Ihwa-dong Mural Village: Seoul’s Stairway to Art

#seoulspots Tucked into the hillside beneath Naksan Park, Ihwa-dong Mural Village is Seoul’s most colorful secret. Once a fading neighborhood slated for demolition, it was reborn through the “Art in the City” project—now a living gallery of over 70 murals and sculptures that spill across staircases, alleyways, and rooftops. Every corner surprises: koi fish swim up stone steps, angel wings wait for your photo op, and whimsical cats peek from painted windows. But Ihwa-dong is more than just Instagram gold—it’s a story of transformation, resilience, and the quiet tension between art and everyday life. As you wander its winding paths, you’ll catch sweeping views of Seoul, sip coffee in cozy hillside cafés, and feel the pulse of a community that’s both proud and protective of its rebirth. Just remember: respect the locals, tread lightly, and let the art speak.