Korea include Seoul
Busan (the second-largest city), Incheon (a major port)
Hangul
South Korean Won (KRW)
Tropical Rainforest
For more information, visit the official site:
Korean Visa Application
Foreign film crews typically need to obtain accreditation from the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) or the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). This process requires submitting documents such as a filming proposal, script, and crew list, and receiving approval from relevant authorities.
In Korea, film permits are typically issued by the Korea Film Council (KOFIC) or local government authorities, such as the Seoul Metropolitan Government or provincial governments, depending on the filming location.
In this region, we play an essential role in securing private film locations. We negotiate with location owners, obtain necessary permits, and coordinate logistics, often using our local knowledge and connections to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience.
The cost of a private film location is usually determined after the location owner or manager reviews the film production synopsis, script, and other relevant details. This information helps them assess the potential impact and specific requirements of the filming project.
Drone operators must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) for commercial use. Regulations include flying below 150 meters, maintaining a 10-kilometer radius from airports, and avoiding flights overpopulated areas or sensitive sites.
To import a drone into Korea, the required documents typically include:
Drone importation requires a permit from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) and clearance from the Korea Customs Service. Certain drone models may be subject to restrictions or require certification from the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) before importation.
Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Application:
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) issues drone permits through the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA).
The processing time for a drone permit is typically around 2-4 weeks after submitting the required documents to the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA).
The cost of a drone permit ranges from approximately ₩50,000 to ₩200,000, depending on the type of permit and the complexity of the application.
Yes, Korea is a Carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Country:
In a Carnet country, the process involves obtaining an ATA Carnet from a national issuing association, listing the goods to be temporarily imported, and presenting the Carnet to customs officials upon arrival and departure. This ensures duty-free and tax-free importation and re-exportation of the goods.
In Korea, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) is responsible for issuing customs clearance for goods, including filming equipment, entering or leaving the country.
Korea provides a mix of modern and traditional filming locations, supported by a well-developed infrastructure and a highly skilled, English-speaking crew base. This makes it a convenient and efficient destination for film productions.
Standard security measures are generally sufficient for film crews in Korea. However, when filming in crowded areas or sensitive locations, it is advisable to hire local security personnel or collaborate with a production service company for guidance on security protocols.
This region offers a film rebate program through the Korea Film Commission’s (KOFIC) Location Incentive Program. This initiative provides a 20-30% cash rebate on eligible production expenses for foreign film productions shot in Korea. Learn more here
South Korea
South Korea
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Film Production in Asia is changing the way international producers plan and execute…
Hoodlum provides top-tier film fixer services in South Korea, offering comprehensive support to international production teams. With our deep local expertise and hands-on approach, we take care of every aspect of your production—from securing visas and film permits to location scouting, crew coordination, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, still photography, and post-production services.
South Korea’s dynamic landscapes—ranging from modern cityscapes and ancient temples to mountains and coastal views—offer diverse settings perfect for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, reality shows, and still photography.
Planning a shoot in South Korea? Let Hoodlum handle all logistics—from obtaining permits and managing visas to organizing equipment rentals, booking flights and accommodation, coordinating local transport, and overseeing post-production—so you can focus on bringing your vision to life.
This region offers a diverse range of filming locations, from the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of its countryside. The country’s terrain features stunning coastlines, towering mountains, vast forests, and vibrant cities, making it an ideal destination for various types of productions.
The coastal regions and port towns are perfect for documentary and commercial shoots, while the mountainous areas and lush valleys provide captivating backdrops for adventure and nature-focused projects.
For urban-themed productions, Seoul’s blend of modern skyscrapers and traditional palaces creates a striking contrast, showcasing South Korea’s rich history and cutting-edge development. The rural villages, with their traditional houses and vibrant local culture, offer an authentic look into the daily life of the country’s people.
With its mix of dynamic landscapes, historical charm, and natural beauty, South Korea is an exceptional choice for filmmakers and photographers seeking unique and varied settings for their projects.
Bordered by China to the northwest and Russia to the northeast, with the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) acting as a boundary between North and South Korea.
The key cities in Korea include Seoul (the capital), Busan (the second-largest city), Incheon (a major port), Daegu (a fashion and textiles hub), and Daejeon (a centre for science and technology).
The local language is Korean, also known as Hangul, which is the official language.
South Korean Won (KRW)
The ideal times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant, complemented by vibrant festivals and beautiful landscapes.
