visitseoul.net

Cities naturally change over time. New buildings are constructed and old buildings are demolished to transform existing alleys. With its long history, Seoul is constantly changing. Every turn around the corner leads to unexpected finds within narrow alleyways of each neighborhood. The alleys in Mullae-dong, in particular, exude unique appeal through the coexistence of art and industry in harmony where rusty steel mills are given a touch of artistic inspiration.

Art Creation amid Backdrop of Spinning Wheels and Machinery

There are several stories behind the origin of the name of Mullae-dong. The Chinese characters of the word “mullae (文來)” can be translated into “writing comes”, or a spinning wheel for spinning thread or yarn sounds similar to “mullae” in Korean. Considering the fact that the area housed numerous textile operations in the past, the story behind the name originating from a spinning wheel is more convincing.

Yeongdeungpo-gu, the district where Mullae-dong is located, used to be an industrial area clustered with factories, and Mullae-dong was especially known for parts and materials produced at small metal workshops. Despite its heyday several decades ago, the success of the neighborhood has declined mostly due to industrial changes where deserted workshops filled the lackluster area.

However, the 2000s marked the onset of a new beginning. The area attracted young artists and musicians in need of more affordable rent. The atmosphere has changed through the voices of young artists who wanted to establish new grounds among industrial buildings making boisterous sounds of machinery less and less frequently. With an added touch of artistic flair in the outdated factories lined up along the alley, a new form of art has been blooming among abandoned ironworks, revamping its vibe into that of a popular art destination.

Steel Alley in Mullae-dong,

Bridging Gaps in Generations and Culture

The entrance of the steel alley in Mullae-dong is characterized by graffiti and murals painted on shutters and walls. Eye-catching murals decorate outdated industrial buildings that used to be packed with iron scraps and the noise of machines, while steel-based sculptures remind visitors of the neighborhood that once thrived in steel-making.

A perfect balance between disappearance and emergence of spaces allows visitors to come across quite a few hidden gems. Industrial-style workshops, cafes, pubs, and eateries are dotting the neighborhood in between artists’ studios, along with remaining ironworks still in operation.

Stroll through the neighborhood on your own personal adventure, and you're sure to encounter colorful and vivid artworks drawn on roller shutters of closed factories, next to welding flames at the different ironworks still around.

• ○Address: Mullae-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Mullae Creative Village,

Embracing Seasoned Craftsmen and Young Artists

Spinning a wheel to weave fabric, cutting and welding iron parts, and creating pieces of artwork all share the same essence of what it means to create. The Mullae Creative Village is a small town formed by artists who flocked to the factory area once occupied by craftsmen.

Nostalgic ambience of ironworks is conjoined with the creative inspiration of artists in this particular region. Small art galleries regularly hold exhibitions, and artist-led workshops attract visitors as well as other aspiring artists. Trendy cafes and eateries, in addition to unusual spots, such as a gamaekjip (a convenience store of sorts where people can stop by for light drinks and snacks to enjoy in the seating provided), will sure keep you entertained for hours.

Posters on the walls of the village alleys and nearby theaters and galleries promote the exhibitions and performances held throughout the year.

• ○Address: 13-8 Dorim-ro 128ga-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Mullae Neighborhood Park

Provides Peaceful Center in City

The large spinning wheel sculpture at the entrance greets visitors to the area. Established in 1986, the Mullae Neighborhood Park consists of a multi-purpose sports field, walking trail, pavilion, playground, and family-friendly facilities, such as a forest experience center for children, thus offering a resting place for visitors and local residents.

Since it is located right near Mullae Station on subway line 2, the park can be visited before or after exploring Mullae-dong for a quick nature getaway. Eco-friendly air purifying benches are situated throughout the park, and the names of the plants are marked and explained for educational purposes, while the public parking lot located next to the Mullae Neighborhood Park makes it more accessible by car.

Take a break, embrace the flowing breeze, and let yourself fall into the subtle joys of the Mullae-dong area.

• ○Address: 61 Mullae-dong 3(sam)-ga, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Related Articles