PARADISE EAST
Masters of Architecture Thesis Project, 2021
Paradise East is an artificial surf park nestled on the bank of the Han River in Seoul, Korea. The inherently placeless concept of paradise is recontextualized by the specificity of this site. A program of artificial waves powered by the passing subway train and river flow is grounded by the traditional yet progressive program of a jimjilbang (a Korean spa). The socially connective environment of the jimjilbang challenges the colonized and competitive attitudes embedded in surf culture, offering a safe space for the othered surfer.
