cheungvogl proposes art museum built into mountain in busan

hong kong based architecture studio cheungvogl has opened the discussion to integrate a large scale art installation space named ‘mocabu’ inside the mountains above busan in south korea. visualized for part of the urban regeneration project that is dealing with a revitalization project of the underground bunker system in mulmangol in hwangnyoengsan mountains. the previous 4,000 square meter bunker system was partially a cave since the japanese colonial era, and now, the decision is for it to be developed in conjunction with the surrounding landscape.

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cheungvogl’s proposal mocabu – mountain of contemporary art busan – was awarded second prize in the competition, emphasizing a large-scale art installation space, which penetrates the mountain and allowing the former hidden bunker system visible to the city. an additional 250 meter high, needle thin tower, housing an automated parking system and an observation deck creates a symbolic landmark in the mountain above busan.

the 4,000 square meter bunker system partially existed as a cave since the Japanese colonial era

the 3,500 square meter span installation space is composed of a volume of 170 m length x 20 m width x 20 m height, created to form an extension to the existing bunker system. the space punctures the mountain from east to west and opens up to views above the city and the neighboring topography. visitors can engage and immerse in the arts and culture inside and through the mountain; offering art enthusiasts and others a visual connection to the culture from the city.

the proposal won second prize in the competition

the new addition sitting above the existing bunker system to the west will house a cafe and restaurant, bookstore and workshops. the building anchors onto the hwangnyeongsan mountain while partially cantilevering towards the city and sea view beyond.

each year an acclaimed artist or group of artists will be invited to transform the installation space