Difference between revisions of "Korean architecture" - New World Encyclopedia
({{Contracted}}) |
MaedaMartha (talk | contribs) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
| − | |||
'''Korean architecture''' refers to the [[architecture]] of [[Korea]]. | '''Korean architecture''' refers to the [[architecture]] of [[Korea]]. | ||
| + | |||
| + | [[Silla]] was the last of the three kingdoms to develop into a full-fledged kingdom. Again many great temples were built, but the most famous architectural development is [[Cheomseongdae]], said to be the first stone observatory in Asia, built during the reign of [[Queen Seondeok of Silla|Queen Seondeok]] (632-646). The structure is famous for its unique and elegant form. | ||
| + | |||
| + | Neo-Confucianism inspired new architectural paradigms. Jaesil, or clan memorial halls, became common in many villages where extended families erected facilities for common veneration of a distant ancestor. Jongryo, or memorial shrines, were established by the government to commemorate exceptional acts of filial piety or devotion. Even beyond these archetypes, the aesthetics of Neo-Confucianism, which favored practicality, frugality, and harmony with nature, forged a consistent architectural style throughout Korean society. | ||
==Introduction== | ==Introduction== | ||
| − | ==Ancient architecture ( | + | ==Ancient architecture (Neolithic–7th century) == |
[[Image:Korea south silla pagoda.jpg|200px|thumb|right|A Silla pagoda.]] | [[Image:Korea south silla pagoda.jpg|200px|thumb|right|A Silla pagoda.]] | ||
The Neolithic period was when the early stages of Korean architecture began. [[Archaeology|Archaeological]] evidence of [[ondol]], the unique Korean floor panel heating system, was found at the remains of the burnished plain pottery culture and the development of the vertical wall was evident in the primitive houses of this culture. | The Neolithic period was when the early stages of Korean architecture began. [[Archaeology|Archaeological]] evidence of [[ondol]], the unique Korean floor panel heating system, was found at the remains of the burnished plain pottery culture and the development of the vertical wall was evident in the primitive houses of this culture. | ||
| − | + | Dolmens, which were primitive tombs of important persons, have been found in the Korean peninsula. There are two types of dolmens: the southern type, which is low and often a simple slab without supporting stones; and the northern type, which is larger and more definite in shape. The distribution of the dolmens would imply some relation to the megalithic cultures of the Western world. | |
| − | During this period building techniques of houses evolved from a pit dwelling to that of an earthen wall with | + | During this period building techniques of houses evolved from a pit dwelling to that of an earthen wall with thatched roof, to that of a log cabin construction, and finally, to a raised floor construction. |
| − | In 109 B.C.E., the [[China|Chinese]] commandery at [[Nangnang]] (Lo-lang) was established in the northwest region of Korea | + | In 109 B.C.E., the [[China|Chinese]] commandery at [[Nangnang]] (Lo-lang) was established in the northwest region of Korea. [[Chinese architecture]] strongly influenced Korean architecture at this time, creating a basis for further Korean development. |
After the fall of Nangnang in 313, [[Goguryeo]], one of the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]], expanded her territory to included half of Manchuria and all of north Korea. Two different types of tombs evolved during this period: one is a stepped pyramid made of stone, while the other is a large earth mound form. | After the fall of Nangnang in 313, [[Goguryeo]], one of the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]], expanded her territory to included half of Manchuria and all of north Korea. Two different types of tombs evolved during this period: one is a stepped pyramid made of stone, while the other is a large earth mound form. | ||
| − | + | Baekje was founded in [[18 BC]] and its territory included the west coast of the Korean peninusula. Paekche established friendships with China and Japan. Great temples were built during this time. The earliest stone pagoda of the Miruk Temple in Iksan country is of particular interest because it shows the transitional features from a wooden pagoda to a stone one. The art and architecture of the Paekche period had a touch of elegance, refinement and warmth. Paekche assimilated diverse influences and expressed its derivation from Chinese models. Later, important elements of the architectural style of Paekche were adopted by Japan. | |
[[Image:Cheomseongdae.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Cheomsongdae, ancient astronomical observatory built during the reign of Queen Seondeok.]] | [[Image:Cheomseongdae.jpg|left|thumb|200px|Cheomsongdae, ancient astronomical observatory built during the reign of Queen Seondeok.]] | ||
