A colorful mural of hip-hop icon rappers Tupac Shakur, Nicki Minaj, and The Notorious B.I.G. was discovered in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, near the U.S. military base Camp Humphreys. The mural, a blend of American hip-hop culture and South Korean street art, illustrates the genre’s widespread influence and deep connection with listeners worldwide.
The discovery was made by The Clark Family, a YouTube content creator family who documented their encounter in a video, “Rap Idols in South Korea: Biggie Smalls, Nicki Minaj, and Tupac Mural,” uploaded on March 1, 2025. Their video quickly went viral, sparking conversations on how hip-hop continues to transcend boundaries and generations.
“We never thought we’d see anything like this here, It’s a strong piece of art, and it just goes to show how much hip-hop has affected cultures around the globe.”
A family member commented in the video.
Even though little is known about the artist or the circumstances under which the mural was painted, the fact that the mural exists speaks volumes. Murals have been used as a means of cultural expression for centuries, and in this case, the artwork is a testament to the spirit of three rap legends who have left their mark on the game.
Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. are arguably two of the greatest rappers of all time, and their music has shaped hip-hop’s sound and story. Although rivals in the 1990s, their legacies are forever intertwined in the genre’s history. Nicki Minaj, however, represents a newer era of hip-hop—one where female rappers have risen to the forefront and broken glass ceilings.
For many fans, Minaj’s inclusion in the mural signifies her impact on the culture. Through her unapologetic lyrics and fiery persona, she has built a career on talent and innovation, earning her place alongside hip-hop’s most impactful names.
Because of its location near Camp Humphreys, the mural is likely a familiar and comforting presence for American soldiers stationed in South Korea. Military communities tend to bring cultural elements wherever they go; music is one of the strongest bridges. Hip-hop, in particular, has been popular with soldiers and troops for a long time due to its messages of endurance, struggle, and triumph.
American pop culture symbols in South Korea are nothing new, but the mural is the first acknowledgment of hip-hop’s status in global pop culture. The genre has influenced South Korean music, and K-hip-hop’s rise is proof of the spread. Jay Park, Zico, and Jessi are among the musicians who have embraced rap, fusing it with Korean music genres to create something new based on American originals.
This mural resonates with fans who see these artists as cultural icons who have impacted their lives. The Clark Family, who accidentally stumbled upon the mural, stated in their video that it was
“a beautiful representation of American culture in South Korea.”
Though the origins of the mural are unknown, origins remain a mystery; its message is clear: hip-hop is a universal force that connects people, regardless of language or location.
