In a landmark example of cross-cultural collaboration, students from the University of Utah Asia Campus (UAC) are leading the design of a Korea-themed sister city park in Cottonwood Heights, Utah — a visionary project that merges landscape architecture, diplomacy, and global education.
A Vision Born from Connection
The idea for the park emerged during the celebration of UAC’s 10th anniversary in 2024. Dr. Gregory Hill, Chief Administrative Officer of UAC, envisioned a tangible initiative to foster long-term ties between Incheon’s Yeonsu-gu District and Cottonwood Heights City. This vision quickly transformed into an international collaboration anchored in education, cultural storytelling, and community planning. Initial connections between the city and UAC were facilitated by James Park, Director of External Relations & Alumni Relations at UAC.
The project was formalized through a memorandum of understanding between the two cities, setting the stage for a unique academic partnership with UAC. It will begin with the development of a 45,000 m² park near the Wasatch Range, just 15 minutes from Salt Lake City, with plans to expand the space into a landmark destination combining public facilities, rest areas, and cultural features. The site selected for this landmark project is Hillside Plaza in Cottonwood Heights, a scenic location conveniently situated between two picturesque canyons of the Wasatch Range.
Design as a Learning Tool
At the heart of this initiative are students enrolled in ARCH 2630, an Urban Ecology course led by Dr. Idil Ayral. The course was designed to give students real-world exposure to urban planning and international civic engagement. Working in teams, students are developing four conceptual design proposals for the park, incorporating traditional Korean aesthetics and symbolic spatial elements.
To support the visual storytelling process, students in CMP 3270 are also contributing through advanced graphic design and digital visualization.
“This is not just a class project—it’s a platform for students to apply design thinking in a real-world context that spans borders and cultures,” said Dr. Ayral.
Cross-Cultural Exchange and Local Government Feedback
To ground the project in authentic cross-cultural dialogue, multiple site visits and delegation exchanges have taken place. In the early planning stages, Dr. Ayral and Dr. Reazul Ahsan traveled to Utah to meet with Cottonwood Heights Mayor Mike Weichers, Project Advisor Kay Choi, and City Planner Maverick Yeh. During their visit, they toured the Hillside Plaza site and discussed the project’s goals, cultural vision, and the integration of student-driven design.
Most recently, a delegation from the Yeonsu-gu District Office, including officials from the Parks and Green Spaces Division, visited the UAC campus in Incheon. Led by Chairperson Councilor Min-Hyup Park of the District Council, the delegation participated in a student-led design feedback session. This engagement allowed government officials to provide in-depth commentary on the student proposals — emphasizing the importance of narrative-driven public spaces, cultural symbolism, and emotional storytelling in design.
Cultural Inspirations and Community Goals
The planned park design draws from Korea’s rich cultural heritage — referencing iconic locations like Gwanghwamun Plaza and the Secret Garden of Changdeokgung Palace. Key elements include water features, contemplative green spaces, low-profile pavilions, and cultural sculptures, all carefully tailored to complement the mountain views of the Wasatch Range.
A Korean Cultural Center and original art installations are also being considered, setting this park apart from other Korean-themed spaces in the U.S.
Looking Ahead
Final student proposals will be submitted in May 2025, and select ideas will inform the final blueprint of the park. Construction is expected to be completed by 2027, marking the beginning of a meaningful and enduring connection between Cottonwood Heights, Yeonsu-gu, and UAC. The site is envisioned as a gathering place that celebrates Korean culture, fosters civic dialogue, and serves both locals and international visitors.
“This collaboration offers a rare opportunity for our students to participate in a real-world urban planning process while engaging with government professionals across borders,” said Dr. Ahsan. “It’s a living example of global education—where cultural diplomacy meets hands-on design.”