| − | |||
| − | ==United Silla architecture ( | + | ==United Silla architecture (7th–10th century) == |
[[Image:Iro-dang, Unhyeongung - Seoul, Korea.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Iro-dang]] | [[Image:Iro-dang, Unhyeongung - Seoul, Korea.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Iro-dang]] | ||
| − | After the unification of the Korean peninsula into the kingdom of United Silla, Korean institutions were radically transformed. United Silla absorbed the fully matured culture of the T'ang dynasty in China, and at the same time developed a unique | + | After the unification of the Korean peninsula into the kingdom of United Silla, Korean institutions were radically transformed. United Silla absorbed the fully matured culture of the T'ang dynasty in China, and at the same time developed a unique cultural identity. New Buddhist sects were introduced from the T'ang and Buddhist art flourished. It was a great period of peace and cultural advancement in the arts that displayed a new level of grace and elegance. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | + | Architecture flourished in the royal capital of Kyongju, though almost all traces of the former glory have vanished at the present time. The city was based around a fertile basin a shaped by the three mountains and two joining rivers. A gird network formed in the urban area with the Hwangyong Temple at the center. | |
| − | + | The plans of Korean, Buddhist temples were characterized by two pagodas in front of the central main hall in a symmetrical layout on the north-south axis with other buildings. [[Bulguksa|Pulguk Temple]], built on a stone platform at the foothill of Mt. Toham near Kyongju, is the oldest existing temple in Korea. Its Tabo-tap. Located to the right of the court is unique in Korea and the rest of Asia. The temple was first founded early in the sixth century and was entirely rebuilt and enlarged in 752. | |
| − | The rock cave shrine of | + | The rock cave shrine of Sokkuram is located on the crest of Mt. Toham. It was built by the same master architect of Pulguk Temple, and built around the same era. This cave shrine was artificially and skillfully constructed with granite blocks and covered with an earth mound on top to give the appearance of a natural landscape. The graceful statue of Buddha on a lotus pedestal in the center is the dominant feature of the chamber. |
Rock cave shrines are not rare in Asia, but few of these shrines and sculptures reveal such high level of artistry. None are as religiously and artistically complete in overall design as those at Sokkuram | Rock cave shrines are not rare in Asia, but few of these shrines and sculptures reveal such high level of artistry. None are as religiously and artistically complete in overall design as those at Sokkuram | ||
[[Image:Pagoda detail, Tapgol Park - Seoul, Korea.JPG|200px|thumb|Pagoda detail]] | [[Image:Pagoda detail, Tapgol Park - Seoul, Korea.JPG|200px|thumb|Pagoda detail]] | ||
| − | ==Goryeo architecture ( | + | ==Goryeo architecture (10th–14th century) == |
Much of the architecture of this time was inspired by [[Buddhism]], such as magnificent [[Buddhist temple]]s and the [[Korean pagoda]]. Unfortunately, since most of the architecture of this time was built of wood, little has survived to the present day. Also, the capital of [[Goryeo]] was based in Gaesong, in modern day North Korea, which has made this era especially problematic to study for historians at large. | Much of the architecture of this time was inspired by [[Buddhism]], such as magnificent [[Buddhist temple]]s and the [[Korean pagoda]]. Unfortunately, since most of the architecture of this time was built of wood, little has survived to the present day. Also, the capital of [[Goryeo]] was based in Gaesong, in modern day North Korea, which has made this era especially problematic to study for historians at large. | ||
| − | + | ==Joseon architecture (14th–19th century) == | |
| − | |||
| − | ==Joseon architecture ( | ||
[[Image:Korean architecture roof detail 2.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Joseon dynasty]] court architecture]] | [[Image:Korean architecture roof detail 2.jpg|thumb|250px|[[Joseon dynasty]] court architecture]] | ||
| − | The founding of the Joseon dynasty in 1392 brought to power like-minded men steeped in the doctrines of [[Neo-Confucianism]], which had slowly percolated into Korea from China in the 14th century. This ushered in a new environment that was relatively hostile to Buddhism, causing the state to gradually shift its patronage from Buddhist temples to Confucian institutions | + | The founding of the Joseon dynasty in 1392 brought to power like-minded men steeped in the doctrines of [[Neo-Confucianism]], which had slowly percolated into Korea from China in the 14th century. This ushered in a new environment that was relatively hostile to Buddhism, causing the state to gradually shift its patronage from Buddhist temples to Confucian institutions. |
