South Korea’s 2026 K-City Network Launches AI Smart City Projects in Southeast Asia

South Korea's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport has officially launched the 2026 K-City Network Planning Project Competition. This flagship program aims to export South Korea’s advanced urban models by providing customized consulting and financial support to international governments. Up to four projects will be selected this year, with each receiving as much as 700 million KRW to fund essential planning and feasibility studies for smart infrastructure.

The 2026 cycle places a heavy emphasis on artificial intelligence integrations within Southeast Asia, targeting nations like Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, and Malaysia. These projects will transform urban environments through AI-powered platforms for water management and automated traffic control systems designed to reduce chronic gridlock. By deploying these technologies in specific urban hubs, South Korea hopes to set the regional standard for future infrastructure development.

Selected partners will benefit from a comprehensive package that covers the entire development lifecycle from master planning to technical execution. The Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation manages the program, ensuring foreign city needs are matched with capable Korean technology providers. Beyond technical reports, the initiative includes invitational training programs where partner country officials visit existing smart hubs like Songdo and Busan to gain practical operational knowledge.

Eligibility is open to central and local governments as well as international organizations, with applications accepted year-round via the official K-City Network website. Priority is given to projects with high viability, such as those that have already secured land or national budget support. This ensures that the consulting phase leads directly to commercial implementation and physical infrastructure growth. Proposals that highlight a history of cooperation with Korean public institutions or private companies are highly encouraged. This collaborative framework allows for the rapid identification of urban pain points and the swift deployment of tested solutions. As urbanization continues to accelerate globally, these partnerships provide a sustainable path toward modernization using proven high-tech ecosystems.