Seoul Design Foundation

As Milan prepares to welcome the global design community in 2026, one international institution to watch is the Seoul Design Foundation. Established by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, the Foundation has become a force behind Korea’s dynamic design ecosystem, pushing for innovation, sustainability, and cultural storytelling. At the heart of its mission is the belief that design is not simply aesthetic, but a tool for improving everyday life and shaping better cities.

The Seoul Design Foundation operates the famous Dongdaemun Design Plaza, a globally recognized architectural landmark that serves as Seoul’s central hub for exhibitions and creative exchange. Through Dongdaemun Design Plaza, the organization has hosted large-scale public installations, international collaborations, and industry-leading events that connect designers with global audiences. Its programming joins creativity with civic impact, showing how design can respond to social and environmental challenges.

In recent years, the organization has expanded its international mark through collaborations with leading global fairs and institutions, positioning Seoul as a voice in the worldwide design industry. Its approach combines cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology, reflecting Korea’s broader creative identity. From immersive media art experiences to commercially driven design showcases, the Foundation’s portfolio demonstrates both artistic ambition and strategic industry development.

At Milan Design Week 2026, the Seoul Design Foundation will bring this complex perspective to one of the most influential stages in the design world. The exhibition will showcase Seoul’s evolving design story, highlighting sustainability, urban innovation, and multicultural exchange. By participating in Milan, the Foundation aims to strengthen global partnerships and highlight the role of Asian design leadership in shaping the future of living environments.

As the design community gathers in Milan, the Seoul Design Foundation’s attendance shows a powerful moment of international collaboration. Through its exhibition, it will not only showcase Korean creativity, but also advance design’s capacity to inspire meaningful change on a global scale.