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영어

The purpose of this study is to investigate what owners think of their housing and their community by scrutinizing households, thereby leading to a conclusion of how these communities have developed and the advantages they provide to their owners. This study was conducted by thoroughly interviewing one member from each of a total of 10 households living in apartments and villas in the Gangnamgu area of Seoul between August 5, 2008, and September 25, 2008. The results can be summarized as follows: First, all interviewees were female, within the range of 40 years to 50 years of age, and with high educational backgrounds. They were living in mid-level income or higher households but were characterized by frugal attitudes. Second, their households held a personal and familial meaning to them, one of providing replenishment, rest, and a place to share diverse feelings with their family. Certain factors such as being a convenient place for education, rising housing prices, a large area of greenery made possible by Yangjae Cheon, and so forth contributed to giving a special significance to their housings. The interviewees all thought the convenience of education and the rising housing prices in the Gangnam area were the most important factors. Third, the interviewees indicated the following sociocultural perspectives of Gangnam housings: They provide a good environment for education due to the densely clustered academies in the Daechi-dong area. There are many opportunities to meet neighbors with similar educational and economic backgrounds. There are vast areas of greenery such as Yangjae Cheon. There is access to highly advanced cultural and shopping facilities such as COEX, Seoul Arts Center, etc. There are no amusement centers located near the housing districts. There are convenient transportation methods and facilities. They are subject to jealous looks from people living outside the Gangnam area. Lastly, it seems that no significant community spirit exists among the dwellers of each apartment or villa. However, matters of self-interest such as construction problems, which contribute greatly to creating personal wealth, were exceptions when the dwellers united as a single household.