UK Innovators Invited to Build a 21st Century City in Korea

Cityscape of Seoul, South Korea.
13
Aug

If you have a solution that can help tackle issues like traffic congestion, mental health challenges, safety for vulnerable populations, or environmental concerns, we want to hear from you.

Thames Freeport and the Seoul Digital Foundation (SDF) are working in collaboration to scale smart city solutions in new markets. As part of this collaboration, Seoul Special City is seeking UK innovators in smart cities to trial their solutions in Korea following a renewed agreement between the two entities, underscoring their commitment to innovation and sustainable urban development.

Importance of Smart Cities

The future is smart, and cities worldwide are embracing technology to enhance urban life. Thames Freeport presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform the lives of Londoners and the boroughs to the east. At the forefront of this movement, Thames Freeport, in collaboration with the SDF is tackling urban challenges with innovative solutions.

Urban areas face significant challenges, including traffic congestion, pollution, and mental health issues. Smart city initiatives can address these problems by leveraging technology to create interconnected systems that improve residents’ quality of life. For instance, smart traffic management systems can reduce congestion and emissions, while digital platforms can offer mental health support and resources to prevent depression.

Visit our website for more information on the challenge areas and details on how to express your interest in joining the UK delegation to Korea. Together, we can build smarter, more sustainable cities for the future.

Thames Freeport and SDF’s Role

Thames Freeport and the SDF have committed to supporting international businesses developing smart city solutions to grow in the UK and Korea. Through targeted support to unlock new commercial opportunities from SDF and partners, innovative UK businesses will be provided with support to:

  • Network with Industry Leaders: Meet key businesses and government officials from Korea and around the world, through guided tours.
  • Benefit from Market Intelligence: Before you travel, curated introductions and guidance from an accelerator in the market to access to leading business support to help land and grow in Seoul.
  • Showcase Your Solutions: Present your technology to a global audience and explore potential partnerships.
  • Contribute to Global Initiatives: Be part of a movement that is shaping the future of urban living.
  • Take a Prominent Position at Seoul’s Smart Life Week Expo: Put your solutions in front of over 20,000 potential partners and customers.

This builds on a successful pilot program that brought six Korean smart cities solution providers to the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham earlier this year, with Thames Freeport, the Connected Places Catapult and other partners providing support services to accelerate access and opportunities to the UK market.

Insights from the Korean Pilot Delegation:

“Seeing the market firsthand and understanding the level of engagement required makes me believe we can make a difference in London,” said a member of the Korean delegation. “With public trials, we can localise our solutions to fit the city, society, and people perfectly. Everyone benefits—us, the city, and most importantly, the people.”

Join Us in Korea

We are calling on UK innovators with tech-ready solutions to address social challenges to join our delegation to Korea as part of Smart Life Week in October. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your innovations on an international stage, collaborate with key stakeholders, and contribute to building a smart city that tackles pressing urban challenges.

Why Thames Freeport is a Hub of Innovation

Thames Freeport is more than just a trade hub; it’s a beacon of innovation. By collaborating with the Seoul Digital Foundation, Thames Freeport is enhancing its role as a leader in smart city development. This initiative aligns with Thames Freeport’s mission to create a sustainable, tech-driven urban environment that sets new standards in efficiency and quality of life.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of something transformative. Join us in Korea and help shape the future of our cities.

Applications close 23 August 2024.

Apply Now.

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