There is a town in Yeongdeung-po, Seoul, which was well known for its steel and cotton weaving industry. Through the decades, the steel industry slowly faded away, and Mullae-dong is now being reorganized into a cultural zone by artists’ works and people’s effort. Mullae is the name that was given to this place because there were many spinning machines called “mullae”. The empty spaces along the streets became the canvases of artists. The diverse works of artists that can be found in unexpected places are even ironic. The derelict factories in the alleys are getting renovated into unique restaurants and cafes which are filled up with many people at night. The Pharos visited this place metaphorically called “The Village of Iron and Art”, which is becoming an increasingly popular place day by day.

The Mullae Paintings

 The old exterior gray concrete walls of the alleys have become workplaces for artists. If you walk through Mullaedong, you can find memorable paintings everywhere. Not only the walls are adorned but any places that artists can use to create their artworks like manhole covers and doors. In addition, you will find installations built by using the used furnitures left there and many other artworks. We can even feel welcomed when we see small works of art or paintings on walls in out-of-the-way places near the outskirts of the alleys.

Yankees Burger

 Yankees Burger is a famous handmade burger restaurant in Mullae-dong. Pictures that cover cracks in the walls, paintings with unusual vibes and neon signs add to the exotic atmosphere. Yankees Burger was made by remodeling an old the factory and the proof of this can be found everywhere. The floor of the restaurant is the floor that was often seen in factories, and the walls are studded with nails and screws. However, these features naturally match the atmosphere of the restaurant, helping to create a unique atmosphere for the eatery. The signature menu item of this restaurant, the Mullae burger, was really tasty with its unique sauce. Moreover, on both sides of the restaurant are factories, so you can enjoy an exotic experience.

Location: 434-1, Dorim-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

Old Mullae

 Old Mullae is a cafe/pub made by remodeling an old factory building and a must-visit place when you visit Mullae-dong. Large columns in the building have not been artificially changed, making it easy to see that it was a factory in the past. It is decorated with tools used in the ironworks, and huge vintage equipment also adds to the atmosphere. Moreover, each table is decorated with props that might have been seen in the factory, and even the coaster that comes with the drink is engraved with images related to the factory, which is impressive. In addition, you can see at a glance pictures of the past cafe site and nearby factories. It is not easy to believe that the old factory has been transformed into such a cool place. The interior is decorated with various apparatuses, springs, wood and steel so you can recognize that it was factory at once. If you like a vintage atmosphere, we recommend you go there.

Location: 433-6, Dorim-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

 It’s amazing that a place that used to be perceived as just an old rusty town has now been turned into a place that everyone wants to go to at least once. Besides, the restaurants and cafes there are many unique spaces such as craft workrooms and props shops. These shops fascinate people with their respective attractions among the old ironwork factories. Mullae-dong seems to have emerged as a new hot place.

Above all, the harmony between the gray-colored concrete buildings and artistic spaces is unique. If you want to feel the charm of a new and unique style, why don’t you leave now?



                                          Management Editor CHOI SOYEON clara3003@naver.com

                                   73rd Cub Reporter KIM YOONSEONG bosoonge00@gmail.com