Incheon International Airport
Seoul, South Korea
Fentress Bradburn Architects

A graceful and curvaceous terminal becomes a gateway to the East

© Nick Merrick / Hedrich Blessing

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Opened in March 2001, this 6 million square-foot passenger terminal is built on a man-made land bridge between two islands in the Yellow Sea, about thirty miles from downtown Seoul. Incheon’s 46-gate, arc-shaped terminal is South Korea’s largest building, expected to serve 27 million passengers in its first year of operation and 100 million passengers annually by 2020. It will serve as a new gateway to Asia, located within 3 1/2 hours flying time of forty cities with a population of over one million. Among its amenities are easy to access retail spaces; high-tech, all-weather landing systems; and for passengers, cyber ports and self check-in booths. A series of moving walkways ensures that users will walk distances no greater than 400 feet.

Relating the airport to its rich cultural context and affirming a feeling of warmth and welcome figured prominently in the architects’ design. The passenger terminal showcases Korea’s art, traditions, and culture. It is configured in a welcoming arc, as are its sweeping rooflines, modeled after the gentle roof arc of ancient Korean temples. The masts and catenary support system of the roof emulate the large anchored ships in nearby Inchon Harbor. Clerestories and skylights bring enough daylight into the interior to allow the cultivation of traditional Korean gardens, which lend a peaceful and welcoming feel to the space. The design finds both overt and subtle ways to make Incheon a memorable gateway and haven for weary travelers.

Formal name of Project:
Passenger Terminal, Incheon International Airport

Location:
Seoul, South Korea

Gross square footage:
5 million sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$1.1 billion

Owner:
Incheon International Airport Corporation www.airport.or.kr

Design Architect:
Fentress Bradburn Architects Ltd.
421 Broadway
Denver, CO 80203 USA
Phone: 303-722-5000
Fax: 303-772-5080
www.fentressbradburn.com

Architect of Record:
Korean Architects Collaboratives International (KACI)
187-1 Yeongun-dong
Chongro-gu
Seoul 110-460, Korea
Tel: +822-3668-5500
Fax: +822-3668-5595