Ancient Korean architecture began in the 7th century in what is called the Neolithic period. A primitive heating system called ondol (온돌;溫突) and the development of the vertical wall began during this time.
Chinese architectural style was also highly prevalent in early Korean structures around the time of 109 B.C.E. Wood and brick were used to construct building during this time and the roofs utilized distinctive Chinese tiles. The most famous architectural development in Korea is Cheomseongdae (첨성대;瞻星臺), which literally means star-gazing tower and is thought to be the first stone observatory in Asia. It was built during the Silla Dynasty and during the reign of Queen Seondeok. It was also during the Silla Dynasty that Buddhist motifs and nature became the main inspiration for much of the country's architectural structures.
Buddhist structures were frequently located in mountains and blended in with the scenic beauty of the natural landscape. The style of Korean architecture was never to compete with the natural environment, but rather to coexist and become part of the landscape. Many temples and other religious structures were built at the base of a mountain or valley, nearly hidden by the surrounding greenery.
Sites were also carefully selected when deciding on where to build a particular structure, whether it was a private dwelling or a public place. It was common to seek out a special meaning for a place, one that provided for a clear view of mountains and water. Maintaining constant contact with nature went beyond an aesthetic need and there was an inherent belief that one needed to also support nature and be a part of it.
During the Joeson Dynasty of the 14th-19th centuries Korean shifted from Buddhist teachings towards Confucian philosophies, leading to a decrease in the expansion of Buddhist temples and a rise in Confucian institutions that also favored architecture that maintained a harmonious relationship with nature.
The Japanese occupation of Korea, from 1910-1945, resulted in the destruction of many ancient Korean structures. Japanese architecture replaced the native Korean styles and all things Japanese dominated during this time.
After the second world war Koreans saw a resurgence of architecture native to their land mixed with American architectural influences. Many Korea architects studied in Moscow where they brought back with them socialist styles and privileged function and practicality over style. Modern Korean architecture is a blend of the old and new with an intermingling of practical use an aesthetic appreciation.
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