Seoul Foundation’s Expansion of Public Art Infrastructure

In 2024, the Seoul Foundation for Arts and Culture (SFAC) expanded its public art programs, funding large-scale installations across urban spaces and launching new artist residency programs. The expansion was backed by increased municipal budgets, underscoring Seoul’s commitment to integrating culture into everyday urban life.

The projects ranged from interactive digital installations in city squares to community-focused murals and sculptures in underrepresented neighborhoods. The aim was not only aesthetic but also social: to increase inclusivity, foster dialogue, and embed art into the rhythms of the city.

This expansion illustrated the power of municipal investment in shaping cultural ecosystems. By funding public art at scale, SFAC created platforms for artists to experiment while also ensuring that cultural experiences were accessible to all citizens, not just gallery-goers. The initiative reflected a belief that culture should be a public utility, woven into the fabric of daily life.