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In HONG’s films, you often meet the landscape of diverse places in Korea including old and famous areas of Seoul like Bukchon and Namsan Mountain. Turning Gate (2002) travels through Gyeongju, a major destination for school trip, and Chuncheon, a classic venue for dates. Thanks to the powerful impression that the film has made, riding a paddle boat has almost become a tradition when you visit Chuncheon, although paddle boats are of course common in other cities as well.

Woman On the Beach (2006) takes a walk on Sindu-ri beach in Taean, and In Another Country (2012) stays at Mohang beach in Buan. To be sure, HONG does like seashores: Hahaha (2010) takes place in the beautiful port city of Tongyeong, often referred to as Korean Naples. Tongyeong is also the hometown of his mother.

However, it is not just the tourist attractions that he sets his works in. Like You Know It All (2009) is, as well as in Jeju-do Island, set in Jecheon, a lake city to host Jecheon International Music & Film Festival but not famous as a tourist attraction. Last-year-released Right Now, Wrong Then takes place in Suwon which is near Seoul.

Coincidentally, HONG’s films have often been released in spring and fall. So there was a saying that when you meet the spring breeze or lonely fall wind, it is time to see his film. In those seasons, you want to leave somewhere, perhaps with a drink. And, with a good movie, too.