This chapter explores how the city government’s constructions of DDPP as a part of the
DesignSeoul campaign and promotion of Dongdaemun as the epitome of fashion industry work
to legitimize continuation of urban redevelopment projects. Continuing on the theme of
“tradition as rediscoveries” discussed in previous chapters, this chapter illustrates how
rediscovered city walls dating back to the 14th century has become a part of rationale for the city
government to pursue urban redevelopments. One of the design strategies of Hadid’s metonymic
architecture included integration of the historic city wall in the park, discovered after the
demolition of the old sports stadium. Politicians and policy makers’ assessment of Hadid’s
design as “respecting Korean tradition,” regardless of the way it is integrated, demonstrated a
primarily materialistic and simplistic understanding regarding the abstract term “tradition.”
As the result of continuous
construction of high rise shopping malls, the area exudes the youthful atmosphere of hip and
fashionable lifestyles. In addition to high rise shopping malls with trendy shops, construction of
DDPP is expected to add new attractions to the Dongdaemun market which has been designated
by Seoul city government as one of the Global Cultural Zones of Seoul.
5
3
Yu, Jaeyun. “Seoul Dongdaemun Sichang ŭi Byunhwa wa Jŏngchekjŏk Sisajŏm.” “The change in Dongdaemun
Market and the Policy Suggestions.” Dosi Munjae. The Urban Question 37(3) 2002. 68.
4
Kim, Yanghee and Yongnam Shin. “Jaerae ŭiryu Sichang ŭi Buhwal gwa Sisajŏm.” “The Resurrection of Old
Apparel Market and What It Suggests” in Dongdaemun – Wigi ŭi Jaerae Sichang e Sŏh Fashion Moonhwa
Myungsoro Dongdaemun – From Old Market in Crisis to Fashion and Cultural Attractions. Seoul: Dongdaemun
Forum, 2001 45-60.
5
Oh, Saehun.
Furthermore, the decision to demolish the sports stadium has generated controversy among Seoul
residents who considered the stadium an emblem of “modern sports cultures” with an eighty-year history.