Korean War Memorial and Visitor Center

Architectural and Landscape Design for Memory, Peace, and Public Engagement

Korean War Memorial and Visitor Center is a unique architectural and landscape project that transcends traditional notions of commemoration. Designed through an architectural competition, the project honors the Turkish soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives during the Korean War (1950- 1953), particularly those from the 241st Infantry Regiment, part of the 65th Mechanized Infantry Brigade stationed in Lüleburgaz.

This memorial is not only a site of remembrance but also a contemporary space for social engagement, cultural experience, and historical education. It draws inspiration from the duality of war and peace, memory and hope, and seamlessly integrates architectural form with natural landscape to narrate a profound story.

Concept and Spatial Strategy

At the heart of the design lies the idea of remembrance - not as a static monument but as an evolving, immersive experience. The project unfolds through two main axes: the Memorial Axis and the Social Axis, each serving distinct yet interconnected purposes.

The Memorial Axis is anchored by a dramatic Wall, which acts as both a physical and symbolic threshold. This element evokes the sorrow and heroism of war, prompting visitors to pause and reflect. A break in the wall leads into the Memorial Path, guiding visitors toward key commemorative elements including the Memorial Point, the Ceremonial Square, and the War Story Route.

In contrast, the Social Axis emphasizes transparency, life, and continuity. It opens fully to the surrounding landscape, lined with social spaces such as a library, café, reading areas, and modular exhibition halls. This axis serves as a public spine - active throughout the day - encouraging community interaction while maintaining a strong connection to the memory-driven spaces.

Architecture Rooted in Context and Nature

The project site lies between the urban axis of Turgut Bey Avenue and the rural boundary marked by Luleburgaz Stream. The architectural language bridges urban density and natural openness, with transitions carefully articulated through form, material, and topography. Existing immovable trees in the southeastern part of the site were preserved, and the building mass is shaped to integrate seamlessly into the landscape.

The Visitor Center is partially embedded into the terrain, with sunken exhibition spaces accessed via the War Story Route. The lower level houses permanent and temporary exhibitions supported by reception and orientation areas. The ground level features public amenities like a tea salon and ceremonial access points, while the library and retail units further extend the center’s usability.

Memorial Design and the War Story

The Memorial Point is the emotional heart of the project. Composed of two symbolic walls rising from a crater referred to as the “War Depression,” the memorial offers a physical and emotional journey. One wall represents the heroism of Turkish soldiers, the other symbolizes the hope and peace that emerged from their sacrifices. A symbolic bridge connects these walls, allowing visitors to experience the memorial through movement, light, and silence.

Following the memorial, visitors are guided through the War Story Route, a series of open and semi-enclosed exhibition spaces representing four critical battles: Kunuri, Kumyangjang-ni, Seoul Defense-Taegyowon-ni, and the Nevada Battles. Integrated media, engravings, and curated lighting bring the war narrative to life. Light penetrating through landscape cracks reinforces the enduring presence of peace and hope.

Landscape as Living Memory

The landscape is a vital narrative layer in the project. Designed as a spiritual and experiential journey, it includes the ceremonial square, war craters, memorial spaces, groves, and a riverside trail. Planting design emphasizes native species, blending ecological sensitivity with symbolic expression. Large-leaved trees such as Acer pseudoplatanus and Thuja orientalis form the monumental planting scheme, while smaller flora like Papaver rhoeas and Lagurus ovatus add delicacy and depth to war-related zones.

The Stream Path continues the memorial axis, guiding visitors through the grove toward the rehabilitated Luleburgaz Stream. Inscribed walls along the path feature names of soldiers, creating a contemplative experience that ends at a scenic viewing terrace.

Urban Integration and Identity Design

Urban furniture and landscape elements such as lighting, signage, and seating were designed to reflect the identity and solemnity of the memorial. A custom graphic identity - including logos, typography, merchandise, and a mobile app - supports event communication and visitor engagement, ensuring the center remains a living and evolving urban node.

Korean War Memorial and Visitor Center stands as a thoughtful fusion of memory, landscape, and architecture: transforming remembrance into an enduring public experience.