| − | Neo-Confucianism inspired new architectural paradigms. Jaesil, or clan memorial halls, became common in many villages where | + | Neo-Confucianism inspired new architectural paradigms. Jaesil, or clan memorial halls, became common in many villages where extended families erected facilities for common veneration of a distant ancestor. Jongryo, or memorial shrines, were established by the government to commemorate exceptional acts of filial piety or devotion. Even beyond these archetypes, the aesthetics of Neo-Confucianism, which favored practicality, frugality, and harmony with nature, forged a consistent architectural style throughout Korean society. |
==Japanese occupation architecture (1910-1945)== | ==Japanese occupation architecture (1910-1945)== | ||
During the [[Korea under Japanese rule|Japanese occupation of Korea]], there was a systematic attempt by the [[Empire of Japan]] to destroy native Korean architecture and replace it with [[Japanese architecture]]. | During the [[Korea under Japanese rule|Japanese occupation of Korea]], there was a systematic attempt by the [[Empire of Japan]] to destroy native Korean architecture and replace it with [[Japanese architecture]]. | ||
| − | Important architectural sites were destroyed, often by burning. Significant elements of [[landscaping]], such as [[Korean gardens]], were razed | + | Important architectural sites were destroyed, often by burning. Significant elements of [[landscaping]], such as [[Korean gardens]], were razed. It was at this time as well that the traditional religious architecture was discouraged. |
| − | Japanese architecture was first introduced in the Korean transportation networks. [[Railroad]] lines saw the construction of Japanese-style [[rail station]]s and [[hotel]]s. [[Port]]s as transit points, however, had limited construction. Inland, the Japanese built new [[city hall]]s, [[barrack]]s and [[military base]]s, [[Prison|jail]] and | + | Japanese architecture was first introduced in the Korean transportation networks. [[Railroad]] lines saw the construction of Japanese-style [[rail station]]s and [[hotel]]s. [[Port]]s as transit points, however, had limited construction. Inland, the Japanese built new [[city hall]]s, [[barrack]]s and [[military base]]s, [[Prison|jail]] and [[prison]]s, [[police station]]s, and [[Koban (police box)|police box]]es. Korean architects were required to train only in Japan and encouraged to design exclusively along Japanese models when they returned. While the assumption was that Western influences on Japanese architects would have transferred to Korea, this did not happen. |
| − | Materials were in short supply, with the Japanese | + | Materials were in short supply, with the Japanese logging. It left Korean buildings unrestored and neglected, and contributed to the deterioration of much of Korean architectural history. Historic buildings were also decorated by Japanese ornamentation. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
==Post-war period and Korean War architecture== | ==Post-war period and Korean War architecture== | ||
| − | After the | + | After the unconditional surrender in 1945, American architecture assumed supremacy. Under [[Douglas MacArthur]],. Korean architecture by Koreans began once again in domestic areas, with extensive repair of the missionary churches being given priority funding. Essential repair to infrastructure followed, more patch-work than new projects, and block-built hospitals, schools, industries began simple construction under military supervision. |
| − | Seoul had survived much of [[World War II]] but during the [[Korean War]] (1950-1953), many buildings were destroyed, with the city changing command between [[North Korea]]n and [[South Korea]]n powers five times. | + | Seoul had survived much of [[World War II]] but during the [[Korean War]] (1950-1953), many buildings were destroyed, with the city changing command between [[North Korea]]n and [[South Korea]]n powers five times. Important architectural sites were over-run and burnt by invading [[People's Liberation Army]] forces, and the urban landscape suffered with little money for repairs. |
== Modern architecture == | == Modern architecture == | ||
With the armistice, and distinct architectural styles determined by foreign governments began a long period of development. | With the armistice, and distinct architectural styles determined by foreign governments began a long period of development. | ||
