Underbridge competition Honorable mention winner - Hayoung Jung

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our "Underbridge" competition – Hayoung Jung from South Korea!

Hayoung Jung

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

After earning a 5-year degree in architecture, I gained experience working in a small architectural office for 9 months. Currently, I am preparing for re-employment as a new employee.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

I am more interested in architecture that can have a positive impact on Korean society and people rather than architecture that increases financial profits. I mainly worked on projects that connect cities and nature. For example, I worked on an apartment site plan that returned privatized streets and roads to the public due to apartments occupying the Han River, and a cultural center that provided space for walking and resting in Seoul, which lacks parks. Additionally, I am very interested in traditional Korean architecture, such as Hanok and thatched houses, and I am researching ways to reinterpret them in a modern way.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

Architecture is about connections. We must connect nature and people, and the architecture itself, which is an artifact, must also be connected to nature. It also connects people and cities. Therefore, there are many factors to consider in architecture. Architects must consider and design various elements of architecture.

I believe architecture definitely has something to offer society. Sometimes, people say that architecture can't do anything for society and that it is policy that changes society. However, good spaces and cities can change people. I hope Korean architects will do more for society.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

This aims to present more possibilities in architecture. It is also an opportunity for young architects to showcase their work to experienced professionals.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

First, do you really want to compete in this competition?

Second, can you present a design plan suitable for the purpose of the competition?

Consider these two questions. Even if your situation doesn't fall under these criteria, if you can participate while enjoying the competition, give it a try. It's better to take action when you're uncertain about whether to do it or not.