The 2023 Spatial Academy is a two-month-long program hosted by Kookmin University (KMU) and its renowned professors. It is a collaboration between the university and Jong-ro, a significant historic center and a cultural hub in Seoul, South Korea. The primary focus of the 2023 Spatial Academy is to gain an understanding of Jong-ro, a place steeped in history, culture, and community.
This specific academy will take place at the Zero-One Design Center, Kookmin University from Sep.2023 to Oct.2023. The academy will consist of eight distinct lectures, encompassing
various workshops and lessons. The 2023 Spatial Academy will feature five professors from KMU, along with a director from an interior design studio known as “mtt.official.” Professor Lee Min from the College of Design's Spatial Design department and Professor Hwang Sun-Ik from the Department of Korean History in the Global College of Humanities and Area Studies have generously shared their thoughts with THE KOOKMIN REVIEW regarding their preparations for the 2023 Spatial Academy. 

Professor Hwang Sun-Ik

Q: The topic of your lecture at “2023 Spatial Academy” is “Spatial Transformation of Jong-ro”, and given that KMU’s original campus was in Jong-ro, could you kindly elaborate on the transition of the Jong-ro area in Seoul, particularly in relation to the history of KMU?

Jong-ro is the center of our history. Ever since Han-yang, the capital city of the Joseon Dynasty, was established, Seoul has remained a focal point of historical change. In the pre-modern dynasty era, it stood as the heart of politics, economy, culture, and administration. Throughout the modern transformative period, it served as a gathering place for the struggle to attain civil rights. Many Seoul citizens aspired to historical change and persisted in creating history every day. Jong-ro functions not merely as an administrative center of Seoul but also as a significant source of new history. 

KMU began its history around the Gyeongbokgung palace, which is located in Jong-ro. Later, the campus moved to Jeongneung, where it is more spacious and verdant. The transition of KMU exemplifies the expansion and spatial acculturation of Seoul. KMU acquired the original school site at Changseong-dong, Jong-ro. This location facilitated the achievement of the Republic of Korea’s Provincial Government goal of providing equal educational opportunities. Presently, the campus building in Jong-ro serves as an annex for government offices. Nonetheless, it continues to remain the heart of the university’s history. 

Professor Lee Min

Q: Could you please provide more detailed information about the "2023 Spatial Academy" for our readers? 

The foundation of the "2023 Spatial Academy" lies in Jong-ro’s desire to provide insightful education to its residents. Given that KMU offers prestigious Design and Art programs, it reached for a partnership with the school to create an academy that discusses the spatial history of Jong-ro, Seoul. One could wonder why not the college of architecture, as it may seem more suitable to discuss the old historic area and buildings. However, learning about space means learning about the background, how one resides in a space, and understanding their own living environment. Therefore, space is a lifestyle of a person itself. The "2023 Spatial Academy" will specifically focus on people who live in Jong-ro, Seoul, in order to learn the history and community of their own living area, as well as to foster self-esteem and love towards their social community.

Q: The “2023 Spatial Academy” is held at Zero-One Design Center, Kookmin University. What is the nature of this place?

In the past, the Zero-One Design Center served various functions. It functioned as an art gallery, and some design lectures were also conducted there. However, its purpose and character underwent changes over the years. Following the onset of COVID-19, the center has been dedicated solely to educational pursuits, hosting lectures from the School of Lifelong Education, Kookmin University. As Jong-ro aimed to maximize the use of its educational venues, it partnered with KMU for the academy and, given that the Zero-One Design Center is in Jong-ro, it has become the ideal location for hosting the academy. Moving forward, I hope to see increased utilization of the Zero-One Design Center for education purposes.

Q: For students unable to attend the "2023 Spatial Academy," could you provide a sneak peek into some of your academy lectures and discuss the topics covered in each?

 The opening lecture, titled "What is space? The value and meaning of Space," delves into inner space that remains concealed from the outside world and other people, but serves as a personal sanctuary. It's a true realm interwoven with one’s life. Additionally, I will discuss the concept of space and how one's life, or the way one lives, impacts an
individual's personal space. The fourth lecture of the "2023 Spatial Academy" focuses on experiencing the cultural scene. Students enrolled in the academy will have the opportunity to embark on a group visit to various historic and cultural sites in Jong-ro, Seoul. Moreover, we will explore what constitutes a cultural moment during the lecture. Lastly, the eighth lecture of the "2023 Spatial Academy" takes the form of a workshop class. Students will express and communicate what they've learned throughout the academy. They will choose their favorite space in Jong-ro, capture images of the location, and engage in discussions with their groups.

Lee Song-Lee
Reporter
songleelee@kookmin.ac.kr