A large, soft roof covers the curved form of the landscape-like building. Its subtle curve allows the building to graciously bend towards the park, allowing the linear exhibition galleries to bring together art and greenery, a composition not often possible in the centre of a busy metropolis.

The surrounding landscape of the Bugaksan Mountains blends with cultural and historical landmarks such as the Gyeongnokgung Palace, Gwanghwamun Square, and the Blue House. In this area, traditional and modern architecture co-exist in striking contrast. The roof-like upper façade consists of glass and ceramic panels with an outer metal brise-soleil containing integrated photovoltaic cells. Warm colours allude to temple facades, and its form follows the curvature of traditional Korean Architecture.

The organization of the building is structured through a foyer with a generous spiral staircase that provides access to all exhibition galleries, educational programming, and public archives. Diverse types of galleries are structured through a rational grid that forms three sections within a constant curve: linear galleries with views towards the park in the west, large galleries with artificial lighting in the middle and galleries that act as exhibition, service, and delivery routes facing east. The servicing galleries allow the remaining middle and western galleries to function independently, allowing individual galleries to change exhibitions, whilst providing minimal interruption to neighboring areas. The rounded north and south galleries provide extraordinary spaces for day lit sculptures, paintings, and objects to be viewed in secession against the dramatic backdrop of the city.

The structural system allows for relatively thin and lightweight slabs on a typical grid of 5m, reducing the demand for concrete and reducing the seismic mass of the building in comparison to typical larger spans.

The design anticipates and reflects a future where energy efficiency is crucial. The sloped, curved façade not only conserves internal energy but also generates energy, transforming the building into an energy-plus structure that produces more energy than it consumes.