UIA 2017 World Architects Congress is opening in the city of Seoul that prides in 2,000 years of culture and history. On September 3, we will witness the culmination of the sweat and toil that the Organizing Committee invested for the past 6 years, as we kick off the official schedule of the 5-day event.

We would like to thank all those who served on the Committee to prepare for this event, and we would like to express profound appreciation to UIA members in each country, who played their part to bring architects and scholars from around the world to this Congress.

Under the theme of ‘Soul of City’, we have worked hard to create an opportunity to renew our understanding about the role of architecture that not only helps to instill vitality into a city, but also guides the future, where sustainable development is achieved in conjunction with modern technology.

The Seoul Congress provides a variety of programs that will bring together scholars and designers from the East and West through their lecture and forums; in addition, UIA seminars, special sessions and Architects Lecture Series will introduce a wide variety of topics. Through these programs, urban and environment-related issues that are being experienced around the world, will be identified, discussed, and potential solutions will be recommended.

Paper and design works display and presentation will mark another achievement for the future of UIA and world environment where all those serious efforts are much needed.

Leaders of the world’s architectural community!

This event is sure to be a global festival where students, professionals and young generations will come together and to discuss culture, environment, and to share their perceptions and ideals of beauty. While it may be short in duration, we hope you will take active part and create an experience that will be cherished for

As we speak, many parts of the world suffer from incessant destruction and disputes. we hope that this Congress will serve to bring the world closer together through the medium of architecture and culture. Let us all exert efforts to pursue respect for our delicate environment and a peaceful world, where we can take collective steps toward peaceful and harmonious coexistence.

To my colleagues in Architecture and to all participants,

This is our sincere hope that you enjoy being in Seoul, Korea and back to your home with pleasant memory of UIA2017 SEOUL.

Thank you