Budapest and Seoul Build Synergies through LUCI
Just days after Seoul hosted the 2024 Asia Urban Lighting Workshop, we take this opportunity to highlight a notable collaboration promoted this year between the Korean capital and its Hungarian counterpart, Budapest.
Fostering dialogue
In April, a productive exchange took place between these two LUCI member cities, focusing on their distinct approaches to urban lighting.
The visit, facilitated by Hee-joon Park, Technical Coordinator of the LUCI Regional Office for Asia (LROA), brought a delegation of ten members from the Seoul Metropolitan Council’s Urban Planning Committee, led by Mr. Kim Youngchul, to the Hungarian capital.
Hosted by Zoltán Pap, managing director of Budapest Flood and Public Ltd (BDK), the visit aimed to deepen collaboration on lighting policy, smart lighting developments, and the unique lighting cultures of both cities.
This meeting aligned perfectly with LUCI’s mission to foster dialogue between cities about their experiences and strategies in urban lighting, promoting sustainable practices and cultural exchange.
Comparing lighting approaches
During their stay, the Korean delegation gained insights into Budapest’s approach to preserving its historic cityscape while advancing energy efficiency and reducing light pollution. Budapest’s lighting strategy emphasizes tradition, using coloured lighting selectively for national and social events.
In contrast, Seoul’s lighting plan focuses on creating a vibrant “skycoral” cityscape, featuring iconic illuminated structures.
Balancing heritage with innovation
A highlight of the visit was an evening bus tour through Budapest, showcasing the city’s renowned decorative and public lighting.
This tour, initially organized for residents as part of Budapest’s 150th anniversary celebrations, provided the Korean delegation with a first-hand view of how Budapest balances heritage with innovation in its urban lighting design. The tour offered an ideal setting for the exchange of ideas, fostering a deeper understanding of each city’s lighting priorities.
As Budapest and Seoul continue to develop their lighting masterplans, this collaboration exemplifies how cities can learn from each other’s practices, paving the way for a more sustainable and culturally enriched urban environment.
Photo credits
©BDK, City of Budapest