Top 10 Finalists Champion Global Sustainability
From a staggering 1,200 submissions spanning 91 countries, the Seoul Design Award 2026 has identified ten exceptional finalists. These projects illuminate the path toward sustainable living by addressing critical social and environmental issues. On October 14, the finalists will bring their innovative creations to life at the iconic Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul, where they will face a live evaluation that breaks from the confines of traditional closed-door judging.
A distinct feature this year is the integration of global public participation through an online voting system. This initiative allows viewers worldwide to cast their votes, contributing to a dynamic discussion on the future of sustainable design alongside the expert jury.
Influential Jury Leads On-Stage Insights
The Seoul Design Award holds a vital place in Seoul’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Design, focusing on projects impactful in social and ecological terms. A notable nine-member jury, including figures like Mauro Porcini, Sungwon Jee, Andrea Cancellato, and Martin Zelger, will guide the live competition. This year, the event introduces a new focus with three designboom Special Prize winners, who will receive dedicated editorial coverage to amplify their project’s reach.
If you’re interested in architecture and multifunctional spaces, check out how Gary Chang transforms small apartments into dynamic living areas using innovative designs.
This captivating event is part of the larger Seoul Design Conference 2026: THINK · MAKE · CHANGE, a full-day exploration of how creative industries adapt to global transformations. In addition to live competition, insights will be shared by inaugural ESG Design Impact Award winners, examining their corporate strategies for sustainability.
The conference will also feature a special session with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) that delves into global policies for electronics circularity. As the day concludes, attendees will get an exclusive preview of the World Design Congress Seoul 2027, capped by the unveiling of its dynamic new brand identity.
The Seoul Design Award’s Focus on Material Innovation for a Circular Economy
The ingenuity of the top 10 finalists is showcased in designs that promote resilience and circular economies. Projects like the Otter Newborn Warmer and WheeLog! champion social impact, with one providing essential neonatal care and the other enhancing urban accessibility for wheelchair users. Community and cultural renewal shine in works such as Kampung Mrican Phase 1, which focuses on revitalizing a Yogyakarta village, and the Na-Eh Karen Cultural Market, a platform for Indigenous identity and sustainable food practices. Meanwhile, Suber Design transforms recycled cork into furniture, blending material transformation with inclusive social practices.
Material and industrial advancements are at the core of other finalist projects. Lavazza Group’s Tablì reimagines coffee consumption by eliminating plastic and aluminum waste. LAKAT Sustainable Sneakers repurposes agricultural by-products into eco-friendly footwear. On a systems level, ET35 and SMALLrevolution provide significant innovations in waste management, while ReefCircular’s Reef Tiles use advanced designs to aid in restoring marine ecosystems.
For another perspective on design transformations, discover how Gustaf Westman crafts playful ceramics by transforming traditional materials into modern-day coffee makers.
As public voting for the Seoul Design Award 2026 continues until October 7, 2026, each project offers a unique lens on redefining sustainability in design, encouraged by a communal global effort under @seouldesignaward.
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
Who are some of the Seoul Design Award jury members?
The nine-member jury includes figures like Mauro Porcini, Sungwon Jee, Andrea Cancellato, and Martin Zelger.
What is the Seoul Design Award’s focus for 2026?
The Seoul Design Award 2026 focuses on projects that are impactful in social and ecological terms, particularly those promoting resilience and circular economies.
How can the global public participate in the Seoul Design Award 2026?
The global public can participate through an online voting system, allowing viewers worldwide to cast their votes and contribute to a dynamic discussion on sustainable design.