Upon release, The Legend of the Blue Sea received mixed-to-positive reviews in Korea (criticizing pacing in the middle episodes) but was a smash hit internationally. On MyDramaList, it holds a steady 8.5/10 based on over 50,000 user ratings.
When discussing The Legend of the Blue Sea as a viral web series, several scenes became instant memes and GIFs across social media: The Legend of the Blue Sea -2016- Web Series
The series was shot on location in Palau, Spain (the stunning Girona Cathedral and Costa Brava coastline), and the Korean countryside. The underwater sequences, involving advanced CGI and wire work for Jun Ji-hyun, were revolutionary for television. Streaming in HD or 4K allowed viewers to appreciate the oceanic blues and vibrant city lights of Seoul, making it a visual feast for binge-watchers. Upon release, The Legend of the Blue Sea