The Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Design Foundation have officially announced the open call for the Seoul Design Award 2026, inviting designers worldwide to submit innovative projects that contribute to sustainable daily life.
Now in its seventh edition, the award continues to position itself as a leading international platform recognizing design solutions that address pressing social and environmental challenges. The initiative aligns with the principles of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), encouraging creative approaches that foster harmony between people, society, and the environment.
Focus on Impactful, Sustainable Design
The competition welcomes submissions from individual designers, teams, and organizations across the globe. Eligible works include projects completed within the past five years, spanning product, visual, digital, spatial, and service design, among others.
Participants can apply in three main categories:
- Main Award – for completed and market-ready projects
- Young Designer Award – for concepts, prototypes, and early-stage ideas
- ESG Design Impact Award – recognizing corporate contributions to sustainable design
The award emphasizes key themes such as health and well-being, equal opportunities, environmental sustainability, and community-focused innovation.
Significant recognition and benefits
The Seoul Design Award 2026 will recognize over 60 winners, with a total prize fund of approximately 150 million KRW. Top distinctions include a Grand Prize, Best of the Best awards, and finalist recognitions.
Beyond financial rewards, winners gain international exposure through global media promotion, expert feedback, and participation in networking events. Additional benefits include invitations to the award ceremony, publication opportunities, and inclusion in official archives.
Key Dates
- Submission period: March 30 – June 30, 2026
- Screening process: July – September 2026
- Winners announcement: September 2026
- Award ceremony: October 2026
- Prize disbursement: December 2026
Open to the Global Design Community
Participation in the Seoul Design Award is free of charge, reinforcing its accessibility and commitment to supporting diverse voices in design. All submissions must be completed in English via the official award website.
With entries previously received from nearly 100 countries, the Seoul Design Award continues to expand its global reach—bringing together designers dedicated to shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future through design.
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