Filming is less favourable during the summer (June to August) due to hot, humid conditions, and in winter (December to February) because of the harsh cold and potential disruptions from heavy snowfall.
General Entry Requirements:
Citizens of many countries, including South Africa, can enter here without a visa for up to 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on nationality. However, citizens from other countries may need to obtain a visa through a Korean embassy or consulate before arrival.
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
Processing Time:
The processing time for a Korean visa for film crews is usually about 5-10 working days. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee, and it’s recommended to apply at least 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure timely issuance.
Cost:
The cost for a Korean visa for film crews typically ranges from ₩30,000 to ₩100,000, depending on the visa type, duration of stay, and nationality. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or other services.
Visa Application Link (If Applicable):
For more information, visit the official site:
Korean Visa Application
General Accreditation Requirements:
Foreign film crews typically need to obtain accreditation from the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) or the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO). This process requires submitting documents such as a filming proposal, script, and crew list, and receiving approval from relevant authorities.
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
Processing Time:
The processing time for crew accreditation typically takes around 3-7 working days, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the speed of approval from relevant authorities.
Cost:
Crew accreditation in Korea is generally free of charge, as it is a required process facilitated by the Korean Film Council (KOFIC) or the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) to support foreign film productions.
What Organization Issues the Permits:
In Korea, film permits are typically issued by the Korea Film Council (KOFIC) or local government authorities, such as the Seoul Metropolitan Government or provincial governments, depending on the filming location.
Timings:
The processing time for a film permit in Korea generally takes around 3-14 working days, depending on the complexity of the application, the filming location, and the speed of approval from relevant authorities.
Required Information/Documentation for Application:
Cost:
The cost of a film permit in this region can range from ₩50,000 to ₩500,000 or more, depending on the filming location, duration, and type of production. Additional fees may apply for services such as police escorts or location rentals.
General Process:
In this region, we play an essential role in securing private film locations. We negotiate with location owners, obtain necessary permits, and coordinate logistics, often using our local knowledge and connections to ensure a smooth and successful filming experience.
Cost:
The cost of a private film location is usually determined after the location owner or manager reviews the film production synopsis, script, and other relevant details. This information helps them assess the potential impact and specific requirements of the filming project.
Drone Regulations:
Drone operators must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) for commercial use. Regulations include flying below 150 meters, maintaining a 10-kilometer radius from airports, and avoiding flights overpopulated areas or sensitive sites.
Drone Importation Regulations:
Drone importation requires a permit from the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) and clearance from the Korea Customs Service. Certain drone models may be subject to restrictions or require certification from the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) before importation.
What Organization Issues the Permits?
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) issues drone permits through the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA).
Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Application:
Required Information/Documentation for Drone Importation:
To import a drone into Korea, the required documents typically include:
Timings:
The processing time for a drone permit is typically around 2-4 weeks after submitting the required documents to the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA).
Cost:
The cost of a drone permit ranges from approximately ₩50,000 to ₩200,000, depending on the type of permit and the complexity of the application.
Is it a Carnet country?
Yes, Korea is a Carnet country.
General Process for Carnet Country:
In a Carnet country, the process involves obtaining an ATA Carnet from a national issuing association, listing the goods to be temporarily imported, and presenting the Carnet to customs officials upon arrival and departure. This ensures duty-free and tax-free importation and re-exportation of the goods.
Required Information/Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance:
What Organization Issues the Clearance?
In Korea, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) is responsible for issuing customs clearance for goods, including filming equipment, entering or leaving the country.
Timings:
Customs clearance in Korea typically takes around 1-3 days, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the shipment, the accuracy of the documentation, and the workload of the Korea Customs Service (KCS).
Cost:
The cost of customs clearance for film crews in Korea typically ranges from ₩500,000 to ₩2,000,000, depending on the type and value of the equipment, as well as the services of a customs broker or clearing agent.
This region offers a film rebate program through the Korea Film Commission’s (KOFIC) Location Incentive Program. This initiative provides a 20-30% cash rebate on eligible production expenses for foreign film productions shot in Korea. Learn more here
General Overview:
Korea provides a mix of modern and traditional filming locations, supported by a well-developed infrastructure and a highly skilled, English-speaking crew base. This makes it a convenient and efficient destination for film productions.
Security Requirements:
Standard security measures are generally sufficient for film crews in Korea. However, when filming in crowded areas or sensitive locations, it is advisable to hire local security personnel or collaborate with a production service company for guidance on security protocols.
South Korea, South Korea SOuth Kore