A study on the building wind impact assessment in Seoul, Korea

Tall buildings have been built in Seoul by the influence of population concentration since 1960s. Of the environmental impacts by tall buildings, gusty winds occur in the street canyon by descending turbulences due to the upper air blocking by buildings. These gusty winds are called building wind, which may make damages on human beings and properties. These unique micro-scale air turbulent affect the local air quality and living environment of nearby residents. Thus, the building wind impact needs to be assessed properly before building or site planning as a guideline in building construction. In Korea, only Seoul City Government requires the developer to assess the building wind impact. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to review the building wind impact assessment procedure in Seoul and to investigate the improved building wind impact assessment procedure if not. Ultimately it aims to contribute to improve the well-being of urban residents.