The popular MBC program 'Reasonable Architecture - Space Traveler' has wrapped up its season. Since July, Jeon Hyun-moo, 47, has been a regular on the show, airing every Tuesday at 9 PM. As of October 23, he has transitioned to SBS's 'Our Ballad' as both host and judge.
The final episode of 'Reasonable Architecture' aired on October 23, featuring a unique exploration of the Han River under the theme 'Seoul, Written by the Han River.' The episode delved into the river's role in Seoul's development and its future.
Jeon Hyun-moo, Park Sun-young, and Lim Woo-il, known for his Han River view apartment, formed an exploration team. They visited the Han River's first pedestrian bridge, completed in 1917. Guided by Park Sun-young, they examined the old and new sections of the bridge. Jeon Hyun-moo's keen eye identified the older bridge, noting, "This side looks new, while the other seems patched and worn." This was confirmed by the welding marks left due to the lack of advanced welding technology at the time.
Under the bridge, the team discovered a marker from the 1925 flood, which reshaped Seoul's map. The floodwaters split the Han River into two streams, leading to the development of the current Jamsil area. The unfilled parts became Seokchon Lake, a fact that surprised the cast.
The low construction of the Jamsu Bridge, often submerged, and the Banpo Bridge above it were also highlighted. Architect Yoo Hyun-jun explained that the Jamsu Bridge was originally designed for tanks, allowing quick repairs if bombed. The Banpo Bridge was built to conceal the Jamsu Bridge from enemies.
The Han River's busiest bridge, Hannam Bridge, was expanded to 12 lanes due to North Korean intelligence reports of a bridge being built along the Taedong River. This expansion accelerated the development of Gangnam and marked a turning point in Seoul's growth.
After studying the bridges, Jeon Hyun-moo took the team to a trendy spot on the Han River. They visited the world's first hotel built on a bridge, capturing a humorous 'honeymoon' photo. They also explored Nodeul Island, known for its sunsets and night views. Originally connected to the mainland, Nodeul Island is set to become even more popular with a 2027 renewal project. Lim Woo-il joked, "Now that we've visited, the MZ generation will return," to which Jeon Hyun-moo replied, "We're here to ensure smooth construction."
'Reasonable Architecture,' which became a regular series after a successful pilot in 2024, explored 39 architectural sites across 10 themes. The show examined masterpieces by Korea's first-generation architects Kim Joong-up and Kim Swoo-geun, and explored why areas like Seongsu-dong and Haebangchon became hotspots.
The show also highlighted the history and charm of Bukchon Hanok Village, preserved from Japanese influence. It ventured abroad, offering a new architectural perspective on Hong Kong, known for its cuisine, cinema, and shopping. In Berlin, Germany, the show spotlighted hip architecture and buildings that remember the scars of war.
As the season concluded, Jeon Hyun-moo reflected, "It was a time to enjoy and deeply understand architecture," while Park Sun-young added, "I realized architecture isn't difficult." Yoo Hyun-jun noted, "The guests' perspectives enriched each episode." Jeon Hyun-moo promised, "See you in the next season."
Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr