Wandering into Art: Discovering Lee Jung Seop Street on Jeju’s Olle Trail
Strolling along the Jeju Olle-gil trail 6, I was excited to stumble upon a street that felt like both a gallery and a garden. The Lee Jung Seop Street (이중섭거리) in Seogwipo turned out to be a nice slow break from the trek along the coastline of the island.
As someone who loves both art and nature, it felt like a perfect intersection: a quiet, colorful street nestled into the landscape, filled with creative energy and the story of a brilliant, passionate artist. You don’t have to trek the Olle-gil to find this spot though. If you’re visiting Seogwipo, this local gem is worth slowing down for.
Here’s what to expect on Lee Jung Seop Street in Jeju:
- Who Was Lee Jung Seop?
- A Brief History of Lee Jung Seop Street
- What to See and Do on Lee Jung Seop Street
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Who Was Lee Jung Seop?
Born in 1916 in what is now North Korea, Lee Jung Seop was a groundbreaking Korean artist who lived through Japanese colonialism, war, and poverty, but never stopped creating. Known for his strong lines, raw emotional expression, and iconic bull motifs, his works often reflect his personal struggles, deep love for his family, and admiration for Korea’s landscapes.
Fun Fact: Lee Jung Seop’s “A Bull” painting sold for $4.37 million in an auction in Seoul in 2018. It was the highest price paid for an artwork by the late artist.
He lived briefly in Seogwipo during the Korean War with his Japanese wife and two sons. It was a tough time, but he considered it one of the happiest periods of his life. The stunning natural beauty and warmth of Jeju made a lasting impression, becoming the backdrop to many of his most cherished works, like Fantasy of Seogwipo.
A Brief History of Lee Jung Seop Street
On March 2, 1996, the city of Seogwipo officially renamed the street in his honor. Just a year later, restoration began on the nearby residential area where Lee and his family once lived. Today, the street is part of scenic Olle Route 6 and a living tribute to an artist who never stopped dreaming.
What to See and Do on Lee Jung Seop Street
Find Lee Jung Seop Memorial House (이중섭거주지)
Lee’s actual home has been restored and turned into a museum-like space. Walking through it gives you a quiet, emotional look into his life during one of his most creatively prolific years. This simple Hanok house stands out amongst the more modern buildings of the area, so you won’t miss it as you wander.
- Address: 29 Ijungseop-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주 서귀포시 이중섭로 25)
Stroll Through a Living Gallery
The whole street feels like an open-air art exhibit. You’ll see murals both on the street and on the streets in the surrounding area that are inspired by Lee’s works. There are also outdoor sculptures and small galleries tucked between cafes and shops so keep your eyes peeled and wander through the streets to see what you can find.
Pop Into Art Shops & Cafes
Lee Jung Seop Street is full of cozy art shops, indie galleries, and local boutiques. Many sell prints, postcards, and souvenirs inspired by Lee’s artwork. The vibe here is relaxed and creative—expect to see locals sketching or musicians playing in the open air.
See what’s happening in the Seogwipo Tourist Theater (서귀포관광극장)
Throughout the year, Seogwipo hosts small festivals and events on this street, celebrating art, music, and the spirit of Lee’s legacy. It’s worth checking if anything’s on during your visit. When I passed through I stopped into the Seogwipo Tourist Theater (서귀포관광극장) and painted my own Lee Jung Seop homage artwork to take home with me.
- Address: 25 Ijungseop-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주 서귀포시 이중섭로 25)
- Hours: Every day: 10:00am ~ 5:00pm
Lee Jung Seop Art Gallery (이중섭 미술관)
Right behind his restored former home, you’ll find the Lee Jung Seop Art Gallery (이중섭 미술관). It holds over a dozen of his original works, including pieces from his famous tinfoil series and heartfelt letters to his wife. There’s also a reproduction of Fantasy of Seogwipo, which captures the warmth and spirit of the island that inspired him so deeply.
- Address: 33 Ijungseop-ro, Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do (제주 서귀포시 이중섭로 33)
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30am ~ 5:30pm
Lee Jung Seop Street isn’t just about art, it’s about resilience, love, and creativity in the face of hardship. It’s where history meets heart, and where the legacy of a Korean master lives on not just in frames, but in the energy of the whole street.
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