1. B A 8 8 8 8 8

3. International Urban Ideas Competition | Dancing Island 3
Contents
Act One: The Communion of Two Dancers 5
Dancing Island - The Community of the Seas 7
Act Two: Growing with an Island 9
A Spiritual Connection to the Sea 11
A Deep Respect for Nature 13
Topography Dictates Destiny 15
A Passion for Relationship 17
Act Three: Finding Herself Again 19
Ocean Lifestyle 21
Nature Tourism, Eco-Tourism, and Urban Eco-Tourism 23
Innovation: Food, Energy and Architecture 25
Collaborative Urbanism 27
Architecture 29
Power Energy 30
Resources 31
Area 1: Greater Gadeok Seaweed Centre 32
Area 2: The Reef Residences 33
Area 3: Nulcha Bay Area 34
Area 4: Logistic and Commerce Centre 36
Area 5: New Port and Busan West Convention Centre 36
Area 6: Gadeokdo Marine Theme Park 37
Area 7: Gadeok Cruise Ship Terminal and Entertainment Area 38
Area 8: New Busan International Airport 39
Area 9: Gadeokdo Natural Park 40

5. 5
Act One: The Communion of Two Dancers
The risk is a part of the rhythm. One steps out of and into balance; one keeps on doing it….
Edwin Denby, “Forms in Motion and Thought” (1965)
Our proposal is the culmination of all delicate balances that exist in life; the delicate balance of
form and function, nature and man, conformity and non-conformity, movement, social interaction,
and the rhythm of life. These balances are found in every aspect of life and it is in our proposal
that these balances find their equilibrium and harmony. As in dance urban planning is a struggle
about leadership and finding common ground. It is also a form of expression and a nonverbal
communication. It is a dance between nature and man, daring, provocative and spiritual. On a
search for the new, the unexpected, and to celebrate the diversity of expression, developing the art
form, its artists and its appreciative audience.
The title, The Dancing Island, refers to dancers on a stage, created by our artistic design team,
of two young contemporary dancers, all of whom inhabit these writings. Though much, including
several oceans, lies between us, this design presentation explores the divergences: between
the dancers and their audience, between a futuristic metropolis and an uninhabited forest. In
summoning this proposal as a collaborative presence, we accommodate 21st century sensibilities
in language and image within a contemporary freedom of form. As in Edwin Denby’s description of
the dance step (above), This proposal steps out of, and into emotional and other balances, within
both the dancers and the geography and the spaces between them though dance, and the dancer, is
always discovered at the centre of their resolve and resolution.
A study of two dancers reveals the subtleties of similarity and difference. Although articulated in
this contemporary program as an exploration of how an individual defines oneself within a close
relationship, it is more an exploration of sharing space; the dancers move organically between roles
of soloist, support and equal partner. Individuality does not need to be defined, given the level of
understanding and mutual respect. The space to be oneself is granted with sensitivity. The effect is
not so much a symbiosis or a blurring of two characters, but an expression of subtle adjustments
that if we are lucky, we can find and create a balance in close and long-standing relationships with
man and nature.

6. 6
1. Greater Gadeok
Sea Weed Centre
4. Logistic and Commerce
Centre - New Port
3. Nulcha
5. Busan West Bay
Convention Centre 2. The Reef
Residences
10. Sport Leisure and
Urban Agriculture
6. Atlantis Marine
Theme Park
7. Cruise Ship
Terminal
8. New Busan
International Airport
9. Gadeok-do
Natural Park
Overall Design Approach / Protected Natural Areas Development Areas
Programming Areas Nature & Eco Tourism Urban Area & Residences
Ocean & Resources Tourism & Entertainment /
Cruise Ship Terminal &
Buffer Zones Marine Theme Park
Sea Weed Area & Business & Logistics /
Urban Argiculture / New Port
Sport & Leisure / Industry
Marine Residences Infrastructure

7. 7
Dancing Island - The Community of the Seas
Since the beginning of time, Gadeokdo represents nature. Its people have thrived on the ebb
and flow of its bountiful biotic mass in a ritual, synchronized with the rhythms of the waves and
seasons. While Busan City, as major natural harbor, stands for business and trade.
Today, with this entry, our team sees the two as enchanted dancers interacting, to create the
world’s first community of the seas. It consists of maritime research, - trading, - living and -
recreational life.
At its core we suggest a University of Oceanic Studies serving the North East Asian theatre. A
research centre of renown, offering solutions in the world’s search for alternatives in food – energy
using the ocean as a resource.
Gadeokdo - Programming Elements
Natural Living & Public Arts & Infra- Local & Sports & Water- Business
Areas Resi- Facilities Culture structure Regional Recrea- front & & Com-
dences Tourism tion Sea Shore merce
Protected / nature parks / existing vil- / hiking path / land art / local roads / interest spots, / hiking / natural / existing
Natural Areas / migratory lage lifestyle / existing hos- / heritage & bicycle bird watching, / diving beaches and sea weed
and Ocean bird habitat & / existing pitals, schools areas lanes lighthouse, / biking, etc. rock seashore farming and
wildlife cor- fishing and and senior signaling station, agriculture
ridors aquaculture facilities etc.
/ ocean life lifestyle
Buffer Zones / recreational / existing / nature Infor- / land art / local roads, / recreational / multi- / natural / convenient
parks villages, low mation centre / art & cul- parking lots trails, hiking purpose fields / beaches facilties (daily
Transition / agriculture density, single / hiking path ture centre / bicycle / camping ground (football, / small marina needs, local
Zones & sea weed family houses / existing hos- / heritage lanes / sea weed centre baseball, etc.), / shore area products,
between farms / marine pitals, schools areas / education & / golfing recreation etc.)
Nature and / wetlands residences and senior information / diving, hiking / small shops
Urban Areas & water facilities centre / sports centre / local farm-
reservoirs ers market
/ wildlife / sea weed
habitat & cor- centre
ridors
Development / neighbour- / intensive / schools, / galleries, / roads, / main tourism / indoor pools, / public / convenience
Areas hood parks residential libraries, re- / theaters parking lots centre indoor sports beaches, facilities
/ urban development search centre, / centre of / public / cruise ship facilities boardwalks, / business
Urban agriculture (medium to universities performing transporta- terminal / tennis and waterfront district &
Areas with high density), / social welfare, arts tion, light / lodging / hotels basketball / main mar- international
sustainable town houses senior housing, rail train / casino courts ina, harbour, exchange &
Connection to and apart- hospitals / pedestrian / aquarium, / roller blade ferry docks distribution
Nature ments / public squares areas, bi- theme park, and skate - shore area facilities
& promenades cycle lanes, museums board parks recreation / shopping
/ ferries district