| − | In the north, | + | In the north, Stalinist and absolutist, often brutalist architecture, was championed. North Korean architects studied in [[Moscow]] or Soviet satellites, and brought back socialist worker styles and huge celebratory people's architecture on a grand and massively impressive scale. Nearly all architecture was government sponsored, and maintained great homogeneity of function and style. |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | + | In the south, America had the pragmatic need to rebuild a country devastated by genocide, then a civil war, led to buildings with no particular styles, that were extended repeatedly, and a factory system of simple cheap expendable buildings. Little effort was made to have a sense of an architectural aesthetic. It was fortunate that most of this took place in the urban areas. | |
| + | |||
[[Image:Bundang apartment buildings.JPG|thumb|Apartment buildings in [[Seongnam]] city, South Korea]] | [[Image:Bundang apartment buildings.JPG|thumb|Apartment buildings in [[Seongnam]] city, South Korea]] | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
==Sports architecture== | ==Sports architecture== | ||
| Line 87: | Line 75: | ||
South Korea won the [[1986 Asian Games]] and the [[1988 Summer Olympics|1988 Olympic games]], which spurred waves of new building activity. To market the country globally, international architects were encouraged to submit designs, introducing alternative concepts for modern architecture that began to put style and form ahead of spartan practicality. Historically, sports architecture has occupied the most money and the greatest expression of form identity within Korea. Hundreds of billions of won have been spent on defining Korea as a sports mecca with the architecture leading the way. | South Korea won the [[1986 Asian Games]] and the [[1988 Summer Olympics|1988 Olympic games]], which spurred waves of new building activity. To market the country globally, international architects were encouraged to submit designs, introducing alternative concepts for modern architecture that began to put style and form ahead of spartan practicality. Historically, sports architecture has occupied the most money and the greatest expression of form identity within Korea. Hundreds of billions of won have been spent on defining Korea as a sports mecca with the architecture leading the way. | ||
| − | |||
Important architects at this time and their works often led by the atelier-style architectural co-operative [[Space Group of Korea]] were: | Important architects at this time and their works often led by the atelier-style architectural co-operative [[Space Group of Korea]] were: | ||
| Line 97: | Line 84: | ||
* [[Gyusung Woo]] - Olympic Village, 1984. | * [[Gyusung Woo]] - Olympic Village, 1984. | ||
| − | It wasn't until the late 1980s and early 1990s that an entirely new generation of Korean architects had the freedom and the financing to build Korean architecture in a distinct Korean manner. This was a result of architects studying and training in Europe, Canada, and even in South America, and seeing the need for more of a sense of unique style, and more sophisticated materials. | + | It wasn't until the late 1980s and early [[1990s]] that an entirely new generation of Korean architects had the freedom and the financing to build Korean architecture in a distinct Korean manner. This was a result of architects studying and training in Europe, Canada, and even in South America, and seeing the need for more of a sense of unique style, and more sophisticated materials. |
There was a new determination that nationalistic architectural elements had to be revived and refined. Buildings had to mean something within their cultural context. | There was a new determination that nationalistic architectural elements had to be revived and refined. Buildings had to mean something within their cultural context. | ||
| − | ==Post-modern Korean architecture ( | + | ==Post-modern Korean architecture (1986–2005)== |
Cultural and museum buildings have followed; with city halls and buildings for the civil service appearing generally in a New York/Chicago style rather than following London or Paris trends. | Cultural and museum buildings have followed; with city halls and buildings for the civil service appearing generally in a New York/Chicago style rather than following London or Paris trends. | ||
| Line 107: | Line 94: | ||
Individuality and experimentation became the new cause for young architects, however the country as a whole was slow to move from the old traditions into seeing good architecture aesthetics as being important to the sense of a village, town, or city. Change was forced at times against intense resistance, and new buildings evolved at great cost to the architects and builders and within a great tension. | Individuality and experimentation became the new cause for young architects, however the country as a whole was slow to move from the old traditions into seeing good architecture aesthetics as being important to the sense of a village, town, or city. Change was forced at times against intense resistance, and new buildings evolved at great cost to the architects and builders and within a great tension. | ||
