Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MODERN ARCHITECTURE 1950S-80S
Though the needs of post-Korean War reconstruction required a focus on more utilitarian
concerns, much of Korea's modern architecture is distinct, usually following one of two
trajectories: either an attempt to reinterpret traditional Korean architecture in concrete and
steel, or to communicate Seoul's cutting-edge technological prowess.
First and perhaps foremost of Korea's post-independence architects was Japanese-trained
Kim Swoo-geun, whose early work reflected the influence of Le Corbusier and Kenzo
Tange. He is responsible for the curving lines of the Olympic Stadium and the ivy-clad Ky-
ungdong Presbyterian Church (1981). Among other local architectural greats are Kim
Chung-up, whose work includes the soaring Peace Gate at Olympic Park, and Kim Joong-
up, responsible for the 31-storey smoked-glass Samil Building (1969), Seoul's first
International-style skyscraper.
Architec-
ture Books
Hanoak - Traditional Korean
Houses
(various authors)
Joseon Royal Court Culture
(Shin Myung-ho)
Seoul's Historic Walks
(Cho In-Souk & Robert
Koehler)
City as Art: 100 Notable Works
of Architecture in Seoul
(Yim Seock-jae)
