Munhwa Gonggam Sujeong and Choryang 1941, where old stories remain

WHY VISIT

Dong-gu is a town where the seed of Busan’s modern and contemporary history has spread and blossomed into stories. If you follow the trail that embodies the stories, you will reach Munhwa Gonggam Sujeong. Munhwa Gonggam Sujeong was originally called Jeongnangak House . The building was built in 1943, during the Japanese occupation, following the traditional Japanese housing style. Thanks to its unique charm, this space has been used as the setting for many films such as the Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time and General’s Son as well as music videos, including IU’s “Night Letter.” Once you enter the garden of Sujeong, which contrasts with the surrounding modern houses, you will see how the landscape—in harmony with a pool of sunlight and green trees—adds to its antique beauty. It’s a good idea to take a breath in the garden rather than go inside right away. The quiet and still atmosphere surrounds you as if you were traveling back in time. The house is in operation as a café with cultural space, divided into the first and second floors. You can appreciate the peaceful scenery beyond the mulberry-paper window. Walk for about 20 min from Munhwa Gonggam Sujeong to Busan Station, and you will find “Choryang 1941.” Choryang 1941 is a combination of the area’s name ‘Choryang’ and the year when the house was built. The stump in its large front garden seems to say “welcome.” Under the faded leaves, the traditional Korean wind chime is ringing in the breeze. Once you enter the café, you will feel as if you were in Seoul during the latter era of the Joseon Dynasty. The antique tables are in harmony with the tall, modern windows. In addition, the unusual items placed here and there show the owner’s meticulous care. Choryang 1941 features various outstanding self-developed milk menus. The small bottles of vanilla milk, black tea milk, and the other items look irresistibly cute. If you want to tour exotic Japanese-style cafés on such a nice day to walk while feeling the scent of the modern days, you should visit Choryang 1941 and Munhwa Gonggam Sujeong.