Hongdae Art Freemarket is an open-air market for the original works of independent artists and craftsters. The market takes place every Saturday afternoon from March to November in the park known affectionately as the “Hongdae playground” (홍대 놀이터), across the road from Hongik University. (Hongdae is short for “Hongik Daehakgyo” (홍익대학교), i.e. Hongik University.)
The market was established in 2002 as a cultural event during the Korea-Japan World Cup and has been held continuously thereafter. As the Hongdae area is popular for the young, hip, and cool, it is not surprising that the market has flourished.
Since the market takes place on the weekend, it is always packed with people.
I like to go to the market not necessarily to buy things (although there are many things that tempt my wallet) but to browse and get inspiration. It is interesting to see what creative people can do and what we can share with one another through that creativity.
Plus, since it’s a hub for the art crowd, it is a fabulous spot for people-watching. In the warmer seasons I like to sit on a bench and sketch the interesting characters that catch my eye. (There are many many many.)
The park is truly a children’s playground (thus the nickname) although I’m more familiar with seeing university students sitting on the swings or slides late at night. (Hongdae is famous for its nightlife!)
The term ‘freemarket’ is not Konglish for ‘flea market’; it is not a market for used or recyclable items but a market to showcase the free artistic spirit of the participants. The market has a strict pre-registration policy so you won’t find irrelevant mass-produced goods or items that lack originality.
Since many artsy people gather together for this event, musicians and dancers also find their way to the area to share the vibe and whole area becomes a buzz of creativity.
Various performances were going on that day; I got a glimpse of the flamenco. Since I don’t have extensive knowledge of what authentic flamenco looks like, I found it entertaining.
The flamenco dancers were being interviewed by a culture magazine in front of graffiti-covered buildings. The Hongdae area is one of the only places in Korea where I’ve seen graffiti. Unlike the ones in the photo, there are many artistic graffiti murals in the area that are popular as photoshoot backdrops.
If you happen to drop by the Hongdae area on a Saturday, be sure to drop by and have a look. You might just find something that catches your fancy. Word of caution: only the stalls within the park grounds are legitimate participants. The stalls set up outside the grounds belong to street vendors who have no affiliation with the freemarket.
If you are interested in participating: take a look around the market first to grasp a feel of what the atmosphere is like, judge whether your work is appropriate or not, and then contact the organizers for registration. Registration is for the participant and the products to be sold, so you must have a portfolio or samples to present. The organizers hold the right to deny registrations if they decide the products are unfit for the event.
Copied by http://blog.korea.net/?p=1777
Hongdae attraction 'Free Market'
With Hostel in Hongdae www.hostelhongdae.com
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