DAYS
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News & Updates
About
Metropolis 40th Anniversary Seoul Congress 2025 invites you to reimagine the future of metropolises. In an increasingly complex global scenario, cities and metropolitan spaces are vital to address the shared challenges of present and future generations.
Seoul, a city known for its innovative and forward-thinking character, will be the scenario of a commemoration of four decades of collaboration.
And we will be looking not at the past but at the future of cities, envisioning the possibilities of metropolitan action.
This extraordinary congress will offer high-level discussions, technical visits, and cultural presentations: an exceptional opportunity for exchange, networking and visibility.
Join us from September 29 to October 1, 2025.
To register, please contact the Congress Secretariat at seoul2025.metropolis@gmail.com
Schedule at a Glance 
Metropolis Board of Directors Meeting
MITI Sharing Forum
Urban Solutions Spotlight
MeTTA Congress
DDP to COEX
Site Visit
Networking Lunch
Networking Lunch
Joint Program with Smart Life Week
- Opening ceremony/ Guided tour
- Mayors Forum
- Smart City Awards Ceremony
Closing Plenary & Lunch
Official Congress Opening
Megacities Dialogue
Urban Solutions Spotlight
Digital Safety Forum
Gala Dinner
SLW Official Dinner
Program
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Sunday, 28 September
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Arrival & Transfers
Participants arrive and transfer to hotels.
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Monday, 29 September – Day 1
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Official Congress Opening: Metropolitan Futures
This opening address by global urban leaders will highlight the critical importance of metropolitan collaboration in addressing global challenges and ensuring the resilience of urban systems. The session will also serve as a call to action, inviting city leaders to share their visions, renew their commitments, and build collective momentum toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready urban agenda.
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DDP Art Hall 1
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Megacities Dialogue: Leaving no one behind
Building on the success of the first Megacities Summit, hosted by the Metropolitan City of Istanbul on 8 October 2023, this year’s edition in Seoul will take place alongside the Metropolis 40th Anniversary Congress. Leaders will explore how megacities can move from being sites of inequality to champions of shared prosperity.
This summit offers a unique opportunity to reimagine the future of megacities, addressing the core question: How can megacities ensure quality of life and opportunity for all? -
DDP Art Hall 1
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Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
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Affiliation
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Urban Solutions Spotlight
Session 1: The Role of Cities and Governance Models to Promote Transparency, Accountability, Inclusion, and Gender Equality.As global challenges demand more open and responsive institutions, cities play a pivotal role in shaping governance models that uphold transparency, accountability, inclusion, and gender equality. This session will highlight innovative city-led approaches and policies that strengthen democratic values and social equity. Through knowledge exchange and case sharing, participants will explore how urban governance can be a powerful tool for building more just and inclusive societies.
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DDP Conference Hall
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Affiliation
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Digital Safety Forum: Preventing and Responding to Digital Sexual Violence
As technology rapidly evolves, so do the risks of abuse within digital spaces. This session brings together global experts, policymakers, and civil society to explore effective strategies to prevent and respond to digital sexual crimes, including online harassment, image- based abuse, and non-consensual distribution of sexual content. The forum aims to foster international cooperation, share best practices, and strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks needed to protect victims and uphold digital rights.
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Seoul-On Studio
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Metropolis 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner
As Metropolis reaches its 40th anniversary, we invite distinguished guests, global city leaders, and strategic partners to an extraordinary Gala Dinner in Seoul, the host of our Anniversary and World Congress.
This milestone event will be an elegant and immersive experience, celebrating four decades of urban collaboration, leadership, and innovation.- Anniversary Ceremony
- Announcement of the Pattis Family Foundation Global Cities Book Award
- Cultural Program
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Shilla Hotel
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Additional On-Site Activities:
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- Metropolis Board of Directors Meeting
The annual in-person meeting of Metropolis' highest governing body, open to Board members, invited guests, and observers.
- Global Cities Foresight Workshop
Foresight experts convene to explore future scenarios for large cities and metropolitan areas.
- Metropolis Board of Directors Meeting
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Tuesday, 30 September – Day 2
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Metropolis International Training Institute (MITI) Sharing Forum
Seoul Metropolitan Government Human Resources Development Center (SHRDC) is the headquarters of the Metropolis International Training Institute (MITI).
As Metropolis celebrates its 40 years anniversary, MITI aims to increase its scope of local training institutes and expand opportunities for its members.
The MITI Sharing Forum marks the culmination of a decade-long journey of collaborative learning and capacity building among Metropolis members through the MITI centers and will be presenting the way forward for MITI’s development. -
DDP Art Hall 1
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Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
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Urban Solutions Spotlight
Session 2: Ensuring Balanced Urban Ecosystems and Improving Social CohesionThis session will bring together cities showcasing practical solutions that foster a harmonious relationship between metropolises and their natural environment, while reducing ecological footprints and adapting to environmental change. It will highlight approaches such as nature-based solutions, sustainable mobility, and circular urban systems that promote efficient cycles of water, energy, food, and waste. Additionally, the session will explore solutions for inclusive and effective governance, ensuring urban planning and policies are responsive to the needs of all inhabitants. By focusing on legal and institutional frameworks, citizen engagement, and bridging the rural-urban divide, these solutions aim to create more cohesive, sustainable, and inclusive urban futures.
