Category : Academic Project, Korea University
Year : 2019
Type : Architectural Design
Software : Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, Twinmotion
Location : Miguen-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Instructor : Yeongho Yeo, Geunpyo Hong
Role : Individual Work
Year : 2019
Type : Architectural Design
Software : Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, Twinmotion
Location : Miguen-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
Instructor : Yeongho Yeo, Geunpyo Hong
Role : Individual Work
Nestled in the heart of Seoul, the ‘Seosomun Apartment’ stands as a resilient testament to time, having graced Migeun-dong, Seodaemun-gu for an impressive 44 years since its completion in 1972. While once a pinnacle of luxury in both residential and commercial spheres, the apartment now bears the weight of wear and tear, its aged facade telling stories of decades gone by. Despite the visible signs of aging, the prospect of reconstruction and redevelopment seems to be hanging in the balance, with expectations hovering at an all-time low. The impediment lies in the complex legal intricacies surrounding the development of structures along the river, presenting a formidable obstacle to any revitalization efforts.
As of the 19th, according to the Seodaemun-gu Office, the Seosomun Apartment boasts an intriguing address, officially registered as “River Coverage Area 1 in front of 138 Uiju-ro 2-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, extending from 215 Migeun-dong, Seodaemun-gu.” This peculiar address stems from the apartment’s unique positioning, spanning across the river itself. A distinctive characteristic that sets it apart from the conventional urban landscape. Given its aquatic foundation, the ward office enforces a river occupancy fee, collected from both apartment owners and the commercial entities within the premises.
The longevity of the Seosomun Apartment prompts questions and reflections, with the Korean Economy posing the inquiry, “It’s been 44 years, but why hasn’t there been any reconstruction? What fate awaits the Seosomun Apartment?” (Published on May 19, 2016). The enigma surrounding the destiny of this iconic structure unfolds against the backdrop of legal intricacies, weaving a narrative of time, challenges, and the enduring spirit of a place rooted in the heart of Seoul’s history.
