Mungyeong Saejae Open Set & 2026 Ceramic Festival — Complete Guide
What is Mungyeong Saejae Open Set?
Mungyeong Saejae Open Set is Korea’s largest outdoor historical drama filming location, where the majority of Korean historical dramas and films are produced. First built on February 23, 2000 as a KBS historical drama set, it was renovated with support from Mungyeong City to recreate the Joseon Dynasty era, and took on its current form on April 16, 2008.
Spanning 70,000㎡, the set features 130 buildings in total — including Gwanghwamun Gate, Gyotaejeon Hall, Donggung Palace, Seounwon, royal office buildings, and nobleman’s houses, along with 22 thatched-roof homes and 5 traditional tile-roofed houses.
Countless historical dramas and films have been shot here, including Six Flying Dragons, Rebel: Thief Who Stole the People, The Fortress, and Kingdom. Most recently, it served as a key filming location for The King’s Warden (왕과 사는 남자, 2026) — one of the biggest box office hits in Korean cinema history.
The Story Behind Mungyeong Saejae (聞慶鳥嶺)
This mountain pass along the Baekdudaegan ridge was historically the highest and most treacherous crossing on the Yeongnamdaero — the main road connecting the Han River and Nakdong River basins. It served as a vital hub for cultural exchange, commerce, and national defense.
The name Saejae (鳥嶺) carries several possible meanings: “a pass so steep even birds struggle to cross,” “a pass overgrown with pampas grass,” “a pass between (사이) two other passes,” or “a newly (새) made pass.”
After the Imjin War, three fortress gates were built here — Juheulgwan, Jogokgwan, and Joryeonggwan (Historic Site No. 147) — transforming it into a military stronghold. The area was designated a local monument in 1974 and a provincial park in 1981, and remains one of Korea’s most visited historical sites.
Highlights of the Open Set
Gwanghwamun Gate, Geunjeongmun Gate, Gyotaejeon Hall, and even the ornate Amisan chimney have all been faithfully recreated here. The intricate detail of the Amisan chimney behind Gyotaejeon is a particular highlight.
A full recreation of a Joseon-era nobleman’s village. During the festival, each house hosted an exhibition by ceramic studios participating in the event.
Gwangcheongol Village — Filming Location of The King’s Warden 🎬
Step into Gwangcheongol — the village at the heart of Korea’s biggest blockbuster of 2026, filmed right here inside the set. Walk the path where Prince Geumseong made his dramatic appearance, linger where villagers gathered to gossip, and explore the thatched-roof homes where the people of Gwangcheongol once lived — all straight out of the film.
After exploring the set, walk the earthen trail from Gate 1 (Juheulgwan) to Gate 2 (Jogokgwan). Many visitors go barefoot on this soft dirt path through lush forest — the perfect slow-travel experience.
2026 Mungyeong Ceramic Festival (Chatsabal Festival)
Now in its 28th year, the Mungyeong Ceramic Festival ran from May 1–10, 2026, held throughout the Mungyeong Saejae Open Film Set and Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park. Designated an Honorary Cultural Tourism Festival by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, it celebrates the art of the traditional Korean tea bowl (찻사발) — fired at over 1,300°C in a traditional wood-burning kiln known as a mangdaengi kiln.
Festival Program Highlights
Korea’s iconic dalhanggari — so treasured, MoMA New York holds one in their permanent collection.
Dress like the King and Queen of Joseon at Gyotaejeon Hall.
Shape a traditional Korean tea bowl the old-fashioned way.
More to See Around Mungyeong
Gaeun Catholic Church (가은성당)
This charming church in Gaeun-eup features a striking red-brick exterior and bell tower that give it a distinctly European feel. A beloved spot for photos and quiet reflection.
Ajagae Jangter Market (아자개장터)
Named after Ajagae — the father of Gyeon Hwon, founder of Later Baekje — this traditional market sits near Cafe Gaeun Station. On weekends, the mural street comes alive with activities and local street food, making it a great spot to soak up the local atmosphere.
Cafe Gaeun Station (카페 가은역)
A decommissioned railway station from 1955, closed in 2004, and lovingly transformed into a charming cafe by local residents. Now a registered cultural heritage site (No. 304), it’s famous for its apple-based drinks and desserts made from locally grown Mungyeong apples.
Beyond the market itself, the streets surrounding Ajagae Market and Gaeun Station are full of quiet charm — retro murals, narrow alleyways, and storefronts that haven’t changed since the 1950s and 60s. It’s the kind of neighborhood that rewards slow walkers.
Where to Eat
Saejae Galbi
The go-to spot for yakdol pork — a local specialty where pigs are raised on mineral-rich stone water. Grilled on a wire rack over charcoal, it’s a must-try paired with omija makgeolli.
Byeolmi Naengmyeon
A local favorite for cold noodles, located right in front of Ajagae Market. Perfect for cooling down during the festival.
Mungyeong’s signature fermented rice wine made with omija (five-flavor berry). Paired with yakdol pork galbi, it’s one of the best flavor combinations you’ll find in Korea — don’t leave without trying it!
Where to Stay
Petro Hotel (formerly Ramada Mungyeongsaejae)
The closest hotel to Mungyeong Saejae Provincial Park, with the film set and festival grounds just a short walk away. With 71 rooms, a breakfast buffet, and restaurants and convenience stores right outside the front door, it’s the most convenient base for your Mungyeong trip.
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