The relationship between pedestrian environments and sense of community in apartment complexes in Seoul, Korea

Abstract

This study aims to explore the relationship between physical environments and sense of community in high-rise and high-density apartment complexes in Seoul, Korea. This relationship in apartment complexes has not been adequately researched so far. To do this, this study compared a pedestrian-oriented neighborhood (PON) and an auto-oriented neighborhood (AON). Survey results showed that residents of PON were more likely to feel a sense of community in their neighborhood than were residents of AON. The results also revealed that social interaction factors and walkability among pedestrian environment factors positively influence a sense of community. In particular, the findings did support the hypothesis that a well-designed pedestrian environment in apartment complexes can contribute to the enhancement of a sense of community.