International Design Competition – Public Space Design Project 2
Overview
The 2025 Big International Design Competition – Public Space Design Project 2 is an international, two-stage competition organized by Busan Metropolitan City and Design Council Busan. It seeks innovative public space design proposals under the theme “A Pause by the River”, focusing on a 2km site within the tentatively named Busan Design Special District. This initiative supports Busan’s vision to become an attractive and sustainable Global Hub City. The competition welcomes design teams worldwide to propose integrated placemaking and public goods designs that enhance user experience and urban connectivity.
Why You Should Participate
- Opportunity to design a prominent public space in Busan, South Korea, a leading global city.
- International exposure and recognition in a high-profile design competition.
- Advancement to Stage 2 includes a significant financial reward.
- The winning team will carry out design development, prototyping, installation, and supervision of at least seven public facilities.
- The project enhances your portfolio with a real-world, implemented urban design.
Key Highlights
- Theme: A Pause by the River
- Design Scope: One designated site in the Busan Design Special District (approx. 2km)
- Design Focus: Place Making + Public Goods Design
- Eligibility:
- Domestic/international firms or institutions with a proven track record in public design.
- Must have received a public design award in the past 3 years OR completed 3+ public design projects.
- Proof of qualifications (certificates, awards, etc.) may be required.
Entry Fees
| Entry Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application | Free |
Prizes and Recognition
| Stage | Reward | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 2 Advancement | KRW 40,000,000 | Each of the 2 selected teams |
| Final Winner | KRW 70,000,000 | Winning team proceeds with implementation |
| Realization | Included | Winning team leads detailed design, prototyping, installation, and supervision |
Submission Details
- Stage 1: Submission of proposal and qualifications.
- Stage 2: Detailed design submission by two shortlisted teams.
- Proposals must address:
- User behavior and needs
- Urban context and connectivity
- Public space utility and aesthetics
- Participants must submit via the official competition website.
Important Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Stage 1 Submission Period | 2 June – 30 June 2025 (until 18:00 KST) |
| Stage 2 Submission Deadline | 18 August 2025 (until 18:00 KST) |
How to Join
- Ensure your organization meets the eligibility criteria.
- Prepare required documents, including:
- Proof of qualifications (awards, project completion certificates)
- Public space design portfolio and application forms
- Submit your Stage 1 proposal via the official competition platform between 2–30 June 2025.
Judging Criteria
- Relevance to the theme “A Pause by the River”
- Design originality, quality, and sustainability
- Urban and environmental integration
- Functionality and user-centered design
- Feasibility and execution capability
- Prior experience and team qualifications
Registration Deadline
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