South Korea

Hoodlum offers expert film fixer services in South Korea, facilitating international productions of every scale with a full range of services, including location scouting, obtaining permits, full range of logistic support and connecting production teams with local talent and experienced crew.

Ultimate Filming Guide for South Korea

Capital

Korea include Seoul

Main Cities

Busan (the second-largest city), Incheon (a major port)

Local Languages

Hangul

Currency

South Korean Won (KRW)

Climate

Tropical Rainforest

General Visa 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 Documents:

A valid passport
A completed visa application form
Recent passport-sized photos
Proof of financial means
Flight itinerary or travel plans
Additional documents depending on the visa type (e.g., business or student visa).

Visa Application Process:

For more information, visit the official site:
Korean Visa 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.

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 Documents:

A completed application form
Filming proposal
Script
Crew list
Passport copies
Proof of insurance
Letters of introduction or recommendation from the production company or relevant authorities.

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.

Issuing Organization:

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.

Required Documents:

A completed application form
Filming proposal
Script
Storyboard
Location plans
Crew list
Equipment list
Proof of liability insurance
Additional supporting documents depending on the specific filming requirements.

Processing Time:

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.

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.

Location Scouting / Location Permits Information:

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.

Location Scouting / Permitting Cost & Processing Time

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.

To import a drone into Korea, the required documents typically include:

Commercial invoice
Bill of lading
Certificate of origin
Product specification documents
Conformity assessment certificate from the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) or another authorized testing laboratory

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.

Required Information/Documentation for Local Drone Application:

Completed application form
Drone specification documents
Proof of liability insurance
Copy of the drone pilot’s license
Detailed flight plan, including maps and coordinates of the intended flight area

Permit Issuance:

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport (MOLIT) issues drone permits through the Korea Office of Civil Aviation (KOCA).

Timing:

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.

Carnet Status:

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 Documents:

A commercial invoice
A packing list
An ATA Carnet (if applicable)
A certificate of origin
A letter of introduction or a filming permit issued by the Korean government or a local film commission.

Issuing Organization:

In Korea, the Korea Customs Service (KCS) is responsible for issuing customs clearance for goods, including filming equipment, entering or leaving the country.

Timing:

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.

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.

Rebates/Incentives:

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