Focus on Innovation and Identity in Seoul
Highlights of the 9th Seoul Asia Urban Lighting Conference
(Article by the Gamdong Factory for the Seoul Metropolitan Government)
The 9th Seoul Asia Urban Lighting Conference was successfully held from 30–31 October 2025 at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), bringing together lighting professionals, city officials, designers, researchers, and technology experts from across Asia and beyond. Hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in partnership with the LUCI Association, this year’s conference marked a significant milestone in promoting regional and global collaboration in urban lighting.
A growing international platform
The 2025 edition recorded 276 attendees from 13 countries and 49 cities, reflecting both growing international interest and strong domestic engagement. Participation from Korea increased by nearly 50%, demonstrating heightened national enthusiasm for sustainable and creative lighting strategies. International engagement remained robust, supported by LUCI’s expansive network and partnerships with global institutions.
A rich program of keynotes, sessions, and exhibitions
Under the theme “Lighting Cities, Shaping Culture: Innovation and Identity,” the two-day conference offered a diverse program, including:
- Keynote speeches from internationally recognised experts
- Seoul City policy session
- 14th “Good Light” Awards ceremony
- Seven thematic conference sessions covering AI lighting, sustainability, smart urban environments, cultural identity, and urban nightscapes
- Expanded exhibition hall showcasing innovative lighting technologies and creative companies
- Field tours at DDP, Cheonggyecheon Stream, and Naksan Park Nightscape
The audience was captivated by keynote addresses, including:
- Julien Pavillard, Director of Fête des Lumières, City of Lyon – “The Light Festivals of Tomorrow”
- Normand-Pierre Bilodeau, Producer and Tokyo Office Director, Moment Factory – “Urban Campfires: Lighting for Collective Wonder and Connection”
These presentations highlighted the global impact of artistic lighting design and urban illumination.
Other distinguished speakers included Mary-Ann Schreurs, Honorary Member and Former President of LUCI, Leena Pälli, Senior Advisor, Cultural Services of the City of Oulu, Ki-Young Go, CEO of Biztro & Partners, Akari-Lisa Ishii, Principal (CEO) of I.C.O.N., and numerous other national and international experts.
For the first time, the conference introduced expanded thematic sessions and panel discussions, generating meaningful dialogue between Korean and international speakers. Initiatory launch of the exhibition hall, arranged to optimise the unique structure of DDP, highlighted the technological potential of Korea’s urban lighting industry.
Welcoming Messages from LUCI
Although Fatiha El Moudni, President of LUCI and the Mayor of Rabat, and Mark Burton-Page, General Director of LUCI, were unable to attend in person, they reached the Seoul audience through a special welcoming video message. Their messages emphasised the importance of global collaboration in urban lighting and celebrated Seoul’s ongoing contributions to creative and sustainable city lighting.
Participant Engagement and Special Activities
LUCI members and international guests enjoyed immersive experiences, including field tours showcasing Seoul’s nightscapes. A highlight was the Cheonggyecheon Nightscape Lighting Ceremony on Oct. 30, where Julien Pavillard delivered a congratulatory speech and actively participated in the lighting, on the side of Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon. Mary-Ann Schreurs (Former LUCI President) attended and joined the Cheonggyecheon performance, providing a unique opportunity to share in the beauty of Seoul’s Cheonggyecheon Stream.
LUCI members actively participated in a range of special activities, including a VIP reception, Field Tours and the LUCI Member Cities Meeting, welcoming representatives from Indonesian cities, Busan, Ulsan, Incheon, and Seoul. These gatherings strengthened international cooperation and offered an informal platform for knowledge exchange.
From the 9th edition to the 10th anniversary in 2026
The 9th edition of the Seoul Asia Urban Lighting Conference demonstrated the power of lighting as a medium for culture, innovation, and urban identity, solidifying Seoul’s position as a hub for global urban lighting excellence.
The upcoming 10th Seoul Asia Urban Lighting Conference promises to be a landmark event. Plans include expanding the program scale, showcasing the conference’s decade-long impact, and enhancing international collaboration through continued partnership with LUCI and member cities.
Photo credits
©Gamdong Factory – Seoul Metropolitan Government
