Modern architecture in South Korea
Modern architecture in Korea is a 20th (or even 21st) century import rather than an evolution of traditional skills and practices. Architecture as a profession is emerging from under the shadow of construction. Korea has overall a good level of architectural expertise, good awareness of design and quality of design.
Korea has developed rapidly from a war-ravaged, recipient of foreign aid to one of the top economies in the world. A side effect of rapid development has been a focus on construction of functional, unimaginative, utilitarian, 'cookie-cutter' structures. As the standard of living has improved, there is an emerging appreciation for aesthetics, efficiency and quality which is shaping the architectural sector today.
The local industry is made up of some 71,000 individuals working in 11,500 firms, the majority being sole proprietorships. The major challenge to the local industry has been the inability to offer innovative and creative solutions due to their historical subservience to the construction industry which focused on standard, easy-to-build designs to achieve rapid industrialization.
Opportunities for Dutch Architects
For international architects, the market can be interesting. Estimated at between €5 billion to €7 billion, the market ranks 9th in the world. The segment that is available to international architects is estimated at approximately 10% of the total. Foreign players are often involved with concept designs and schematic designs with design development and construction documents being supplied by local firms. Given the required level of knowledge of local materials and familiarity with construction regulations, construction supervision is most challenging for foreign firms to access. Successful market penetration requires cooperation with a local firm.
Urban regeneration, an area in which Dutch architects are renown, is emerging as an interesting sector as Korea's 'stock' of residential, commercial and industrial facilities, hastily built decades ago, is dilapidated and in need of replacement or renewal. In parallel, public projects which have been primarily price driven are shifting from economy to form, function and appeal. Korea hosts the highest number of international design competitions in the world. They are open to bidders from all countries so this is creating more opportunities for foreign architects.
Dutch Presence in South Korea
More than a dozen Dutch architects have been successful in implementing projects in Korea. ‘Starchitects’ have been active: MVRDV has carried out more than a dozen projects in urban design and signature buildings, UN Studio has also implemented more than ten including commercial buildings and museums, OMA has also designed landmark buildings and retail. Over ten other Dutch architects have at least one project in Korea.
Korean clients are attracted to working with prestigious starchitects. Association with these firms lends prestige and generates promotional value. Dutch firms are believed to be better able to design creative, eye-catching, landmark structures. There is also appreciation in the industry for specific areas of expertise.
Tips to enter the Korean Market
Penetrating the market requires a good understanding of Korea's unique culture and corporate decision making. Developing and nurturing healthy, professional relationships with clients, architectural firms, architecture professors and relevant stakeholders is the key success factor. Architects can generate interest in their firms by participating in international and domestic events. Participating in a consortium for a unique, modern development together with a developer, construction firm and international investor could be a good launch platform. Smaller firms can generate critical mass to attract attention by presenting their portfolios together through seminars and workshops.
The embassy in Seoul could be a useful facilitator for such events. It is important to capitalize on every opportunity to meet and interact with key stakeholders to establish relationships to maximize opportunities as they arise.
Let us tell you more about the Korean architecture market during the session ‘Opportunities for architecture and area development in South Korea (sector study) (ENG)’
Titel: ARCHITECTURE & URBAN DESIGN IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Uitvoerder: IRC CONSULTING
Datum: February 2021