| − | Much of the growth of new architecture came from retail stores, clothing shops, bistros, cafes | + | Much of the growth of new architecture came from retail stores, clothing shops, bistros, cafes. Foreign corporations setting up Korean headquarters also brought in an entirely new spirit of architecture to define their own visions. |
Important architects at this time include: | Important architects at this time include: | ||
| Line 114: | Line 101: | ||
* [[Kim Seok-Chul]] - [[Seoul Arts Centre]] | * [[Kim Seok-Chul]] - [[Seoul Arts Centre]] | ||
* Korean Architects Collaborative International under the guidance of Fentress Bradburn Architects - [[Incheon International Airport]] | * Korean Architects Collaborative International under the guidance of Fentress Bradburn Architects - [[Incheon International Airport]] | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
{{Asia in topic|Architecture of}} | {{Asia in topic|Architecture of}} | ||
| − | [ | + | ==External links== |
| − | [ | + | * [http://www.orientalarchitecture.com/index.htm Asian Historical Architecture] |
| − | [ | + | * [http://www.indiana.edu/~easc/resources/korea_slides/architecture/3-1.htm History of Korean architecture by Shin Young-hoon] |
| − | [[ | + | * [http://nongae.gsnu.ac.kr/~mirkoh/korb01.html A Brief History of Korean Architecture] |
| − | + | * [http://www.enhr2004.org/files/papers/Sohn,%20S.K.%20-%20The%20modernisation%20of%20the%20Korean.pdf ENHR Conference report by Jun, N.I., Hong, H.O. and Professor Yang on Japan's occupation architecture in Korea] | |
| − | + | * [http://home.junglim.co.kr/eng%20version/eng_index.htm Junglim, a leading edge architectural atelier] | |
| + | * [http://home.junglim.co.kr/index/index-bestwork.htm Visuals and plans of Junglim's larger projects] | ||
| + | * [http://www.ucnet.pe.kr/Architecture%20in%20Korea/KA-Contemporary%20Building-Seoul-01.htm Korean contemporary building, cityscapes shown to indicate changes] | ||
| + | * [http://english.ohmynews.com/articleview/article_view.asp?article_class=2&no=219633&rel_no=1 Silla Architecture] | ||
| + | * [http://www.architecture-trend-press.net/Data/_archi/Print.php?time=1093869443&year=2004-2005 Yi Jongho's atelier designs] | ||
| + | [[Category:Korean art|Architecture]] | ||
Revision as of 13:38, 22 December 2007
Korean architecture refers to the architecture of Korea.
Silla was the last of the three kingdoms to develop into a full-fledged kingdom. Again many great temples were built, but the most famous architectural development is Cheomseongdae, said to be the first stone observatory in Asia, built during the reign of Queen Seondeok (632-646). The structure is famous for its unique and elegant form.
Neo-Confucianism inspired new architectural paradigms. Jaesil, or clan memorial halls, became common in many villages where extended families erected facilities for common veneration of a distant ancestor. Jongryo, or memorial shrines, were established by the government to commemorate exceptional acts of filial piety or devotion. Even beyond these archetypes, the aesthetics of Neo-Confucianism, which favored practicality, frugality, and harmony with nature, forged a consistent architectural style throughout Korean society.
Introduction
Ancient architecture (Neolithic–7th century)
The Neolithic period was when the early stages of Korean architecture began. Archaeological evidence of ondol, the unique Korean floor panel heating system, was found at the remains of the burnished plain pottery culture and the development of the vertical wall was evident in the primitive houses of this culture.
Dolmens, which were primitive tombs of important persons, have been found in the Korean peninsula. There are two types of dolmens: the southern type, which is low and often a simple slab without supporting stones; and the northern type, which is larger and more definite in shape. The distribution of the dolmens would imply some relation to the megalithic cultures of the Western world.
During this period building techniques of houses evolved from a pit dwelling to that of an earthen wall with thatched roof, to that of a log cabin construction, and finally, to a raised floor construction.
In 109 B.C.E., the Chinese commandery at Nangnang (Lo-lang) was established in the northwest region of Korea. Chinese architecture strongly influenced Korean architecture at this time, creating a basis for further Korean development.
After the fall of Nangnang in 313, Goguryeo, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, expanded her territory to included half of Manchuria and all of north Korea. Two different types of tombs evolved during this period: one is a stepped pyramid made of stone, while the other is a large earth mound form.
