Exploring the Vibrant Mural Village of Haebangchon
[By Choi Byeong-yong]
On a sunny day, I found a quiet alley perfect for a leisurely stroll, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This hidden gem is the 'Haebangchon Village' located on Masuk-ro 45-gil in Hwado-eup, Namyangju.
Haebangchon, known for its vibrant mural street, began as a refuge for displaced people after the Korean War, carrying the history and emotions of its residents over the years.
The once old and worn alley has been transformed into a colorful space, thanks to the '2025 Hwado-eup Urban Regeneration Public Design Project' that took place from June to October last year.
The walking path is divided into three main themes, ensuring that visitors are never bored. It features a total of 172 meters of diverse sections, including the Birch Forest Path, Memory Path, and Sunflower Path.
The gray concrete walls have been replaced with a beautiful birch forest and fields of barley swaying in the wind, providing a soothing experience for passersby.
As you walk a little further, you will encounter the Memory Path, where nostalgic scenes come to life. You can see a mother washing her child in a basin, mischievous kids playing with slingshots, and the cheerful sight of children riding bicycles to school.
The murals, intricately painted on the walls, evoke a deep sense of nostalgia, as if you are traveling back in time to your childhood.
Children joyfully chasing a disinfectant truck will stir emotions in anyone from the previous generation, bringing back fond memories.
Entering the final section, the Sunflower Path, you are greeted by large sunflowers blooming on the walls, welcoming all who pass by.
Like the meaning of 'liberation' and 'new beginnings' in the name Haebangchon, the murals vividly reflect the lives and community of the residents, revitalizing the village.
If you seek a warm comfort that connects the past with the present, consider taking a leisurely stroll through the mural village of Haebangchon in Hwado-eup, Namyangju, where memories and hope coexist.
Source :https://blog.naver.com/gyeonggi_gov/224376508907
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