Graffiti artist Beom Min, who got his start in an alley across from Hongdae, captures the liveliness characterizing the area and its atmosphere in a work that showcases his artistic sensibility at L7 HONGDAE. The large graffiti piece of “BELIEVE,” located on the façade of the 1st floor hotel entrance, instantly catches the eye of passersby.

The artist seeks original meaning found in murals with themes and ideas rather than technical or decorative graffiti. Like the flower of peace drawn on the Berlin Wall, he pursues works of peace and positivity that sometimes convey his own message and, at other times, that of the public. “BELIEVE,” a message to the as yet undeveloped, yet free-spirited youth, combined with brilliant yellow, is an indoor graffiti piece that reflects the artist’s individuality and emanates endless positive energy at the entrance of L7 HONGDAE. Many visitors have pictures taken with the artwork, making it a popular photo spot at the hotel. Other graffiti pieces can be found all around the 1st floor walls upon entering.

Beom Min majored in ceramics despite having a preference for illustrations with immediate results rather than time-consuming and labor-intensive pottery. He began doing graffiti, drawn to the material characteristics of spray paint, namely the immediacy of its release upon pressing the button. Even after 20 years, he always looks forward to his next piece. This is because graffiti, though repetitive in nature, retains its charm with different results in different locations. He is currently working on a project of his own creation called Helloman to broaden the scope of graffiti. He represented Korea at a Buenos Aires exhibition in 2010 and held a private exhibition at the Gwangju Design Biennale in 2019. He has created works of graffiti, digital art and graphic art for Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and other luxury brands. He has also collaborated with well-known Korean and foreign artists, including Eminem, Seo Taiji and G-Dragon. In collaboration with major companies, such as Samsung Electronics, SK Telecom, LOTTE HOTELS, Hyundai Card Music Library, and CJ E&M, he continues to engage in various artistic and cultural activities.