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DDP Art Hall 1
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Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
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Joint Program with Seoul Smart Life Week
Under the theme, Seoul Smart Life Week highlights Seoul’s cutting-edge innovations, offering Congress participants access to exclusive sessions and activities.
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COEX
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SLW Official Dinner
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The Westin Seoul Parnas
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Additional On-Site Activities:
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- Global Cities Foresight Workshop
Foresight experts convene to explore future scenarios for large cities and metropolitan areas
- Global Cities Foresight Workshop
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Wednesday, 1 October – Day 3
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Site Visits: Seoul’s Leading Urban Innovations
Participants choose from various guided visits showcasing Seoul’s latest urban projects, along with the opportunity to attend:
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The 5th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism (SBAU) : “Radically More Human”
The 5th Seoul Biennale goes beyond viewing architecture purely from an aesthetic perspective. Instead, it focuses on the facades of buildings we encounter in our everyday lives and explores how architecture and urban environments can be made more enjoyable and engaging.The Biennale will be held from September 26 to November 18.
2025 Seoul International Garden Show (SIGS): “Seoul, Green Soul”
This year marks the 10th anniversary of SIGS since its launch in 2015. SIGS 2025 will feature the largest area and longest duration to date, with expanded content to match, aiming to grow the show into a festival that attracts over 10 million visitors this year. SIGS will be held from May 22 to October 20.
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Closing Plenary: A Vision for the Future
As we bid farewell to the Metropolis 40th Anniversary Congress, we invite all delegates to leave with the spirit and energy of Seoul My Soul a lasting memory of our time together, marked by a special giveaway for each participant.
Buffet Lunch with a moment to unwind, reflect, and share final conversations with peers in a relaxed and inspiring setting with closing speeches from the organizers. -
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun
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※ A dedicated spouse program for those accompanying the Heads of Delegation(HoDs) is being planned.
Cities wishing to learn more are welcome to contact the Congress Secretariat (seoul2025.metropolis@gmail.com) for further details.
Arrival & Transfers
Participants arrive and transfer to hotels.
Official Congress Opening: Metropolitan Futures
This opening address by global urban leaders will highlight the critical importance of metropolitan collaboration in addressing global challenges and ensuring the resilience of urban systems. The session will also serve as a call to action, inviting city leaders to share their visions, renew their commitments, and build collective momentum toward a more inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready urban agenda.
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Urban Solutions Spotlight
Session 1: The Role of Cities and Governance Models to Promote Transparency, Accountability, Inclusion, and Gender Equality.
As global challenges demand more open and responsive institutions, cities play a pivotal role in shaping governance models that uphold transparency, accountability, inclusion, and gender equality. This session will highlight innovative city-led approaches and policies that strengthen democratic values and social equity. Through knowledge exchange and case sharing, participants will explore how urban governance can be a powerful tool for building more just and inclusive societies.
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Metropolis 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner
As Metropolis reaches its 40th anniversary, we invite distinguished guests, global city leaders, and strategic partners to an extraordinary Gala Dinner in Seoul, the host of our Anniversary and World Congress.
This milestone event will be an elegant and immersive experience, celebrating four decades of urban collaboration, leadership, and innovation.
- Anniversary Ceremony
- Announcement of the Pattis Family Foundation Global Cities Book Award
- Cultural Program
Metropolis International Training Institute (MITI) Sharing Forum
Seoul Metropolitan Government Human Resources Development Center (SHRDC) is the headquarters of the Metropolis International Training Institute (MITI).
As Metropolis celebrates its 40 years anniversary, MITI aims to increase its scope of local training institutes and expand opportunities for its members.
The MITI Sharing Forum marks the culmination of a decade-long journey of collaborative learning and capacity building among Metropolis members through the MITI centers and will be presenting the way forward for MITI’s development.
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Urban Solutions Spotlight
Session 2: Ensuring Balanced Urban Ecosystems and Improving Social Cohesion
This session will bring together cities showcasing practical solutions that foster a harmonious relationship between metropolises and their natural environment, while reducing ecological footprints and adapting to environmental change. It will highlight approaches such as nature-based solutions, sustainable mobility, and circular urban systems that promote efficient cycles of water, energy, food, and waste. Additionally, the session will explore solutions for inclusive and effective governance, ensuring urban planning and policies are responsive to the needs of all inhabitants. By focusing on legal and institutional frameworks, citizen engagement, and bridging the rural-urban divide, these solutions aim to create more cohesive, sustainable, and inclusive urban futures.
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Joint Program with Seoul Smart Life Week
Under the theme, Seoul Smart Life Week highlights Seoul’s cutting-edge innovations, offering Congress participants access to exclusive sessions and activities.
