Humanities & Social Science Hall C

Gazing upon Humanities & Social Science Hall C, imagine stepping back in time to 1974. This building, part of Seoul National University’s College of Humanities, has stood as a testament to architectural vision for decades. The SNU Centralization Plan of 1971 called for buildings that blended modernity with traditional Korean aesthetics. Humanities & Social Science Hall C, along with its sister buildings, answered this call with its distinctive eaves. These eaves, once criticized for uniformity, now provide a sense of unity against the backdrop of newer, disparate structures on the Seoul National University campus. Humanities & Social Science Hall C’s exterior, with its classic cladding, remains largely untouched, a nostalgic nod to its 1974 origins. However, its interior has embraced the 21st century. Renovations in 2011, 2012, and 2020 have modernized the space while preserving the building’s historical character. In 2024, a new chapter began for Humanities & Social Science Hall C and its neighboring Buildings #5 and #6. A much-needed expansion project commenced, adding a floor to each building and providing much-needed space. The project aimed to fulfill a long-held dream: the creation of a dedicated library for the College of Humanities and the relocation of the humanities research center. This ambitious project, set for completion in 2027, promises to breathe new life into Humanities & Social Science Hall C. It showcases a modern reinterpretation of the building’s original design. The light frame of the expansion respects the existing rigid grid, creating a flexible space capable of adapting to future needs. This adaptability, achieved through modular construction, also allowed the project to minimize disruption for the building’s occupants. Humanities & Social Science Hall C stands as a bridge between the past and the future. It is a reminder of the enduring power of architectural vision and a symbol of the ongoing pursuit of knowledge within the halls of Seoul National University.