Photographer examines Jongno 3-ga beyond its 'coolest neighborhood' tag
Before Jongno 3-ga claimed the top spot in Time Out's list of the "world’s coolest neighborhoods" in September, its bustling, vibrant streets filled with street food stalls and busy shops have long stood witness to its reputation as one of Seoul’s hippest hangout spots. But beyond this trendy landscape, photographer Park Kwang Bok’s attention gravitated towards the area’s more precarious yet…
Jongno 3-ga, once hailed as one of Seoul's trendiest neighborhoods and featured in Time Out’s list of the world’s coolest spots, holds a more complex story for photographer Park Kwang Bok. Rather than focusing solely on its bustling streets filled with street food and lively shops, the artist delved into the neighborhood’s less photographed, yet equally compelling aspects.
In his exhibitions "Earthly Paradise" and "Nights in Paradise," Park unveiled the hidden narratives of joy, companionship, and freedom within the area. "Earthly Paradise," a collection of black-and-white photographs, aimed to challenge social prejudices by showcasing the happiness and dignity of the homeless in Jongno 3-ga. These poignant images sought to lift the veil of indifference and reveal the often overlooked moments of warmth and human connection amidst adversity.
On the other hand, "Nights in Paradise" shifted the focus to the vibrant gay community that thrives in the neighborhood. The exhibition highlighted the humanity and relationships of these individuals, offering a glimpse into their lives as they gathered and formed connections in the heart of Jongno 3-ga. Through these exhibitions, Park Kwang Bok sought to present a more nuanced and multifaceted portrayal of the neighborhood, beyond its reputation as a trendy hangout spot.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
