Hi there! Letโs talk about DDP(Dongdaemun Design Plaza), one of the longest and most captivating atypical architectures in the world.
Surely you have heard about Dongdaemun Design Plaza DDP, this amazing landmark of Seoul that rises in the middle of the city, but I would like to take you a little deeper into its design.
First things first
One of the first important things to mention is, of course, the person who was in charge of its design: Zaha Hadid (1950 โ 2016). An amazing architect who was also the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize.
She is also recognized for her other projects around the world, such as Wangjing Solto in Beijing, Aquatics Center in London, National Center for Contemporary Arts in Rome among many others.
Why Zaha Hadid?
It may surprise you to know that this project was the first public building in Korea which design was selected by an international design contest and for this very reason, DDP attracted everyoneโs attention from the beginning.
What was sought with this contest was to create a cultural space with a design that could represent the Dongdaemun district and Zaha Hadidโs proposal hit the mark.
Hadid focused on the dynamism of the area where DDP would be built, as well as the constant movement, which from very early in the morning until very late at night, characterizes this district. Keeping this in mind, along with the historical and cultural part, adding a certain futuristic value, she created this space that seems to blend and coexist perfectly between the traditional and modern of the area.
About DDP
Stepping outside the Dongdaemun station generates an indescribable sensation as DDP will immediately appear in front of your eyes from one of its angles, all equally impressive, with their endless shapes and curves that give you the impression of becoming part of the elements that make up the structure.
I could spend all day admiring this architectural work since one of the most captivating characteristics of Dongdaemun Design Plaza is that it seems to change throughout the day, depending on external factors and light, due to its structure and material. At night it becomes a spectacle worth seeing, since the lighting system that it has incorporated, plus the surrounding lights that are reflected in the building make it look beautiful and lively.
It is important to mention that the integration of green areas was also considered so as not to lose the natural part and continue under the Seoul line as a greener city. These were integrated into the roofs and around the building.
DDP is made up of 5 halls: Art Hall, Museum, Design Lab, Design Market, and Dongdaemun History and Culture Park. Together they form a key space in the city that hosts different events, shows, exhibitions and conferences related to design in general.
Did you know that the letters DDP donโt refer only to Dongaemun Design Plaza? These 3 letters also serve as a wordplay between the name of the place and its slogan: Dongdaemun Design Plaza, โDream, Design, Playโ.
What about Dongdaemun Area?
Thatโs right, Dongdaemun is a district of Seoul that lends its name to this incredible landmark, in fact, this area of โโSeoul is one of the most important since here, we can find the nationโs first designated treasure Heunginjimun Gate, one of the 4 main gates built in ancient times in the fortress that surrounded the city of Seoul.
Dongdaemun is also well known for being a shopping district, combining modern shopping centers with more traditional markets where you can find clothes and related items at much more accessible prices, they are also considered as flea markets.
The Traditional Dongdaemun Market of South Korea
Whenever people talk about Dongdaemun one thing that comes to mind isโฆ
From Dongdaemun Subway Station you can also access Cheonggyecheon Stream, the perfect place for a walk at any time of the day.
At night the Yellow Tent Market (official name is Dongdaemun Sebit Market) appears behind DDP, a flea market where you can find multiple items as well as street food and late-night snacks.
Final Toughts
It is clear that Dongdaemun Design Plaza DDP, is an unmissable place to visit and fall in love with its architecture that blends perfectly with the environment. For me it was very interesting and fun to explore all its exterior corners, there is no doubt that it offers you great spots to take amazing photos as well as an extraordinary place to watch the sunset reflected in the delicate shapes of DDP. Also, donโt forget to visit each of its halls and discover the latest trends and works in terms of design and innovation worldwide.
How to get there?
You can take subway line 2, 4, 5, to Dongdaemun History & Culture Park Station, from there just take exit 1 and Dongdaemun Design Plaza will appear in front of your eyes.
Enjoy it!
