From Jackie Chan's new film to Suzy's drama, Kazakhstan becomes a filming location

The Vast Canyons Chosen by Jackie Chan: Kazakhstan Shakes Up the Global Film Industry

World-renowned action star Jackie Chan has embarked on a new challenge set against the rugged natural landscapes of Kazakhstan. On the 9th, Chan held a commencement ceremony for his new film, 'Armor of God: Ultimatum,' in Almaty, Kazakhstan, officially beginning his local schedule. This production is a large-scale co-production project involving China's state-owned China Film Group, Hong Kong's Billion Target, and Kazakhstan's media company Salem Entertainment. Aiming for a global release in 2027, filming will continue through October in the Almaty and Mangystau regions.

Local authorities have also mobilized in response to Chan's presence. Almaty police are providing support by managing safety at the filming sites of the Jackie Chan-led movie and controlling surrounding traffic. Notably, the production crew has selected the Bozzhyra Canyon in the Mangystau region as a primary filming location. The unique scenery of this area, where massive white cliffs meet desolate rocky terrain, is considered a key element that will captivate global audiences.

From Korean Dramas Starring Suzy to Korea-Kazakhstan Co-productions: The Content Craze Continues

Kazakhstan has become more than just a backdrop for Hollywood or Chinese films; it has become an attractive land for Korean content creators as well. In May, singer and actress Suzy visited Mangystau Aktau International Airport to film the Korean drama 'Men of the Harem.' At the time, Suzy's visit became a major sensation among local fans, proving the interest in Korean content within Kazakhstan.

Cooperation between the two nations is expanding into the integration of film production systems. 'Big Tiger Media,' a joint venture established by Korea and Kazakhstan, is fleshing out plans for co-produced films between the two countries. This project is a romantic comedy about a Korean superstar who falls in love with a local woman in Kazakhstan. Produced in three languages—Korean, Kazakh, and English—the work is expected to be filmed mostly in Almaty. The local production industry views this as an opportunity for advanced Korean filmmaking know-how to be transplanted into the Kazakhstani industry.

The reason Kazakhstan has rapidly emerged as a global content hub lies in its overwhelming geographical diversity. Within a single country, one can capture vast steppes, snowy mountains, and deserts, as well as massive canyons and the landscapes along the Caspian Sea. Additionally, urban landscapes bearing traces of the Soviet era coexist, providing filmmakers with endless visual options. Experts analyze that this harmony of natural environments and urban landscapes will establish Kazakhstan as a representative filming destination in Central Asia.