Museums #11 in Jeonju

Factory of Contemporary Arts in Palbok

4.2 · 743 reviews
Raw, industrial, and intellectually stimulating
Factory of Contemporary Arts in Palbok, 46 Guretdeul 1-gil, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk State, South Korea
Interesting facts
1

The building was originally established in 1979 as the Samhwa Tape factory, which once produced millions of audio cassette tapes.

2

The interior layout retains the original 'sawtooth' roof architecture typical of early industrial factories to maximize natural light.

3

It is part of a larger government-led industrial heritage revitalization project intended to prevent urban blight in former factory zones.

4

The site features a permanent archive documenting the history of the cassette tape industry in Jeonju.

Overview

The Factory of Contemporary Arts in Palbok is a decommissioned cassette tape manufacturing plant transformed into a multi-disciplinary cultural space in Jeonju. It preserves the architectural heritage of a 1980s industrial site while serving as a hub for contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies, and community workshops. The site retains industrial elements like exposed steel trusses and original flooring, contrasting with modern art installations. It operates as a community-focused cultural regeneration project supported by local government initiatives. The facility frequently hosts international collaborations and experimental digital media projects. It serves as a primary anchor for the creative regeneration of the Palbok-dong industrial district.

Photo spot

The central industrial hall with its high ceilings and preserved structural metalwork.

Insider tips

Check the official website for current temporary exhibition rotations before visiting.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as the industrial concrete flooring spans a large, open-plan footprint.

Allow time to visit the onsite cafe, which incorporates remnants of the old manufacturing equipment into its decor.

What to avoid

Do not assume all areas of the factory are exhibition spaces, as some sections are reserved for private artist studios.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday afternoons for the quietest experience when interacting with resident artists.
Address
Factory of Contemporary Arts in Palbok, 46 Guretdeul 1-gil, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk State, South Korea
35.861, 127.101
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsArchive of 1980s cassette tape manufacturing and experimental contemporary art installations.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday afternoons for the quietest experience when interacting with resident artists..

The central industrial hall with its high ceilings and preserved structural metalwork.

Close by you'll find Deokjin Park, Jeonju World Cup Stadium, Jeonju Zoo.