KOSMOS ULLEUNGDO
why
A Perfect Way to Recharge with Nature
It must be refilled with the same amount, as it was used up. Recharging works in the same way. Occasionally, you need to escape to the remotest and most secluded part of the country, somewhere in the calming arms of nature, in order to replenish your mind and body. There are times when you must set aside your cell phone, acquaintances, work, and concerns. Let yourself focus on the feeling of swaying leaves, soaring buds, seemingly endless fields with open hearts, and the shimmering blue of the sea.
In the East Sea, there is a small floating island that endlessly waits for someone to land every morning. The voyage begins in Pohang, Uljin, the East Sea, and Gangneung. It follows a three-hour journey across the East Sea to the lonely volcanic island of Ulleungdo, surrounded by the crystal clear, blue waters. In contrast to Jeju Island, which is a volcanic island in the south, Ulleungdo Island has vibrant and energetic charms. There is Villa Cosmos, which aspires to become the world's most spectacular resort, where the powers of nature are harnessed to replenish the body and mind.
Following its recent success in winning the environmental silver prize at IDEA, one of the world's top three design competitions, Healing Stay Cosmos, which includes Villa Cosmos, has been selected as the best design hotel at the Wallpaper Design Awards 2019, released by famous British design magazines in 2019. Awarded in the category of the Luxury Villa Resort at the World Luxury Hotel Awards in 2020, it is one of the best hotels in the world with world-class facilities and services. The Cosmos hotel is emerging as a landmark in Korea and the rest of the world as a place to stay for those seeking healing. Many people regard it as a 'bucket list' place they want to visit before they die.
In the East Sea, there is a small floating island that endlessly waits for someone to land every morning. The voyage begins in Pohang, Uljin, the East Sea, and Gangneung. It follows a three-hour journey across the East Sea to the lonely volcanic island of Ulleungdo, surrounded by the crystal clear, blue waters. In contrast to Jeju Island, which is a volcanic island in the south, Ulleungdo Island has vibrant and energetic charms. There is Villa Cosmos, which aspires to become the world's most spectacular resort, where the powers of nature are harnessed to replenish the body and mind.
Following its recent success in winning the environmental silver prize at IDEA, one of the world's top three design competitions, Healing Stay Cosmos, which includes Villa Cosmos, has been selected as the best design hotel at the Wallpaper Design Awards 2019, released by famous British design magazines in 2019. Awarded in the category of the Luxury Villa Resort at the World Luxury Hotel Awards in 2020, it is one of the best hotels in the world with world-class facilities and services. The Cosmos hotel is emerging as a landmark in Korea and the rest of the world as a place to stay for those seeking healing. Many people regard it as a 'bucket list' place they want to visit before they die.
people
Aspiring to become a world-class bucket list resort
The Healing Stay Cosmos is a representative resort on Ulleungdo Island, which Kolong Glotech aims to establish as an international destination for relaxation. With a focus on providing a unique experience to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Ulleungdo prides itself on providing facilities, services, and programs that are comparable to the world's top bucket list resorts. In addition to this, the rock shape of the Songgotsan Mountain right in front of it is transformed into the form of a friendly character named Ula (short for Ulleungdo Gorilla), to provide something to enjoy for those who visit the area.
Kim Chan-Joong, the CEO of The System Lab Architects Office, who designed the space, was invited to the 10th Venice Biennale in Italy in 2006. When he first visited the site of Villa Cosmos, the beauty of nature made him conceive of such an idea that he thought that structures should not be constructed in such a majestic and beautiful environment of nature. The goal was to construct something that does not clash with the magnificent surrounding environment and nature. Thus, during his stay there, he observed the motions of celestial bodies, the trajectories of the sun, the moon, and the stars, which, combined, form the spiral shape that is the fundamental shape of the universe. It is said that it was a very rare case where the original design went to the end of the construction without a single modification and a lucky, memorable work, that was difficult for an architect to have.
