By Honorary Reporter Seema Thomas from India
Photos = Design Studio Loci

The Seoul International Garden Show, running from May 22 to Oct. 20, has transformed Boramae Park into an urban oasis under the theme "Seoul, Green Soul." 

One of the two invitational gardens this year is "The Third Track" by Park Seung-jin, winner of last year's Seoul Metropolitan Government Garden Award. As a leading landscape architect and educator with degrees from Sungkyunkwan and Seoul National universities, Park has shaped urban spaces through projects like Jeju O'sulloc Tea Museum and the headquarters of Korean cosmetics giant Amore Pacific. 

As the founder of Design Studio Loci in Seoul, he blends nature and architecture in his designs while contributing to landscape criticism and education at Korea National University of Arts.  Under the concept of "nature and the city," "The Third Track" showcases his vision of green spaces coexisting with urban environments, offering a serene escape from fast-paced city life. 

The following are excerpts from an email interview with Park from May 11 to June 10. 

Landscape architect Park Seung-jin's "The Third Track" (right) is one of two invitational gardens at this year's Seoul International Garden Show.

Describe your journey and philosophy in landscape architecture.

My passion for landscape design and nature inspired me to pursue this domain. Since earning my undergraduate and graduate degrees in landscape design, I've been active in this field since 1992. In 2007, I established Design Studio Loci. 

As a field deeply connected to nature, landscape architecture requires both architectural expertise and a profound understanding of nature. I draw inspiration from sources like landscape architects, ecologists, writers and thinkers to integrate nature extensively while balancing aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.

On the left is the concept sketch (left) and on the right the design sketch of "The Third Track" by Park Seung-jin.

How did you envision "The Third Track?"

Boramae Park's 600-m jogging track is popular among fitness enthusiasts. With two existing tracks, I envisioned this as the garden's third. The large lawn at the park's heart lacked shade and was quite windy, so we designed "The Third Track" with trees of various heights on both sides as a space of contemplation.

"The Third Track" at Boramae Park in Seoul's Dongjak-gu District

With increasing population density in modern cities, incorporating nature into urban environments is essential for our healthy survival. The Seoul International Garden Show effectively raises awareness about living in harmony with nature rather than viewing it as mere decoration.

What message would you like to send through your work?

"The Third Track" invites visitors to slow down and observe the subtle changes in plants across seasons; the longer you observe, the more beauty reveals itself. As landscape architects, our mission is to preserve the health of our planet, making this one of the most fulfilling and impactful professions. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.