Crafting a Future: Global Experts to Converge in Cheongju for Craft Economy Forum

Global Convergence of Craft Experts in Cheongju

On October 30, 2025, Cheongju, a vibrant city in South Korea renowned for its dedication to crafting, will host the World Craft Expert Forum at Culture Factory. This significant event is being organized by the Cheongju Craft Biennale with the theme "Crafting Cities, Weaving a Shared Future." The forum will convene over 50 administrative and cultural experts from twelve countries including Australia, China, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan.

The forum presents an exceptional platform for leaders pursuing the development of urban cultures and economies centered on the craft. By examining Cheongju’s remarkable success story, these experts aim to gain insights and encourage networking that transcends geographical barriers. A notable inclusion is the participation of key visitors from Central Asia, such as the Mayor of Kokand in Uzbekistan and the Deputy Mayor of Taraz in Kazakhstan, who are eager to learn from Cheongju's urban regeneration strategies, driven by a strong focus on crafting.

Cheongju’s positioning as a global leader in the craft movement will be highlighted, with participants expected to explore cases of experiential economies that harness the power of craft. This dialogue aims to understand how cities can collectively evolve, experiencing a renaissance through cultural richness and craft-based economies.

During the forum, attendees will engage in discussions regarding contemporary crafting practices, drawing inspiration from the ongoing Cheongju Craft Biennale, which runs until November 2, 2025. This year’s Biennale signifies a commitment to fostering a vibrant cultural community through exhibition, workshops and collaborative projects that showcase local talent and craftsmanship.

Additionally, representatives will visit Cheongju University to foster cooperative relationships between government entities and academic institutions. As Cheongju strives to strengthen its global craft identity, the partnerships developed between these bodies will play a crucial role in nurturing talent and innovative practices within urban craft cultures.

Mayor Beomseok Lee, who chairs the Cheongju Craft Biennale Organizing Committee, expressed hope that discussions at the forum will lead to a shared understanding of the integral value and potential of craft in shaping creative cities. "Based on solidarity with craft cities and organizations around the world, we will elevate the global profile of Korean craft and further cement Cheongju’s role as a leader in sustainable craft culture," he said.

As the world continues to explore the intersection of culture, community, and economic growth, the World Craft Expert Forum in Cheongju aims to inspire a dialogue that transcends borders, fostering collaboration and shared growth within the global crafting community. This event not only celebrates craftsmanship but also serves as a blueprint for future urban development strategies that integrate culture and creativity at their core.

The forum will take place from October 30 to 31 at the Culture Factory in Cheongju. Participants will delve into discussions of urban development and the future of crafting, all while enjoying the inspiring atmosphere that Cheongju’s Craft Biennale provides. With the gathering of diverse minds and expertise, this forum promises to set the stage for a promising future where craft is interwoven into the fabric of city life and sustainability.