The Department of Architecture at Samyook University recently hosted its 23rd Graduation Exhibition titled ‘Human Rights Architecture’ from July 17th to 22nd at Gallery Ease on Insa-dong-gil in Seoul’s Jongno-gu.

The exhibition showcased the works of 43 graduating students, reflecting a deep contemplation and exploration of the theme of ‘human rights’ within the field of architecture. Among the exhibited pieces, awards such as the Grand Prize, Best Prize, and Excellence Prize were presented to outstanding works.

Kim Hye-won’s ‘Recollection, Memories of Forgotten Times_Museum Doseong Village’ clinched the Grand Prize. Her design transformed the entire Yeosu Doseong Village, the first settlement of Hansun in Korea, into a unique art museum. This space serves as a platform for sharing and preserving the history and lives of the marginalized Hansun community, fostering a transformation into a cohesive community where people interact without fear.

The Best Prize was awarded to Kang Seo-yeon for ‘NAMSAN ARCHIVE SQUARE_Plaza for Citizens: Freedom Center Renovation Project.’ The project aimed to repurpose the Namsan Freedom Center, a symbol of anti-communist ideologies from the 1960s, into a sustainable space for citizens. Through renovation, it proposed an open plaza for citizens and suggested an archival role for recording participatory programs.

Yoon Sang’s exceptional work ‘Interlinked Horizon’ introduced a hospice facility in the urban landscape. By blending the cityscape with greenery, residential and commercial spaces, and the layers of life and death, the project aimed to dissolve boundaries and explore coexistence between the city’s diverse relationships and hospice facilities.

Additionally, other notable works such as Kim Geon-hyung’s ‘Taean Marine Healing Center,’ Kim Ye-young’s ‘Regenerate into a gift from the city_Renovation Project of the Gumi-dong Sewage Treatment Plant in the city center,’ Moon Ye-seul’s ‘Rehoming Park_Comprehensive Support Center for Companion/Abandoned Animals in Seongnam,’ and Jung Yoo-rim’s ‘H.E.R (Han River Entertainment Road)’ received Excellence Prizes, receiving praise for their innovative approaches.

Dean Ryu Han-guk expressed that the showcased works transcend mere graduation projects, carrying messages that resonate deeply within society. He emphasized the potential of architecture to bring about transformative changes in people’s lives and foster the creation of a more inclusive and better society.