The new building of the Masan Branch, Changwon District Court, reinterprets the principles of traditional Hyanggyo (Confucian schools) through the language of contemporary court architecture.

“Yehwa Dojeong – An Open Court Embracing the Spirit of Hyanggyo”

Three core principles—Ye (禮, Propriety), Hwa (和, Harmony), and Do (道, Path)—are translated into a modern judicial framework. Ye symbolizes spatial order, presenting a dignified and intuitive organization of public service areas, courtrooms, and administrative functions. Do connects the green axis of Mt. Muhak and Mt. Cheonju with the site’s main organizational axis, forming a continuous path that leads seamlessly to the courtrooms. Ultimately, the concept of Hwa envisions the court not merely as an institution of judgment, but as an open civic forum—a public space that fosters reconciliation and dialogue by connecting city, nature, and citizens.

The site meets roads on three sides, and the building is positioned in response to both the urban road axes and the surrounding green corridors. Approached from any direction, the building presents itself as a frontal façade, while the mountains form a protective backdrop embracing the civic realm. At the entrance, a Civic Garden marks the point where nature and city, law and everyday life converge. The sequential axis of the Court of Law Plaza – Court Building – Court of Empathy guides visitors through the courthouse as if on an everyday promenade.

The ground floor is organized around an open, integrated lobby that serves as a civic threshold where public life and culture intersect. The lobby, accommodating exhibitions, experiential programs, and public outreach, along with generous waiting areas, extends the court’s role into a regional cultural hub. The second and third floors house criminal and civil courtrooms, with clear zoning and independent circulation systems that enhance operational efficiency and security. Naturally lit waiting halls and outdoor decks provide emotional relief and a sense of calm for users. On the fourth floor, administrative offices are centered around the Jihwa Lounge, while the fifth and sixth floors accommodate the library, “Beoprijeong”, a dedicated space for the study and contemplation of legal principles.

The Changwon District Court, Masan Branch is envisioned as a civic and cultural anchor that embraces both procedural fairness and spatial openness, establishing itself as a shared center of justice and culture for all citizens of Masan.

1. #JihwaLounge
2. #Beoprijeong
3. #Public
4. #Competition
5. #OpenCourt
6. #YeHwaDoJeong