Revitalizing and reinventing of the diminishing public sphere : the Namdaemun Market District in Seoul, Korea

Abstract

This thesis begins from the premise that public spheres are currently disappearing and losing their social role in the city; it focuses on traditional marketplaces in Seoul, Korea. Its aim is to explore the possibilities for re-designing traditional marketplaces, so that they can better serve not only their economic role but also become proper public spaces in the city. Although Korea has achieved an impressive economic, social and cultural developmental progress, traditional marketplaces have been lagging and declining, including Namdaemun market district. The prospective of current large-scale traditional market system faces challenges with the volatile consumer consumption patterns and less visitations to these markets. Besides, the 50-years-old market buildings do not cope well in the busy market streets, which can barely handle problems brought by more stalls and a larger number of visitors. This thesis will start with a conceptual framework for comprehending the current situations, exploring the potential of traditional marketplaces in Seoul, and seeking architectural solutions to the absence of the 'public realm' With these solutions, It will be suggested some changes that are needed in the 'place' in order to meet the requirements of the present day trends and people's preferences. The thesis suggests that a new version of the traditional marketplace can be developed, that is combined with other programs, especially tourism spots, and that are better adapted to meeting modern requirements. It will focus on meeting social demands and fixing market problems, thereby reviving its own inherent competitive advantages as a space for commercial activities and inter-personal communications.