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Restricted military posts turned into public retreats
A former military camp or outpost in the forest of Inwangsan Mountain in Seoul has been renovated into a modern retreat for the community. The project is the result of a collaboration between Korean studios Soltozibin Architects and SN Architecture, and was developed in response to the area’s heritage. After the 1968 attack on South Korea’s Blue House, heavily fortified military posts were set up at Inwangsan and Bukaksan, restricting public access to the area. Over time, many of these posts were dismantled and the area was reopened to the public in 2018. Nioh Post Forest Retreat is one such post itself – a former military camp tucked away in a valley. As part of the redevelopment project, three posts were preserved as historical markers, while the remaining seventeen were demolished.
Image © Kim Yongsoon
A symbol of transformation and division
The original structure of the Nio Sento Forest Retreat was built by Soltozibin Architects and SN Architecture using reinforced concrete ground floor elevated columns and sandwich panels. The architects envisioned a dramatic transformation that would include demolishing the structure above the ground floor and creating a new space to promote connectivity in this new era of openness. This transformation was intended to replace the previous symbol of restriction and hostility. Today, the retreat serves a dual purpose—a shelter for hikers and a cultural center for local groups. The new facility serves as a sanctuary, library and hall, promoting harmony between the natural environment and visitors.
Mountains and Han River shape Seoul’s unique character
Modern wooden buildings in Nioh Forest
Traditional timber construction relies on “tectonic” methods. This involves assembling elements to create a three-dimensional structure. In Korean architecture, this usually refers to a framework of columns, beams, and rafters. Nioh Post Forest Retreat breaks this convention.
Instead, the design features half-size wooden posts positioned in front and behind large wooden boards. Indirect lighting emphasizes the spaces between columns and panels, emphasizing separation. These heavyweight panels appear to defy gravity, floating between columns rather than resting on them. This innovative approach changes the perception of wood, giving it a sense of lightness rather than its usual heaviness. This architectural paradox reflects the situation of the middle class and Uyghur literature—a powerful voice emerging from unexpected places.
new community center once a restricted military outpost
The retreat is now a public space, providing shelter, a library and cultural space for hikers The project is part of a larger redevelopment project
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