Smart cities represent the future of sustainability and urban innovation. This concept integrates advanced technologies, efficient resource management and digital solutions to improve the quality of life of citizens, optimize public services and foster sustainable development.
• Strengths
1. Experience in the Development of New Cities
South Korea gained significant experience in the construction and development of new cities after the Korean War (1950-1953).
It progressed from a stage of industrialized urbanization (1960s-70s) to the creation of sustainable cities (1990s), innovative cities (2005) and, more recently, smart cities (2019).
2. Enabling ICT Environment
Korea is recognized for its ICT sector, with leading companies such as Samsung and LG.
It has the highest smartphone penetration globally (95%) and ranks second in the ICT Development Index (ITU, 2017).
It stands out for technological innovations such as IoT, electric vehicles and renewable energy, promoting smart cities focused on quality of life, sustainability and new industries.
3. Innovation and Sustainable Development
Korea integrates technologies from the Fourth Industrial Revolution to address urban problems and improve quality of life.
Smart cities serve as platforms for business opportunities, sustainability and efficiency in aspects such as transportation, security and governance.
• Leading Smart Cities
1. Seoul
Capital with 605 km², houses 20% of the national population.
Implements the Smart City Master Plan (2021-2025) to digitalize public services, expand infrastructure and promote the digital economy.
Introduced “Metaverse Seoul”, a virtual platform for government services and citizen rights.
2. Incheon
Port city with 1,066 km², includes the Free Economic Zone and urban regeneration projects.
Fosters sustainable competitiveness through data-driven innovation and urban regeneration in areas such as Bupyeong and Namdong.
Promotes green industries and startup hubs to drive economic growth.
3. Busan
Korea's main port with 769.8 km². Promotes carbon neutrality by 2050.
Develops innovative projects such as inclusive traffic solutions and blockchain-based water management.
Designated national smart pilot city (2018).
4. Daejeon
Korea's science city, with 540 km², is a technology hub with institutes such as KAIST.
Implements smart services such as electrical fire prevention and data-driven safety networks.
Notable achievements include improved emergency response times and increased operational efficiency.
• Smart Solutions
1. Integrated Public Transport Fare System
Charging system based on distance traveled, regardless of the mode of transport.
Facilitates payments and data processing using cards like Tmoney.
2. Demand-based Transport (DRT)
Flexible mobility in low-demand rural and urban areas.
Uses data analytics to optimize routes and coordinate services.
3. Bike-Sharing Program
Municipal programs like “Ddareungi” in Seoul integrate IoT sensors for rental and return via mobile apps.
Efficient redistribution to ensure availability.
4. Smart Grid
Advanced grids manage electricity with energy efficiency.
Data from smart sensors is processed in the cloud, improving distribution in residential and commercial environments
• Smart City Strategy
The South Korean government presented its first five-year roadmap for the development of smart cities in June 2019. The main vision is to build cities where citizens can live happily, supported by technological innovations and inclusive ecosystems. The strategy is structured around four main pillars: national pilot projects, development of smart city environments, strengthening the innovative ecosystem, and global networks.
1. National Smart City Pilot Projects
South Korea is developing two flagship projects in Sejong and Busan, which integrate advanced technology to transform urban life:
• Sejong Smart City:
Location: Sejong District 5-1
Size: 2.7 km², 22,500 inhabitants expected by 2026.
Key innovations: shared mobility, AI-based healthcare, technological education, and efficient energy management.
Highlights the development of platforms such as Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and personalized health systems that include real-time data analysis for emergencies and chronic diseases.
• Busan Smart City:
Location: Gangseo-gu, Busan
Size: 2.2 km², 8,500 inhabitants expected by 2027.
Key innovations: advanced robotics, full-cycle management
2. Smart City Environment
The government encourages urban innovation projects through the Smart City Challenge program, which funds smart solutions in different cities across the country:
• Featured examples:
Incheon: Demand-based public transport.
Bucheon: Blockchain platform for parking management.
Daegu: AI-powered intelligent transport system.
Jeju: Environmentally friendly shared mobility services.
In addition, integrated platforms are implemented to coordinate traffic, security and disaster management through the collaboration of local and national authorities.
3. Innovative Ecosystem
To nurture the smart city ecosystem, the Korean government is working on:
• Regulatory improvement: Modernization of regulations to adapt them to new technologies.
• Support for startups: Encourage the creation of innovative companies through incentives and financing.
• Cooperative governance: Integration of public and private actors to ensure the success of urban projects.
The creation of the Smart City Data Hub stands out, an AI-based data center that facilitates decision-making in key areas such as traffic, security and the environment.
4. Global Network
Korea seeks to share its experience internationally through global networks and exhibitions:
• International initiatives:
Projects such as KCN-ODA and collaboration with other nations in the development of smart cities.
Participation in events to showcase technological advances and attract global partners.
• Smart City Strategy
South Korea leads urban development by integrating technological innovations, sustainability and strategic planning. Its strengths and smart city models represent a global example of how ICT and innovation can transform urban environments for citizen well-being and sustainable economic growth.
South Korea's smart city strategy is based on creating a sustainable and inclusive urban environment. Through pilot projects, technological advancements, global cooperation and innovative ecosystems, the country is positioning itself as a leader in the development of smart cities that prioritize citizen well-being and environmental sustainability.
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