Baekje was founded in 18 B.C.E. and its territory included the west coast of the Korean peninusula. Paekche established friendships with China and Japan. Great temples were built during this time. The earliest stone pagoda of the Miruk Temple in Iksan country is of particular interest because it shows the transitional features from a wooden pagoda to a stone one. The art and architecture of the Paekche period had a touch of elegance, refinement and warmth. Paekche assimilated diverse influences and expressed its derivation from Chinese models. Later, important elements of the architectural style of Paekche were adopted by Japan.
United Silla architecture (7th–10th century)
After the unification of the Korean peninsula into the kingdom of United Silla, Korean institutions were radically transformed. United Silla absorbed the fully matured culture of the T'ang dynasty in China, and at the same time developed a unique cultural identity. New Buddhist sects were introduced from the T'ang and Buddhist art flourished. It was a great period of peace and cultural advancement in the arts that displayed a new level of grace and elegance.
Architecture flourished in the royal capital of Kyongju, though almost all traces of the former glory have vanished at the present time. The city was based around a fertile basin a shaped by the three mountains and two joining rivers. A gird network formed in the urban area with the Hwangyong Temple at the center.
The plans of Korean, Buddhist temples were characterized by two pagodas in front of the central main hall in a symmetrical layout on the north-south axis with other buildings. Pulguk Temple, built on a stone platform at the foothill of Mt. Toham near Kyongju, is the oldest existing temple in Korea. Its Tabo-tap. Located to the right of the court is unique in Korea and the rest of Asia. The temple was first founded early in the sixth century and was entirely rebuilt and enlarged in 752.
The rock cave shrine of Sokkuram is located on the crest of Mt. Toham. It was built by the same master architect of Pulguk Temple, and built around the same era. This cave shrine was artificially and skillfully constructed with granite blocks and covered with an earth mound on top to give the appearance of a natural landscape. The graceful statue of Buddha on a lotus pedestal in the center is the dominant feature of the chamber.
Rock cave shrines are not rare in Asia, but few of these shrines and sculptures reveal such high level of artistry. None are as religiously and artistically complete in overall design as those at Sokkuram
Goryeo architecture (10th–14th century)
Much of the architecture of this time was inspired by Buddhism, such as magnificent Buddhist temples and the Korean pagoda. Unfortunately, since most of the architecture of this time was built of wood, little has survived to the present day. Also, the capital of Goryeo was based in Gaesong, in modern day North Korea, which has made this era especially problematic to study for historians at large.
Joseon architecture (14th–19th century)
The founding of the Joseon dynasty in 1392 brought to power like-minded men steeped in the doctrines of Neo-Confucianism, which had slowly percolated into Korea from China in the 14th century. This ushered in a new environment that was relatively hostile to Buddhism, causing the state to gradually shift its patronage from Buddhist temples to Confucian institutions.
Neo-Confucianism inspired new architectural paradigms. Jaesil, or clan memorial halls, became common in many villages where extended families erected facilities for common veneration of a distant ancestor. Jongryo, or memorial shrines, were established by the government to commemorate exceptional acts of filial piety or devotion. Even beyond these archetypes, the aesthetics of Neo-Confucianism, which favored practicality, frugality, and harmony with nature, forged a consistent architectural style throughout Korean society.
Japanese occupation architecture (1910-1945)
During the Japanese occupation of Korea, there was a systematic attempt by the Empire of Japan to destroy native Korean architecture and replace it with Japanese architecture.
Important architectural sites were destroyed, often by burning. Significant elements of landscaping, such as Korean gardens, were razed. It was at this time as well that the traditional religious architecture was discouraged.
Japanese architecture was first introduced in the Korean transportation networks. Railroad lines saw the construction of Japanese-style rail stations and hotels. Ports as transit points, however, had limited construction. Inland, the Japanese built new city halls, barracks and military bases, jail and prisons, police stations, and police boxes. Korean architects were required to train only in Japan and encouraged to design exclusively along Japanese models when they returned. While the assumption was that Western influences on Japanese architects would have transferred to Korea, this did not happen.
Materials were in short supply, with the Japanese logging. It left Korean buildings unrestored and neglected, and contributed to the deterioration of much of Korean architectural history. Historic buildings were also decorated by Japanese ornamentation.