9. 9
Act Two: Growing with an Island
Air. The key to everything, is air.
We breathe the air. We move through the air. We feed off the air. We live in the air. It surrounds us, it
follows us, it fights us, it affects us.
The air is affecting me now. Lively and shimmering with exhilaration and pride, its energy pulsing
through me. My senses are heightened. I am aware of everything.
The air is awake. It is a misty morning, and only the air is restless while the earth wakes slowly.
Colour vibrates through the mist; greens, purples, grays, reds, pinks. The blue-grey of the water
is stationary. These colours reflect lazily across its surface, much like the opening of a butterflies
wings. The air is very awake now. It rustles the identical leaves and ripples through the folds in my
hanbok like the constant waves. The subtle sounds are shouts of annoyance; the air is impatient for
the dance to start, yet I am not.
A stationary girl waits by my side. When I give her my eyes, she shows the same impatience as the
air. I must smile kindly. It is not time to dance.
Air splashes my face, grasping my attention again. This time it brings smells: abundant flowers, the
needles of forest cedars, silk on my shoulders. The many pink camellias are the strongest. There
is another flavour in the air, as I take in a breath with my lips. This air is cold, this... is pure. Pure
excitement, pure pride. That is what I taste in the air. Excitement in the dance. Pride in my country.
A crowd has gathered; they are waiting as we are, waiting, waiting...
Time has almost come. People are still, but the air roars on. Brushing my fingertips along a tingling
current, the girl and I position to start. A glance between us locks our intensity. Now we are ready.
The ground rumbles with tradition. Many ancestors before us have danced as we do. They lend us
the ability to dance with the same feeling. I see the mist trembling with the air.
Tradition and growth, balancing together. The dance has begun.

10. 10
F
F
F
F
F
F
F
West Coast
typical rias shore /
curved capes and bays /
speed of water in bays
relatively calm, optimal for
marinas and harbours /
1.4m tidal
East Coast
typical rock shore / F
cliffs, caves /
speed of water relatively fast /
high ocean waves /
1.4m tidal
F
Ship Wreck
Harbor Limit
Limit of Shipping Channel
Connection to Sea Fishing Villages F Local Fishing Harbour
New Port Nulcha Bay - Tideland
Fish Haven Mouth of Nakdong River
Sea Weed Growing Area land-tied island phenomenon /
natural sedimentation rapidly progressing
Rock Coastline Breakwater
Light House Annual Grey Mullet Festival

11. 11
A Spiritual Connection to the Sea
The narrow walkways outside our local fish and gentle tides lies, the largest port in the
festival are where the action is most hectic. country and the fifth largest container port
Dried flatfish, moray eels and cuttlefish adorn in the world. It nestles in the Nakdong River
al fresco stalls, while tables groan under the Valley, surrounded by the ocean on one side,
weight of huge purple octopi, buckets of garish mountains on the other. The new harbor
sea squirts and spiny sea urchins, and bowls port construction and the construction of the
of assorted crabs, shrimp and shellfish. All Busan-Geoje Bridge are currently the largest
this happens while local residents haggle over development projects on Gadeok Island. This
wriggling eels and iridescent anchovies. The new construction is affecting the water quality
newer, multi-storied buildings, which house the and natural habitats in Nulcha Bay, a bay which
live seafood stalls and restaurants, make for serves as a harbour for local villagers and
a less frantic yet equally diverting experience. fishermen and is an important migratory bird
In overcrowded aquaria fish of all shapes and and wildlife feeding area.
colors thrash about. Workers in gaudy yellow
aprons mix up thick seafood stews and sauces, Nulcha Bay it is part of the Nakdong River
fillet fish with razor sharp blades, and take the Estuary. It has a large area of about 10,000
latest customer orders. hectare. Inter-tidal flats have been well
developed around uninhabited sandbars.
Surrounded by water, Gadeokdo always has had Comparatively warm winter and cool summer
a deep connection to the ocean and marine life. makes it a good habitat for various wildlife.
Extensive aquaculture has been practiced in As freshwater is mixed with seawater, a large
Korea for several hundred years, but modern area of brackish water zone is formed around
intensive culture, including the surrounding it. Geographically, Korean Peninsula and
shallow reef waters of Gadeokdo, consists of Nakdong River Estuary bridge the ocean and
seaweed and shellfish farming. Aquaculture the continent. Lots of birds come to stay in
in the region emerged in the 1960’s, and has this estuary due to the above-mentioned good
shown tenfold growth up until this present day. conditions. Once this area was well known as
Based on the Korean Land Use Statistics in “one of the most important water bird habitats
2007, Gangseo-Gu’s total fish farms represent in Asia region”. For this reason, the estuary was
42% of Busan’s total fish farms. designated as a Natural Monument in 1966, and
is protected by five different laws presently.
A stone’s throw from downtown Busan,
Gadeokdo is thriving off the demand for Korean The many amazing rock formations of the east
seafood. Conventional type gray mullet fishing coast shoreline serve as bird habitat and tourist
(Sungeo deuri)’ has been practiced for over destinations for activities such as fishing and
100 years. The small fishing village is running sightseeing. Important fish areas are located on
as a “fishing experience” tourism village, and the southeast shore of the island.
the village’s annual Gray Mullet Spring Festival
attracts numerous locals and tourists. This At first I am listening, walking with rhythm, the
event helps promote tourism and the fishery sound of my steps creaking on the shredded
culture and marine products of the island. The dock and the ocean crashing beside me. The
Gray Mullet Spring Festival is an example that fisherman here operate individually with their
resonates the village’s legacy and pride. These own motorboats and nets. You constantly hear
days the village has swelled and its well- one fisherman calling to others. There is a
protected harbor is home to a diverse flotilla of large crowd surrounding a man with a net. The
fishing craft, from bobbing rowboats through to man is using a wooden hammer to separate his
sizeable, rust-streaked trawlers. catch from the net. You can also hear the local
people, including children, adolescents, and
North of Gadeokdo, due to its natural harbor older women who are watching him...

