Dodotgol Mural Village

Overview

Dodotgol (also known as Crescent Moon Village) is a hillside residential neighbourhood in central Pohang that has been transformed into an open-air mural gallery. Local and visiting artists have covered walls, staircases, and alleyways with colourful paintings, turning a formerly overlooked area into an Instagram-friendly attraction.

Highlights

• Themed Murals: Over 50 murals depicting maritime life, Korean folk tales, and abstract designs spread across the hillside.
• Staircase Art: Entire stairways painted as ocean scenes or flower gardens — each turn reveals a new composition.
• Local Life: Unlike purpose-built "art villages," Dodotgol is still a living neighbourhood where residents go about their daily routines.

History

The mural project began in 2013 as a government-funded urban regeneration initiative to revitalise the declining hillside neighbourhood. Local communities participated in choosing themes, and many murals reference Pohang's fishing heritage.

Visitor Tips

• Respect residents: Keep voices low and don't photograph people without permission.
• Hilly terrain: Steep stairs — wear comfortable shoes.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.