What is the Red Door from “Goblin”

When it comes to immersing oneself in the world of Korean dramas, fans often dream of visiting the very locations where their favorite shows were filmed. For those living in Canada or traveling to the Great White North, there’s a surprising slice of K-drama magic tucked away in the picturesque city of Quebec.

The enchanting K-drama “Goblin: The Lonely and Great God,” which captured the hearts of millions across Asia, ventured far from its South Korean origin to the charming streets of Quebec City. The show’s storyline skillfully incorporated the city’s historic sites, inviting viewers to fall in love not only with the characters but also with the picturesque backdrop of Old Quebec.

As a result, Asian tourists, particularly from South Korea, began to flock to Quebec City, eager to step into the world they had admired on their screens. The red door from “Goblin,” an unassuming entrance to the Théâtre Petit Champlain in Old Quebec’s Lowertown, became an unexpected sensation.

In the show, this door acts as a mystical portal, allowing one of the main characters to transcend space and time, moving from his office in Korea into the captivating streets of Old Quebec. While it may have gone unnoticed a year ago, this red door has now become a must-see attraction for fans of the series.

Visitors from across the globe, particularly buses filled with Korean tourists and families, now make their pilgrimage to this seemingly ordinary door. Each day, dozens of tourists eagerly snap photos beside it, hoping to capture a fragment of the magical world of “Goblin.”

Anne Dubé, the theatre’s director, shared an amusing anecdote about the door’s newfound fame. She mentioned an incident where she asked a visiting family if they’d like to see the other side of the door. To her surprise, they agreed, and when they entered the theatre, they were soon followed by approximately 30 enthusiastic Korean tourists.

The phenomenon isn’t limited to just the red door. Other locations featured in the series have also gained popularity among tourists. The Château Frontenac, one of Quebec City’s signature hotels, has seen a significant uptick in Korean visitors, thanks in part to a “Goblin package” that includes a stay at the hotel. The lobby, which houses an antique mailbox featured in the soap opera, has become a magnet for fans seeking a connection to their beloved show.

To further entice fans, tourism promoters have introduced novel experiences, including maple syrup-flavored potato chips tailored to the Asian market and a map that pinpoints the locations where “Goblin” was filmed.

Quebec City’s unexpected transformation into a K-drama pilgrimage site showcases the enduring appeal and global reach of Korean dramas. The magic of “Goblin” has not only enchanted viewers onscreen but has also transformed this Canadian city into a must-visit destination for fans who wish to step through that famous red door and experience the enchantment firsthand.