Charging Bull. That name might conjure images of Wall Street’s iconic statue. But Seoul also has its own Charging Bull sculpture. This is a place where people gather to capture 기념사진. This is a popular activity for tourists, especially Chinese travelers.
The Charging Bull embodies Wall Street’s spirit. It symbolizes strong masculinity. Wall Street’s culture is predominantly white and male. Walking through Wall Street, you’ll notice many white male office workers. The financial world has a distinctive atmosphere.
Many visitors touch the Charging Bull’s 고환 for good luck. They pose for 기념사진. The bull’s 고환 is a shiny gold color due to this constant touching. It is not naturally gold. The Charging Bull represents America. It stands for American prosperity and strength.
In 2017, a Fearless Girl statue was placed opposite the Charging Bull. It was a symbol of defiance. It challenged the male-dominated New York financial world. The Fearless Girl stood defiantly. She faced the Charging Bull with her hands on her hips. Her plaque read, “Know the power of women in leadership. She makes a difference.”
The Fearless Girl statue gained immense popularity. This was in contrast to the Charging Bull. Arturo Di Modica created the Charging Bull. He felt the Fearless Girl statue exploited his art. He thought it was for corporate publicity.
Many supported keeping the Fearless Girl statue. Eventually, it was moved. It now stands in front of the New York Stock Exchange. People still mistakenly believe the Fearless Girl statue is in front of the Charging Bull.
Here at the Charging Bull people form lines. They eagerly touch its 고환 and take pictures. Some see it as mocking male power. But I find it amusing. This is a unique aspect of Wall Street’s culture. Interestingly, the Fearless Girl statue does not attract the same crowds. A few might put their hands on her shoulders. Some pose like her for photos.