「Everyone is Architecture, and Everyone is an Architect.」

 

As I take on the position of representing the Association, I feel both the weight of responsibility and a sense of excitement about opening a new horizon for architecture in Korea. Today, our architectural community stands at a major turning point marked by rapid technological change and the diversification of social demands. I would like to express my deep gratitude to all the members who have entrusted me with the important responsibility of serving as President at such a time.

 

Our Association was founded in 1957, and next year will mark its 70th anniversary. Since its founding, many Honorary Presidents and senior members have built the history and tradition of the Association and continue to encourage and support the development of architectural culture. I would also like to extend my special thanks to President Han Young-Keun, who has led the Association well over the past two years.

 

Over the past twenty years of working within the Association, I have always believed that the core values of our activities are participation and service. Drawing upon my experiences in the Association and the network of relationships I have built, I intend to walk a greater path of service for the development of the Association.

 

In the midst of the waves of change, the following are the key directions we will pursue to find the right course for Korean architecture.

 

First, we will expand our social contribution.

The Association will fulfill the social responsibility of architects by enhancing the quality of architectural culture and ensuring that all citizens can experience and enjoy architecture. We will take a more proactive and practical voice on social issues and present constructive alternatives. In particular, we will strengthen our institutional capacity related to laws and policies so that the expertise of architects can be sufficiently reflected in the process of establishing architectural policies.

We will also strengthen various architectural culture programs, including architectural tours and experiential programs that allow the general public to more easily enjoy architecture, as well as educational and public service programs for ordinary citizens and socially disadvantaged groups.

It is often said that “film is the art of the director, drama is the art of the writer, and theater is the art of the actor.” Then whose art is architecture? I believe architecture is the art of everyone. Everyone is architecture, and everyone is an architect.

We will do our best so that all citizens may enjoy architectural culture.

 

Second, we will respond proactively to technological innovation.

I believe the greatest consideration for our members is education. The Association will strengthen educational programs for both members and the general public so that we may present a vision for the future and lead technological development.

The advancement of AI has the potential to fundamentally change the role of architects. The Association will more actively support architects so they can creatively utilize new tools by preparing educational programs and ethical guidelines regarding these technological changes.

Our Association will become a key driving force in creating a better living environment and sustainable communities.

 

Third, we will strengthen communication and cooperation with our members.

It is said that Shakespeare, the great writer representing England, once stopped in front of a humble grave by the roadside while passing through an unknown rural village and remarked, “The person buried here might have been Shakespeare.”

Perhaps this means that a person’s destiny may change depending on the environment in which they are born and raised.

The tendency for outstanding architects and works to be concentrated in the metropolitan area or certain large cities still remains a challenge. The Association will work harder to strengthen the foundation of regional architects’ activities and foster architectural culture reflecting regional characteristics.

We will faithfully serve as an agent for our members—revitalizing regional architecture, discovering new talent through emerging platforms, ensuring the Association belongs to its members, providing practical benefits to members, and placing the protection of members’ rights as the highest priority.

We will become a reliable partner accompanying members on their architectural journeys.

 

“When walking across a snow-covered field, do not walk carelessly.”

踏雪野中去 不須胡亂行

 

“For the footprints I leave today will become the path for those who come after.”

今日我行蹟 遂作後人程

 

This poem was also adopted as a personal motto by Kim Gu, who emphasized the power of culture. I, too, keep these words in mind whenever I approach my work.

 

Speed requires direction, and achievement requires meaning.

Without hesitation, I will take each step in the right direction with purpose and meaning.

I hope to share this great journey with all of you.

Together, we gain strength and hope.

Thank you.

 

Park, Sang Jin

President

Korean Institute of Architects

February 25, 2026