In the heart of Myeongdong, Seoul, a majestic bronze dragon — a royal relic of the Joseon Dynasty unearthed from the pond near Gyeonghoeru Pavilion — now soars across the giant digital signage of Shinsegae Square. As part of the K-Heritage Museum series, TRIC (Technology Research Institute for Culture & Heritage) conceptualized and produced this monumental media art installation, commissioned under the National Palace Museum’s digital content initiative.
The bronze dragon, believed to have been submerged in the pond during the post-Imjin War reconstruction of Gyeongbokgung Palace to protect the palace from fire, has been reimagined through anamorphic 3D media art. TRIC brought the mythical creature to life with a dramatic surge from the water — its dynamic movement and overwhelming presence vividly rendered across the immense urban display.
This project was realized through a collaboration between Shinsegae Department Store and the National Heritage Administration of Korea. Now lighting up downtown Seoul, the artwork not only captivates passersby but also serves as a powerful showcase of Korea’s cultural heritage to domestic and international visitors alike. In recognition of this contribution, Shinsegae received a formal commendation from the National Heritage Administration in February.
