Kerl Yoo is an envoy who presents problems to our society through architecture. There are both pros and cons to his approach. He advocates for “architecture with distinct characteristics to present a problem rather than ordinary architecture without any problems.” A distinct characteristic of his work is to reveal the logic of the design as it is. Especially within interior spaces, we have seen the distinct characteristics of Yoo’s architecture; ideas and geometry determining the whole design seems strange rather than familiar, exposure of structure and material looks rough as he avoids refined expression, and formal elements placed in a scattering strategy cause the sudden appearance of unpredictable scenes. But what is most outstanding in his architecture is his determination to make every effort to experiment rather than just to make a good design.” Open Architecture and Its Enemies: The Incomplete Spatial Composition of Kerl Yoo – Chung Mann Young, p. 20

“It was meaningful enough to trigger public interest and a dialogue about architecture, even with the public clamor taken into account. I think the more repulsive reactions to my design were caused by its unfamiliar form. Some must have thought it was intriguing. Those intrigued are the ones stimulated by new things, not necessarily judging in terms of right or wrong. Negative opinions change over time if they are simply expressions of uneasiness over something unfamiliar.” A Korean Issue, Seoul City Hall – Kerl Yoo, p. 279

“When I write about the uncomfortable point of friction where the traditional rubs up against the

modern in Seoul, I am not being critical of the situation. The random meeting and intermingling of the old with the new, the familiar with the foreign, the very kitschy with the very cool creates a rich urban mix.” Faster and Bigger – Kerl Yoo, p. 333

“Since I dislike being controlled, I like a wide space that does not limit people. I see creating open

space as a way of building an open society. Of course, such an open space must be a public space

available to everybody. The idea that a building confirms an owner’s right to possess space supports a closed form of individualism. A space that invites in visitors and outsiders shows the face of a society that promotes and accommodates greater awareness of others. An urban architectural environment that can be used by us anywhere, as if it were ours, would serve to widen the horizon of our lives and bring us closer to being free. The materials used to form such open spaces play an important role in creating such an environment.” Toward an Open Architecture – Kerl Yoo, p.211

“I believe that architecture requires general solutions and that the time has come when general

solutions are possible. In today’s world, architects should work hard to find architectural solutions that

allow the greatest number of people possible to choose and create the homes they desire.” General Solution for Architecture – Kerl Yoo, p.40

“Recently, architect Kerl Yoo has expressed an interest in digital-technology-based architecture. His

point seems to be practical and simple: he is interested in a new situation in which architects lead the

implementation of design, because 3D modeling software-created design is hard to change on the

construction site. His far-reaching vision can be found in his perspective that “printable architecture,”

though not yet realized, will blur the boundary between the designer’s office and the construction site such that, one day, consumers will choose and purchase architecture to satisfy general needs, like readymade clothes, instead of one confined to the specific requirements of clients. In short, Kerl Yoo envisions a “different” architecture. This explains why he naturally gets along with the younger generation” Open Architecture and Its Enemies: The Incomplete Spatial Composition of Kerl Yoo – Chung Mann Young, p. 9