A Journey Through Time at Malengi Village
On a mountainside where time stands still, art begins to bloom.
These days, there is a must-visit destination in Gunsan: Malengi Village, nestled on the slopes of Wolmyeong Park. This village has become a new attraction linked to the Time Travel Village.
What is Malengi Village?
Malengi is a dialect from Jeolla Province meaning 'mountainside.' This area began to develop as a residential area in the 1930s and 40s, as people sought refuge from the Japanese. During the Korean War, refugees built makeshift homes here, creating a village with thatched roofs. Over time, this mountainside settlement became known as Malengi Village.
As the scars of war lingered, empty houses increased as refugees built their lives here. Now, however, this place is transforming into a vibrant community adorned with art and culture.
During my visit to Malengi Village on a weekend morning, I noticed many tourists exploring the area despite the chilly weather. The village features unique spaces such as a brewery, bookstore, memory photo studio, and storytelling yard, each fostering a special cultural atmosphere.
At the main exhibition hall and cultural space, the Storytelling Yard, I discovered a special exhibition. Following the signs from the parking lot, I first encountered the brewery.
Shinheung Brewery – The Warmth of the Village in a Glass of Makgeolli
This brewery offers hands-on experiences in making makgeolli and sells both makgeolli and Korean pancakes. The staff were busy preparing side dishes, and they offered a complimentary dish of fermented skate with every glass of makgeolli, showcasing the generous spirit of Gunsan.
Storytelling Yard – 'To You Who Lost Your Light' Exhibition
Just a short walk down from the brewery, I arrived at the Storytelling Yard, where the exhibition 'To You Who Lost Your Light' is currently taking place. Original works from local artists Kim Min, Song Hana, and Jin Bunhong, featured in their book of the same name, are on display until the 21st.
This exhibition appears to offer artistic comfort to those of us who have lost our unique light amid the rapidly changing world and the weight of daily life. It suggests that you are still shining, and that light is merely hiding for a moment.
As I enjoyed the paintings accompanied by quiet videos, I felt a sense of solace wash over me. I believe that anyone weary from daily life would leave this place feeling comforted after viewing the exhibition.
Memory Exhibition Hall – A Time Travel to the 70s and 80s
Leaving the Storytelling Yard and walking uphill, I stumbled upon a place for a time slip back to the past: the Memory Exhibition Hall. It features displays themed around the 70s and 80s.
Families visiting shared amusing conversations reflecting on those times. If you visit Malengi Village, I highly recommend stopping by the Memory Exhibition Hall for a nostalgic journey.
Malengi Village Murals – Art in Every Alley
Walking through Malengi Village naturally slows your pace due to the murals blooming in every alley. It's fun to take photos with these murals, reminiscing about the past. Notably, you can find murals on Kim Soo-mi Street, where the late actress, known for her role in the drama 'Farmhouse,' grew up.
Taking photos in front of the murals added richness to my journey through the alleys of Malengi Village. Along with the exhibition 'To You Who Lost Your Light,' I enjoyed a wealth of visual experiences. The exhibition runs until the 21st, so visitors to Malengi Village should definitely check it out.
Exhibition Details:
Location: 34-5 Sinheung-dong, Gunsan, Jeonbuk
Duration: Until March 21 (Saturday) at the Storytelling Yard
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224219912066
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