Gwangjin-gu to host 2026 Gwangjin Architecture+ Festa exploring AI's future in design

Gwangjin-gu in Seoul will hold the 2026 Gwangjin Architecture+ Festa at the district office grand hall from Monday through Wednesday.

Organized by the Gwangjin-gu Architects Association, the event aims to share the cultural value of architecture and urban space while broadening dialogue between architecture professionals and local residents. The program includes expert lectures on how AI is reshaping the construction industry, works exhibitions and tailored architectural consultations.

On the opening day, architect Lee Gwan-yong of Open Scale Architecture will deliver a special lecture titled "AI in the Age of Architects: Strategies for Adoption and Response," covering how AI technology will transform architectural design and the working environment, along with practical applications for the field.

The exhibition space will showcase works by local architects alongside pieces by secondary school students and undergraduates from Konkuk University and Sejong University, bringing together a range of perspectives and ideas from seasoned professionals to the next generation of design talent.

A hands-on program for residents will also be on offer. The "Our Home Floor-Plan Clinic," run with licensed architects, lets participants bring their residential floor plans for consultations — covering common questions about their living spaces and guidance on making the most of each area. It is a chance for residents to work through everyday housing concerns with an expert.

"I hope this event gives residents a chance to encounter new directions in architecture and diverse works, and serves as an opportunity for architects and the community to connect," Gwangjin-gu District Mayor Kim Kyung-ho said. "We will continue to promote the cultural value of architecture and build a comfortable, livable urban environment that residents can truly feel."