Seoul-based Samsung C&T Corporation is making a significant push into the redevelopment of Seoul’s Apgujeong district, signaling a strategic focus on large-scale urban renewal projects. The company has officially announced its bid for the Apgujeong District 4 redevelopment project, partnering with British architectural firm Foster+Partners, renowned for its iconic designs worldwide.
The Apgujeong District 4 project, located in the affluent Gangnam district, is a massive undertaking estimated to cost approximately 2.11 trillion won (roughly $1.57 billion USD as of ). It involves the construction of a large-scale complex comprising 1,722 units in buildings ranging from five underground floors to a maximum of 67 stories above ground. The project integrates the reconstruction of the Apgujeong Hyundai 8th complex and the Hanyang 3rd, 4th and 6th complexes.
Samsung C&T’s decision to collaborate with Foster+Partners, led by architect Norman Foster, underscores the company’s ambition to deliver a landmark design. Foster+Partners has a distinguished portfolio including Apple Park in California, London’s City Hall, the HSBC headquarters in Hong Kong, and ICD-Brookfield Place in Dubai. Currently, the firm is also designing the Global Business Complex (GBC) for Hyundai Motor Group’s integrated headquarters in Korea.
The collaboration is a deliberate strategy to enhance Samsung C&T’s competitive edge in securing the Apgujeong District 4 contract. The company has consistently ranked as a top construction firm, holding the number one construction capability evaluation for 12 consecutive years. This partnership aims to combine that construction expertise with world-class architectural design.
The focus of the design, according to Samsung C&T, will be on creating an exterior that both blends with the existing cityscape and establishes a visually striking presence. The redevelopment plan emphasizes maximizing views of the Han River, optimizing natural lighting, and ensuring privacy for residents. The Apgujeong union has specifically requested that alternative designs maintain existing view corridors and skylines, while adhering to “minor modifications” within the approved development plan.
Samsung C&T’s interest in Apgujeong extends beyond District 4. The company is also reportedly shifting its focus to the Apgujeong Districts 3 and 4, indicating a broader strategic commitment to redevelopment opportunities in the area. This follows a recent win of construction rights for the Hannam District 4 redevelopment project after a competitive bid against Hyundai E&C.
Seven construction companies, including Samsung C&T, Hyundai Engineering & Construction, DL E&C, POSCO E&C, Ssangyong Engineering & Construction, Kumho Engineering & Construction, and Jeil Construction, attended a site briefing for the Apgujeong Special Planning District 4 redevelopment project on . The bidding deadline is set for the end of next month, with a general meeting for contractor selection scheduled for .
This move by Samsung C&T comes on the heels of recent recognition for its design capabilities. The company’s construction division recently won seven awards at the 2026 Asia Design Prize for its work on three apartment complexes – Raemian One Perla, Raemian One Pentas, and Jamsil Raemian I’Park – and the Raemian Gallery. This marks the sixth consecutive year that Samsung C&T has been honored at the Asia Design Prize, making it the first Korean construction company to achieve this milestone.
The awards recognized specific design elements within the Raemian complexes, including the “Wind Library Garden” at Raemian One Perla, the “Green Art Gallery Garden” utilizing media glass, and the geometrically unified exterior design of the same complex. Raemian One Pentas was lauded for its linear exterior inspired by the Han River’s light reflections, while Jamsil Raemian I’Park received awards for its “Blue Forest Garden” and “Blue Wave Playground.” The Raemian Gallery was recognized for its interactive “My Raemian City” experience.
The Apgujeong redevelopment projects represent a significant opportunity for construction firms as Seoul continues to invest in modernizing its urban infrastructure. The scale of the Apgujeong District 4 project, in particular, positions it as a potentially transformative development for the Gangnam area, and the competition to secure the contract is expected to be intense. Samsung C&T’s strategic partnership with Foster+Partners and its recent design accolades suggest a strong position in the bidding process.