12. 12
Ecological Valuable Area Bird / Animal Feeding and Slope 0% - 10%
Drinking Area
Slope 40% - 90%
Ecological Base
Water Reservoirs
Ecological Axis & Connection
between Yondae Peak and Natural Creeks &
Guksu Peak Irrigation Canals
Dongback Gunsangji Cultural Property
wild camellia colony Protection Region /
Seasonal Birds Arriving Place
Nulcha Bay - Tideland

13. 13
A Deep Respect for Nature
South Korean culture traditionally has adapted and sightseeing. Running across the four main
to, and found meaning in the order of nature. peaks of the island (Guksu, Bongsu,Mae and
People taught their children the meaning of Sambak), they together from an ecological axis
respect and reverence for nature. They honoured that is vital to plants and provide habitats where
these beliefs as law and it brought order into wildlife rest and feed.
their daily lives. Respect for nature has long
been inscribed into traditional Korean life.
Nulcha Bay’s intertidal habitat is especially
Centred by the highest peaks of the Yeondae important to migratory birds due to its proximity
Mountains, Gadeokdo’s sceneries range from to the Nakdong estuary. Some important bird
the white-sand beaches that connect Nulcha species at the Nakdong estuary include the
and Dongseon to the northeast coastline, critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper,
the open sea, to the broad pebble field of threatened Falcated Duck, and the Saunders’s
Daehang Saebaji to the southeast and Yongdu Gull. With all the inherent nature and culture
Rock that leads to the camellia forest. Rare assets on the island’s east coast, it is plausible
rock formations pepper the cliffs by Gadeok’s to suggest the Gadeokdo Island’s tourism
lighthouse. success has a strong correlation to its natural
setting and cultural features.
As young teenagers we would ride up the steep
mountain and down the other side, this set At any time, the paths and roads can end at a
the pattern for the entire island, a series of farm house, or a beautiful outcropping of rocks.
mountains, coves, and small villages. There are When we would ride to one of these dead ends,
no major roads around the island. The roads are we could only turn around and enjoy the view
little more than concrete paths, perfect for our on the ride back. Many of the houses on the
bikes, but sometimes no more than a narrow island are very old and little more than shacks,
walkway between buildings. but they are someone’s home. Life on the small
island remains very traditional.
Eco-tourism is a vital industry to Gadeokdo.
Visitors travel to the island to experience In art, literature, and leisure, Koreans express
the island’s natural and cultural features, a deep passion for nature. In construction,
the mountain vistas, distinctive rock shores, whether it is a house, a palace or a temple, the
beaches, and forests. desire to be in harmony with nature is evident
still to this day. Attention to surroundings and
Gadeokdo’s east coast area contains abundant to the presence of nature is foremost in the
Camellia forest colonies, where some are minds of Koreans when selecting building sites.
over 150 years old. Being one of the cultural This desire to work with and represent nature
heritages of the island, the camellia colony not spills over into the fine arts and is expressed
only enhances the biodiversity of the area, it also in the representations of animals in pottery
represents what the locals value. In addition, or splendid landscapes done in watercolours.
the east coast shoreline has many distinctive The Korean aesthetic sense is deeply rooted in
rock formations that serve as a bird habitat and nature.
tourist destinations for activities such as fishing

14. 14
138m
F
Gadeokdo
Checkhwabi
Independence Activist
Monument
M
Winter Wind
R M
Armed Force
359m Veteran Monument
Chunghonbi 23
F
Cheonseongjin
Fortress
460m Bongsu Peak (459.4m)
Signaling Station
R 269m
Summer Wind
Topography Dictates Destiny Looking Outward Looking Inward
Light House Buddhist Temple
F Fortress
Mountain Peaks Looking Backward
M Monuments
R Relicts

15. 15
Topography Dictates Destiny
Gadeokdo has the extreme fortune of a location Belonging to the primary signaling network,
that can combine both marine and inland Dongraejikbong, it played an important role as a
transportation systems such as a port, a signaling station, connecting to the Sahwarang
railroad and an airport. Due to the advantageous beacon in the west, passing over 200 kilometers
location on the Pacific rim it is literally a through Korea to Chungju-si in the north, and
gateway to the economic arena in Northeastern connecting to the Seonghwangdang beacon in
Asia. In Gadeokdo, the culture of p’ungshu lives, Youngcheon, and in the east, it communicated
topography and geography dictates destiny. with the Eungbong beacon of Dadaepo.
Everything about the island is always looking
out to the rest of the world and the future. For its time, the beacon system was at the
cutting edge of communication through the
I would sometimes sneak out at night, climb up country and served a highly critical role in the
to the beacon footing and spend hours looking society. It is no surprise that Korea is among
out over the sea, which seemed to unfurl and the most technologically advanced and linked
wrap itself around the globe. I would sometimes societies in the world to date. Innovation is
feel like I could reach out and stroke its smooth behind most Korean economic growth. More
rind. Gentle waves crest and fall, etching ornate than 30 million people, 64 percent of the South
grooves in the beach sand below me. I want to Korea population, use cell phones and also has
curl up on this distant shore and lose myself the eighth highest cell phone subscriber base.
forever. More than 24 million South Koreans tap into the
internet, placing Korea among world’s top five
The penchant for looking out and looking internet-linked countries.
forward can also be seen in technology and art.
Architecturally, early island locals perfected The mission of the lighthouse was to guide me
ventilation techniques and solved drainage through all of my perils. Night and day, in any
problems as seen in a stone grotto temple kind of weather, its steady light would rotate in
constructed on the island. Its design kept the every direction, illuminating the safe harbor to
underground structure clean and dry. travelers on sea and land. When fog shrouds
its beacon, the lighthouse still shines and adds
Since the end of the Korean War, Korean culture a loud horn to make sure all those within its
has emphasized the importance of education, range get the message.
resulting in a ninety-eight percent literacy rate.
Korea is one of the most literate societies in Gangseogu, the Gadeokdo Lighthouse was
the world paving the way for Korea’s leadership constructed in December of 1909 during the
role in technology. It is through the Korean age of the Korean Empire. It has an overall
values of diligence, hard work, and education height of 40.5m and includes a 9.2m tall light
that make this success story possible. This story tower. The lighthouse tower was constructed in
exemplifies the Korea’s ability to look outward a Gothic style, similar to the lighthouse towers
and towards a new and brighter future. found in France. The upper hanging board has
engraved on it a pattern of plum flowers, which
Bongsudae (a beacon mound) is located on the is the symbol of the Joseon imperial household.
Yeondae peak, 459m above sea level and the The Gadeokdo Lighthouse retains its original
highest point on Gadeokdo. Though one cannot western style structure. Hence, this as cultural
be certain of the year of its installation, it is heritage that shows yet a greater worth as a
believed that it was built around the time of King cultural treasure, and is also assigned as one
Euijong of Goryo Dynasty. This signaling station of the perpetuation properties by the Ministry of
is the closest located to Japan’s Daema Island. Maritime Affairs and Fishers.

