IN IHWA Mural Village, artists have taken inspiration from their surroundings and painted directly on the city, brightening up run-down streets. Although street art is largely considered illegal under Korean law, the eye-catching murals found in this area are part of a government-sanctioned project to transform an old neighborhood into one of the most popular tourist spots in Korea. From koi fish stairs to pop art portraits, every mural delivers a unique message that makes Ihwa-dong so vibrant.