With its promising storyline, stellar cast, and the breathtaking scenery of Jeju Island, this drama is set to take viewers on an unforgettable journey through time, love, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Stay tuned to our blog for more updates on filming locations and behind-the-scenes insights as we eagerly await the 2025 premiere of “When Life Gives You Tangerines”!

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