17. 17
A Passion for Relationship
Like most regions in Korea, the island is how in many cases they can be used to advance
symbol for a relationship-based society. A more general research, and simply how much
relationship is even more clearly established sheer drama and excitement they can hold in
when a person compares their status with their pages.
another. Knowing whether the other person
is superior or inferior is very important. The
modern ritual of exchanging business cards As a young girl, I was infinitely stirred by the
among new acquaintances stems from Korean’s ceremonies and dances that had been passed
wish to determine their comparative status. on by many of my imaginative ancestors. Every
In the traditional society, people were born to breath I took on stage had been exhaled by
this island and did not move outside the island. them, it was a study on understanding the
Each village had to be self-sufficient. To sustain difference between authenticity and ethnicity.
village stability, there had to be a way to decide
each resident’s status so that they could live in Another dimension of this proclivity is the two
harmony. There was the need for a sense of opposing ethical or value systems which affect
order, propriety, and appropriate behaviour. ordinary, everyday behaviour. One is formal and
explicit; largely lineage-oriented and embodies
Korea was one of the earliest of the present- a clearly structured hierarchical system of
day nations of the world to emerge and remain rank and authority that is closely linked with
clearly on the map of history. By the end of the aristocratic traditions. The contrasting system
seventh century it was essentially the same reflects an egalitarian community ethic; it
country it is today, in population, underlying is informal and has no set code of moral
culture, language, and general geographical principles, although many aspects of it are
extent. expressed in proverbs and other folk sayings.
Among the important values are mutual
At the core of village organization is a assistance and cooperation among neighbors,
segmentary, exogamous, patrilineal lineage hospitality, generosity and tolerance in dealing
system. Meticulously written lineage with both kin and non-kin.
genealogies validate a person’s membership in
a lineage. Gadeokdo island chokpo, originated I stepped into the semi-lit room and was
from two basic convictions of traditional life: the greeted by more than the family I expected;
belief that one’s identity and social status was there was a crowd. Everyone greeted me
earned by the virtue and achievements of one’s warmly with “You’re most welcome.” We
ancestors, and the need to have accurate decent were a small village of happy people. I grew
records in order to maintain the integrity and up in a community that kept its doors open;
efficacy of the ancestral rituals. Many people, neighborhood children would claim the road
including professional specialists themselves, for games of football and stickball, and adults
will see what a wealth of historical detail can spend their evenings perched on rock walls
be found in genealogies, how much insight can talking together. I grew up with a space of
be gained into both the ancient and recent past, vibrant energy and sincere friendliness.
how in many cases they can be used to advance

19. 19
Act Three: Finding Herself Again
The dance has begun. I can feel the growth of tradition in my core. I can feel the excitement and
pride of the crowd. I feel... old and new, all at the same time.
My mind wanders. Foremost, my focus is on the dance; the movement through my shoulder, elbow,
wrist, flowing as if moved by some other force than my thoughts; an instinct to compliment my
partner, dancing on the same wave, as we spin and bend, the crowd watches on. A face here, a face
there, all melding together, yet made of individuals...
There is a man watching off to the side. He is somber, his eyes holding some strange emotion that
darkens his brow. He has lived here always, as his father, as his grandfather. He watches the two
dancers; one raised in his village, one arrived from across the ocean. Worlds apart, yet connected
by a deep root in tradition. He smiles...
There is a girl sitting in front of the crowd, her legs folded under her clumsily. She is here on
vacation, her mother standing behind. She watches the two dancers; they do not seem different,
they are only beautiful, graceful and poised. The girl longs to be a part of the dance. A dancer looks
her in the eye. She smiles...
I get lost in the faces, but the rhythm pulls me back. This ancient scene is before my eyes, but my
past flashes behind them.
Material swishes around my legs. Bright pink catches my eye, and I am suddenly in front of the
store window on the way between my old apartment and my favourite coffee shop, staring at
the beautiful dress I loved to imagine myself in. Wind breezes past my face, and I am suddenly
bracing myself against the gale coming with the arrival of the subway train on a Saturday, on my
way to meet my mother for lunch. I can smile at my memories, still holding anticipation for new
discoveries here.
The dance continues. The dance between the two of us. The dance between the music and the
audience. The dance between the air and the nature around us. The dance between the past... and
the future. Music fades, and we sway to a stop. The dance has ended, but this is just the beginning.

20. 20
M
M
F
M
M
M
M
Ship Wreck
Harbor Limit
Limit of Shipping Channel
Ocean Lifestyle Supporting Villages Shore Area Recreation
Heritage Fishing Village Marine Tourism
M Marina F Fish Market
Tideland / Wetland Marine Residences
Sea Weed Centre Artificial Reefs
Beach Promenade Light House

