Seoul Offers Global Applicants Chance to Compete for 2025 Smart City Prize

The Seoul Metropolitan Government (SMG) is excited to announce the opening of applications for the 3rd Seoul Smart City Prize, an international competition aimed at recognizing exceptional smart city initiatives worldwide. The application period runs until May 30, 2025, and is open to city governments, institutions, corporations, and individuals looking to showcase their innovative projects.

Overview of the Prize


Established in 2023 in partnership with the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization, the Seoul Smart City Prize emphasizes promoting groundbreaking ideas and policies that lead to smart urban developments. Last year's event witnessed robust participation, with 216 projects from 123 cities across 58 countries being submitted. Noteworthy entries came from prominent global cities such as London, Helsinki, and Abu Dhabi.

The previous winners included a health governance system from Baguio, Philippines, and a project improving the school system through digital transformation from Reykjavik, Iceland. This year, the competition will consist of 21 prizes across three primary categories: Projects, Leadership, and Special Mention.

Prize Categories


1. Human-Centered Projects: These projects must focus on promoting digital inclusivity, particularly benefiting groups such as the elderly, youth, and disabled within the community.
2. Tech-Innovation Projects: This category highlights innovative policies and technologies that integrate across all sectors, encompassing mobility, safety, welfare, environment, energy, culture, and governance.
3. Leadership: This award honors individuals demonstrating remarkable leadership in utilizing technology and data to enhance the lives of citizens on a global scale.
4. Special Mention: Recognizes projects aligned with specific partner organizations of WeGO, reinforcing the significance of collaboration in smart city endeavors.

Application Process


Interested entities can submit their applications directly through the official Seoul Smart City Prize website at https://seoulsmartcityprize.com. Detailed guidelines regarding submission, evaluation criteria, and other necessary information can be found there.

Awards Ceremony


The culmination of the competition will be celebrated during the Smart Life Week (SLW) 2025, scheduled to take place at COEX, Seoul, from September 30 to October 1. Attendees are expected to include over 300 global mayors, experts, and scholars, creating a prime opportunity for showcasing outstanding projects and facilitating dialogue on urban innovation policies.

Winning candidates will enjoy numerous benefits, including an exhibition booth at the International City Pavilion and access to programs supporting smart city capacity building. This recognition not only enhances the winners' global visibility but also fosters international collaboration.

By participating, cities from around the world can convert their innovative visions into actionable plans that contribute to sustainable urban development. As the world continues to evolve, initiatives like the Seoul Smart City Prize reaffirm Seoul's commitment to fostering a brighter, smarter future for cities globally.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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