한국영상문화학회

This study aims to explore the concept of the metaverse space through Michel Foucault's Heterotopia. Focusing on four prominent cases of the metaverse, the study analyzes the principles and characteristics of heterotopic spaces. It aims to discuss the spatial thinking required to construct the metaverse as a utopia existing in reality. Heterotopia is structured based on principles such as diversity of forms, cultural functionality, overlapping of spaces, division of time, conditional openness, and functionality of correction. These principles of heterotopology are observed in the metaverse space through diverse functions and expressions, accumulation of cultural values, simultaneous and juxtaposed connections of spaces, temporality and specificity derived from time division, accessibility and enclosure of spaces, and the complementarity and fantasy of reality. These attributes are observed in major metaverse cases, with Roblox showcasing the most distinct heterotopic features as a space of diversity with norms and forms entirely distinct from everyday life. Beyond merely applying digital technology to virtual spaces, how should these six principles of spatial construction be applied to metaverse spaces that operate as a heterotopia, a utopia existing in reality?