Dongpirang: The Mural Village That Saved Itself Through Art

Dongpirang (동피랑) is a hillside residential neighbourhood in the old port area of Tongyeong, its name meaning "eastern cliff" in the local dialect. The village is built on a steep hill overlooking Tongyeong's central harbour and the Hallyeo Sea. Its narrow alleyways and small houses are covered in colourful murals painted by artists from across Korea, transforming what was once a rundown area slated for demolition into one of the country's most visited village attractions.

In 2007, Tongyeong city announced plans to demolish Dongpirang to construct a park. A local arts group called Blue Tongyeong organised a mural painting project as a form of protest, inviting artists nationwide to paint the village walls. The resulting transformation attracted such attention and visitor interest that demolition plans were cancelled. The village has since become a symbol of how community art can revitalise urban spaces — a model replicated in dozens of Korean cities. Murals are repainted with new designs every two years.

Wandering the alleyways and discovering murals is the central experience — the paintings range from whimsical to politically pointed to simply beautiful. The village culminates at a small park at the top of the hill with an outstanding panoramic view over Tongyeong harbour and the island chains beyond. Small cafes and craft shops have opened in renovated village houses. The central market at the base of the hill connects Dongpirang to Tongyeong's traditional market district.

Entry is free and the village is open at all hours. The climb to the top takes about 15–20 minutes at a leisurely pace. Morning visits are less crowded and the light is best for photography. The village is a short walk from Tongyeong's central bus terminal and the Tongyeong cable car base station. Wear comfortable shoes as the alleys are steep and uneven.