The new animation centre should become a pivot point of the region in response to the Namsan-Anitown and Namsan regeneration project of Seoul. For this purpose, suggested three grounds that actively utilised each difference of ground level. The first ground is a cultural ground, related to the existing plaza of Namsan arts centre, and naturally connects the axis with Myeongdong station to the inside of the animation centre. The existing plaza will also become more active through this process. The second ground is an event ground, which consists of two sloping surfaces. The first surface is used as an outdoor seating area during animation festivals. At this time, the view on the north becomes a screen so that people can watch animations. The second surface is for a city view of the north. Plus, sloping greenery also takes in charge of playgrounds for children. The third ground is a space that extends the forest around Namsan to the project site. Located between each crack in the building, the atmosphere of Namsan will also interact with the sunken square and internal programs. The architectural masses, which are divided into four pieces, sit quietly down, so as not to overwhelm delicate urban structures around them. Besides, the gaps of separated masses enable an open view from Namsan and Myeongdong to the internal programs. In particular, a gap located in the middle of the building creates a sunken square of the third ground and forms a view corridor between city and forest.

Year: 2016

Type: Planning Project

Project: Seoul Animation Centre

Client: Seoul Metropolitan Government

Team: USUN Architects & Engineers + Prof. J. Kim