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Discourse on Meaning Reconstruction of Lost Heritage of Urban Spaces: Focused on the Cheonggyecheon in Seoul and the San Antonio River Walk

Kim, Songyi 1 Park Jin Han 2

1한국문화관광연구원
2Texas A&M University

Excellent Accredited

ABSTRACT

South Korea has experienced radical modernization, and this has caused changes to many urban spaces with important history behind them. The purpose of this study is to discuss the reconstruction of lost heritage of urban spaces. This study investigates the case of Cheonggeycheon, which has been at the center of urban modernization in Seoul, including how it has been physically altered, how its relationship with citizens has changed, and what and how contemporary people remember, perceive, and feel about it. In addition, by simultaneously investigating the case of the San Antonio River Walk, this study finds implications that can be used to reconstruct the meaning of the heritage of Cheonggyecheon. This study employs a qualitative study methodology, named the Constructive Grounded Theory Method. Data gathering was conducted through literature review, in-depth interviews, and focus group interviews. The results show that the radical physical changes of Cheonggyecheon have severely restricted the formation and continuation of citizens' relationships and memories associated with it, and this has obscured its meaning as a form of heritage. The case of the San Antonio River Walk shows that memories accumulated over a long period of time associated with a specific place contribute to an emotional attachment toward that place and increase the desire to maintain it as heritage. This study suggests a couple of subjects for further discussion and practical alternatives for reconstructing the meaning of lost heritage of urban spaces. It also attempts to deliver the message that recovering lost traditional values and identity is necessary.

Citation status

* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.