When the Hyundai Apartments in Apgujeong opened in 1976, features like elevators, central heating, and spacious layouts symbolized modern living. Now, half a century later, while the technology may seem outdated, the questions posed by that development remain relevant: What kind of homes will people live in the future? The reconstruction of Apgujeong is drawing attention to whether it can redefine the standards of future housing in South Korea, beyond just height and views of the Han River.
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact timeline for the new Apgujeong's completion. Significant time is required for permits, management decisions, relocation, demolition, and construction. Even if the latest appliances are included in the blueprints, they may be outdated by the time residents move in. The competitiveness of future apartments will not stem from the number of products but from an open platform that can continuously adopt new technologies and a structure that allows for easy replacement of wiring, plumbing, and communication systems.
The first pillar is spatial AI. This goes beyond controlling lighting, heating, ventilation, and security through smartphones. AI will learn residents' living patterns, energy usage, and health status to autonomously manage the entire home. Residents should have the freedom to choose devices and services, rather than being tied to specific manufacturers. Data protection and hacking responses will also be integral to housing quality.
The second pillar involves robotics and mobility. Delivery, cleaning, surveillance, and parking robots must be designed to navigate common entrances, elevators, and underground parking from the outset. Spaces for autonomous vehicle drop-off and pick-up, underground logistics hubs, and electric vehicle charging facilities are also necessary. Without fire detection and compartmentalization systems for electric vehicle fires, convenience could turn into new risks.
The third pillar addresses care in an aging society. Consideration must be given to the fact that current middle-aged residents will become elderly. Basic designs should include fall detection, non-contact health monitoring, emergency medical connections, wheelchair access, and visiting nurse spaces. Flexible layouts that can adapt rooms and living areas to changes in family size and age will extend the lifespan of the home.
The fourth pillar focuses on energy and disaster safety. High-performance insulation, solar and geothermal energy, energy storage systems, and AI-managed heating and cooling should reduce consumption. Preparations must also be made for heavy rainfall along the Han River, underground flooding, power outages, and communication failures. High-rise buildings rely heavily on elevators, water supply, and evacuation systems, making emergency power and vertical evacuation plans critical for safety.
Future housing will not be confined to the buildings themselves. The city of Seoul has proposed connecting the Apgujeong districts 2 to 5 into a cohesive urban area with approximately 11,800 housing units. Key elements include public walkways and parks along the Han River, waterfront hubs for each district, and connections between Apgujeong and Seongsu and Seoul Forest. However, the increased burden on surrounding roads from larger underground parking entrances and the potential conflict between public access and resident security must be addressed.
The success of Apgujeong should not be measured solely by height or price per square meter. Homes must care for people, technology must continually evolve, and the development must connect the Han River with the city. If the original Hyundai Apartments showcased a new way of living in 1976, the new Apgujeong must demonstrate an era where apartments nurture both people and the urban environment. When Apgujeong transforms lifestyles rather than just heights, it will once again become a beacon of the future.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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