Exploring the Retro Vibe of Iksan's Cultural Arts Street
If you want to experience a retro atmosphere,
head to Iksan's Cultural Arts Street.
This small city, where I was born and raised,
has a now lesser-known retro spot.
Shall we go together to feel warmth and humanity, as if we are traveling through time?
The Cultural Arts Street
Near the Central Market, there are buildings and streets filled with retro charm. Today, I will introduce this area, starting with the Cultural Arts Street, followed by the Iksan Modern History Museum, the Central Shopping District, and some recently popular budget-friendly eateries.
Interesting elements await
Beginning with the 'Samnam Theater,' which commemorates the historic Iri Station, there are various unexpected experiences, including music rooms, workshops, and pottery. Please note that most of these experiences are paid.
Although there is a somewhat annoying pamphlet hanging around, I noticed that from tomorrow (the 12th), a 'Wise Chicken Road' event will be held here at the Cultural Arts Street. Of course, this post will be uploaded well after the event period, but this area often hosts events and festivals more frequently than you might think.
After walking 150 meters from the entrance
while exploring the market along the main road, you will see the Iksan Modern History Museum. It is closed every Monday and operates from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is free.
Before entering, if you look to your left and right, you will see a detailed timeline of Iksan's history on the left, and an old building that may still be in operation on the right.
The Iksan Modern History Museum
It is easy to find, as it consists of distinctly visible buildings. Inside, you can explore two floors. The first floor primarily deals with major events in Iksan from the Japanese occupation period. If you have any questions while viewing the exhibits, feel free to ask the staff on duty, who will kindly and thoroughly assist you.
As you listen to the elders, you might hear them refer to 'Iri.' Iri is the old name for Iksan in Jeollabuk-do. It became Iri City in 1949 after passing through Iri-eup in 1931 and was merged with Iksan-gun to become Iksan City on May 1, 1995. Now, if you hear the term 'Iri' during your visit, you won't be surprised!
We headed back out of the history museum towards the entrance of the Cultural Arts Street. Crossing the crosswalk, you will immediately see the old bustling Central Street. When I was in upper elementary school, this area felt crowded and mysterious. However, unfortunately, it has become difficult for businesses to thrive here, resulting in many vacant spaces.
Continuing down the road, you will see the original location of the 'Samnam Theater.' It has now been converted into a 'nursing hospital.' The original building collapsed during the Iri Station explosion on November 11, 1977, and was later transformed into a New Town department store.
The Samnam Theater gained notoriety when the late Lee Joo-il saved Ha Chun-hwa from the collapsed theater during the explosion, becoming a lifesaver in the process.
Directly across is the path leading to the Central Market.
Inside, you can also enjoy screen experiences, and the 'Moonlight Imagination Pocha' is still running every Friday and Saturday. Since this place is not widely known, I recommend stopping by if you're planning a trip that aligns with the dates.
Imagination Youth Mall
This is a youth mall operated by young entrepreneurs. It would be nice to enjoy a meal while feeling the cool air conditioning on a hot summer day. It might be a bit tricky to find since it's deep within the market, but once you get here, it's not as hard to locate, so be sure to stop by :)
As a bonus... if you use the youth mall, the coin karaoke is free!
As you venture further into the market, you will see the true face of the Central Market. Even on a weekday, the commercial area is bustling. I was surprised because, as a resident of Iksan, I honestly thought it would be quiet.
But to my surprise, the market was lively with many customers! There is even a night market festival happening soon. The event is set for the 12th to the 13th, with DJ DOC's Kim Chang-ryul visiting.
As you stroll through the market, you will see a banner for 'Ramen/Snacks/Oriental Medicine/Geumsa.'
If you continue down that path, you will come across the popular Da-il Bunsik, which was recently visited by the famous Mukbang YouTuber 'Jjuyang.' This place has been a budget-friendly gem I visited often with my mother and younger sibling since childhood.
Recently, due to its fame, the waiting times have been excessively long, making it hard to dine here. However, I got lucky this time with no wait and boldly ordered three servings of sweet and sour pork to take home and enjoy.
If you have time, I recommend trying other menu items here. They are very affordable. Just to mention the sweet and sour pork, it was only 4,000 won per serving :)
Source :https://blog.naver.com/jbgokr/224330691919
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