Exploring the Junk Art Exhibition at Ganjeolgot
울산광역시 울주군 서생면 대송리
Ganjeolgot in Ulsan, known as the first sunrise spot in South Korea, now hosts a large-scale junk art exhibition titled “Imaginary Space” at Ganjeolgot Park.
This outdoor exhibition transforms recycled scrap metal into imaginative sculptures that tell the stories of Ulju-gun, offering a unique experience that can be enjoyed from daytime through night.
Imaginary Space at Ganjeolgot Park
Ganjeolgot is famous for being the first place in Korea to witness the sunrise. Recently, an eye-catching junk art exhibition called “Imaginary Space” opened at Ganjeolgot Park, adding a creative cultural attraction to this iconic location.
The park is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the exhibition alongside Ganjeolgot’s coastal scenery both during the day and at night.
After passing the entrance marked by the Ganjeolgot windmill, visitors enter Imaginary Space, which is divided into five themed zones.
Stories of Ulju-gun Told Through Junk Art
Each zone reflects different aspects of Ulju-gun, including the East Sea, traditional markets, local sports teams, and cultural heritage, all expressed through large-scale junk art installations.
The first installation depicts the East Sea, featuring dinosaur figures wearing diving masks. These playful characters symbolize the haenyeo diving culture and recall memories of Jinha Beach, a popular summer destination.
Moving forward, the exhibition transitions into a vibrant traditional market scene. Local specialties such as Seosaeng pears, seaweed, and kelp are represented by colorful dinosaurs carrying boxes and shopping bags.
Sports, Festivals, and Playful Imagination
At the sports park zone, a wrestling match featuring the Ulju Haetmi Wrestling Team comes to life. A yellow dinosaur referee raises the arm of a pink dinosaur winner, creating a humorous and energetic scene.
Nearby, a soccer match between dinosaurs captures the spirit of Ulsan Hyundai Football Club. A dinosaur goalkeeper and a charging striker add excitement and motion to the installation.
The theme park zone adds a whimsical touch with a cupcake-shaped Ferris wheel, a spaceship claw machine, and a carousel. The carousel features animals inspired by the Bangudae Petroglyphs, with media art of whales displayed inside.
Ganjeol Warrior Solarbot, the Icon of the Exhibition
The most iconic piece of Imaginary Space is the “Ganjeol Warrior Solarbot,” an enormous junk art sculpture standing 18 meters tall. It is recognized as the largest junk art sculpture in the world.
During the day, visitors can capture a stunning photo with sunlight shining through the circular orb held by the Solarbot. At night, the sculpture lights up using solar energy, creating a dramatic nighttime landmark.
Additional installations feature dinosaurs performing as DJs, musicians, and festival participants, reflecting Ulju-gun’s various cultural and art festivals.
Day-to-Night Experience at Ganjeolgot
Whimsical junk art pieces such as giant banana milk cartons, strawberry milk, and playful burger sculptures appear throughout the exhibition. Despite being made from scrap metal, the level of detail and craftsmanship is impressive.
In July, a new management building was completed to support the systematic upkeep of Ganjeolgot Park. A new observation point called Ganjeolru was also installed, offering panoramic views of the coastline.
Imaginary Space at Ganjeolgot beautifully conveys the stories of Ulju-gun’s landmarks and daily life through recycled art. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the exhibition offers a creative and memorable experience by the sea.
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