Designing the possibility of coexistence in spaces divided by Hate | Jeongseok Moon | TEDxSNU

Designing the possibility of coexistence in spaces divided by Hate | Jeongseok Moon | TEDxSNU

by Jeongseok Moon · View the channel on PSI

Humanities, Social Sciences & Thought Arts & Architecture AMVLandscape architecture and designAMVDCity and town planning: architectural aspects
🎙 Jeongseok Moon 👥 44.7M 📅 October 13, 2026 ⏱ 24 min 👁 4 📄 science communication 🧭 2026-10-13
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

social spaceparticipatory designspace programconflict resolutioncommunity architecture

Summary

In this TEDx talk, architect Jeongseok Moon explores how spaces are shaped by social relations and conflict, and how participatory design can transform them into places of coexistence. He begins by illustrating unintentional social spaces, such as a park where elderly women and young families dispute the placement of a pavilion, and a micro-ecosystem near Seoul Station where elderly residents, homeless people, and stray cats interact. He introduces philosopher Henri Lefebvre’s concept of space as a social product. Moon then explains ‘space program’—the set of rules that define a space’s use—and gives examples like a ramen store mimicking a library layout. He discusses deliberate social spaces, including a community center redesigned with residents to break male dominance, and a memorial park for the Sewol ferry victims, where community conflict persists. The third section describes participatory methods: mapping desires, using playful props to ease tension, and co-creating spatial plans. He concludes with the story of the Namsan stairs, built by Japan for colonial worship but repurposed as a ski slope, symbolizing spatial imagination and resilience. Moon advocates for active civic participation and responsibility in shaping spaces to overcome hate and foster cooperation.

191 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The talk offers valuable insights into architecture’s social dimension, emphasizing that space is not neutral but produced through power dynamics. The argumentation is persuasive, built on concrete case studies from the speaker’s own practice, which lends authenticity. However, the reasoning often relies on narrative and personal observation rather than empirical data or theoretical depth. The concept of ‘space program’ is well explained with accessible examples, but the transition from observation to action could be more systematically structured. Overall, the value lies in practical illustrations and a call to participatory design, though the scholarly framework is minimal.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The speaker references Henri Lefebvre, a recognized sociologist, but does not provide precise citations. The only explicit source is the TEDx program link. The projects described appear plausible but are presented without verifiable documentation. The title accurately captures the theme, and the structure is coherent. There is no evident bias or misleading information, but the absence of external references limits rigorous verification. The talk is more about sharing experience than presenting research.

183 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the talk's core theme—using design to foster coexistence in spaces marked by hate—though the term 'Hate' is interpreted broadly as conflict and social division.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The talk presents concrete case studies and references a recognized theorist (Lefebvre), but relies on anecdotal evidence and personal experience rather than systematic research. The design projects are plausibly real but not independently verified.

Key Moments

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

Cited Sources

  • TEDx Program — Official TEDx page providing context on the event format and mission.

Contribution & Novelties

The talk contributes a practical perspective on participatory architecture, emphasizing the role of conflict and negotiation in space production. It introduces the concept of ‘space program’ as a tool to analyze and redesign social interactions. The value lies in real-world examples from South Korea, making abstract theories tangible.

Pour aller plus loin :

  • Participatory design — Relevant to the core method of involving users in spatial design.
  • Social space — Directly linked to Lefebvre’s theory discussed in the talk.
  • Architectural programming — Elaborates on the concept of space program introduced by the speaker.
  • Henri Lefebvre — Provides background on the theorist whose ideas underpin the talk’s framework.

107 words

Radar Profile

The profile shows high scores in quantity and quality of information, with moderate technical level and reliability. This reflects a talk rich in examples but lacking deep theoretical rigor.

Reliability 7/10