21. 21
Ocean Lifestyle
The hotel we were staying in was built on the sea conservation, preservation of water
the highest part of the narrow tongue of land front space, and settlement at ocean space in
between the port and the open sea. The vantage Asia. It will be the leading core city in advanced
from my grand bay window was not replicable, ocean tourism by the promotion of cruise tour
it was a place where romance is as natural as and construction of a huge oceaneum.
the waves caressing the shores of a secret cove
at midnight. The ocean seemed like a place The sea mist blew in front of me, slowly and
of safety and serenity, where an astonishingly gently settling on my face. I neared the open-
surreal beauty and a languid pace of life air plaza, the buzzing atmosphere of the new
conspired with an enviable warm ocean breeze Lotus cluster, the main artery for tourist activity
to provide a unique backdrop for this tender on Gadeokdo. The light sweater I wore was
living experience. just right for the stroll. The branches swayed
from the Camellia trees that lined the water
In much our architecture, including the newest promenade, while the sun held itself at a
oceanfront units, something is missing: the perfect angle casting a warm glow on the fine
traditional wall. In its place we feature panels sandy beaches and the luxury hotels, boutique
of large, operable glass walls that open shops, restaurants and apartments facing the
effortlessly, then offer unobstructed water ocean. Cars sat in traffic along side buses,
vistas, more sunlight, natural ventilation and bikes, motorcycles and pedestrians. Blue
the ability to make more of indoor/outdoor chairs dotted the walkway, most where empty
living and entertaining space. Oceanside living but a few were occupied by men and women
represents a homeowner’s desire to partake in huddled together in conversation and a sprinkle
the beauty and the restlessness of nature. of locals and tourists basking in the afternoon
sun.
The city of Busan has the ambition of leading a
blue revolution. The key goal of our development The physical part of the multi-modal
plan is the creative establishment of Gadeokdo transportation strategy is a mass marine
as an integral component of this ocean capital, mobility system with solar and hydrogen
integrating industries, capable persons, central powered ferries, fantastic waterside biking
services related to the sea. It is to align our trails, small-car boulevards, and an over-water
thinking with the critical urban planning that hanging light rail transit system, that will take
has led to the direction of the Ocean Capital 21 locals and tourists around the island.
Plan, the construction of the first ocean and
logistic city in the world. From a transportation perspective, in order
to maintain that delicate balance between
Our approach is to efficiently equip this natural ocean living and urban infrastructure
area of the city with world top-class ocean development, we will also address operational
infrastructure, to set the framework for global inefficiencies by reducing business travel
logistics facilities for marine products, the through schedule optimization, setting up
design of an advanced ocean city with abundant infrastructure for videoconferencing and other
ocean qualities, building education at the technology, reducing idling time, locating
cornerstone of an information city full of well- facilities in transit rich environments, locating
informed persons related to the sea capable facilities where goods, services and community
of centrally managing decision-making and amenities are within walking distance and
information exchange in this field. supporting telecommuting and alternative work
schedules.
As well, our masterplan of Gadeokdo supports
the first ocean environment city in the field of

22. 22
138m
359m
460m
269m
Eco Tourism Ecological Base Sea Weed Centre
Ecological Axis & Connection Hiking Trails
between Yondae Peak and
Guksu Peak Grey Mullet Festival
Dongback Gunsangji Light House
wild camellia colony
Heritage Fishing Village
Wetlands - Bird Watching Areas
Mountain Peaks
Water Reservoirs

23. 23
Nature Tourism, Eco-Tourism, and
Urban Eco-Tourism
Tourism is an important industry to Gadeokdo. ecosystem services such as flood control, air-
Visitors travel to the island to experience the flow and quality, soil fertility, biological diversity,
island’s natural and cultural features (mountain aesthetics and recreation potential.
views, distinctive rock shores, marine products,
authentic fishing village life), and therefore Our nature-based tourism encompasses areas
these features must be integrated into the new like eco-tourism, agro-tourism, rural and
development if this island experience is to be community-based which are again forms of
maintained. The practice of nature tourism sustainable tourism.
as an agricultural and fishery management
strategy will help Gadeokdo maintain its existing Our eco-tourism principles, which reference
farming and fishing practice, while at the same the undisturbed or remote destinations of Gad-
time promote the island’s tourism. Restricted eokdo, can also be applied to urban context as
development zones, especially on the east side well and offer great potential to the tourism in-
of the island and in Nulcha Bay, are necessary to dustry. Our urban sustainable tourism strategy
preserve the island’s natural assets, such as the covers multiple industries including recreation,
wild Camellia colony and migratory bird areas. transportation, and organic food supplies. It in-
By doing so, it will help maintain and enhance cludes a concept that promotes environmental
the island’s existing tourism reputation for rural responsibility, local economic vitality, cultural
and nature experience. diversity and experiential richness.
We had wandered away from the hustle of I have been stirred by the substance of the
our press conferences and media requests, traditional Busan approach to life, with its per-
I snagged a close friend and we hiked up at petual quest for harmony between humankind
dusk to the hillside plateau overlooking the and nature, suspended in time between the past
magnificent region. The view was exceptional and the future. It seems there is a celebra-
as the twinkling lights of Busan City can be tion of life, a symbolic energy that brings and
seen far and wide, across the peninsula and the represents the passion of my own approach to
harbour port area. Step by step, we felt like we modern dance and what maintains the natural
were awakening our senses, we were exploring order of its movement.
and learning, treasuring the natures’ beauty at
every turn. We found ourselves climbing rocks, Gadeokdo has many great strengths to estab-
walking the trails, swimming through meadows lish itself as a jewel in this thriving industry. Its
and grasses, often close to the surface that wide expanse of forest areas, wildlife nature
some sail. We listened intently with our hearts, and recreational parks: The presence of nature
it reminded us of the intuition of the experience areas within and nearest vicinities of Busan City
of dance, just knowing when it was the right can provide an ideal and an unmatched atmo-
time to act. We heard the wild calling, and for sphere to the residents and eco-tourism en-
the first time we did not rush. thusiasts of the city to experience ecology. The
development of a marine transit system, with
The Gadeokdo experience is the travel through simple connections to the key areas of tourism
and enjoyment of the natural world, its seasonal and integrated plans for resource and facilities
cycles and events, carried out in a manner that for education, interpretation and awareness,
promotes the protection of natural and human museums, interpretation centres, oceaneums
communities and consideration for those who and visitor’s centres that provide ample scope
will inherit our world. A sustainable nature for learning opportunities and awareness gen-
tourism plan industry is directly related to the eration among the visitors about the value of
type, amount and quality of natural capital in natural areas, sea life, environment and forests,
community. This island has a lot to offer. Natural flora and fauna to human society.
capital of any given area provides valuable

24. 24
Future Technology Food Energy
Aquaculture & Tidal Power Turbines
Seaweed Farming Tidal Power Waves
Terrace Gardens Solar Power
Wind Power
Water
Freshwater Reservoir Public Transportation
Rainwater Harvesting & Rapid Transit
Greywater Treatment

