A Romantic European Escape in Gapyeong, Just an Hour from Seoul
Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Bukhan River, there is a pastel-colored village that feels like a small corner of France — Petite France in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province.
With bright rooftops, fairy-tale architecture, and the beloved theme of The Little Prince, this cultural park is one of Korea’s most iconic European-style destinations.
Known as a filming location for famous K-dramas like My Love from the Star, Secret Garden, and Running Man, it attracts travelers from all over the world.
Here’s a complete expert guide to experiencing the charm, culture, and art of Petite France.
Table of Contents
- Overview – A Little France Brought to Life in Korea
- A European Fantasy in Pastel Colors
- Art, Music, and Culture Come Alive
- Famous K-Drama & Variety Show Filming Location
- Recommended Routes for Couples, Families & Friends
- Nearby Attractions & Café Recommendations
- Travel Tips
- Why Petite France Is a Must-Visit
Overview – A Little France Brought to Life in Korea
- Location: 1063 Hoban-ro, Cheongpyeong-myeon, Gapyeong-gun
- Size: Approx. 11,000 pyeong
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (5:00 PM during winter season)
- Admission: Adults ₩14,000 / Teens ₩10,000 / Children ₩9,000
- Parking: Free (capacity approx. 400 cars)
- Website: Petite France
Opened in 2008, Petite France was designed to bring French culture, art, and storytelling to Korea.
The name literally means “Little France,” and the entire village recreates the warmth of southern France — its colors, courtyards, and romantic atmosphere.
“Petite France is the closest you can get to a French getaway without leaving Korea.”
A European Fantasy in Pastel Colors
The first thing visitors notice is the pastel-toned architecture.
Walking through the village feels like stepping into the storybook world of Provence:
yellow walls glowing under the sun, terracotta rooftops, and balconies decorated with flowers.
Throughout the park, The Little Prince murals, quotes, and sculptures greet visitors —
reminding you of the heartfelt charm of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s world.
Popular Photo Spots
- The Little Prince statue at the entrance
- Provence Square with its fountain
- Hoban Viewpoint overlooking the lake
- Flower Street featuring colorful European houses
Sunset is especially magical —
when the sky turns pink and the village glows like a watercolor painting.
“A moment at Petite France feels like walking through a French fairy tale.”
Art, Music, and Culture Come Alive
Petite France is more than a pretty village —
it’s a living cultural space inspired by French art, music, and theater.
Cultural Highlights
- Marionette Theater: Daily puppet shows with traditional French puppetry
- Galerie Camille: Exhibitions featuring European-inspired works
- Music Box House: Antique 19th-century music boxes with live demonstrations
- Little Prince Memorial Hall: Exhibits on Saint-Exupéry’s life, manuscripts, and artworks
- French Costume Studio: Try on European dresses and take photos
With street performances, busking events, and rotating exhibitions,
there’s always something new to enjoy.
Famous K-Drama & Variety Show Filming Location
Petite France shot to global fame as a filming site for popular Korean dramas:
- My Love from the Star – The iconic dating scenes
- Secret Garden – Romantic confession scenes
- Running Man / Infinite Challenge – Mission and variety episodes
Fans can follow the marked filming spots and recreate their favorite scenes for photos.
“For many international travelers, Petite France is a must-visit K-drama pilgrimage spot.”
Recommended Routes for Couples, Families & Friends
Whether you’re looking for romance, creativity, or family fun, the park offers a perfect course.
For Couples
Entrance → Little Prince statue → Scenic viewpoint → Music Box House → Provence Café
Romantic architecture + sunset views = a perfect date.
For Families
Memorial Hall → Marionette Theater → Hands-on exhibits → Souvenir shop
Kids especially love the puppet shows and costume experiences.
For Friends & Content Creators
Galerie Camille → European streets → Photo zone tour → Drama filming spots
An ideal route for taking Instagram-worthy shots.
Nearby Attractions & Café Recommendations
Nearby Attractions
- Nami Island – Just 10 minutes away, a must-visit for nature lovers
- The Garden of Morning Calm – Famous for flower festivals and night lights
- Jaraseom Island – Known for camping, picnics, and jazz festivals
Recommended Cafés
- La Vie de France – A bakery café inside Petite France
- Dumulmeori Café – Riverside views and signature desserts
- Blooming View – A scenic café with panoramic river views
A perfect one-day itinerary could be:
Nami Island → Petite France → Morning Calm Garden
Travel Tips
- Reserve tickets online for discounts
- Puppet shows and music box performances are scheduled — check times in advance
- Indoor galleries make it enjoyable even on rainy days
- Little Prince souvenirs, postcards, and music boxes are popular gifts
- Visit during sunset for the best photos
Why Petite France Is a Must-Visit
Petite France is not merely a theme park.
It’s a cultural village that blends French romance with Korean storytelling.
Here, travelers can breathe in fresh mountain air,
wander alongside European façades,
and take home memories that feel cinematic and heartfelt.
“It’s a place where even the wind feels like it carries a hint of French poetry.”
If you want a European escape without boarding a plane,
Petite France offers the perfect fairytale journey —
right here in the heart of Korea.
Petite France is Korea’s little piece of Europe —
a fairytale village painted with art, culture, and pure emotion.