Identifying and Prioritizing the Therapeutic Attributes of Korean Traditional Gardens through AHP†

This study aimed to systematize the unique therapeutic characteristics of Korean Traditional Gardens and analyze their relative importance based on the perceptions of landscape experts. To achieve this, the researchers first derived the principles and common characteristic factors of therapeutic gardens from the design principles and features of traditional gardens. Subsequently, the Analytic Hierarchy Process(AHP) was employed to quantitatively measure the perceived importance of these therapeutic values by 49 landscape experts. The AHP model was structured with four upper categories and thirteen sub-factors. The AHP results showed that experts perceive the traditional garden not merely as a passive space for appreciating scenery, but as an active space that promotes psychological vitality through physical activities and social exchange, such as participatory activity areas and strolling. Furthermore, Mystery and Independence/Privacy were found to be important, confirming the significance of design strategies that utilize visual screening and spatial hierarchy to stimulate visitors’ interest and motivation for exploration. In addition, elements embodying the unique cultural identity and symbolism of traditional gardens, such as traditional patterns, colors, and symbolic expressions, were rated as important. This study suggests that it is essential to create dynamic spaces that encourage user participation and social interaction, incorporate spatial compositions that induce mystery, and actively utilize traditional symbolism.