302 companies from 52 countries, 110 cities take part

Oh Se-hoon: SLW offers answer to 'people-centered innovation'

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and attendees pose for a photo at the opening ceremony of Smart Life Week (SLW) 2026 at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on Monday. [Seoul Metropolitan Government]
Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and attendees pose for a photo at the opening ceremony of Smart Life Week (SLW) 2026 at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on Monday. [Seoul Metropolitan Government]

Smart Life Week 2026 drew more than 87,000 visitors over three days at COEX in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, from Monday through Wednesday, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced. The turnout marked a roughly 45 percent increase from the approximately 60,000 who attended last year's event.

This year's event brought together 302 companies and 101 organizations from 52 countries and 110 cities to share AI-driven urban innovation experiences and technology. Particularly notable was the business matchmaking program, which facilitated 379 consultations to help South Korean companies explore overseas expansion.

A total of 91 domestic and international buyers participated, examining innovative technologies from South Korean firms and discussing possibilities for market entry and investment cooperation. The event also served as a forum where city officials, companies and experts from around the world gathered to share future urban technologies — including AI, robotics and smart mobility — and explore collaborative solutions to urban challenges.

This year, the Seoul Metropolitan Government placed physical AI — systems that move and operate in real-world environments — at the center of the event. The Seoul AI Robot Show featured humanoid robots alongside quadruped, wearable and service robots, and offered hands-on programs where visitors could experience robot performances, sports and remote operation firsthand.

Building on the business outcomes, global city exchanges and public engagement seen at this year's event, the city plans to develop SLW into a global AI platform shared by citizens, companies and cities worldwide. It also intends to provide follow-up support to help business consultations held at the event translate into actual contracts, pilot projects and investment.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said SLW was "the occasion where Seoul offered 'people-centered innovation' as its answer to the question of who technology should serve."


ken@heraldcorp.com