Yuhan Corporation’s Willow House wins Presidential Award at Korea Space Culture Awards

[Financial News] Willow House, a cultural complex developed by Yuhan Corporation to mark its 100th anniversary, has won the Presidential Award, the top honor at the 2026 Korea Space Culture Awards.
According to Yuhan Corporation on the 28th, Willow House is a space created by reconfiguring the company’s former headquarters in Daebang-dong, Seoul, completed in 1962. It opened last June. The building’s historic features, including its original red-brick exterior, were preserved, while the perimeter wall was removed so that citizens could use the space freely.
The Space Culture Awards, hosted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and organized by the Korean Institute of Architects, recognize spaces that help expand opportunities to enjoy culture in everyday life and improve people’s quality of life. This year marks the awards’ 21st edition.
The judging committee praised the project for opening the company’s architectural heritage to the local community and using it as a cultural space with a public purpose. It was described as demonstrating the potential of privately developed public spaces by sharing corporate assets with citizens.
The space is designed around exhibitions, relaxation and social interaction. At the Yuhan Archive, visitors can learn about the life and founding spirit of company founder Dr. Ilhan New, as well as the history of Yuhan Corporation. The outdoor area Willow Ground and the garden Willow Park were created for citizens to enjoy cultural activities and relaxation.
The development of the space reflects Dr. Ilhan New’s philosophy that corporate profits should be returned to society. Yuhan Corporation plans to carry on its founding spirit by transforming its former headquarters from a simple office space into a cultural space for citizens.
A Yuhan Corporation representative said, “Through Willow House, we will share the company’s founding spirit, history and vision for the future with citizens, and develop it into a hub that grows together with the local community.”

[email protected] Jeong Sang-hee Reporter