CMC 5th Nambu Bus Terminal Project

Nambu Bus Terminal is not only one of Seoul’s oldest transportation hubs but also one of its largest and most vital. Serving as a crucial link between the bustling capital city and numerous other cities and towns across South Korea, this terminal boasts an impressive network of over 70 bus routes, with more than 600 departures and arrivals every single day. Its significance in the city’s history and daily life cannot be overstated. For many travelers, Nambu Bus Terminal is a gateway—an entry point into the city’s dynamic rhythm and a reflection of Seoul’s urban tapestry.

Despite its historical importance and the vital services it provides, Nambu Bus Terminal faces a stark, almost melancholic reality. Many parts of the terminal appear neglected, with gray, empty walls and scattered container booths that evoke a sense of abandonment. This atmosphere is exacerbated by frequent strikes initiated by bus drivers or related associations, protesting for fairer wages or higher fares. These strikes not only disrupt transport services but also cast a shadow over the terminal’s vibrant potential, leaving pedestrians and passengers in a dull, forlorn environment.

This ongoing conflict has also impacted our creative project. Our mural initiative, designed to bring color and life to this historic space, was repeatedly delayed due to the strikes. Despite these setbacks, our team remained committed to the idea that even a small act of beautification could uplift the spirits of travelers and passersby.

With only two hours to execute our plan—amidst the harsh summer sun, high temperatures, and a tight deadline—we pooled our creativity and resources. We brainstormed ideas swiftly, developed designs that could resonate with the diverse flow of passengers, printed them onto attachable sheets, and meticulously pasted them onto abandoned container boxes scattered throughout the terminal. Under the glistening sunlight, battling the heat and the pressure of time, we strived to transform a neglected corner of Nambu Bus Terminal into a small beacon of beauty and hope.

Though brief, this project was a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of community—that even in less-than-ideal conditions, effort and creativity can make a difference. We hope our modest contribution will bring a splash of color and positivity to those who pass through Nambu Bus Terminal, reminding us all that history, hardship, and hope are all interwoven in the fabric of this vital transportation hub.