The Hills
Korea is very mountainous, and Seoul is no exception. Harsh terrain on steep hills was unfit for development before modern architectural technologies existed. These areas were deemed uninhabitable but remained available. In the 1960s, after the war, when the city was being rebuilt, those less fortunate had to find new homes. They moved to the hills with whatever leftover materials they could find and set up what became known as Daldongnae (moon villages). They were called "moon villages" because it seemed like they were living under the moon, perched atop the hills.
Eventually, most moon villages were redeveloped, yet a few remain in the heart of Seoul, still maintained by active residents. Changsin-dong and Ihwa Mural Village are two of the better-maintained neighborhoods. With narrow steps and alleyways lined with a web of overhanging electrical wires, these are truly unique and authentic parts of Seoul to experience—if you are prepared to do a lot of climbing, that is.
The hills of Changsin-dong are made of high-quality granite and were once operated as a quarry that supplied materials to landmark constructions such as the original Seoul Station, City Hall, and the Bank of Korea.
You can still see the cliffs that are reminiscent of the mining operation.
Lots of rolling hills and overhead wires...
Although it may appear harsh and cold, this neighborhood exudes a lively and warm vibe, with friendly neighbors greeting each other and a makeshift produce market set up from the back of a pickup truck.
Photos: 2023.11.23 2024.01.10