| Abstract
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This article examines the characteristics of Korean church architecture from the perspective of the hanok (the traditional Korean house). Previously, Western commentators criticized Korean church architecture as not reflecting a theological ideology and lacking a consistent architectural style. However, examining Korean church architecture through the lens of Western church architecture does not allow for the adequate appreciation or understanding of this form. This study, therefore, considers the development of Korean churches through an examination of the hanok, including floor plans, the concept of spatial expansion, and attitudes toward daylight. In addition, gender-based seating arrangements, the horizontal extension of space, and windows that admit horizontal daylight also reflect common aspects of the hanok. Beyond showing how a distinctly Korean church architecture developed over time, these characteristics also demonstrate the central role of women and the congregation in Korean churches, in contrast to the clergy-centric design of Western churches. This article examines the characteristics of Korean church architecture from the perspective of the hanok (the traditional Korean house). Previously, Western commentators criticized Korean church architecture as not reflecting a theological ideology and lacking a consistent architectural style. However, examining Korean church architecture through the lens of Western church architecture does not allow for the adequate appreciation or understanding of this form. This study, therefore, considers the development of Korean churches through an examination of the hanok, including floor plans, the concept of spatial expansion, and attitudes toward daylight. In addition, gender-based seating arrangements, the horizontal extension of space, and windows that admit horizontal daylight also reflect common aspects of the hanok. Beyond showing how a distinctly Korean church architecture developed over time, these characteristics also demonstrate the central role of women and the congregation in Korean churches, in contrast to the clergy-centric design of Western churches.
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