One Ocean Thematic Pavilion EXPO 2012 / SOMA

Architect: SOMA
Gross Floor Area: 60,893 ft² (5,657 m²)
Year: 2012
Photography: SOMA
Structural Engineering: Brandstätter ZT GmbH and Jeon + Partners
Facade Engineering: Knippers Helbig Advanced Engineering
HVAC: Himec
Client: The Organizing Committee for EXPO Yeosu 2012
City: Yeosu-si
Country: South Korea

One Ocean, Thematic Pavilion, designed by SOMA for EXPO 2012 in Yeosu-si, South Korea, explores the dynamic relationship between land and sea through its spatial and material composition. The pavilion integrates a kinetic façade system made of glass fiber reinforced polymers (GFRP), inspired by biological movement research from ITKE University Stuttgart. The design creates a seamless transition between interior and exterior, using continuous surfaces that shift between vertical exhibition cones and horizontal platforms. The structure interacts with its coastal setting through concrete formations resembling a natural shoreline, while a kinetic media façade at the Expo entrance ensures visibility, particularly at night.

One ocean thematic pavilion expo 2012 / soma

The One Ocean Thematic Pavilion, designed by SOMA, was completed for EXPO 2012 in Yeosu, South Korea, as a permanent structure along a newly developed waterfront promenade. Winning first prize in an open international competition in 2009, the project transformed a former industrial harbor into a forward-looking architectural landmark.

The pavilion’s most defining feature is its kinetic façade, composed of glass fiber-reinforced polymers (GFRP), which can shift into animated patterns. This system was developed in collaboration with Knippers Helbig Advanced Engineering and was inspired by research at ITKE University Stuttgart, which explored how biological motion could be adapted for architectural applications. By integrating moving lamellas, the design introduces a responsive, interactive element to the building’s exterior.

The concept behind the pavilion’s spatial organization reflects the dual experience of the ocean—as an infinite surface and a deep, immersive environment. This is expressed through continuous surfaces that transition between vertical exhibition cones and horizontal platforms. The concrete cones form the primary exhibition space, guiding visitors into an immersive environment before evolving into horizontal planes that shape the foyer and a flexible Best Practice Area.

Externally, the building establishes a fluid connection with its coastal surroundings. On the seaward side, a series of concrete formations define a meandering shoreline, blurring the boundary between land and water. On the opposite side, the pavilion rises from the ground as an artificial landscape, incorporating plateaus and scenic pathways. The topographic roof lines extend into a kinetic media façade, positioned at the Expo entrance, ensuring high visibility and engagement, particularly after nightfall.