In the heart of Seoul, a unique blend of old and new is redefining how we preserve and experience cultural heritage. This innovative approach, detailed in a recent study by Hyunchul Youn of Kyungpook National University, combines facadism and the metaverse to create an immersive journey through time. The research, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, explores how preserving the exterior of historical buildings while modernizing the interior, coupled with digital restoration through the metaverse, can offer new ways to interpret and present cultural heritage.
Seoul City Hall and its underground Gungisi site serve as the case studies for this groundbreaking research. By maintaining the historic facades of these buildings, the city retains its architectural identity. Meanwhile, the interiors are transformed into modern, functional spaces. But the innovation doesn’t stop at the building’s skin. Youn’s research introduces the concept of the “heri-verse,” a digital restoration of the lost historical spaces inside these buildings. This virtual environment allows users to immerse themselves in the past, experiencing history in a way that was previously impossible.
“The combination of vertical exterior preservation and horizontal interior reenactment goes beyond the limitations of fragmentary facade preservation,” Youn explains. This approach provides new access to multi-layered heritage, particularly appealing to younger generations and digitally savvy audiences. For the energy sector, this could mean new opportunities for sustainable building practices and innovative ways to engage with historical sites, potentially attracting eco-conscious tourists and investors.
The potential commercial impacts are significant. By preserving the exterior while modernizing the interior, buildings can meet contemporary energy efficiency standards without losing their historical charm. This could lead to a new wave of adaptive reuse projects, where old buildings are given new life with modern, energy-efficient systems. Moreover, the heri-verse offers a unique selling point for cultural tourism, attracting visitors who want to experience history in an immersive, interactive way.
However, this approach is not without its challenges. There’s a risk that the blend of old and new could blur the identity of the heritage. “A balanced interpretation and presentation is required,” Youn cautions. This means carefully considering how to integrate modern elements without compromising the historical integrity of the site.
As we look to the future, this research could shape how we approach cultural heritage preservation and presentation. It opens up possibilities for other cities to follow suit, creating immersive, interactive experiences that respect the past while embracing the future. For the energy sector, it offers a blueprint for sustainable building practices that honor history while driving innovation.
The study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, translates to the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, provides a fascinating glimpse into how technology and tradition can coexist. As we continue to grapple with how to preserve our past in a rapidly changing world, this research offers a compelling vision of what’s possible.