25. 25
Innovation: Food, Energy and
Architecture
For a long-term planning strategy that then back out to global scale. A number of
establishes the essential building blocks for a mechanical systems for improving the energy
sustainable future in Gadeokdo, it is necessary performance of a building include underfloor
to integrate existing agricultural, fishery air systems, chilled beam systems, and other
and energy practices with the urbanization mechanical methods.
development. Importing food and power from
other countries to sustain the urban population We also evaluated our approach to our overall
is not a reliable and financially efficient solution, business envelope because quite a bit of energy
and with countries such as China and India’s use is related to solar gain and conduction
urbanization happening rapidly, the demand through the façade. Also noted, one of the
and stress on supplies will become more major energy uses within the buildings is
competitive and costly. lighting. One way to reduce this is to use
daylight and daylight controls, and to use
Our masterplan suggests that existing occupancy sensors and controls. However, day
agriculture plots will be preserved, and more lit spaces are often more pleasant to work in
efficient agriculture technologies and organic and there’s a body of work that shows that good
fertilizers will be introduced to create a more lighting can lead to productivity gains.
self-sustaining, cyclical food system. Food
production will be geared towards efficiency Once the energy demand has been reduced as
and information awareness. Nutritionally low as it can be we can start to look at more
there will be a focus on superfoods and high carbon efficient ways of generating electrical
impact supplements. Some key components power. An integrated renewable energy system
to support Gadeokdo’s food production include is proposed for the reinvented Gadeokdo. A
terrace farms, seaweed, and fish farms. Urban combination of solar, wind, bio-reactor, bio-
agriculture practices will also be planned in fuels, seaweed and tidal energy will be the
the proposal development in order to better main power tools to supply energy across
intertwine urban infrastructure with living the new development. Active solar energy
systems that generate food. harvesting includes installing solar panels
on all south facing rooftops of the proposed
The farmer’s markets and roadside stands architectures. Solar water heating systems will
are bursting with the mid-summer’s city also be integrated into the building systems. In
harvest: onions, beets, tomatoes, peppers... addition, tidal energy systems will be situated
Walking up to the stand I realized that what I offshore, on the southeast of Gadeokdo to
was buying was a manifestation of a person’s catch the northeast-southwest and northwest-
love for working their land, growing food, and southeast ocean currents. If power is generated
beautifying their town. close to a heat use then the heat can be used
to do useful work. This might include heating
With proper support and management to the the building, heating domestic hot water for
agriculture and fishery industry, a regional the building or providing cooling using a steam
marketing plan with a well-defined brand will driven absorption or turbine driven chiller.
promote the island’s agriculture and marine
products will also help promote Gadeokdo The best solutions start with shared resources
Island’s tourism industry, and in turn help with the adjacent buildings, and then with the
generate more job opportunities. rest of the region, and then within the country.
The definition of zero energy changes as you
move from building scale to urban scale and

26. 26
Collaborative Urbanism Communication Hub Business & Commerce Hub
Tourism Hub Entertainment Hub
Transportation Hub Nature Hub
Education & Research Hub

27. 27
Collaborative Urbanism
Gadeokdo is a pristine location in Busan Gadeokdo will be transformed into a green
untouched by any major development until asset to the Busan City, the region, and
recently. It appears that a futuristic, logic-based beyond through the establishment of a large
and collaborative approach must be taken into open green parks which will be allocated to
account if the island’s natural features, heritage, open space. The site plan also includes a
and traditions are to dance in communion with number of neighborhood parks and plazas
the rising tide of urbanism. interspersed throughout the residential areas.
Each residential neighborhood is designed
We have come to develop a sustainable solution, around local neighborhood parks that are
which empowers planners, developers, protected from the wind and feature good solar
taxpayers, and government city management to orientation. These parks offer an alternative
make more informed decisions, but also to take to the vastness of the protected conservation
advantage of new streams of revenue potential. areas providing intimate spaces for every
This asset includes a complex geo-referenced resident to enjoy. Each park can take on a
information management system, developing character of its own with different landscaping
real-time applications and live-data monitoring, choices and different levels of activity. These
touch screen information panels, web-based parks create a green ribbon, linked by
3D information, geo-targeted advertising pedestrian-oriented lanes that offer residents
solutions, augmented reality experiences, pleasant, people-friendly connections between
public consultation and feedback interaction, the residential neighborhoods and the retail
simulation models, 4D and 5D maintenance area, ferry and transit hub.
planning and risk management programs.
Our ferry and transit mobility hubs optimize
It is obvious to any visitor that Gadeok-Busan transit-oriented development potential and
has become a capital of modern ocean identify and implement incentives to promote
architecture. The creative director of the dance transit-oriented development, such as
festival had suggested we embark one of the streamlined planning and building approvals
new eye-catching mixed reality mobile app city and reduced development application fees.
tours that had become so fluent with both the They provide a range of amenities for travellers
locals and tourists. It was incredible to have so such as retail uses, restrooms, community
much access to information running through spaces and tourism information. It will improve
our fingertips, to actually see technology being the travelling experience through the use
put to work in physical world I was looking at. of public art, landscaping and architectural
It was a delightful day of wandering around excellence.
interactively with the architecture, learning in
depth about the built-environment, Gadeokdo of In this era of a knowledge economy one
the past, present and future. can observe the emergence of global cities
as new educational hubs. The present
This overall framework is related to era is experiencing a new phenomenon of
technological innovation that runs like a ribbon international student migrants. Students
through all of the development areas. It is laying from developing countries are migrating to
the infrastructure foundation for the eventual foreign shores to pursue higher education. The
shift from fossil carbon to hydrocarbon based ocean education and research facilities in the
power, increasing the capacity and security of Gadeokdo development plan are for students
information and communications technology from these areas of the world to come to, we
to facilitate higher quality interactions at a take on global cities in this industry like London,
distance, the rapid improvement in demand New York, and Sydney.
management and pricing technologies to
ensure that consumers are receiving the most
immediate and accurate information.

28. Buildings as multi storey, sinuous screens that
through their curvature and scale generate
energy while they function as hotel and
residential space and fish farm. Circular multi-
colored Lotus shaped buildings that enchant and
celebrate during the evening as they glimmer
and reflect on the waters surface.

29. Architecture
The proposed development for the most, is to be in the water within
300 meters from the shore line.
The below water level foundations consist of artificial reefs that have
several functions.
/ Primarily robust support for the buildings but more interestingly
/ The foundation’s configurations are ideal as habitat for marine and
algae farming.

