Speakers

Keynote Speech

Riken Yamamoto

Japan

Renowned Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto (山本理顕) was born in Beijing, China in 1945 Celebrated for his innovative designs and contributions to architecture, his designs often emphasize community interaction and sustainable architecture.

He is a recipient of the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2024. He earned his bachelor's degree from Nihon University in 1967 and a master's degree from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1971. He also studied under Hiroshi Hara at the University of Tokyo. In 1973, he founded Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop Co., Ltd. He has held teaching positions at several institutions, including Yokohama National University and Nihon University. He also served as the president of Nagoya Zokei University of Art & Design from 2018 to 2022. Some of his significant projects include the Yokosuka Museum of Art, Namics Techno Core, and Future University Hakodate Research Building. Yamamoto has received numerous accolades, including the Architectural Institute of Japan Award and the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2024. In 2025, he was honored with the Crystal Award.

Keynote Forum

Lee Sang Leem

Korea / City architect of Incheon, Space group

Lee Sang Leem is a prominent Korean architect who served as the chairman of Space Group, one of Korea's most influential architectural firms. Lee Sang Leem is a key figure at Space Group, contributing to its legacy of innovative and culturally significant architectural designs. He has been involved in various projects that emphasize the integration of art, culture, and architecture.

Lee has participated in projects like the SAVINA Museum of Contemporary Art, where he collaborated with other architects and artists to create a space that harmonizes natural light, structure, and the surrounding environment. As a leader of Space Group, Lee Sang Leem has been instrumental in promoting architecture that embodies humanism and cultural values. The firm under his guidance continues to focus on creating spaces that inspire and connect communities. He also served as the president of KIA ( Korea Institute of Architects).

Special Lecture1

David-Pierre Jalicon

France

David-Pierre Jalicon is a renowned French architect who has made significant contributions to architecture in Korea. Some of his iconic works include the Aqua-Art Bridge near the Seoul Arts Center, the French School in Sorae Maeul, the Maison Cartier, and the RSM Tower. He has also designed flagship stores for luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Omega2.

Jalicon arrived in Korea in 1996 and established his architectural firm, DPJ & Partners, which operates in both Seoul and Paris. His firm specializes in architecture, interior design, and engineering, with a focus on integrating traditional values like geomancy and Confucianism into contemporary designs. Jalicon has received prestigious awards such as the Grand Prix d’Architecture from the Beaux-Arts Academy and the Pierre Cardin Architectural Prize. He was also honored as an honorary citizen of Seoul in 2006 and received the French Order of Arts and Letters. In addition to his architectural work, Jalicon serves as the chairman of the French-Korean Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), promoting cultural and business exchanges between France and Korea

Special Lecture2

Kim Hong Shin

novelist of Korea

Kim Hongshin is a celebrated South Korean novelist, known for his impactful storytelling and exploration of social issues. Kim's writing often delves into political oppression, social injustice, and the human condition, resonating deeply with readers and critics alike. His most famous work, ‘Human Market’, was serialized from 1981 to 1989. This novel gained widespread popularity for its honest depiction of the struggles of the petit bourgeois and the contradictions of modern society. His works have been celebrated for their cultural and literary significance, making him a prominent figure in Korean literature. Born in 1947, Kim Hongshin made his literary debut in 1976 with the publication of ‘Bonjeondaek’ in a influential Literary magazine - Hyundae Munhak.

Special Lecture3

TBD

Special Lecture4

Angela Lee

FAIA from Singapore

Angela Lee is a distinguished architect and a key figure at HKS, one of the largest architectural design firms in the United States. Based in Singapore, she serves as the Managing Director for the Asia Pacific, Europe, and Middle East regions. As a Partner at HKS, Angela has been instrumental in leading healthcare design projects globally. She established HKS Singapore in 2016 and oversees the firm's operations across the Asia Pacific region.

Angela graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1994. Angela's portfolio includes award-winning healthcare facilities and innovative designs. Some of her projects include the Rabat Ibn Sina Hospital and ParkwayHealth Gleneagles Chengdu Hospital. Angela has been recognized as a thought leader in healthcare design. She was elevated to the AIA College of Fellows in 2022. Angela is a LEED Accredited Professional and holds qualifications in Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification. She is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, and served on the Urban Land Institute’s Women’s Leadership Initiative (WLI) Steering Committee. Additionally, she serves on the board of Global Health Charity based in Detroit, Michigan and Mosaic Family Services based in Dallas, Texas.

Special Lecture5

Andra Matin

Indonesia

Andra Matin, (AKA Isandra Matin), is a prominent Indonesian architect celebrated for his modern and clean architectural style. Andra Matin has received numerous accolades, including multiple IAI (Indonesian Architects Association) Awards. His work has been showcased in international exhibitions such as the Venice Architecture Biennale and GA Gallery in Tokyo.

Born in Bandung, Indonesia, in 1962, Andra Matin graduated from Parahyangan Catholic University in 1988 with a degree in architecture. In 1998, he founded his own firm, Andramatin, based in Jakarta. His work spans residential projects, large-scale buildings, furniture design, and urban planning. Some of his iconic works include the Potato Head Beach Club in Bali, Banyuwangi Airport, Gelora Bung Karno Aquatic Center, and the Museum Lokananta in Solo. His designs are known for their modernist approach and sensitivity to tropical climates. His projects have been featured in various architectural publications, and he has authored books like Haikk! and Obrigado. He is also the founder of "Rabu(n) Senja," a monthly discussion series on architecture and related fields.

Special Session 1

Kim Jae Kyung

architect/ professor of Korea

Kim Jaekyung is a distinguished architect, researcher, and educator, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at Hanyang University. He is the founder and design director of JK-AR, an architectural research and design studio based in Seoul. His work focuses on reimagining East Asian timber architecture, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Some of his acclaimed works include the "House of Three Trees" (2019), "Pavilion of Floating Lights" (2022), and "House for Rejuvenation" (2025). These projects showcase his innovative approach to timber architecture and sustainable design.

Kim Jaekyung graduated from Hanyang University with a degree in Architectural Engineering. He later pursued a Master of Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he received the prestigious Imre Halasz Thesis Prize for his outstanding master's thesis. Kim has received numerous accolades, including the Honor Award from the Canadian Wood Council's Wood Design & Building Awards (2023), the Grand Prize at the Korean Wood Design Awards (2019 and 2022), and the Eom Deok-Mun Prize from the Korean Institute of Architects (2019).

Special Session 2

Hanok Symposium

Directions for the Development of Traditional Architecture

Heritage Committee, among others

Special Session 3

KIRA INCHEON

KIRA INCHEON

The Past, Present, and Future of Incheon Architecture