Kim Jinae Inaugurated as Chair of National Architecture Policy Committee: "Moving Beyond Vanity Landmarks to Citizen-Centered Approach"

Aiming for Spatial Democracy
Efforts to Bridge Relevant Institutions

Jinae Kim, Chairperson of the National Architecture Policy Committee. Photo by Dongju Yoon

The National Architecture Policy Committee under the President held an inauguration ceremony for the newly appointed chairperson, Kim Jinae, on the 17th, marking the start of its 8th term. Established in 2008 under the Framework Act on Architecture, the committee is an advisory body to the President that sets the vision and goals for national architecture policy and reviews and coordinates policies among relevant ministries.

The new chairperson, Kim Jinae, is an urban architect who majored in architecture and urban studies. She previously served as chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Construction Technology and Architectural Culture Advancement, and during her tenure as a National Assembly member, she was active in the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee and the Legislation and Judiciary Committee.

In her inaugural address, Chairperson Kim stated, "We will abandon vanity projects like luxury landmarks and realize 'spatial democracy,' where every citizen becomes a principal agent in creating and enjoying good architecture and good cities."

She emphasized, "Architecture is directly linked to the safety and happiness of citizens, and it is also a key to solving socio-economic issues such as regional depopulation and job creation. We will broaden communication with the public and listen closely to the voices of the people to widely embrace both hopes and grievances."

Jin-Ae Kim, the newly appointed Chairperson of the National Architecture Policy Committee, is speaking at the inauguration ceremony held on the 17th in the main conference room of the National Architecture Policy Committee under the President. Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport

Chairperson Kim continued, "As seen in the popularity of 'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' architectural culture and urban spatial assets experienced in daily life are forces that strengthen Korea's cultural capabilities. We will set architectural industry advancement for diverse and youth-oriented job creation, as well as regulatory innovation to promote urban architecture and housing, as our basic directions, and lead changes for a new era with a practical and action-oriented approach."

Chairperson Kim pledged to faithfully serve as a bridge not only between the architecture sector, the public, local governments, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, but also among related ministries such as those responsible for culture, industry, and diplomacy. She also called on private sector committee members and planning staff to work together in these efforts.