Development Process and Community Life at the Eco-village ′Sanneoul′ in South Korea

Abstract

This research presents the process of developing the ′Sanneoul′ Eco-village, located in South Korea, and describes community life in the village. Sanneoul village was created to welcome urban dwellers who choose to return to rural life and to prevent the exodus of the population in rural areas. The village features eco-friendly architecture and utility systems within which the residents live as a community. Nearly fifty community meetings were held by the residents of the village from the beginning to the end of the construction process. They received public funds to cover most of the basic costs for the village construction, and the households moving in as residents covered only the costs of the property, land, and buildings. This advantage is one of the important factors that attract city dwellers to return to rural areas. The ecological systems installed within the village include rainwater recycling, grass blocks, rooftop gardens, and an ecological sewage disposal plant. The ecological elements of the architecture are the sunlight and solar heat system, pellet boiler, fireplace, and ′ondol′ floor heating. The residents actively participate in recycling garbage, food waste, and feces. The village residents are contented with the eco-friendly aspects of the village and have been active participants of the system.