AS 2022 UCLG World Congress is almost a year away, Daejeon Metropolitan City has rolled up its sleeves for its preparation. Daejeon is working on programme development and side events, along with securing accommodations and transportation for visitors. In particular, the city is also exploring alternative ways to host the event, considering the possibility of hybrid conference in case the virus is here to stay.
Daejeon was nominated as the next host at the 6th UCLG World Congress in Durban. It is the second ASPAC member city to be selected after Jeju, the 2nd host city. This was possible not only because of Daejeon’s willingness and determination to attract the Congress, but also because of the support shown by ASPAC Secretary General, World Secretariat, and other city and local governments members.
Daejeon will use this opportunity to secure its international recognition by promoting its position as a science capital and smart city. For more than two decades, Daejeon has been the president city of the World Federation of Science and Cities (WTA) and hosted many international events, such as the International Atomic Energy Conference (IAEA FEC) in 2010, OECD Ministerial Meeting in 2015, and World Science and Technology Forum in 2015. During the upcoming Congress, various meetings and smart city exhibitions will be held.
Daejeon is preparing various events to make this event fit for the largest international event ever held in Daejeon since the 1993 Daejeon Expo. An annual occasion known as the Science Festival will be held during the same period, and there will also be activities and events for member cities and participants, ranging from K-pop concerts and hands-on experience.
Chung Chae Gun, Secretary General of Daejeon UCLG Organising Committee, commented he will continue to closely cooperate with UCLG World Secretariat and UCLG ASPAC to ensure a successful Congress. He also called for strong interest and support from ASPAC members.
