Aerial view of a steel-made experiential sculpture at the summit of Gubongsan Mountain in Gwangyang. (Final design will be determined at a later date) (Image provided by Posco)
SEOUL, Feb. 2 (Korea Bizwire) – POSCO is set to create another “Spacewalk” installation, the largest experiential sculpture in Korea, this time in Gwangyang, South Jeolla Province, following its initial success in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province.
The steel giant announced plans on February 2 to build a steel-made experiential sculpture at the summit of Gubongsan Mountain in Gwangyang, aiming to unveil it to the public in the second half of 2025. The final design and planning stages are set to conclude by the end of this year, with construction expected to commence shortly thereafter.
In preparation, Spanish architect Manuel Monteserin Lahoz, who will oversee the sculpture’s construction, has made his first visit to Korea for this project.
POSCO selected Lahoz’s design after a competitive process involving numerous designers and artists. Lahoz is renowned for his innovative approach to interpreting the laws of nature and biology, combining cutting-edge technology to create experimental yet beautiful structures.
His notable work includes the Kaohsiung Music Center in Taiwan, a cultural facility inspired by coral and a symbol of Kaohsiung.
During his visit, which began on January 26 and lasted about a week, Lahoz explored various sites in Gwangyang, including Gubongsan Mountain, the Gwangyang History and Culture Museum, and Baealdo Island in the Seomjin River, to gather inspiration for his design.
Lahoz expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “The panoramic views from the summit of Gubongsan Mountain in Gwangyang have provided me with significant inspiration for the design of the sculpture. I am excited to contribute to the revitalization of the city through art and to be part of the project that will bring positive changes and hope to the citizens of Gwangyang and the local community.”
Meanwhile, the original Spacewalk in Pohang has become a major landmark, attracting over 2.2 million visitors since its establishment in 2021 at Pohang’s Hwanho Park.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
