KJCKorea
Journal Central

Purpose: Evidence-Based Design (EBD) improves healthcare environments by linking physical design elements to performance outcomes. However, international frameworks cannot be directly applied to Korea due to differences in healthcare systems and institutional contexts. This study aims to develop a Korea-specific EBD data framework and construct an evidence database for application in Korean healthcare facilities. Methods: The research proceeded in three phases. First, international EBD frameworks (Pebble Project, DQI Health, EBD Glossary) and Korea’s healthcare accreditation standards were reviewed to identify environmental variables (independent) and performance outcomes (dependent), reflecting domestic contexts. Second, a systematic literature search was conducted using 98 spatial-design-related keywords in the Korea Citation Index (KCI) and PubMed, targeting peer-reviewed articles published between 2007 and 2022. From 66,215 retrieved articles, 1,669 were screened and 283 were selected for full analysis, categorized as direct evidence (empirical linkage between environment and outcomes) or indirect evidence (design-focused without direct linkage). Third, the framework was refined based on analysis and expert consultation. Results: Among the 283 studies, 80 provided direct evidence and 203 indirect. Planning and unit space were the most frequently evidenced elements; clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction were the primary performance outcomes. Research on external environments and medical errors was limited. Implications: This is the first EBD database tailored to Korea, offering structured guidance for education, research, design, and policy. The findings can inform policy standards, guide architectural curriculum development, and support data-driven decisions in healthcare facility design practice. A five-year roadmap (2025–2029) supports its expansion and integration, promoting improved healthcare design quality and outcomes.

Purpose: Barrier-Free Design for all is architectural approach of Universal Design. Since BF(barrier-free living environment) certification began with the voluntary participation system after its implementation in 2008, the demand for certification continues to increase as the subject of certification obligations expands to public buildings and public facilities in December 2021, so we would like to present the basic direction of the building plan for everyone through analysis of BF certification cases. Methods: The correlation between the concept of universal design and the concept of barrier-free, that is, after confirming that BF certification is an architectural approach of universal design, we would like to present the characteristics of a safe and convenient architectural environment and the direction of BF certification development through BF certification case investigation and analysis. Result: The barrier-free living environment certification system is a very useful frame for implementing the concept of universal design as architecture in the areas of urban and architecture. Implications: The barrier-free living environment certification system should seek a new developmental frame.

Purpose: PIMAC and LIMAC conduct preliminary and main feasibility studies for fiscal investment projects of the central and local governments, providing standard guidelines that consider the characteristics of healthcare facilities and environmental changes. However, with the recent increase in specialized healthcare facilities, existing sizing methods have shown limitations in adequately reflecting facility scale, specialization, and functional differences. This study aims to propose standard indicators for establishing an appropriate method of healthcare facility sizing. Methods: Cases from PIMAC and LIMAC feasibility studies were analyzed to examine the limitations of current sizing methods. Various types of healthcare facilities were reviewed to analyze division and department composition and area, identifying key factors influencing facility scale. Results: The recent rise in division- and department-level projects and unclear criteria for applying the G/N ratio have limited the validity of evaluation results. This study presents key factors for consideration during operational planning, along with type-specific G/N ratios and mechanical/electrical trends. Implications: This study proposes standard indicators to ensure consistency and reliability in facility sizing. The proposed criteria reflect current healthcare practices and operational conditions and require ongoing monitoring and updates.