Asia's Largest Architects Conference Returns to Korea After 17 Years... "Designing a Better Tomorrow"

Held in Korea for the First Time in 17 Years, Drawing 10,000 Participants from 24 Countries
Reaffirming the Social Role of Architecture in the Era of Climate Change and Urbanization
Keynote Lectures by World-Renowned Architects Including Riken Yamamoto and David Pierre Jalicon
Sharing K-Architecture Experience Globally and Seeking Solutions for Sustainable Cities
Diverse Public Programs Including Architectural Exhibitions and the Golden Bell Challenge

The opening ceremony of the 21st Incheon Asia Architects Conference, aimed at promoting friendship and technical exchange among the 24 member countries of the Architects Regional Council Asia (ARCASIA), was held on the 11th at Songdo Convensia in Incheon.

Opening Ceremony of the 21st Incheon Asia Architects Conference. Photo by Oh Yugyo.

This conference, held in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Korean Institute of Architects, was organized under the theme "A Better Tomorrow." It served as an opportunity to reaffirm the social role of architecture in addressing challenges faced by humanity, such as climate change and urbanization.

This is the largest architectural culture event in Asia, being held in Korea for the first time in 17 years since Busan in 2008. Approximately 10,000 participants, including architects, students, and industry professionals from 24 countries, attended. Major figures such as Kim Jaerok, President of the Korean Institute of Architects and Conference Chair, Yoo Jeongbok, Honorary Chair of Incheon Metropolitan City, Lee Sangkyung, First Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, Jung Ilyoung, Assemblyman of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Saifuddin Ahmad, President of ARCASIA, were present at the opening ceremony.

In his opening remarks, President Kim Jaerok stated, "We will actively share the experience and expertise of K-Architecture on the global stage, and the Korean Institute of Architects will work together with architects around the world to design sustainable cities and spaces for a better future."

Following the opening ceremony, Riken Yamamoto of Japan, the winner of the 2024 Pritzker Prize, delivered a keynote lecture on "Architecture of Coexistence: Architecture’s Response for Communities." In addition, renowned French architect David Pierre Jalicon gave a special lecture on "Korean Culture that Inspires French Architects," which drew significant interest from the participants.

The conference, including the opening ceremony, will continue for five days until the 12th. During the event, a variety of programs will take place, such as architectural exhibitions, the Incheon Architecture Culture Festival, and "Challenge! Architecture Golden Bell" for the general public. All events are free and open to everyone.