Rethinking Seoul Children's Park Zoo: Employing Animal Behavioural Enrichment in the Exploration of Human-Nature Relationship

Abstract

Naturalistic design of zoo facilities started with Carl Hagenbeck research back in 1896, when he patented his idea of a barless zoo and the realization of his design in 1907. This was followed by Heini Hedigers research into zoo semiotics (Wild Animals in Captivity, 1950, Heini Hediger), and further improved to create an immersive environment by Jones, Coe and Paulson in 1976.

The design site, Seoul Childrens Grand Park, currently have enclosures with outdated designs, mainly using concrete floor and glass coupled with dry moat or fences as safety barriers. Redesign is required as the zoo strive to become an educational zoo for young children, and for the well-being of the animals in captivity through animal behavioral enrichment. The design site is currently doubling as a wildlife corridor for the surrounding natural elements

Mt. Achasan Jonglang River, and Hangang, thus, I would like to introduce the concept of hybrid zoo and wildlife reserve to the design site.

The new design of the zoo, largely based on the Unzoo (Coe, 2005) and Animal-As Client Theory (AAC), will strive to bridge humans to nature by being a zoo that meets the needs of both animals and humans. These are achieved through the design of a master plan based on research of the current display methods of the zoo, and case studies. The design proposed aims to: 1. Propose Adaptive Design Management that is made from understanding the Life History of the animals. 2. Use of Unzoo theory elements

e.g. Immersive Design, Habitat Shows and Theatre, and Controlling People, Attracting Animals to improve the Zoo on the whole. 3. Zoo that is not only user-friendly but also Zookeepers & Vet friendly.

This is done through understanding the current design of Seoul Childrens Park Zoo through site visits, and interviews with related personals. Visitor surveys are conducted to understand their satisfaction and point of view of the exhibition design. Zookeeper surveys are also conducted to help tailor the design to the needs of the individual animals, and creating a safe and enjoyable working environment. Last but not least, the understanding of animals behavior, especially in their requirement of space and stimulation. Using the above analysis as guidelines, the new design drafted will improve the welfare of the animals and increase learning opportunities of visitors.