Korean architect to lead Hyundai GBC project

Hyundai Motor Group said Sunday it appointed Korean architect Kim Jong-sung as the head of a multibillion-dollar project to build the Hyundai Global Business Center in Samseong-dong, an affluent business district in southern Seoul, by 2023.

The 82-year-old architect, part of the first generation to develop the nation’s modern architecture, will coordinate various architecture projects developed for the landmark multipurpose business complex on the 79,342-square-meter site, the company officials said. 

The projects will include a landmark headquarters building for the nation’s top automotive group, an auto theme park, a convention center and a shopping district.

Kim, who was chosen in the competition with globally renowned architects, has led a number of architect projects to build landmark office buildings, including SK Group’s headquarters building, and museums like Seoul Museum of History nationwide.

He was taught by German-born American architect Mies van der Rohe, one of the great figures of 20th-century architecture, the company added.

By Seo Jee-yeon (jyseo@heraldcorp.com)