Kim Chan-Joong, the CEO of The System Lab Architects Office, who designed the space, was invited to the 10th Venice Biennale in Italy in 2006. When he first visited the site of Villa Cosmos, the beauty of nature made him conceive of such an idea that he thought that structures should not be constructed in such a majestic and beautiful environment of nature. The goal was to construct something that does not clash with the magnificent surrounding environment and nature. Thus, during his stay there, he observed the motions of celestial bodies, the trajectories of the sun, the moon, and the stars, which, combined, form the spiral shape that is the fundamental shape of the universe. It is said that it was a very rare case where the original design went to the end of the construction without a single modification and a lucky, memorable work, that was difficult for an architect to have.
location
One of the Most Ideal Feng Shui Locations
Ulleungdo Island is an exceptionally beautiful destination that is only reachable by those who put their minds to it. On this floating island located three hours from Pohang, Uljin, the East Sea, and Gangneung, visitors can enjoy a beautiful natural landscape and fresh air. There has recently been the completion of a coastal road around the island, which provides an opportunity to see the island while being surrounded by the sea. Villa Cosmos is located in Chusan-ri, Buk-myeon, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, which is one of the best geomantic locations on the island, due to its scenic beauty and natural energy.
Ulleungdo Island depicts itself in a completely different manner depending on the season of the year. Contrary to the monotony of everyday life, a new landscape unfolds every day. Located on a steep cliff on Ulleungdo Island, Villa Cosmos is surrounded by good energy. There is a small gorilla-shaped rock right next to the awl peak, which rises sharply like an awl and has four holes between. The four holes in between create an air of mystery. There is a high feng shui value attached to this location due to the immense beauty of Songgotbong Peak, Seonginbong Peak, Mireukbong Peak, and Nari Basin surrounding the Villa Cosmos. This is also referred to as a place of vitality concentration where the energy of dragons is concentrated in harmony with yin and yang, at which point dragons turn around and care for their ancestors according to feng shui principles. It is located in the most energetic location on Ulleungdo Island.
Ulleungdo Island depicts itself in a completely different manner depending on the season of the year. Contrary to the monotony of everyday life, a new landscape unfolds every day. Located on a steep cliff on Ulleungdo Island, Villa Cosmos is surrounded by good energy. There is a small gorilla-shaped rock right next to the awl peak, which rises sharply like an awl and has four holes between. The four holes in between create an air of mystery. There is a high feng shui value attached to this location due to the immense beauty of Songgotbong Peak, Seonginbong Peak, Mireukbong Peak, and Nari Basin surrounding the Villa Cosmos. This is also referred to as a place of vitality concentration where the energy of dragons is concentrated in harmony with yin and yang, at which point dragons turn around and care for their ancestors according to feng shui principles. It is located in the most energetic location on Ulleungdo Island.
MAKING STORY
According to the manager, Lee Seul-gi, Villa Cosmos is situated in the center of the sea where the energy from Songgotbong Peak, Seonginbong Peak, Mireukbong Peak, and Nari Basin flows freely and has mysterious energy. It was evident that this place emanates a unique energy that no one else has ever experienced before. There was strong potential for this place to be the world's top bucket list attraction. It was planned as a place of spiritual vitality where the energy of the sky was contained above the energy of the ground and the two energies converged harmoniously.
As the peak of the vertical rock wall appears sharp as if an awl was erected, it was intended to bolster the energy of the guests staying here by drawing upon the energy of the land and sky in this area known as Songgotsan Mountain or Chusan Mountain. A space based on the harmony of yin and yang that encompasses all of these energies may be created by mathematically calculating the energy of estimation, the surrounding natural environment, and movement of celestial bodies. Before the stay, the guests’ five elements of Eastern philosophy will be analyzed based on their date of birth to provide them with services tailored to their energy levels.
A proposal from Cosmos Architecture was approved, and numerous proposals were sent from leading architects. The biggest wish was that the architect would differ from existing ones, concentrating on the feeling of and way of interacting with the region or building. In response to careful consideration, professor Kim Chan-Joong of The System Lab has joined Cosmos as an architect, as he is ideally suited to reflect Cosmos' concept of Yin and Yang, Energy Activity, and the nature of Ulleungdo Island. Furthermore, it was attractive that he viewed the building as more than just a building, rather one that could be built in harmony with the environment of Ulleungdo Island.
