Spatial Transition of Existing Old Settlements in Downtown Cheongju, Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to clarify the spatial structure and its transitional process by focusing on 22 existing old settlements established before 1913 in downtown Cheongju, Korea. The results are as follows: First, the old settlements are classified into four types relating to their topographic features: the Sanrok and Gogae Types are located on hills and the Daegok and Sogok Types are located in valleys. Second, in traditional Korean villages, a road system is composed of outer roads, approach roads, inner roads, and side roads having different functions. An inner road among them is the most important element in spatial structure as the basic framework of the road system inside villages. Third, the preservation or division of settlements has been influenced by the transformation of inner roads during the urbanization process. When spatial structures of inner roads have been maintained, old settlements have tended to be preserved. In addition, when new roads have been built to pass near communal spaces, old settlements have been preserved in spite of the lack of connection to old inner roads. Fourth, the functions of communal spaces have been influenced by the changing of society over time. Some functions have been changed, lost, or have suffered reduction in importance due to changes in modern lifestyles, but the personality of communal space is lasting. Finally, when the characteristics of the old settlement and functions of old roads have been preserved, housing layout has had a tendency to follow the original orientation, courtyard location, gate location, and access route as can be seen in Topdong Yangdalmal.