A global contest for the master plan (urban design) of the National Symbol Zone in Sejong City, featuring the presidential office and the National Assembly building, has received 13 submissions. The choice of a single winning design will be announced on the 12th of next month, taking public opinion into account.
The National Agency for Administrative City Construction (NAACC) reported on the 21st that 13 teams, including both local and global urban and architectural design specialists, have submitted their proposals for the international competition aimed at developing the master plan for the National Symbol Zone. A representative from NAACC mentioned, “This international competition seeks to develop an urban design plan for the National Symbol Zone, which will include the Sejong building of the National Assembly, the presidential office in Sejong, and public spaces, representing the nation’s prestige and reflecting the future values that Korea aims to attain.”
The National Symbol Zone is planned to be established in the S-1 residential district of Sejong-dong, which is the heart of Sejong City, spanning 2.1 million square meters. This region, commonly known as top-tier real estate in Sejong City, will be developed with important facilities including the National Assembly and the presidential office, along with areas for public use.
The contest moved through multiple phases, such as the release on September 2, submission of applications, in-person orientations, question-and-answer meetings, and the collection of entries.
In addition to receiving entries, a seven-person jury panel was established, consisting of specialists in urban planning, architecture, landscape design, and cultural arts, to guarantee impartial and expert evaluation. The panel will thoroughly examine the originality, suitability of spatial arrangement, and practicality of the designs.
A public voting phase will occur before the jury’s assessment, running from the 22nd to the 28th. Korean adults can cast votes for up to three designs following identity confirmation through the official competition website (https://sejong-compe.kr) and the NAACC’s official site (http://www.naacc.go.kr). The top three designs with the highest number of votes will receive additional points.
The initial showing on the first day of next month will choose the top five designs, taking into account the results from public voting. The ultimate winner will be revealed on the 12th after the second screening held on the 10th.
NAACC Director General Kang Joo-yeop said, “Several highly innovative designs were entered into this contest, and we hope the National Symbol Zone will become a place that fosters pride among all citizens, incorporating public feedback from the initial planning phase.”