An architect, Kim Chan-Joong, stated that, due to the constant rising and setting of the sun and moon, fluctuating waves, and floating clouds in the atmosphere, numerous myths and secrets must have been deposited in the land over a long period of time. As we usually call 'energy', it is the flow of nature, and allowing this building and guests to be in this flow has become the most important starting point for this project. As opposed to a building, he envisioned the building to be a vessel that contained energy, as well as a kind of astronomical instrument that would allow guests to contemplate and observe natural phenomena of the universe and of the Earth. From this context, Cosmos KOSMOS (the etymology of the word "cosmos") is derived. Due to the Helix spiral curve, the Villa Cosmos was designed using an astronomical observatory computer from the beginning. Each of the six vortex branches represented the way humans and nature interacted during their stay in the villa.
Sketch © Kim Chanjung
As the peak of the vertical rock wall appears sharp as if an awl was erected, it was intended to bolster the energy of the guests staying here by drawing upon the energy of the land and sky in this area known as Songgotsan Mountain or Chusan Mountain. A space based on the harmony of yin and yang that encompasses all of these energies may be created by mathematically calculating the energy of estimation, the surrounding natural environment, and movement of celestial bodies. Before the stay, the guests’ five elements of Eastern philosophy will be analyzed based on their date of birth to provide them with services tailored to their energy levels.
A proposal from Cosmos Architecture was approved, and numerous proposals were sent from leading architects. The biggest wish was that the architect would differ from existing ones, concentrating on the feeling of and way of interacting with the region or building. In response to careful consideration, professor Kim Chan-Joong of The System Lab has joined Cosmos as an architect, as he is ideally suited to reflect Cosmos' concept of Yin and Yang, Energy Activity, and the nature of Ulleungdo Island. Furthermore, it was attractive that he viewed the building as more than just a building, rather one that could be built in harmony with the environment of Ulleungdo Island.
An architect, Kim Chan-Joong, stated that, due to the constant rising and setting of the sun and moon, fluctuating waves, and floating clouds in the atmosphere, numerous myths and secrets must have been deposited in the land over a long period of time. As we usually call 'energy', it is the flow of nature, and allowing this building and guests to be in this flow has become the most important starting point for this project. As opposed to a building, he envisioned the building to be a vessel that contained energy, as well as a kind of astronomical instrument that would allow guests to contemplate and observe natural phenomena of the universe and of the Earth. From this context, Cosmos KOSMOS (the etymology of the word "cosmos") is derived. Due to the Helix spiral curve, the Villa Cosmos was designed using an astronomical observatory computer from the beginning. Each of the six vortex branches represented the way humans and nature interacted during their stay in the villa.
Sketch © Kim Chanjung
SPACE
Harmony Between the Yin and Yang, A Planet of the Universe
Villa Cosmos is built around the concept of the five planets in the universe and in accordance with the five elements of Eastern philosophy. Into the space is grafted the harmony of Taegeuk, which represents the universe, and Yin Yang, which is the basis for Taegeuk. Its public space has a sauna that represents the sun, moon, and yin and yang, a lounge that has film and karaoke activities, and a dining area in which you can feel the energy of the moon coming through the awl peak. A large terrace suffused with the energy of the sun as well as a jacuzzi that utilizes eluted water that contains the energy of Sinryeongsan Mountain are well-matched with the yin and yang energy. KOSMOS arranges rooms that can revitalize the energy of each guest, analyzing their date of birth in advance into the five elements of Eastern philosophy, so that they can consider not only the space but also their energy while staying in the place. On the second floor, there are four rooms. Each room is composed of Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, and Venus. The finishing material, view, music, and diffuser are curated to represent each energy, and a signature chair symbolizing each energy is arranged in the room.
