Apgujeong Galleria Department Store to become Thomas Heatherwick’s hourglass landmark

Galleria Department Store in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, will be rebuilt as a new hourglass-shaped landmark. Seoul announced on September 11, 2025, that it had conditionally approved revisions to the district-unit plan and the detailed development plan for the special planning zone tied to the project. Under the plan, the exterior will be designed by Thomas Heatherwick, and the new department store will consist of two buildings up to eight stories tall. Beyond retail use, the plan links an underground plaza, indoor and outdoor public areas on lower floors, mid-level gardens and rooftop gardens. As a public contribution, a cultural complex including a design center is also planned for the Cheongdam High School site scheduled for relocation. Source: hankyung.com