Seoul transforms into Squid Game set as K-Content Travel Week begins

This week, Seoul isn't just Korea's capital city; it's a K-drama set.

From filming spots to fan events, visitors are living out their favorite scenes.

Park Hyo-been takes us there.

Tourists are stepping into Squid Game.

They're not just watching the show.

They're playing the games, walking the sets, and reliving scenes in the very heart of Seoul.

"The festival is excellent. I took part in this game and won a prize. I really enjoyed it."

"One day she just found the tickets and we just said, 'hey, let's go'. We couldn't pass it up because it's such an iconic film from Netflix "

"Here at Gwanghwamun square, tourists are diving into the world of Squid Game, playing games featured in the series."

This interactive experience is part of the 2025 K-Content Seoul Travel Week, a collaborative event hosted by the city of Seoul and global streaming giant Netflix.

Alongside the game zone, visitors can stop by the Soul Spot Travel Booth, which features exhibitions from 10 Netflix K-dramas and travel guides to nearby filming locations and restaurants.

Also drawing crowds is the Soul Spot Docent Tour, a guided walk through real-life filming spots, led by actors themselves.

They visited several filming locations from Squid Game, including Tapgol Park and Jonggak Station.

"We had participants from so many countries, and some even understood the drama better than I did. But what impressed me most was their heartfelt love and passion for Korean culture."

The event, which runs till July 6, kicked off with a bang last Saturday, featuring a massive Squid Game Season 3 finale celebration.

Performers in the show's signature costumes marched from Gwanghwamun to Seoul Plaza, transforming the streets into a surreal K-drama parade.

Fiction and reality blend together in the streets of Seoul, inviting fans not just to watch the story, but to step right into it.

Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.