The Spirit of General Eulji Mundeok

Eulji-ro runs from Seoul City Hall to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park.

Originally called 'Hwanggeum-jeong' during the Japanese colonial period, it was renamed 'Eulji-ro' in 1946 to purge colonial remnants and instill national pride. It was named after **General Eulji Mundeok** of Goguryeo, who famously defeated the Sui China invasion, symbolizing a strong national spirit, especially significant given the area's large Chinese population at the time.

Once known for its printing presses and hardware stores, the area has transformed. Since around 2016, young locals have flocked to the area, attracted by its retro industrial grit blended with trendy cafes and bars. Now known as **'Hipji-ro'**, it stands as a unique cultural hub where Seoul's past and present coexist.