There are a lot of people in Seoul, South Korea. And a lot of activities. And a lot of buildings. And the trend can only go one way- more are on the way. As a result of this densification, the realm of the populus has moved underground. This project, Affect and Sensation, by Alejandro Vicente Soto of the DS:13 studio at the University of Westminster, seeks to ‘provide a leisure cluster that aims to re-introduce Korea’s micro spatial identity back into the built urban fabric.’
Courtesy Of Alejandro Vicente Soto
The architect describes this move to subterranean spaces as resulting in public domains as ‘micro-spatialities’ or Bang Culture. Soto states that,
The examination of this new underground frontier is carried through the expansion of micro-spatiality through Korean Bang culture. The importance on Korean Bang culture is that it has multiple embedded sensations related to its spatial and programmatic characteristics. The proposed study is a JJim-Jil Bang (Korean Bath House) mixed with other recreational typologies. The main focus is to unite them to provide a leisure cluster that aims to re-introduce Korea’s micro spatial identity back into the built urban fabric.
Courtesy Of Alejandro Vicente Soto
Matt Davis is a Virginia Tech graduate and one of the founding editors behind Arch2O. Launching the platform in mid‑2012 alongside fellow Hokies, he helped shape its identity as an international hub for design innovation and critical dialogue . With a foundation in architectural education and a passion for uncovering unconventional design approaches, Matt has contributed significantly—both editorially and strategically—to Arch2O’s growth, ensuring that emerging architects, academics, and creatives have a space to question, explore, and elevate the built environment.