SLW Official Dinner
Site Visits: Seoul’s Leading Urban Innovations
Participants choose from various guided visits showcasing Seoul’s latest urban projects, along with the opportunity to attend:
The 5th Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism (SBAU) : “Radically More Human”
The 5th Seoul Biennale goes beyond viewing architecture purely from an aesthetic perspective. Instead, it focuses on the facades of buildings we encounter in our everyday lives and explores how architecture and urban environments can be made more enjoyable and engaging.The Biennale will be held from September 26 to November 18.
2025 Seoul International Garden Show (SIGS): “Seoul, Green Soul”
This year marks the 10th anniversary of SIGS since its launch in 2015. SIGS 2025 will feature the largest area and longest duration to date, with expanded content to match, aiming to grow the show into a festival that attracts over 10 million visitors this year. SIGS will be held from May 22 to October 20.
Closing Plenary: A Vision for the Future
As we bid farewell to the Metropolis 40th Anniversary Congress, we invite all delegates to leave with the spirit and energy of Seoul My Soul a lasting memory of our time together, marked by a special giveaway for each participant.
Buffet Lunch with a moment to unwind, reflect, and share final conversations with peers in a relaxed and inspiring setting with closing speeches from the organizers.
Megacities Dialogue: Leaving no one behind
Building on the success of the first Megacities Summit, hosted by the Metropolitan City of Istanbul on 8 October 2023, this year’s edition in Seoul will take place alongside the Metropolis 40th Anniversary Congress. Leaders will explore how megacities can move from being sites of inequality to champions of shared prosperity.
This summit offers a unique opportunity to reimagine the future of megacities, addressing the core question: How can megacities ensure quality of life and opportunity for all?
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Digital Safety Forum: Preventing and Responding to Digital Sexual Violence
As technology rapidly evolves, so do the risks of abuse within digital spaces. This session brings together global experts, policymakers, and civil society to explore effective strategies to prevent and respond to digital sexual crimes, including online harassment, image- based abuse, and non-consensual distribution of sexual content. The forum aims to foster international cooperation, share best practices, and strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks needed to protect victims and uphold digital rights.
Speakers
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Name
Position
Affiliation
Venue
Information
281, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, 04566, Republic of Korea
About Seoul
Seoul seamlessly integrates its rapidly evolving cultural landscape with a deep historical legacy. As a global city, Seoul exemplifies the coexistence of tradition and innovation, where centuries-old palaces once walked by Joseon kings stand alongside cutting-edge skyscrapers. As a dynamic political, economic, and cultural hub, Seoul attracts leaders, policymakers, and visitors from around the world. Its rich history, diverse cultural offerings, and global connectivity make it a key player on the international stage.
Hotel Information
Accommodation for Heads of Delegation (HoD) will be arranged by the Secretariat at the main hotel, Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun. All other participants are kindly requested to make their own hotel arrangements at their own expense. Please refer to the reservation links below for booking.
*For Ninetree and Ramada hotels, please complete the reservation form and email it directly to the hotel.
Kindly note: The Secretariat will not be able to assist with any issues related to individual bookings, including no-shows or disputes with the hotel.
Novotel Ambassador Seoul Dongdaemun Hotels & Residences (Main Hotel)
+82 2-3425-8000
238 Euljiro, Jung Gu, 04561 SEOUL, South Korea
651m from DDP
Check In: 15:00 / Check Out: 12:00
Superior Double | 286,000 KRW(Special rate, breakfast included) Hotel rates and availability are subject to change.
Please visit the official website of the hotel for the most accurate information.
NINE TREE BY PARNAS SEOUL DONGDAEMUN
+82 2-6967-0999
224, Eulji-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea
556m from DDP
Check In 15:00 / Check Out 12:00
Standard Double | 148,500 KRW(Special rate, breakfast included) Standard Double | 148,500 KRW
(Special rate, breakfast included)
Ramada by Wyndham Seoul Dongdaemun
+82 2-2276-3500
354 Dongho-ro, Seoul, 100195
686m from DDP
Check In 15:00 / Check Out 12:00
Standard Double | 166,000 KRW(Special rate, breakfast included) Standard Double | 166,000 KRW
(Special rate, breakfast included)
Seoul Smart Life Week
Dates
September 30 - October 2
Theme
AI for Going together with the Socially Neglected
Smart Life Week (SLW) is a global platform for sharing the latest technology trends, exchanging innovative ideas, and experiencing Seoul’s vision of a smart city, where cutting-edge solutions are seamlessly integrated into daily life.
A variety of key events will take place throughout the week, including the Seoul Smart City Prize Ceremony, forums, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.
Cities interested in applying for the Seoul Smart City Prize can find more information here:
Contact
Metropolis 40th Anniversary
SEOUL CONGRESS 2025
Secretariat
seoul2025.metropolis@gmail.com
+82-2-550-2526
Registration
