BACKGROUND
The current state of affairs is characterized by global resource depletion and escalating conflicts among nations, even to the extent of nuclear weapons being targeted at each other, resulting in extreme loss of life and heading towards a catastrophic disaster.
The spatial characteristics of bunkers, left neglected during times of peace, contribute to fading memories of their existence in people's minds. There is a pressing need to revitalize and activate awareness of these spaces in people's memories to prevent them from being forgotten and neglected in non-emergency situations.
SITE
The history of neglect spanning across Gyeonghuigung Palace
Gyeonghuigung Palace, once known as one of the grandest palaces during the Joseon Dynasty, saw its former glory fade away even before restoration plans could be initiated. The site was overtaken by other structures, erasing the historical splendor. Within its grounds lies the forgotten space of Gyeonghuigung Bunker.
Constructed during the Japanese occupation as a refuge from potential U.S. airstrikes, the bunker was abandoned after the war. In the early 2000s, attempts were made by the local government to repurpose the space for exhibition purposes. However, it was closed again by some visitors who suffered from claustrophobia.
SOLUTION
01 The main direct connection route
02 Programs that do not overlap with nearby museums
03 Resolving claustrophobia of the underground space
02 Programs that do not overlap with nearby museums
03 Resolving claustrophobia of the underground space
Gyeonghuigung Bunker
From the Forgotten Remains of War
to a Flexible Cultural Bunker,
connect the past and the present
to a Flexible Cultural Bunker,
connect the past and the present
Forgotten PAST --- Connection --- Continued PRESENT
It reconstructs negative elements of the past and constructs a space that serves as a bridge to connect the forgotten space to local citizens again. Through this, we try to create a virtuous cycle by playing a historical or architectural role by remembering the forgotten past once again.
#1 SOFT FORM
By attracting visitors as a cultural facility, the once-forgotten bunker is reintroduced to people. Additionally, a sequence is achieved through continuous cut transitions, blocking and emphasizing the openness through dispersed masses centered around the central pathway.
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#2 SOLID FORM
Functioning as a cultural facility, the bunker, engraved in people's minds, rapidly transforms back to its original state for exhibitions. The familiar bunker serves as a shelter that citizens can quickly identify and evacuate to in times of need.
