Abstract:
How can the power of protest be used to bring aspects of the past into the present, using the streets of Korea as part of a reunification process? This project aims to bring a touch of Korea’s past into a contemporary context. It is important to recognise and understand the role of protest in Korea’s history. Korea has had a history of violent civil protests as a means of change, and the thesis uses the site of protest – the street – as the main focus. The separation between North and South Korea in 1950 has caused much scarring and unrest in the nation and the frustrations caused by this can be seen throughout the modern era of Korea. I believe Korea is on the verge of stepping onto another chapter led by the new progressive leader Moon Jae In. Moon is unique as a leader for South Korea and has not only recognised the importance of seeing the Korean peninsula as one, but the emotional need to reunite the South with the North. This thesis has an underlying personal aspect to it, aiding my own identity formation as a New Zealand-born Korean. Over the years the search for my heritage has grown significantly, alongside the conflict felt between a Korean and a New Zealand way of life. The design is sited along Saejongdae-ro. In the heart of Seoul, using one of the main sites of street protest. The street links two important sites in Seoul, both which may feature in a possible reunification, the main hope and aim of this project.