The Mars room is a space filled with the energy of fire, and it is arranged with heated materials. The room has an excellent view where you can watch the sunrise when the sun rises, and the signature chair is Lee Heon-Jung's baked ceramic stool. With the energy of water, the Mercury room is built with blue marble, has a horizontal view of the sea, and the signature chair is made of transparent glass-like water and was created in 1987 by the Italian architect and furniture designer Chini Boeri. This is the world's first chair made of 12mm glass. In Jupiter's room, you will experience the energy of a tree and be surrounded by wood, a warm and durable material, and you will be able to enjoy the dazzling sunset falling on Elephant Rock. The Signature Chair is a work of Danish furniture designer Grete Yak, GJ Chair. In the Venus room that has been designed in black toned marble inspired by iron ore, you'll find a view of the Awl Peak and the Nari Basin, as well as Emilio Nanni's stainless steel armchairs, arranged in his signature way.
Guests of Healing Stay Cosmos are welcome to enjoy lunch, picnic lunch boxes, and drinks at Cafe Ulla, purchase private brand goods, and enjoy meals prepared with Ulleungdo food at nearby Ulya restaurants.
The Mars room is a space filled with the energy of fire, and it is arranged with heated materials. The room has an excellent view where you can watch the sunrise when the sun rises, and the signature chair is Lee Heon-Jung's baked ceramic stool. With the energy of water, the Mercury room is built with blue marble, has a horizontal view of the sea, and the signature chair is made of transparent glass-like water and was created in 1987 by the Italian architect and furniture designer Chini Boeri. This is the world's first chair made of 12mm glass. In Jupiter's room, you will experience the energy of a tree and be surrounded by wood, a warm and durable material, and you will be able to enjoy the dazzling sunset falling on Elephant Rock. The Signature Chair is a work of Danish furniture designer Grete Yak, GJ Chair. In the Venus room that has been designed in black toned marble inspired by iron ore, you'll find a view of the Awl Peak and the Nari Basin, as well as Emilio Nanni's stainless steel armchairs, arranged in his signature way.
Guests of Healing Stay Cosmos are welcome to enjoy lunch, picnic lunch boxes, and drinks at Cafe Ulla, purchase private brand goods, and enjoy meals prepared with Ulleungdo food at nearby Ulya restaurants.
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INTERVIEW
Interview with Manager Seulgi Lee
stayfolio
KOSMOS ULLEUNGDO
Tell us what makes Ulleungdo Island and this place so special.
The sky over Ulleungdo Island appears to be different every time. Ulleungdo Island has a variety of different skies, wind, clouds, and colors that make me feel as if I am somewhere else every time I am there. Cosmos has an attractive landscape, as it is located on a steep cliff and has a good amount of energy. A small gorilla-shaped rock is located next to the awl peak, which rises sharply like an awl, and there are four holes between, creating an aura of mystery. The Feng Shui value of this site is as high as its appearance, and it is a place of power where the powerful energy coming from the mountain and the energy from the Nari Basin nearby are intensified.
It is also known as Hoeryonggojo in feng shui, the place where the energy of the dragon rotates; in other words, a place where the dragon takes care of its ancestors. HEALING STAY KOSMOS is situated in the most energetic area of Ulleungdo Island.
It is also known as Hoeryonggojo in feng shui, the place where the energy of the dragon rotates; in other words, a place where the dragon takes care of its ancestors. HEALING STAY KOSMOS is situated in the most energetic area of Ulleungdo Island.
It would be very interesting to know how the Cosmos design process was carried out and the story behind its construction.
Numerous proposals from leading architects were submitted, including one from Cosmos Architecture. An important requirement was that the architect should differ from traditional architectural styles and focus on the feeling of and the way in which the building interacts with the region. After careful consideration, professor Kim Chan-Joong of The System Lab has joined Cosmos as an architect, as he is well suited to reflect Cosmos' concept of Yin and Yang, Energy Activity, and the unique nature of Ulleungdo Island. Moreover, it was appealing that he viewed the building as more than just a building, but rather as a building that could be built in harmony with the landscape of Ulleungdo Island.
