"ASTERN 55," a Super Penthouse Redefining Absolute Luxury Living

Recent survey findings indicate a faltering growth momentum in the global real estate market; nevertheless, the world's wealthiest individuals persist in investing in ultra-luxury residences.   Knight Frank, a real estate consulting company, reports a total of 417 transactions involving properties valued at over $10 million (approximately 131 billion Korean won) in the global housing market during the first quarter of this year. This reflects an 11% increase from the previous quarter, representing the largest scale since the second quarter of 2022.   Notably, the Azabudai Hills Penthouse by Mori Building in Tokyo, Japan, fetched $150 million (200 billion Korean won) in auction this year, and other residences exceeding $50 million have entered the market.   In Korea, there is a rising interest in the high-end real estate market. According to Credit Suisse's '2022 Global Wealth Report,' Korea ranked 11th globally in terms of the scale of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (with a net worth of $50 million) as of the end of last year.   Real estate developer “Aster Development” introduces the nation's first super penthouse, “ASTERN 55” set to be supplied in the first half of next year, positioned along the luxurious Han River residences with duplex and triplex designs.   ASTERN 55 boasts an unparalleled location, providing residents with the enduring value of the "Han River view," a privilege enjoyed by only a select few in the country. Differentiated product design, maximizing panoramic views of the Han River for every unit, sets ASTERN 55 apart. The building faces the Han River, with a length of 128m, and features approximately 30m wide layouts for each unit, ensuring a stunning river view from the deepest points within the residences. Additionally, a sky garage is incorporated for all units, allowing residents to enjoy views of the Han River.   Particularly noteworthy are the triplex units, where the combined length of the sides facing the Han River totals an impressive 121m, providing an exclusive and unobstructed view of the Han River.   The transformation of a private standalone mansion into a collective housing complex with 26 units is a distinctive feature of the 'Astern55' project. Spanning a total floor area of 37,674 square meters, Astern55 incorporates innovative design concepts not previously attempted in the domestic market. This allows each household to exist as a perfectly private standalone mansion while collectively forming an entire residential complex.   Exclusively for the 26 households residing in Astern55, the project boasts approximately 60 elevators and an average of 9 parking spaces per household (up to a maximum of 20), providing residents with an unparalleled luxury living experience. Furthermore, every homeowner has the option to install a swimming pool within their residence.   The development embodies Aster's philosophy of luxury living, starting with the realization of a perfect private realm, featuring exclusive amenities such as a private elevator, drop-off zone, parking, and more, designed for the sole enjoyment of the residents.   Taking inspiration from London's "Iceberg Homes," Aster maximizes underground space utilization. Modeled after the luxury lifestyle of the super-rich, the design includes underground facilities like a swimming pool, private cinema, gallery, fitness center, and even an underground parking facility.   Setting itself apart from conventional high-end residences, Astern 55 introduces a unique interior design and operational system. The "Tailor-made System," a first in Korea, involves direct consultations with five world-renowned luxury artists, including Vincenzo de cotiis Architects and jouin manku allowing residents to customize their homes from a holistic perspective, not just limited to simple customization of walls or furniture.   Residents of ASTERN 55 will have access to approximately 3,300 square meters of amenity facilities, including a spa, fitness center, chef's dining table, and a cinema. The amenities are designed to be used through independent pathways, ensuring privacy. Operations and concierge services for amenities will be overseen by the upcoming super-luxury membership club, 'DYAD CHEONGDAM1,' in the heart of Cheongdam-dong, offering a prospect of 6-star hotel-level services.   Residents will automatically become members of the society club 'DYAD CHEONGDAM1.' The club, situated in the center of Cheongdam-dong, spans from the 4th underground floor to the 16th above ground, featuring a sky lounge, infinity pool, indoor pool, pub, business rooms, global fine dining, multi-rooms, and other exclusive community facilities. Services such as chef catering, security consultation, legal advice, and accounting and tax consulting are also available.   As the first super penthouse supplied in Korea, ASTERN 55 is poised to set new standards for ultra-luxury homes in the country. With a record-breaking expected price and the unique feature of a permanent Han River view, ASTERN 55 is positioned to become an irreplaceable ultra-luxury residence in Korea.   Aster Development, spearheading the project, collaborated with top experts domestically and internationally for three years. The project involved collaborations with world-renowned artists and brands such as Dominique Perrault, Yabu Pushelberg, Vincenzo de Cotiis, Jouin Manku, Officine Gullo.   Located near Dosan Intersection in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, ASTERN 55 operates on an exclusive pre-reservation basis, catering solely to thoroughly vetted clients. The project is associated with the Aster Gallery, known for its authenticity and operates as a haven for the discerning few who appreciate the pinnacle of luxury living.    김진우 기자 (kim.jinwoo.ja@gmail.com)redefining penthouse luxury residences hills penthouse billion korean