Korea’s Naples of Selfies: Hidden 9-Color Popsicles with Whole Strawberries in a Mural Village

▲ Korea’s “Naples”! Dongya Mural Village is full of surprises. (Photo / Reporter Xu Lifen)

Reported by Xu Lifen / South Korea

Known as Korea’s “Naples,” Tongyeong, a port city in South Gyeongsang Province located at the southernmost tip of Korea’s clearest and cleanest waters, is surrounded by as many as 150 large and small islands, offering picturesque scenery. The main attraction, Yi Sun-sin Park, not only features many historical relics but also has a coastal path that leads to the highest point with a view of the sea. Many couples come here for picnics and selfies. The Dongya Mural Village near the port is a hillside full of surprises, with a hidden little shop offering a must-try 9-color fruit popsicle that is fresh and delicious—and even has a whole strawberry visible.

Tongyeong is home to many sites and relics related to Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s victories over enemy forces. The representative “Yi Sun-sin Park” features a giant bronze statue of Yi Sun-sin pointing toward the sea and various cannons at the entrance, creating a solemn atmosphere. Strolling along the seaside path and enjoying the vast ocean view from the highest point, with the cool sea breeze gently blowing, instantly refreshes your body and mind. Many students on school outings hide under the statue to cool off, enjoying a relaxing time. The most eye-catching are the young couples sitting on the grassy slopes—some having picnics on the ground, others bringing their own selfie sticks and tripods to take photos enthusiastically in every corner.

▲%祭钏闯脊?笆右傲衫??槁碌酱ψ耘姆派痢。

Another must-visit spot in Tongyeong is Dongya Mural Village, meaning “East Cliff.” The walls of the village are covered with colorful murals. In 2008, to save the area from demolition, locals enlisted university students to update the murals every two years, attracting many visitors. Korean dramas such as “A Good Man,” starring Song Joong-ki and Moon Chae-won, and “Pabo, Pabo,” starring Jung Woo-sung and Han Ji-min, were filmed here, greatly increasing its fame. No one could have predicted that the land prices in Dongya Village would now soar, with property still only available for purchase or sale by original residents.

To reach the top of Dongya Mural Village, you’ll need to climb a steep hill for about 5 to 10 minutes. Visitors armed with selfie sticks will find murals of all kinds starting from the foot of the hill, and the most iconic “angel wings” at the highest point are an absolute must-photo spot.

Along the way, besides the various murals, there are also many small coffee shops. One hidden gem offers coffee, juice, tea, and other beverages, providing a little resting spot for tired hikers. The most special item is the 9-color fruit popsicle, made with fresh juice and featuring a whole strawberry—extremely popular among visitors.

▲%级?卤诨?逡?酪欢涡∑拢?蕉ビ兄??奶焓钩岚虮诨?。

▲%级?卤诨?逡?匕嫘〉辏?恢还┮?匣褂泄色水果冰棒超Juicy。

Yi Sun-sin Park
Address: 683 Jeongnyang-dong, Tongyeong-si, South Gyeongsang Province
Opening Hours: Open regularly
Admission: Free

Dongya Mural Village
Address: Dongho-dong, Tongyeong-si, South Gyeongsang Province (50m east of the Central Market)
Opening Hours: Open regularly
Admission: Free