The schedule and cost of the project differed from what was anticipated as all parts of the building and the regional characteristics of Ulleungdo Island were curved. Even though it is a general construction method, Ulleungdo Island was a challenging project. It was difficult to organize the logistics supply, and the architecture of the concept of a vessel holding energy was well reflected, so I believe we were able to gain a reputation as a bucket list resort.
The schedule and cost of the project differed from what was anticipated as all parts of the building and the regional characteristics of Ulleungdo Island were curved. Even though it is a general construction method, Ulleungdo Island was a challenging project. It was difficult to organize the logistics supply, and the architecture of the concept of a vessel holding energy was well reflected, so I believe we were able to gain a reputation as a bucket list resort.
What was the operation of Villa Cosmos, and how will it operate in the future?
Villa Cosmos is centered around the concept of energy. The building not only incorporates design and meaning, but all programs, including food, tours, activities, and program schedules, have been negotiated as a package which is why you need to book at least a month in advance to receive an individual "energy service."
Ulleungdo Island's development and visitors are provided with unforgettable memories with Cosmos' convenience, attractions, and programs. Additionally, we anticipate the day when Ulleungdo Island will begin offering new cruise ships and flights that will enable us to meet more people in different packages.
Ulleungdo Island's development and visitors are provided with unforgettable memories with Cosmos' convenience, attractions, and programs. Additionally, we anticipate the day when Ulleungdo Island will begin offering new cruise ships and flights that will enable us to meet more people in different packages.
Could you please describe the Villa Cosmos' space structure?
The concept of space is laid out in terms of five planets in the universe, which correspond to the five elements of Eastern philosophy. As well, the harmony between Taegeuk, which symbolizes the universe, and yin and yang, which is the foundation of Taegeuk, is grafted into the space. On the first floor of the building, there is a sauna that represents the sun, moon, yin and yang, along with Earth.
As well as watching movies and doing activities such as karaoke in the lounge, there is a dining room within the building where you can experience the energy of the moon captured in the awl peak. There is a sunken terrace filled with brightness and a jacuzzi using eluted water containing the energy of Sinryeongsan Mountain that harmonizes well with yin and yang energy.
Kosmos considered not only the physical space but also the energy of the visitors. To ensure that those who come here receive positive energy, we will analyze each visitor's date of birth in advance and arrange the five elements of Eastern philosophy into appropriate rooms where each can provide energy. A total of four rooms are available, including Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, and Venus.
Every room is designed with finishing materials, views, music, and diffusers that suit the energy, and the room has a signature chair that embodies the energy.
As well as watching movies and doing activities such as karaoke in the lounge, there is a dining room within the building where you can experience the energy of the moon captured in the awl peak. There is a sunken terrace filled with brightness and a jacuzzi using eluted water containing the energy of Sinryeongsan Mountain that harmonizes well with yin and yang energy.
Kosmos considered not only the physical space but also the energy of the visitors. To ensure that those who come here receive positive energy, we will analyze each visitor's date of birth in advance and arrange the five elements of Eastern philosophy into appropriate rooms where each can provide energy. A total of four rooms are available, including Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, and Venus.
Every room is designed with finishing materials, views, music, and diffusers that suit the energy, and the room has a signature chair that embodies the energy.
When I stay at the Villa Cosmos, what kind of experience should I expect?
We are providing a service that recommends hourly activities according to the individual energy according to the five behaviors. For example, we recommend background music time that generates energy, places and activities that generate energy according to the yin and yang of visitors, and you can enjoy picnic lunch boxes by energy in the garden. From dawn to sunset and a feast on the sea of squid boats after the dark night sky fell, you can enjoy a variety of aspects of Ulleungdo Island in the same place.
What makes the charm of Villa Cosmos different from other resorts?
In the old days, it was believed that the only way to travel to Ulleungdo Island was to accumulate a great deal of virtue. This is because Ulleungdo Island is not easily accessible, but once you enter, you are surrounded by magnificent nature that you cannot find anywhere else. It will be a very special experience to stay at Cosmos, where you can fill in any lack of energy and enjoy the services that are personal to you.
