Gallery Korea is pleased to present "Beyond 32nd Street: New Visions of Koreatown in Manhattan," an architectural design show of seven prominent young architects based in New York City. Through computer simulations and physical models, these architects remake imaginatively a growing sector of Manhattan that is rich in character and culture: Koreatown.

With a substantial faith in the power of design to change attitudes, perceptions, and even lives, the group of architects suggests new architectural and urban schematic visions for the 32nd Street Koreatown in Manhattan, which has been growing and sprawling since the 1970's. Jin Hwang, Yoon Gyoo Jang, Bockduk Jueng, Kyungil Kong, Do-Yong Um, Jeong Hyun Yoon, and Hangman Zo project ameliorative urban environments and specific spaces to improve cultural exchanges between Korea and the United States and to saturate Koreatown with a particular cultural personality.

Jin Hwang creates a restful new place that embodies the energy and optimism of New York City and Koreatown, bridging nature and architecture.

Yoon Gyoo Jang and Jeong Hyun Yoon explore the meaning of 'gate,' which is considered to be located at the end of a boundary in any urban or architectural context. They confer a centric role to a newly designed gate.

Bockduk Jueng dreams of an ideal multi-purpose cultural complex through the plan "Design Exhibition Center." The building in which diverse activities are happening will reinforce the epicenter of Korean community.

Kyungil Kong believes that by making one small adjustment to the present lighting, we can make an astronomical difference that would definitely be noticeable to all. Mr. Kong upgrades the lighting level by information systems as well as new lighting designs.

Do-Yong Um designs a 'Time Travel' program, which can provide a journey between the spaces of past, present and future on each side of 32nd Street. Multiple exhibition spaces and a theater are included in his scheme.

Hangman Zo focuses on Koreatown as a commercial district. Mr. Zo connects 32nd Street to "Jyuja-geori," an ancient Korean-style street marketplace.

An opening reception will be held on Wednesday, September 8, from 6 - 8 pm, with all artists present. The exhibition is made possible by generous support from KLC and LG. Please contact curator Jin Yong Chung for further information at (212) 759-9550 or nyarts@koreanculture.org.

Further information is also available at the Korean Cultural Service in New York. Gallery Korea, run by the Korean Cultural Service in New York, presents exhibitions devoted to diverse aspects of Korean and Korean diasporic culture, as well as group shows featuring international artists.