Seoul Design Award 2025 Submission Deadline Approaching
The Seoul Design Foundation is excited to remind all talented designers that the submission period for the Seoul Design Award 2025 is quickly coming to a close. Designers from every corner of the globe are warmly welcomed to participate and submit their innovative works before the deadline arrives.
Increasing Participation and Recognition
Now entering its sixth year, the Seoul Design Award has experienced remarkable growth, with submissions surging from 75 entries in 2019 to an impressive 575 from 65 different countries in the previous year. This goal of fostering global creativity and honoring design excellence remains paramount.
Categories Reflecting Sustainable Development
The award aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and encompasses four inspiring categories: Health & Peace, Equal Opportunities, Energy & Environment, and Cities & Communities. This year, the competition has expanded its participation criteria, inviting not only individual designers but also organizations, groups, and companies worldwide to submit their entries.
Substantial Rewards Await Winners
The competition this year has also notably increased the number of winners, with a total of 61 awards being announced—38 more than in 2024. Competing for a share of 150 million KRW in prize money, winners will receive various awards, including a remarkable Grand Prize of 50 million KRW, along with 10 million KRW for each of the nine Best of the Best winners and 5 million KRW for Concept Award recipients.
Diverse Award Divisions and Their Significance
Submissions will be recognized across three primary categories: Main Awards for fully implemented projects or products, Concept Awards tailored for prototypes or unreleased designs—also open to university students—and an Honorary Award dedicated to commendable international contributions toward sustainable design. Additionally, two special prizes will be awarded for excellence in collaborative efforts across organizations.
Innovative Live Judging Process
This year introduces an exciting live judging component to determine the Grand Prize winner, allowing the top 10 finalists to present their work directly to both jurors and the public during the award ceremony. This method of real-time evaluation is designed to enhance transparency and engagement in the award process. The judging panel has expanded significantly, now consisting of 32 members representing over 20 countries.
Renowned Jury Members
Among the distinguished jurors are:
- Ezio Manzini from Italy, President of DESIS and a renowned authority on design for social innovation.
- Patricia Moore from the USA, President of Moore Design Associates.
- Pradyumna Vyas from India, the incoming President of the World Design Organization.
- Dawn Lim from Singapore, Executive Director of the Design Singapore Council.
- Kun-Pyo Lee from Korea, a professor at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, noted for his human-centered UX design approach.
- EunSook Kwon from Korea, Chair of Industrial Design at Georgia Institute of Technology and an influential figure in the field.
Kangheui Cha’s Vision for the Award
Kangheui Cha, CEO of the Seoul Design Foundation, expressed, "The Seoul Design Award represents a unique platform to celebrate designs that foster harmony among people, communities, and nature. Our mission is to continuously unearth groundbreaking ideas that spark positive transformation in society."
Submission Details and Important Dates
Submissions are open from March 17 through June 30, 2025, with a deadline set at 3:00 PM KST. The award ceremony will occur in October 2025 at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP). It’s essential to note that entries must be submitted in English.
For further details, please refer to the official website for submission guidelines and additional information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Seoul Design Award 2025?
The Seoul Design Award 2025 recognizes innovative designs that contribute positively to society and the environment, aligned with UN SDGs.
When is the deadline for submission?
The submission deadline is June 30, 2025, at 3:00 PM KST.
Who can participate in the award?
The award is open to individual designers as well as organizations, groups, and companies from around the world.
What are the main categories for the award?
There are four categories: Health & Peace, Equal Opportunities, Energy & Environment, and Cities & Communities.
How many winners will be announced?
There will be a total of 61 winners in the competition this year, a significant increase from previous years.
