Sihwa Lake is a photographic work documenting the areas of Sihwa Lake and Hyeongdo that have been abandoned after development. Sihwa Lake is an artificial lake constructed during the era of developmentalism. Initially created to obtain fresh water for industry and agriculture, it eventually underwent conversion to seawater due to severe water pollution issues. This pollution not only affected Sihwa Lake but also had a significant impact on the nearby ecosystem, becoming a serious societal issue. However, after the conversion to seawater, further pollution has ceased. Nevertheless, the reclaimed areas originally designated for agriculture and industry remain abandoned and neglected. Restricted access roads, various signs, and unused structures are left in these areas, where ecosystems of various flora and fauna have naturally developed without human interference.
Hyeongdo, once a small island inhabited by a few residents, has now become part of the mainland as a result of extensive reclamation projects surrounding the development of Sihwa Lake. Hyeongdo, once a stone island, was excavated and quarried from its central part to construct the Sihwa Seawall, leading residents to leave their hometown of Hyeongdo and relocate. Currently, only two households remain, guarding the island.