Gunju Jenny Kim

Due to the low birth rate and increased life expectancy in Korea, our society is facing the challenge of rapid aging. The elderly population is projected to reach 40% by 2050, exacerbated in rural areas by the outflow of young people to cities.

Depopulated rural regions, especially those with dwindling child populations, witness a rising number of abandoned schools each year. While efforts have been made to repurpose these schools, a significant portion remains unused.

Insufficient infrastructure, including welfare facilities, sports amenities, and parks, further hinders the promotion of a healthy lifestyle in rural compared to their urban counterparts.

This thesis proposes a methodological framework for repurposing abandoned schools into community centers. By optimizing existing structures, the design solution fosters visitor engagement and offers diverse activities. Leveraging the power of architecture, this approach cultivates meaningful connections with local communities, while addressing the predicament of closed schools in depopulated rural areas.