A recent Korean box office success is not only winning audiences but also reshaping travel trends, as visitors flock to historic sites tied to one of Korea’s most heartbreaking royal stories.
The film “The King’s Warden” has sparked renewed interest in the life of King Danjong, the sixth ruler of the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1910), who was removed from the throne at a young age and sent into exile. Following the film’s popularity, Yeongwol in Gangwon Province has seen a noticeable surge in tourism.
According to local authorities, more than 10,000 people visited key historical locations — including Cheongnyeongpo and Jangneung Royal Tomb — over a single weekend. The total number of visitors this year has already crossed 109,000, a figure that nearly matches last year’s mid-year count, showing how dramatically interest has grown.
Officials believe the film is the main reason behind this sudden rise. Since its release on Feb. 4, “The King’s Warden” has sold over 11 million tickets nationwide within just over a month, placing it among Korea’s major box office hits.
Many travelers shared that the emotional story of King Danjong inspired them to visit these locations in person. One visitor mentioned that although Yeongwol was their hometown, they had never explored Cheongnyeongpo until watching the film. The story moved their family so deeply that it led to the trip.
The increase in visitors has transformed the once quiet historical sites into lively tourist spots. Parking areas have been filling up quickly, and long lines have formed for the ferry that takes visitors across the river to Cheongnyeongpo.
Cheongnyeongpo is especially significant, as it is where the young king spent part of his exile after being forced from power by his uncle, who later became King Sejo. Today, the site stands not only as a place of historical importance but also as a reminder of a tragic chapter in Korea’s past — now rediscovered by a new generation through cinema.