STAY’s recommended
Local Restaurant
Ulya Restaurant
The menu features pumpkin, shrimp from Dokdo Island, squid, and Sorbus commixta, which are all made with locally grown ingredients. You can choose from the main menu, the lunch and dinner menu, as well as fried shrimp from Dokdo Island, pasta, and handmade beer. This place offers great food as well as a surreal view of Ulleung Island.
STAY’s recommended
Local Cafe
Cafe Ulla
There is a cafe on the first floor operated by Healing Stay Cosmos. During the summer, it offers seasonal menus, such as ice cream adorned with Ulla's face. You may also find locally grown ingredients from Ulleungdo Island and products that have local characteristics.
STAY
In the arms of nature and time, let us focus on this moment
In advance of visiting Ulleungdo Villa Cosmos as a door-to-door service from the dock to the accommodation, rooms were assigned based on the four philosophical constitutions of yin and yang and five elements. The different views are revealed upon entering the room with the appropriate energy among Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (fire, water, wood, metal, and soil). The magnificent and straight walls of the rooms provide a much different atmosphere and perspective from ordinary resorts that are obsessed with ocean views. While walking through the dining room, a public space, and on your way to the Jacuzzi on the terrace, the deep blue sea spreads out before you, allowing the breeze to enter the corner of the mind.
From the moment you decide to stay here, you can simply leave everything to Villa Cosmos. All you have to do is relax. Take pleasure in the blissful experience of departing for distant lands. You can achieve a full recharge by focusing on the "now" and the present moment in front of you, and follow the natural flow of time and nature.
From the moment you decide to stay here, you can simply leave everything to Villa Cosmos. All you have to do is relax. Take pleasure in the blissful experience of departing for distant lands. You can achieve a full recharge by focusing on the "now" and the present moment in front of you, and follow the natural flow of time and nature.
4 POINT OF VIEW
ORIGINALITY
Energizing Our Daily Lives
What you must do before you die is the same as what you must do now. It is on many people's bucket lists to visit Villa Cosmos at least once. Ulleungdo Island is also a must-see island, so it is like checking off two bucket list items at once. The fact that you can experience services and programs here that you have never encountered anywhere else is also a reason to visit this place, where you will gain strength for your body and mind and full energy to live your daily life.
DESIGN
Harmony Enacting and Embodying Nature
As if reading nature, the spiral building tracks the trajectory of the sun and moon for many years, sitting on a cliff without altering the natural landscape on Ulleungdo Island. Villa Cosmos brings landscapes and plants indoors, making them part of nature as if they were flowing waters. You may see traces of contemplating harmony with Ulleungdo Island in different rooms with distinct concepts, stories, materials, and views, or long dining rooms with views of Ulleungdo Island at a glance.
Hospitality
The Natural World and the Human Realm are One
With Butler's service, which is provided from departure to home, there is no pressure on the schedule, nor is there a sense of being rushed for time. This is a time to recharge your tired body and mind. The lost energy and the ability to return to daily life are replenished. Furthermore, you can experience the magnificence and grandeur of nature with your five senses. We need to reconnect the strings that have been broken for some time, the fact that nature and people are one.
PRICE
Follow Your Heart
In the case where you are able to accomplish something on your bucket list, the significance of its achievement cannot be determined based on its value. Let's not put it off any longer and follow your heart to Ulleungdo Island and the Villa Cosmos. Let yourself receive the pure energy of the earth, stars, moon, and nature in the arms of nature.
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- Stay Name
- KOSMOS ULLEUNGDO
- Stay Type
- Resort
- Contact information
- Address
- 88-13, Chusan-gil, Buk-myeon, Ulleung-gun, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
- Guests / No. of Room
- 2~4 / 8
- Price
- US$ 1,296.43 ~ US$ 1,851.01
- Check-in / out
- 15:00 / 10:00
- Feature
- Breakfast, Dinner, Projector or TV, Swimming pool, Tub (ex. Jacuzzi, Hinoki)
PHOTO BY Kihun Park | arcfactory.net