Transition and Spatial Characteristics of Janghang Smelting Factory’s Company Housing Complex

Abstract

Company Housing is a residence built for employees by the private institutions such as industrial facilities and businesses, which is a distinct concept from an official residence. In 1936, under the Japanese Colonization a large-scaled housing complex was established in Jangam-ri and Hwacheon-ri, Janghang-eup, along with the operation of the Janghang Smelting Factory. After gaining independence, reconstruction, expansion, and transition followed, until the sale of the land in 2010, leading to a complete demolition of the housing complex. Currently, only two Saemaul houses and five apartments remain. Janghang Smetling Factory Housing Complex is a typical modern residential complex with the following characteristics and values. Firstly, it is a microcosm of urban planning in Japanese colonial era, with orthogonal block and street system. Secondly, in terms of functionality, the residential complex provides an environment close to the workplace, is a support facility for industrial facilities responsible for the housing and welfare of the workers. Thirdly, the company housing complex forms a layout of the houses and spatial hierarchy by reflecting the structure of the rank and the colonial rule. Fourthly, the Company Housing Complex is a spatial representation of the rise and fall of Janghang as a community, alongside the smelting factory as a modern industrial landmark. Finally, in regards to social and cultural aspect, housing complex is the result of the housing culture of the times. The types of houses built during the period of construction were mainly Japanese-style detached houses and horizontal row houses, with a further diversification of the houses due to the participation of the national housing cooperative during the expansion period, which were then subsequently converted into apartments in 1990s. The Janghang Smelting Factory’s Company Housing Complex holds an important significance in terms of urban design, and further provides an insight into the urban history of Janghang and its modern industrial history.