New Iconic Metal Relief Mural Created in Buam-dong, Jongno-gu, Filming Location of the Movie 'Parasite'

Installation of Metal Sculptures on Jahamun Tunnel Retaining Wall... Inspired by Inwangsan, Local Residents' Stories Expressed Through 'Calligraphy'... Expected as a Unique Attraction in Buam-dong Alongside Parasite Filming Locations

Buam-dong Public Artworks (Daytime)

Nighttime

[Asia Economy Reporter Jongil Park] Another landmark has been born in the Buam-dong area of Jongno-gu.

Jongno-gu completed the installation of the Buam-dong public art piece "Bulhyeondeut Inwangsan," which has been promoted since May as part of the 2021 resident participation budget project, and began exhibiting the metal sculptural mural starting December 1.

The artwork is installed on a high retaining wall about 80 meters long on the north side of Jahamun Tunnel in Buam-dong, which belongs to the "Jamunbak Creative Arts Village." This public art project was promoted based on the demands and participation of local residents for alleyway environment improvement, an area also famous as a filming location for the movie "Parasite," and it stands out for fully reflecting Buam-dong’s regional characteristics in the artwork.

Before the full installation, Jongno-gu considered that a simple painted mural could not be created on the tall and long concrete retaining wall structure, and thus aimed to apply the concept of a three-dimensional sculptural mural. Accordingly, through a total of six months of processes including selecting a professional company and artist, a safe and high-quality public art piece was installed.

The metal sculptural mural "Bulhyeondeut Inwangsan" (implemented by Art Consulting SAC Co., Ltd., artist: Lee Geumhong) was inspired by the mountain landscape and ink wash painting technique of "Inwangjesaekdo," expressing stories of historically and culturally significant places in Buam-dong and real stories of residents through the calligraphy of a renowned artist.

The sculpture features metal letters arranged along about 40 meters of the retaining wall centered at the entrance of the tunnel leading to Jahamun Tunnel, depicting the flow of Inwangsan’s mountain terrain. It was composed by extracting and organizing stories shared by long-time Buam-dong residents, village guides, and the artist.

Additionally, LED lights were installed on the back of the letters to create a calm and simple appearance during the day and a brightly illuminated look at night, adding a special touch. This also enhances alley lighting, contributing to residents’ sense of security and providing not only artistic value as public art but also functionality.

A district official stated, “We will continue to promote various public art projects utilizing local cultural and artistic resources and strive to improve residents’ quality of life and living environment.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.