Where Was <i>Can This Love Be Translated</i> Filmed? From Canada To Italy, Viral Shoot Locations Revealed

Since its highly anticipated release on January 16, 2026, the captivating K-drama Can This Love Be Translated has swiftly ascended to become one of Netflix's most-watched titles globally. This compelling series masterfully weaves a tale of intricate romance, emotional depth, and stunning visual artistry, drawing viewers into a world where feelings often get lost in translation.

The drama introduces us to South Korea's beloved and enigmatic viral sensation, Cha Mu-hee, brought to life with nuance and charm by the talented Go Youn-jung. Her path fatefully crosses with Joo Ho-jin, a skilled interpreter portrayed by the ever-charismatic Kim Seon-ho. Their initial encounters set the stage for a love story unlike any other, challenging conventional notions of romance and self-discovery.

At its core, Can This Love Be Translated delves into the complexities of human connection, exploring how two individuals deeply drawn to each other struggle to articulate their profound affections. Their inability to openly profess their feelings stems from deeply entrenched inner demons and unresolved childhood traumas, adding layers of psychological depth to their burgeoning relationship. Each episode is a testament to the show's intricate narrative, unfolding with breathtaking visuals and emotionally charged moments that keep audiences captivated.

Under the masterful direction of Yoo Young-eun, the story progresses with a delicate touch, ensuring that even as it tackles weighty themes, it remains accessible and deeply resonant without ever feeling overwhelming. The director's vision is beautifully complemented by the incorporation of picturesque shooting locations, many of which are showcased through "Romantic Trip," a fictional reality show starring Cha Mu-hee alongside the charismatic Japanese star, Hiro Kurosawa, played by Sota Fukushi.

What truly sets this K-drama apart and has propelled it to viral status isn't just its compelling narrative or stellar cast, but its ambitious global scope. While many South Korean productions are renowned for their striking domestic backdrops, Can This Love Be Translated embarks on an expansive cinematic journey, taking viewers beyond the homeland to the enchanting landscapes of Japan, the majestic wilderness of Canada, and the timeless charm of Italy.

An International Tapestry of Love: Key Filming Locations

Japan: Where Destinies First Intertwine

The series elegantly begins its international odyssey in Japan, where Cha Mu-hee and Joo Ho-jin first cross paths. It's amidst this foreign land that they serendipitously discover a shared vulnerability, both bearing the scars of past heartbreaks. Their initial, poignant encounter unfolds in Kamakura, a serene coastal city famed for its temples and natural beauty. This peaceful setting provides fertile ground for two Korean souls to connect on a raw, empathetic level, fostering an emotional openness that quickly becomes the bedrock of their burgeoning bond. Further scenes that deepened their connection were meticulously filmed across various iconic Japanese locales, including the bustling Enoshima Benzaiten Shopping Street, the historical Goryo Shrine, the quaint Gokurakuji Station, the scenic Kamakura Seaside Park, the majestic Grand Torii of Enoshima Shrine, the innovative Tenzan Lab, and the picturesque Katase Fishing Port, each adding unique visual texture to their unfolding story.

South Korea: A Return to Fame and Unintended Connections

Following their memorable meeting in Japan, the narrative brings Cha Mu-hee and Joo Ho-jin back to South Korea, where fate continues to orchestrate their encounters. A dramatic accident on a set thrusts Cha Mu-hee into a coma, from which she awakens to find herself an overnight celebrity, thanks to her captivating on-screen zombie character, Do Ra-mi. Prior to her coma, she had unknowingly posted a blurred image of Joo Ho-jin from Japan, expressing gratitude for his timely assistance, akin to a human translation app. As her online presence exploded, fans dubbed Joo Ho-jin her "mystery man." To mitigate the attention and request the photo's removal, Joo Ho-jin reluctantly accepts another assignment: to be her interpreter for a high-profile interview. This twist of fate leads to further encounters, with key scenes captured at vibrant locations like the expansive Youngpoong Bookstore Jongno Branch, the minimalist Concino Concrete, the charming Sunday Arvo café, and the elegant Raum Art Center, grounding their complex relationship within familiar Korean settings.

Canada: The Landscape of Budding Affection

The story takes another breathtaking turn as Cha Mu-hee is cast opposite Hiro Kurosawa for the "Romantic Trip" reality show, with filming commencing amidst the stunning natural grandeur of Canada. It is here, against the backdrop of unparalleled wilderness, particularly in the iconic town of Banff, that the true depth of feeling between Cha Mu-hee and Joo Ho-jin becomes undeniably clear to both themselves and the audience. A truly magical moment unfolds as they witness the ethereal Aurora Borealis around Lake Louise, a scene that beautifully encapsulates the progression of their romance, culminating in tender shared moments and a long-awaited kiss. The Canadian leg of their journey also featured a multitude of equally impressive filming locations, including Rotary Park in Calgary, the historic Stephen Avenue, the immersive Heritage Park, the bustling Banff Avenue, the charming Downtown Canmore 8th Street, the serene Baker Park, the stately Lougheed House, the iconic Bow River Bridge, and the tranquil Cascade of Time Gardens, each spot adding to the visual poetry of their developing love.

Italy: Confessions Amidst Ancient Beauty

The grand culmination of the "Romantic Trip" — and indeed, the emotional heart of Cha Mu-hee and Joo Ho-jin's tumultuous journey — arrives in Italy. Against a backdrop of ancient splendor and romantic allure, the leads finally confront their deepest emotions and confess their profound love for one another, marking the peak of their emotional rollercoaster. Following the breathtaking Canadian vistas, Italy presented some of the series' most visually striking settings. The narrow, winding lanes and timeless old-world charm of the Italian hill town, Civita di Bagnoregio, served as a particularly significant location. It was within this evocative setting that Joo Ho-jin gained a profound understanding of Cha Mu-hee's alter personality, Do Ra-mi, and spent crucial time delving into her tragic past, uncovering the roots of her internal struggles. The series' iconic opening scene, setting the tone for the entire drama, was filmed at the formidable Fortress of Montalcino, where Hiro Kurosawa's heartfelt confession to Cha Mu-hee met with gentle rejection, framed by the stunning panorama of the hill town. Glimpses of the historically rich cities of Florence and Perugia also graced the screen, further enriching the show's visual narrative and deepening its European tapestry.

Beyond being a mere love story, Can This Love Be Translated stands as a mature and insightful exploration of modern relationships, the intricate dance of confusing emotions, and the enduring impact of past traumas on present connections. It's a drama that not only captivates with its global scenery but also resonates deeply with its honest portrayal of the human heart. Available now on Netflix, this K-drama promises an engaging experience from start to finish, offering a feast for both the eyes and the soul, ensuring that viewers will not encounter a single dull moment, whether engrossed in the compelling plot or admiring the magnificent backdrops.