30. 30
Foyer
Resources
The buildings are passively solar heated, evaporatively cooled, and
extremely energy efficient.
/ Solar thermal is used as the primary heating system while Hydro
Geothermal heat is used for space heating backup and cooling.
/ The rain water falling onto its roofs is conducted to fresh water
blisters resting in the ocean waters.
The land facing façade, away from the open water is a heavily green
textured by means of vertical gardens.
/ The vertical gardens are hydronically fed as these filter sink water
for re-use to flush toilets.
/ Most importantly, all of the buildings biological waste is processed to
surface water quality levels, using biofiltration systems, located at
the base.

31. 31
Solar Water Heating
SPA
Power Energy
Except for minimal natural gas back-up system, the buildings are
resource- self-sufficient. Numerous strategies are proposed that
take their cue from energy systems of large cruise ships such as as
tri-gen energy systems using solid waste as source.
/ The dynamics and the kinetic forces of both the wind and waves is
the means to generate tidal and wind power.
/ Solar cells embedded in the solarium skin and the roof.
“Buildings exist in a spousal embrace
with its immediate environment, the
air, the water, the warmth of the sun.”

32. Area 1: Greater Gadeok Seaweed Centre
The greater Gadeok Aquaculture Centre, located in the heart of a functioning seaweed farm, is
designed to be a showcase. It will be a place for the public to learn about the myriad of methods
of ocean farming, from seaweed growing and harvesting to fish ranching. It will also be a place to
educate the public on new research, such as deriving biofuels from seaweed. The public can come
to the museum and children’s centre, to the world class restaurants, hotels and spas. There is also
an opportunity for members of the public to grow their own sea garden in the community seaweed
farm, where one can experience and nurture firsthand the richness and complexity of sea life.
Community and commercial
/ Seaweed farming, processing, aquaculture
/ Science center, museum
/ Spa, hotel, restaurant
/ Area north of Nulcha Bay – allowing natural succession to take place, natural wetland
development, creating a connection to existing swamp protection area at the mouth of
Nakdong River, creating a bird sanctuary
Area 2: The Reef Residences
In Korean culture the Lotus represents birth and creation. Ribbon buildings symbolize expression,
social interaction, and communication of the Korean traditional ribbon dance shown through the
architecture. Together they feature mixed use residential buildings and form an iconic skyline
visible from Busan and yet merges with the natural setting. The architecture not only forms a
community based urban space which houses about 20.000 people, it also works as an independent
eco system.
Multifunctional buildings, housing private and public function, the Lotus building is a round
structure with an inner open area with green terraces inside of the structure. It allows sunlight
come in from all around and views to ocean and natural settings. Lotus buildings generally focuses
on public functions like hotels, spas, restaurant, and recreational uses as well as some residential.
On the other side, The 30 floors high ribbon buildings are predominantly residential with some
public and commercial functions waving through water. A part of the residential building are
designed as luxury apartments with spacious terraces and views of the sea.
The ocean’s mood is rich with contrasting dynamics.

33. 33
“Designing for the constrast between polar opposites
such as hot and cold, light- and darkness forms the
essence of design with nature.”
Cladding
/ Marine architecture much like a ship needs to be designed to withstand the angry seas while
permitting the cooling fresh breezes in the summer.
/ The façade facing the open water is designed for defence by being smooth, rounded and
hydrodynamically designed much like a fish.
/ Structural silicone cladding seamlessly permits the meeting of the built and natural environment.
/ The apartments facing the ocean are buffered with solariums, clad with overlapping water
shedding glazing with a minimum number of openers.
/ Contrasting is the land side façade , fined grained vertical gardens bisected with with
promenades, walk ways, balconies, provides the residents with semi public outdoor spaces such
as shaded gardens and places to lounge. Their front yards provide them with the means to enter
their dwelling.
/ Coloured glass façades and screens to reduce glass collisions for migratory and local birds while
allowing views of surrounding environment
/ The buildings are made of concrete, steel, wood and glass which all comes from within a 500 mile
radius.
/ The whole urban area will be interconnected with a Rapid Transit system and connections to
existing roads on the island.
/ Small marinas will connect to ocean.

34. 34
Area 3: Nulcha Bay Area
Nulcha Bay Wetland and Bird Sanctuary University of Gadeok-do.
A major part of the Nulcha Bay will be a combined university and research centre for
dedicated wetland and bird sanctuary. The marine ecology and sea weed studies. The
Nulcha wetland region is connected to the university will house departments specializing
Nakdong River Estuary and eco-belt and is an in new technology, food security, sustainability,
important feeding and breeding ground for local and renewable energy, focusing on sea
and migratory birds. To preserve the natural weed growing, it’s products and it’s use as
value of Nulcha Bay, all development will be alternative energy. Drawing on the strength
shifted out of the bay area and replaced by a of its partnerships with the local sea weed
combination of a variety of wetland habitats centre and industry the University of Gadeok-do
to help sustain the Sanctuary and existing will become a leader in green education and
population of migratory birds. Developed as a research. Gadeok-do campus will contain both
wetland ecopark, the Nulcha Bay Wetland and small and large buildings, scattered between
Bird Sanctuary will serve as an eco-tourism parks, agricultural fields and sports amenities.
hub and will feature bird and environmental
educational centres, gift shops, study and Nulcha Bay Villas
research areas. Bird friendly architecture raises
awareness for decreasing bird population. Rows of houses symbolize ribbon which is
Placing of blinds and screens in key areas will intertwined with road, like two ribbons during a
allow people to watch birds without disturbing dance. The ribbon affect connects the clusters
them. of units with each other. The individual clusters
of houses form a fan like shape playing on the
Villages of Oinul, Hangwol, Jeonggeo and traditional fan dance in Korea. Colourful panels
Nulcha-Dong and a roof which appears from a distance
floating above the units, forming a bigger
The revitalized village offers a diverse overall shape.
range of choices to enjoy; stroll along the
beach promenade and harbour, shop in the The Nulcha bay villas are an urban centre of
marketplace, enjoy the best dining, sailing, luxurious single family houses. Stilted housing
surfing, walk through the old village and enjoy within Nulcha bay wetland. Central area is an
the unique cultural experience. open public place with surrounding small scale
commercial buildings. A central market place
Nulcha Bay - Seongbuk – Village with local art stores, cafes and restaurants, a
fishing harbor where fisher men come daily
The Seongbuk village area is typically an offering the fresh fish, makes the center of the
agricultural area. The village will be revitalized Nulcha bay villas to a local tourist destination.
and developed as an eco-community model with
a strong focus on agriculture while enhancing Urban Area of Seongbuk and Seonchang
tourism opportunities to increase the local
economy. The area between the two fishing villages will
be increased density housing. The buildings will
Public spaces will grow to include local stores, differ in height, 8 storey apartment buildings
cafés, art studios, small boutique shops, hotels, will act as a screen and help to separate the
and bed and breakfasts, which will help to keep busy road from the lower apartment buildings
vitality and enthusiasm in the streets.Nestled in of the new urban neighbourhood.
the surrounding area of Seongbuk village will be
the home of Gadeokdo University. The new urban development takes into

