UNStudio to build world’s highest spokeless ferris wheel in seoul

unstudio ‘reinvents the wheel’

In collaboration with Arup and local firm Heerim Architecture, UNStudio has unveiled its groundbreaking design for the Peace Park Ferris wheel in Sangam World Cup Park, Seoul. The landmark project, initiated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, aims to redefine the concept of Ferris wheels. Following a successful vision proposal, UNStudio’s design emerged victorious in the preliminary competition. The consortium, comprised of UNStudio, Arup, and Heerim Architecture, has been selected to partner with Seoul Housing & Communities Corp. to present the design to the City of Seoul.

images © UNStudio

the spokeless structure

Dubbed ‘Seoul Twin Eye,’ UNStudio’s spokeless Ferris wheel is a key element of the Mayor of Seoul’s ambitious vision, ‘Han River with a Thousand Sunsets.’ Designed with two intersecting rings, it will stand as the world’s tallest of its kind at 180 meters high. The innovative design incorporates two rings carrying pods that revolve around inside and outside tracks. With a capacity of 64 capsules, each accommodating 20-25 people, ‘Seoul Twin Eye’ promises to provide a unique and immersive experience for over 1,400 visitors simultaneously, nearly doubling the capacity of the iconic London Eye.

UNStudio, Arup, and Heerim Architecture join forces for the Peace Park Wheel in Sangam World Cup Park, Seoul

‘seoul twin eye’ to gaze over the han river

Situated on the edge of the Han River next to the World Cup Stadium, UNStudio’s ‘Seoul Twin Eye’ ferris wheel will be perched atop a 40-meter-high cultural complex. This complex is set to house an exhibition space, a performance hall, and retail and food & beverage outlets, enriching the overall visitor experience. Reaching a staggering height of 220 meters, the ‘Seoul Twin Eye’ will not only offer breathtaking panoramic views of Seoul but also solidify its position as the world’s tallest spokeless Ferris wheel. The project aligns with the Mayor’s vision of transforming the Han River into a series of public spaces for the people of Seoul.

UNStudio’s design wins the preliminary competition, becoming the chosen vision for Seoul’s new Ferris wheel

In addition to the Ferris wheel, the proposal by UNStudio includes plans for a monorail connecting the subway station to the site, enhancing accessibility. To add an extra layer of excitement, a zip line is also part of the envisioned experience, providing visitors with a thrilling journey to complement the awe-inspiring views. UNStudio’s team focused on the concept of unity as a symbolic representation in their design. Drawing inspiration from the Honcheonsigye, an astronomical clock depicting the movement of celestial objects through time, the ‘Seoul Twin Eye’ stands as a testament to innovation and unity.

Ben van Berkel comments: ‘Located in the heart of the city, this spokeless design references Korea’s boundless ambition for innovation and spirit of progress, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with a timeless appreciation for stability and beauty.‘

standing at 180 meters, the spokeless ‘Seoul Twin Eye’ will become the world’s tallest of its kind

The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that it plans to begin construction around 2025 after undergoing a final-phase review by the Ministry of Strategy and Finance. Completion is planned by 2028.

two intersecting rings and 64 capsules will each accommodate 20-25 people, it can host over 1,400 visitors at once