DAEGU, South Korea – For travelers seeking a unique blend of art, music, and Korean culture, a visit to Kim Gwang-seok Street (김광석 다시그리기 길) in Daegu is an absolute must. This vibrant, 350-meter-long mural-lined alley is a heartfelt tribute to Kim Gwang-seok, a legendary Korean folk-rock singer-songwriter whose poignant music continues to resonate deeply with the nation. Often compared to global icons like Bob Dylan, Kim Gwang-seok's legacy is celebrated here through captivating street art, statues, and, of course, his timeless melodies that fill the air.
The Vibe and the Murals
Kim Gwang-seok Street, officially known as "Kim Gwang-seok Re-drawing Alley," is an open-air art gallery dedicated to depicting the singer's life, his songs, and the social commentary embedded in his work. As you stroll along the alley, you'll encounter around 70 colorful murals and life-sized statues, each telling a piece of his story. You'll see murals illustrating lyrics from his most famous songs like Dust in the Wind and A Private's Letter, inviting you to pause and reflect.
The street is incredibly photogenic, with countless spots designed for unique snapshots. Beyond the murals, the area is alive with small, charming cafés and eateries where his music plays constantly. On weekends, the atmosphere is often enhanced by busking (street performance), where local musicians perform cover versions of his songs, keeping his musical spirit alive for a new generation of listeners, including international visitors. The street's ambiance is both nostalgic and lively, making it a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or a romantic evening visit when the lights come on.
Getting There (Transportation)
Kim Gwang-seok Street is conveniently located and easily accessible via Daegu's public transit system:
By Subway:
Take Daegu Subway Line 2 (Green Line).
Get off at Kyungpook National University Hospital Station (경대병원역).
Use Exit 3 and walk straight for about 5 to 10 minutes (approximately 500 meters). The street will be on your left, near Bangcheon Market.
By Bus:
A number of local buses stop near the area, look for stops around Bangcheon Market (방천시장) or Kyungpook National University Hospital (경북대병원).
By Taxi:
Simply show the Korean address to the driver: 대구 중구 대봉동 (김광석 다시그리기 길). A taxi ride from major hubs like Dongdaegu Station (Daegu's main KTX train station) takes about 15-20 minutes.
Nearby Attractions
Once you've soaked up the culture and music of Kim Gwang-seok Street, you can easily explore other nearby Daegu hotspots:
Bangcheon Market (방천시장): Right next to the mural street, this traditional market offers a genuine glimpse into local life and regional foods.
Dongseong-ro Street (동성로): Daegu's main downtown area, perfect for shopping, dining, and experiencing the city's lively youth culture. It's a short taxi or subway ride away.
Modern Alley Culture District (근대골목): Explore historical architecture and learn about the city's modern history with a walking tour through a series of preserved alleys.
Anjirang Gopchang Street (안지랑 곱창골목): A famous street lined with restaurants specializing in gopchang (grilled beef or pork intestines), a local delicacy, for those looking for an authentic Korean dining experience.
Kim Gwang-seok Street offers more than just sightseeing; it's an opportunity to connect with the soul of a beloved artist and experience Daegu's artistic and musical heart. Don't miss this unique stop on your South Korean itinerary!
[Copyright (c) Global Economic Times. All Rights Reserved.]
