Layers of Seoul: Reimagining the Municipal Core

The new government complex in the Jongno-gu district of Seoul, South Korea, is envisioned as a landmark of transformation—one that will seamlessly integrate into its surroundings while redefining the city’s civic architecture. Designed as a multifunctional hub, the building aspires to become a central gathering point for the district, blending public service with community life.

Distinctive in its form, the architecture features a bold and rugged profile, marked by a dramatic slope that sets it apart from the uniform, rectilinear city blocks that surround it. This expressive gesture not only defines the building’s identity but also responds directly to the urban context. From the main boulevard, the structure appears tall and assertive, reflecting the city’s scale; yet as it transitions into the narrow side streets, its height softens to create a more intimate and approachable street presence.

Green spaces are woven into the sloped roof, offering areas for social exchange, relaxation, and public activity. Offices, a library, and archives are integrated into the program, while an interior patio creates a strong spatial dialogue between the new construction and an adjacent historic building—restoring and preserving the legacy of the site. This courtyard becomes a central point of connection, linking past and present.

At its core, the building is designed to enhance the well-being of its users and visitors. Natural light is carefully introduced from the north, and lush, living greenery is incorporated throughout, reinforcing a sense of calm and vitality within. More than just a civic facility, this project is a celebration of openness, sustainability, and architectural sensitivity—a new model for public buildings in the urban fabric of Seoul.


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