Shaping the Future of Korea’s Coastal Cities
- Press Room
Coastal Cities Gaudí Challenge
Organized by Gaudí Asia Pacific, a joint venture between the Moon Labs and Gaudí World Foundation with the three prestigious Korean universities—Pusan National University, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, and INJE University—the Coastal Cities Gaudí Challenge is set to be a transformative three-day event. Scheduled from January 20 to January 22, 2024, in Busan, this initiative aims to inspire innovative solutions for enhancing the cultural, economic, and social vitality of Korea’s dynamic coastal region.
Event Overview
This challenge will involve 50 students engaging in an immersive educational journey based on Antoni Gaudí’s unique methodology and work ethics. Drawing from his philosophy of harmonizing functionality with creativity, participants will work in interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative ideas that could potentially lead to real-world projects.
The aim of the event is to create solutions that enhance the national and international appeal of Korea’s coastal cities for diverse groups, including young generations seeking vibrant urban opportunities, older generations desiring inclusive environments, tourists eager to explore coastal beauty, and people with disabilities looking for accessible experiences.
Goals and Objectives
The challenge aims to address the unique needs of diverse groups, including:
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- Youth: Attracting young generations with vibrant opportunities.
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- Seniors: Creating inclusive and accessible environments.
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- Tourists: Highlighting the region’s natural and cultural beauty.
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- People with Disabilities: Ensuring accessible experiences for all.
By fostering innovation and sustainability, the event aspires to elevate the appeal of Korea’s coastal cities on a national and international level.
Collaboration for a Greater Purpose
The challenge is brought to life by:
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- Gaudi World Foundation’s branch in Asia “Gaudí Asia Pacific”
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- The Moon Labs
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- Pusan National University
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- LINC 3.0 Project Group
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- UNIST R-WeSET Project Group
- SERA
Together, these organizations aim to inspire transformative change through education, collaboration, and cultural integration.
The Cultural and Economic Significance
Korea’s coastal cities are pivotal to the nation’s identity, economy, and global appeal. By focusing on inclusivity, sustainability, and creativity, this event seeks to unlock their full potential, ensuring they thrive for generations to come.
Learning from a Master of Innovation
Antoni Gaudí’s legacy is at the heart of this challenge, serving as an inspiration for:
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- Harmonizing functionality and creativity.
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- Promoting sustainability through design.
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- Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration.
Participants will work in teams, applying Origination methodology to propose innovative ideas, with a focus on real-world applicability.

Join the Movement for a Better Future
The Coastal Cities Gaudí Challenge represents a bold step towards reimagining urban spaces through the lens of sustainability and creativity. By merging the timeless wisdom of Gaudí with modern innovation, this event promises to leave a lasting impact on Korea’s coastal cities.
For more information about this transformative initiative, visit Coastal Cities Gaudí Challenge.