[varyouga]

An all-concrete structure like that would cost more in a capitalist nation due to labor cost. Probably even if the concrete was free. It could only be built in a slave state. All the concrete has to be poured on-site and properly reinforced. Then it must be precisely set throughout the duration of construction, with the mixture and temperature controlled based on weather conditions.

There is little information on how this thing was actually built but there are rumors the shafts are “crooked” which is a sign of concrete setting differently on each level. Perhaps they built a rough shape and intended to simply cut away the excess for completion.

Still, I'm very impressed that it's still standing in a very active seismic zone. This thing is a modern day “pyramid” and, if overdesigned enough, might stay up longer on its own than rusting steel buildings. Long after Kim is gone.

[patton]

Or, it might not. It does not look flexible at all - so, when the earthquake loads exceed it’s rigid strength...oops.