Moon on Han River
Under the Hangang Bridge, which spans the Han River and connects Yongsan-gu and Dongjak-gu, lies Nodeul Island, geographically located in the heart of Seoul. On this island, a brilliant moon illuminates the dark night, reflecting its light across the Han River.
This artificial moon, named Halo Nodeul, was the winning piece of an international competition held as part of Seoul’s public art project. Aligning with the project’s vision of transforming neglected spaces into cultural landmarks, Halo Nodeul now adorns the previously abandoned dock of Nodeul Island, adding a subtle yet profound void to the dense urban landscape along the Han River.
The artificial moon takes the form of two circular steel structures, each with a diameter of 12 meters, leaning against and supporting one another. This innovative design responds to the site’s unique characteristics, as the structure is built on water instead of solid ground. At the lower part of Nodeul Island, fast currents and frequent flooding created challenges, prompting a design where the structures brace each other at their uppermost points to withstand external forces. Simultaneously, the installation harmonizes with its environment, gently swaying with the movement of the floating dock, the rippling water, and the breeze.
The circular structure emits light through over 45,000 perforations, creating a luminous presence. Every 30 minutes, the lighting transitions, portraying the phases of the moon—from crescent to full to new moon. Between the structures lies a two-story observatory space, offering both a tranquil resting area and a unique vantage point. Climbing the stairs to this space provides a panoramic view of the cityscape, which complements the moonlit scenery floating above the Han River. This space resembles a small island, inviting visitors to experience the riverside setting in a new way while feeling the gentle sway of the water and the cool breeze from the river.
Throughout history, the moon has been a source of primal inspiration, a symbol of joy, and an object of playfulness that elevates life’s rhythm. Halo Nodeul introduces this universal symbol to the city in a form that fosters calm inspiration and entertainment. Visitors engage with it in diverse ways—gazing upon its light, drawing closer to its form, or finding rest within its embrace. In turn, the moon becomes their own, remembered and experienced uniquely by each observer.
Project: Halo Nodeul / Location: 445, Yangnyeong-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea / Architect: NAMELESS Architecture (Unchung Na, Sorae Yoo) / Project Team: Kang Taekgyu, Lee Taehyung, Lee Keonho, Oh Hanuel, Kim Alina / Contractor: THE allim / Structure engineer: Dongyang structural engineers / Lighting engineer: Bitzro & partners / Client: Seoul Metropolitan Government / Use: Public Art, Pavilion / Site Area: W6m x L40m / Scale: W5m x L12.6m x H12m / Exterior finishing: Aluminum plate, Steel bar / Completion: 2021 / Photograph: ©Kyung Roh (courtesy of the architect)