Post-war period and Korean War architecture
After the unconditional surrender in 1945, American architecture assumed supremacy. Under Douglas MacArthur,. Korean architecture by Koreans began once again in domestic areas, with extensive repair of the missionary churches being given priority funding. Essential repair to infrastructure followed, more patch-work than new projects, and block-built hospitals, schools, industries began simple construction under military supervision.
Seoul had survived much of World War II but during the Korean War (1950-1953), many buildings were destroyed, with the city changing command between North Korean and South Korean powers five times. Important architectural sites were over-run and burnt by invading People's Liberation Army forces, and the urban landscape suffered with little money for repairs.
Modern architecture
With the armistice, and distinct architectural styles determined by foreign governments began a long period of development.
In the north, Stalinist and absolutist, often brutalist architecture, was championed. North Korean architects studied in Moscow or Soviet satellites, and brought back socialist worker styles and huge celebratory people's architecture on a grand and massively impressive scale. Nearly all architecture was government sponsored, and maintained great homogeneity of function and style.
In the south, America had the pragmatic need to rebuild a country devastated by genocide, then a civil war, led to buildings with no particular styles, that were extended repeatedly, and a factory system of simple cheap expendable buildings. Little effort was made to have a sense of an architectural aesthetic. It was fortunate that most of this took place in the urban areas.
Sports architecture
Template:Cleanup Sports architecture transited to a Korean style.
South Korea won the 1986 Asian Games and the 1988 Olympic games, which spurred waves of new building activity. To market the country globally, international architects were encouraged to submit designs, introducing alternative concepts for modern architecture that began to put style and form ahead of spartan practicality. Historically, sports architecture has occupied the most money and the greatest expression of form identity within Korea. Hundreds of billions of won have been spent on defining Korea as a sports mecca with the architecture leading the way.
Important architects at this time and their works often led by the atelier-style architectural co-operative Space Group of Korea were:
- Park Kil-ryong
- Jungup Kim or Kim Chung-up - Trained in France and designed the Olympic Memorial Gate/World Peace Gate, 1988.
- Jongseong Kim - Weight Lifting Gymnasium, Olympic Park, 1986.
- Kim Su-keun who trained in Tokyo - Olympic Stadium. 1984. Total area is 133,649metres³, 100,000seats, 245×180m diameter, 830m in perimeter.
- Gyusung Woo - Olympic Village, 1984.
It wasn't until the late 1980s and early 1990s that an entirely new generation of Korean architects had the freedom and the financing to build Korean architecture in a distinct Korean manner. This was a result of architects studying and training in Europe, Canada, and even in South America, and seeing the need for more of a sense of unique style, and more sophisticated materials.
There was a new determination that nationalistic architectural elements had to be revived and refined. Buildings had to mean something within their cultural context.
Post-modern Korean architecture (1986–2005)
Cultural and museum buildings have followed; with city halls and buildings for the civil service appearing generally in a New York/Chicago style rather than following London or Paris trends.
Individuality and experimentation became the new cause for young architects, however the country as a whole was slow to move from the old traditions into seeing good architecture aesthetics as being important to the sense of a village, town, or city. Change was forced at times against intense resistance, and new buildings evolved at great cost to the architects and builders and within a great tension.
Much of the growth of new architecture came from retail stores, clothing shops, bistros, cafes. Foreign corporations setting up Korean headquarters also brought in an entirely new spirit of architecture to define their own visions.
Important architects at this time include:
- Um Tok-mun - Sejong Cultural Centre
- Kim Seok-Chul - Seoul Arts Centre
- Korean Architects Collaborative International under the guidance of Fentress Bradburn Architects - Incheon International Airport
| ||||||||
External links
- Asian Historical Architecture
- History of Korean architecture by Shin Young-hoon
- A Brief History of Korean Architecture
- ENHR Conference report by Jun, N.I., Hong, H.O. and Professor Yang on Japan's occupation architecture in Korea
- Junglim, a leading edge architectural atelier
- Visuals and plans of Junglim's larger projects
- Korean contemporary building, cityscapes shown to indicate changes
- Silla Architecture
- Yi Jongho's atelier designs
