E2024-G059

The Noble House of the Choe Family in Sa-dong: A Space Reflecting Modern Gwangju’s Architecture and Life

Narrative

The Noble House of the Choe Family in Sa-dong is one of the representative examples of modern traditional Korean houses in Gwangju and an important heritage site that reflects the city’s economic foundation and architectural culture in the early 20th century. The house was built in 1942 by Choe Sang-hyeon (1881-1945), an independence activist and wealthy landowner, for his son Choe Seong-suk. It was completed on the foundation of the family’s wealth and social standing inherited from his father, Choe Myeong-gu (1852-1913). Another residence built by Choe Sang-hyeon is Choe Seung-hyo’s House, located in Yangnim-dong.

The Noble House of the Choe Family in Sa-dong is a grand residence consisting of four stories, including an attic—an uncommon scale for a traditional Korean house. Although several buildings originally stood within the premises, only the main building and a storage house remain today. Through the Modern Architecture Digital Archive Project, the City of Gwangju has produced virtual reality videos and 3D animations to help citizens experience the architectural beauty and historical significance of the house in an engaging way.

Story Map

• Houses of Gwangju: Living Heritage of Time and Memory
  • Choe Seung-hyo’s House: A Legacy of Culture and Art
  • Go Won-hui’s House: A Legacy of Loyalty and Integrity
  • Kim Bong-ho’s House: A Home Preserving the Everyday History of Gwangju
  • The Noble House of the Choe Family in Sa-dong: A Space Reflecting Modern Gwangju’s Architecture and Life
  • Traditional Homes with Foreign Influences: Yi Jang-u’s House
  • Traditional Homes with Foreign Influences: Kim Yong-hak’s House