The main poster for the Smart Life Week information and communication technology fair hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government / Courtesy of Seoul Metropolitan Government

The Seoul Metropolitan Government will host the inaugural Smart Life Week, comprehensive information and communication technology (ICT) fair, from Thursday to Saturday at COEX in southern Seoul.

While most ICT fairs focus on showcasing the latest technology and cutting-edge products, Smart Life Week will highlight how technology integrates into daily life and enhances people's lives.

Under the theme "The Future of Urban Life Changed by Advanced Technology," the event will focus on innovations related to public welfare, safety, convenience and entertainment. Key programs will include exhibitions, awards ceremonies, international forums and meetings.

It will also provide opportunities for collaboration between the public sector, businesses, cities and academia through forums and conferences, where participants can share achievements in smart technology.

Furthermore, Korean companies will present high-tech solutions to international cities that have expressed interest in Seoul's urban policies and problem-solving strategies.

The event, co-hosted by the city government and the World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization (WeGO), is expected to attract over 20,000 visitors, representing 140 companies, 64 countries and 91 cities.

One of the event's main programs, "Presentation for Your City," will offer a unique opportunity for one-on-one meetings between Korean ICT companies and international cities seeking solutions to urban challenges.

Through this initiative, 10 companies will directly showcase their technologies to representatives from 19 overseas cities.

This is the first time such a program has been featured at a domestic fair, providing a face-to-face platform for Korean ICT firms to present their solutions to global city markets and officials.

The city government hopes the program will open doors for Korean companies to enter international markets and enhance the global competitiveness of smart city innovators.

The second Seoul Smart City Prize ceremony will also take place during the event. Established in September 2022 by the city government and WeGO, the award aims to promote the vision of a smart city that addresses urban polarization and fosters inclusive growth, aligning with the city's philosophy of supporting the weak.

In its inaugural year, the prize drew 240 applications from 93 cities, institutions and companies worldwide.

This year's awards will be presented across 21 categories, focusing on people-centered innovation and technological advancement. Over 150 participants, including domestic and international city mayors, are expected to attend.

"We are making extensive preparations to offer citizens a glimpse of the future and provide companies with opportunities to explore global markets," Park Jin-young, head of the city's digital city bureau.

"We hope Smart Life Week will evolve into an innovative platform that enhances quality of life by connecting technology with people."