The 2026 Seocho Architecture Culture Festival opens Monday at Central City and runs through Sunday, featuring a children's architecture class using 3D pens, free architectural consultations and more.
Seocho-gu in Seoul launched the 2026 Seocho Architecture Culture Festival on Monday with an opening ceremony at the Pocket Garden on the first floor of Shinsegae Central City's Parmi Station, kicking off seven days of exhibitions and hands-on programs running through Sunday.
Organized by the Seocho-gu Architects Association, the festival views architecture not merely as the act of constructing buildings but as a field that captures the culture and life of a city, bringing together residents, architects and the district government. This year's edition goes beyond the exhibition-focused format of previous years to include a children's architecture class, a guided tour of notable local buildings and free architectural consultations — all designed for direct resident participation.
The opening ceremony drew about 50 attendees, including Seocho-gu District Mayor Jeon Seong-su, representatives from the Korea Institute of Registered Architects and the Seoul Metropolitan Architects Association, members of the Seocho-gu Architects Association and figures from the academic architecture community.
The exhibition space showcases a range of architectural works designed by members of the Seocho-gu Architects Association, offering visitors a look at the district's urban spaces and built environment. Organizers hope the display will deepen residents' appreciation for architecture. A children's architecture class will also run during the festival, giving young participants a chance to build architectural models using 3D pens in a fun, accessible setting. Completed works will be on display throughout the festival.
On Thursday, architects will lead the "Seocho Architecture Tour," guiding participants through notable buildings in the area and explaining the design intent and spatial characteristics of each structure on site. Free architectural consultations will also be available throughout the festival, allowing residents to bring their architecture-related questions directly to professionals.
Admission to the 2026 Seocho Architecture Culture Festival is free, and all exhibitions and programs are open to the public. Details on how to participate in individual programs are available on the websites of the Seocho-gu Architects Association and Seocho-gu District Office.
"Architecture is an important culture that shapes the face of the city we live in and holds the identity and stories of our community," District Mayor Jeon said. "I hope this festival gives residents a chance to see and experience Seocho's beautiful buildings firsthand, feel the value of architectural culture up close, and develop a deeper interest in the architecture of our district."
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