416 Memorial Park
The goal of this project is to create a cultural park that includes exhibition and educational facilities as well as a columbarium to honor and remember the victims of the Sewol ferry disaster. In 2014, the passenger ferry MV Sewol sank off the coast of South Korea, resulting in the tragic loss of over three hundred lives, many of whom were schoolchildren. Even years later, the families and survivors are still seeking justice from the authorities.
The memory of the Sewol ferry disaster will always remain in our hearts and minds, and we strive to translate this tragedy into a meaningful space. The 416 Memorial is designed to be a place of sublimation, transcending beyond a simple memorial and providing solace to those who have lost loved ones or witnessed the event. We believe that sorrow cannot end with itself and that we can transform resistance, anger, and sadness into poetry that resonates with society.
The rooftop garden symbolizes the conception of new life and is built with sustainability in mind. 250 birch trees are planted to commemorate the victims, and their growth over time serves as a metaphor for life emerging from death.
THE POETICS OF 416
The 416 Memorial maximizes the visitor's experience through a well-thought-out sequence of movement. The architecture gradually deepens from the entrance to the memorial space below, with a ramp that is deliberately inclined to resemble the gradual sequence of an inclined ship. The pop-up event space in the center of the complex is a public space that connects various programs, including educational and event facilities, while the office space is located at the end of the public area. After passing through the corridor that is transformed into a private zone, visitors enter the space of social memories and eventually reach the Commemoration and Enshrinement Space. This outdoor space has an open upper part of the pyramid, allowing visitors to experience the changing seasons and time.
The 250 birch trees serve as a fitting tribute to the victims and also symbolize eternity. As they grow over time, they represent the meaning of death leading to new life. In addition to the indoor memorial space, memorial events can be held in the outdoor garden, and each tree provides an individual memorial space. The garden's walkway can be closed off for events and is used as a performance space and amphitheater. The interface along the walkway connects the space and architecture, allowing natural light to penetrate and unifying the landscape with the building.