35. 35
consideration new approaches to urban There will be activity in the park itself by
development; conserving areas of agricultural providing sports zones such as multi–use
plots in a patchwork of public parks sports courts, soccer and basketball areas,
stretching through the entire fabric of the pedestrian walkways, and bicycles lanes
urban community and integrating these in throughout the garden. Specific trees, like
an environment which people can inhabit the tree of the ward, the Hackberry tree, will
and use. Agricultural plots become the back be planted in different areas of the urban
yard. Vegetable gardens, orchards with fruit park, so that the areas become distinctive and
baring trees, rice paddies, all used and recognizable for the residents and allowing
maintained by the citizens themselves. Water the residences to experience the change of the
channels crisscrossing the urban green space, seasons in the urban space.
integrated into the design as water features and
showcasing the use and importance of water at Located in the wetland,the Nulcha Bay Art
the same time. and Performance Centre will be focal feature
and urban heart of the community. Dense
Within this patchwork of parks and agricultural urban areas with public spaces and facilities,
plots a variety of public amenities such as boardwalks, bars, restaurants, and theaters are
schools, youth centre, senior and social housing, alongside of Nulcha bay wetland area.
health centres and technological centres are
scattered, guaranteeing a constant use of the
urban park.

36. 36
Area 4: Logistic and Commerce Centre
Area 5: New Port and Busan West Convention Centre
Like a ribbon, the convention and commerce Janghang and Yulli become port supporting
centres are floating around the island peaking villages with residential areas and arts and
in the 70floor Busan West Convention Centre craft studios, small shops and restaurants.
tower. Its iconic profile is seen from the main Expanding the urban areas with private villas
land, from the mountain peaks of the island and including an exclusive residential community,
it will greet and welcome port entering ships. a stunning lagoon and a marina. The villas will
The separation of the port from the villages of have view towards the stunning lagoon and will
Janghang and Yulli protects the existing shore have beautiful landscaped areas.
lines, creating lagoons which are connected to
the sea. The protected waters of the lagoons, The rapid transit goes through the building
invites people to enjoy the marine leisure, and in the centre, dividing the light industry and
marina. logistics in the north from the convention centre
in the south. Various stops make the rapid
The main building features large open space transit easy accessible and comfortable to use
for showrooms and convention facilities. for businesspersons and convention center
The north part of the building features light visitors alike. The glass structure will house
industry, and port logistics. On the south side of open areas with interior planting. The building
the building is the business and international will be self sustaining. Solar cell imbedded
exchange complex. The convention centre glass façade and wind turbines produces energy
tower houses exhibition spaces, offices, hotels and mitigates the need of archaic resources.
and restaurants. Existing fishing villages of

37. 37
Area 6: Gadeokdo Marine Theme Park
Inspired by the location of the site the Gadeokdo The Gadeokdo marine theme park will be a
Maritime Theme Park is a combined exhibition new type of marine theme park that supports
space and water park. The main building has shore development, area recreation, marine
a network of different programs of education based tourism, and entertainment hub, day
and recreation. It features two IMAX theatres, a tourism from businesspersons and convention
five-star hotel, and a marina. A promenade with center visitors as well as locals and people from
restaurants will be connected via bridge. Various Busan.
exhibition areas in the building as well in the
water showcase water inspired art and oceanic
related items.

38. Area 7: Gadeok Cruise Ship Terminal and Entertainment Area
With the area developing into a tourism hub and the need for a cruise ship terminal a
location in the bay was chosen. The terminal features a five star hotel, a casino, shops and
restaurants. Passengers can take the ferry on land to stay in luxurious resort and hotels
located on adjacent land area enjoying public beaches and waterfront areas, promenades
and cafés. Shopping district, spas, recreation and other tourist facilities are also available.
A connecting terminal to rapid transit and allows for fast travel to conference centre and to
Nulcha by area. Close connection to main road connecting to airport allowing convenient
travel connection by plane.

39. Area 8: New Busan international Airport
The location of the airport was chosen to minimize impact on
environment by concentration construction and encroachment on
nature in one area.
The airport will be floating structure, anchoring on existing island
with road connection to main road.

40. 40
Area 9: Gadeokdo Natural Park
Tourism is a vital industry to Gadeokdo Island.
The island’s tourism success has a strong
correlation to its natural settings and cultural
features including the mountain views,
distinctive rock shores, fishing village life and
much more, and therefore these features must
be integrated into the new development if the
island experience is to be maintained. The
Gadeok-do Natural Park is dedicated to nature
and its protection and with the abundant nature
and cultural assets on the east coast.
The practice of rural tourism as an agricultural
and fishery management strategy will help
Gadeokdo Island maintain its existing farming
and fishing practice, while at the same time
promote the island’s eco-tourism and tourism
in general. Restricted development zones,
especially on the east coast and in Nulcha Bay,
are necessary to preserve the island’s natural
assets, such as the wild Camelia colony and
migratory bird areas. In doing so, it will help
maintain and enhance the existing tourism and
eco-tourism reputation.
Environmentally low impact recreation and
tourism activities are possible for this area
and tourism industry can be utilized in a
management approach to help preserve the
existing natural and cultural assets of the
island. Hiking trails will lead through the park
connecting the urban areas with the mountain
peaks where locals and tourists take in the
beautiful vistas. The light house on the southern
tip will have restaurant facilities as well as
lookout areas.
Conclusion
Over 75% of the globe’s surface is
oceanic. Korea and its archipelago is
starving for usable land. Together with
the Gadeokdo’s setting and competition
brief we decided on the reason to
avoid building on land, and to instead
build on the continental shelf. Thus
we enhance the importance of forests,
grasslands and shore line by building
in the shallow waters.