Unveiling the Heart of Korea’s Design Powerhouse
As I strolled through the bustling streets of Seoul, the capital of South Korea, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the city’s vibrant design scene. It’s a place where ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation coexist, creating a mesmerizing tapestry that draws design enthusiasts from around the world.
My journey began at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a architectural marvel designed by the late Zaha Hadid. This futuristic structure, with its flowing cantilever and 45,133 aluminum panels, transforms into the world’s largest canvas for the mesmerizing “Seoul Light” digital art show. But the DDP is more than just a stunning facade – it’s a hub that celebrates the city’s design prowess, housing a design museum, a carefully curated design store, and a year-round calendar of engaging events.
Harnessing the Power of Design
As I delved deeper into Seoul’s design scene, I had the privilege of sitting down with Kyung-don Rhee, the CEO of the Seoul Design Foundation, a public institution under the Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) that has played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s design landscape.
Rhee shared with me the remarkable story of how Seoul became the first city ever to be designated as the World Design Capital by the World Design Organization (formerly the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design) in 2010. “The SMG’s establishment of the Design Seoul Headquarters in 2007, which integrated design principles into urban governance, was a key factor in Seoul’s recognition,” he explained. “The city’s swift yet systematic planning and implementation of design-centric projects, all aimed at improving citizens’ lives, ultimately led to this well-deserved accolade.”
The design-driven changes in Seoul have continued to thrive since then, with the Seoul Design Foundation spearheading initiatives to promote the city’s design industry and culture. The establishment of the DDP in 2014, the creation of the world’s largest dedicated upcycling center in 2017, and the formation of specialized teams for universal and digital design in 2022 all demonstrate the foundation’s unwavering commitment to innovation and inclusivity.
Embracing the New and Honoring the Old
As I wandered through Seoul’s streets, I couldn’t help but be struck by the seamless blend of old and new, a testament to the city’s ability to honor its rich history while embracing cutting-edge trends. “This very diversity is Seoul’s strength,” Rhee affirmed. “The city has the unique ability to seamlessly integrate the past and the present, creating a dynamic and vibrant environment that resonates with both locals and visitors.”
This harmonious coexistence is evident in the diverse range of design products and experiences on offer, from traditional crafts to high-tech marvels. The DDP Design Store, for instance, showcases a curated selection of lifestyle products by talented Korean designers, including a collaboration with the late Alessandro Mendini and unique items reflecting Seoul’s new branding, “Seoul My Soul.”
Celebrating Seoul’s Design Accolades
As I delved deeper into Seoul’s design scene, I was struck by the city’s unwavering commitment to design excellence. The Seoul Design Award, now in its fifth year, has seen a remarkable 35-fold increase in entries compared to the previous year, with participants from an astounding 42 countries representing roughly 32% of the world’s nations.
“The award prioritizes social impact based on sustainability over commercial gain,” Rhee explained. “It recognizes designs that create positive change across various sectors, including public spaces, safety, accessibility, and universal design, with a specific focus on solutions for everyday problems.” By showcasing these best practices, the Seoul Design Award aims to leverage design thinking and creative ideas to make a tangible difference in people’s lives worldwide.
Connecting the Global Design Community
One of the most impressive aspects of Seoul’s design ecosystem is the way it fosters connections between local designers, manufacturers, and the global design community. The Seoul Design Foundation’s tailored assistance to designers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) includes facilitating collaborations and helping to promote and sell their products through exhibitions, fairs, and the DDP Design Store.
“A core objective of Seoul Design 2024 is to spotlight Seoul’s unique design identity by fostering connections between Seoul-based corporations, manufacturers, and talented young designers,” Rhee shared. “This city-wide design event attracted over 1 million visitors last year, offering a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local design scene and experience Seoul’s vibrant design culture firsthand.”
Embracing the Future with Seoul’s Design Ecosystem
As I prepare to leave Seoul, I can’t help but feel inspired by the city’s unwavering commitment to design excellence. From the architectural marvels that dot the skyline to the innovative products that celebrate the city’s rich heritage, Seoul’s design ecosystem is truly a force to be reckoned with.
Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply someone who appreciates the intersection of tradition and modernity, a visit to Seoul is sure to leave a lasting impression. This city’s thriving local design scene is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence – a true reflection of the soul of Korea.
