Sosokki Anac's Abogoga cafe in Gimpo evokes ancient ruins with monolithic brick forms

Sosokki Anac, an architectural firm, has finalized the construction of Abogoga, a cafe and bakery situated in Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. The structure comprises three distinct red-brick sections designed to evoke the remnants of an unknown ancient society, resulting in a solid exterior that obscures the interior space. Gi-Tae Chung, the design leader, noted that the concept was influenced by a mythical civilization hidden beneath Alaskan ice, with red brick selected for its elemental and tactile nature. Positioned alongside the Han River, the building strategically conceals its view until one enters, culminating in a dramatic spatial experience. A high, angular exposed-concrete ceiling unifies the interior, featuring an L-shaped layout and a narrow entrance that limits visibility. Access is gained via a short bridge over a rocky patio, leading to a double-height hall with a stainless steel bakery counter and coffee bar. Low windows in a slender eastern wing overlook the river, while concrete and steel walkways connect to seating areas, terraces, and restrooms situated above a ground-floor kitchen. Founded in 2004 and located in Seoul, Sosokki Anac is part of the Sosokki Group, a culture and arts conglomerate. Photography credits go to Jung-gyu Kim.