Did you notice the unique shape of that building? It’s the Simgok Catholic Church. The church’s architecture and history are captivating. Let’s delve into the story of this special place.
Simgok Catholic Church is located in Simgok-dong Bucheon. It sits to the west of Bucheon University. Many people have seen it. Its unique shape and pale colors catch the eye.
Kim Young-seok designed this famous church building. It is among the churches he designed after the Sincheon-dong Church in 1984. He began designing churches in 2000. Simgok Catholic Church stands at the forefront.
When you enter through the west gate a unique structure comes into view. It looks like a hall. Basic straight blocks jut out like stairs. This creates an unusual pattern. The outer walls are directed toward the sanctuary.
The walls look as if they are about to embrace it. They create continuity. They also add a sense of grandeur. At the end of these embracing outer walls is the main sanctuary.
From the front of the sanctuary you can see the statue of the Virgin Mary. The statue’s position and the shape of the architecture are impressive. It seems that the architect originally intended the south gate to be the church’s main gate.
Outside the south gate many people recognize the sanctuary. They see it embracing everything. The architect’s intention is clear. Simgok Catholic Church focuses on revival. It embraces the gospel.
The center is slightly tilted to the east. This aims to bring dynamism to the space. It emphasizes revival. The sanctuary is not fully enclosed. The east side is open. This symbolizes the church’s revival. It represents a chick breaking out of an egg.
Inside the sanctuary there is a pedestal. Various concentric circles surround it. They naturally guide the eye toward the pedestal. The interior resembles Seoul’s Sincheon-dong Church. Kim Young-seok also designed that church.
The rough texture of the exposed concrete is prominent. Light streams in through narrow skylights. This creates a holy and spiritual experience. The design pursues an experience of the gospel.
The location of the main entrance is different. This is similar to Jang-wook Jin Art Museum in Yangju. The sanctuary is too close from the south gate. You cannot see it properly.
The interior construction features exposed concrete. If you had come before the altar was installed you could have seen it better. Kim Young-seok designed many churches. I hope you have the chance to visit them.
The main theme of Simgok Catholic Church is revival. The sanctuary has a round shape. However it is not completely round. The east side is cut off. It symbolizes a chick emerging from an egg. This represents the resurrection of Jesus. Simgok Catholic Church offers masses and prayers. The church provides explanations and a peaceful place for prayer.