AI and Social Robot in Universal Design City
The world we exist in consists of matter and spirit. Materials can be connected to robots and minds can be connected to AI, and a society where these two coexist is coming. Depending on how artificial intelligence combines with the most important nature of humans, our future can be either dystopia or utopia. In order to contribute to opening up a positive future with robots and technology, I would like to introduce the experience of conducting research and business on trans-advanced artificial intelligence robots.Design in the Era of Disruptive Paradigm Shift
In today’s world, we’re facing a rapid paradigm shift. This presentation focuses on the role and significance of design in the midst of such changes and the future direction of urban public design. My personal experiences on paradigm shifts in the realm of design come into play in assessing the past and the present. The presentation also aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas on how we should change and adapt in the face of the paradigm shift.
Universal Design for Public Space
Korea's aging population has increased rapidly since 2000, and it is expected to become a full-fledged aged society around 2018. The Third Basic Plan for Aging Society with Low Fertility, announced on October 18, 2015, includes various plans, such as reviewing the age classification for elderly from 65 to 70 years old. This shows that the aging of the population is recognized as a full-fledged social phenomenon, and that policy preparations are in progress. The concept and principle of universal design as a social phenomenon As awareness of our aging society increases, the application of universal design is also increasing. The first attempt at Universal Design was initiated by the Danish Parents' Association for Disabilities, and later emerged in 1970 as Barrier Free Design and Inclusive Design. The term ‘Universal Design’ was first introduced in Korea around 2000. The concept of universal design was defined by Ron Mace, director of the Universal Design Center at the University of North Carolina, as "designing products, spaces, or buildings that are considered for use by as many people as possible." The same concept was called Barrier-Free Design in Japan. Europe uses the terms Inclusive Design and Design for All. Universal design is an environmental safety design that provides a convenient and fair opportunity for anyone, regardless of age, gender, nationality, or disability, and covers a wide range of areas, including education, culture, information and services.[Special Discussion] Landmarks, the Engine of Urban Competitiveness
[Chair] We are joined by three key figures closely associated with the design city Seoul and its central hub, DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza). DDP has now undoubtedly become a global landmark. First, we have Mayor Oh Se-hoon of Seoul, who oversees the city’s transformation into an attractive design-centered metropolis, including the establishment of DDP. Next, we are joined by Prof. Dr. Peter Zec, Chairman of Red Dot, who officially designated Seoul as the World Design Capital in 2010 during his role as the founding chair of WDC. Lastly, we have Craig Kiner, Associate Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, who was the lead architect of the DDP project.
The Research of Universal Design for the solution of Regional problems with aging
Compared with global trends, Korean society is aging very rapidly. We are already entering a super-aged society, and we need to confront the seriousness of the issue. Aging is more prominent in rural areas, and the proportion of the elderly living alone is also increasing - the number is expected to increase steadily from 6.9% of the total households in 2013 to 15.4% in 2035. It should be noted that women account for 75 to 83% of these single-person households. Judging by these figures, future universal design should consider not only age-friendly design but women-friendly design as well.
Village for the developmentally disabled
What factors cause family members with children with developmental disabilities to face discomfort in the city and surrounding areas? In order to help spread universal awareness, we must observe and take a deep interest in every sector of society. Taking the case of the family of a 20-year-old who lost vision in one eye due to ankylosing cerebral palsy and has an autistic disorder. Despite the fact that they face many difficulties, their opinions are not passed to the community smoothly, due to their difficulties in communication. Intellectual disability is a blind spot even in the disability-related community when communication is difficult and needs are varied. Children with developmental disabilities spend their childhood in the community and school age in institutions or schools, but after reaching adulthood, they have nowhere to go. Most of them stay at home or move to care facilities. Recently, as the level of needs of people with developmental disabilities increases, the proportion of people who want to stay together in the community is increasing. However, the reality is that there is no place to go for education and no facilities.