Seoul has plans for the metaverse
The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced in November it’s plans on being the first city to enter the metaverse, under the name “Seoul Metaverse”. The goal is to integrate the city’s administration and the population through a virtual communication system, breaking geographic barriers and offering events, services and tourism in the metaverse.
The initiative is part of Seoul Vision 2030, a plan put forward by mayor Oh Se-hoon, that intends on bringing more efforts into socioeconomic development. The implementation of the metaverse will be divided into three phases starting in 2022, with estimated investment of $3.9 billion wons throughout five years.
The first major virtual event will be the start of 2022. Traditionally, the arrival of the new year is marked by the Bosingak Belfry bells, this time it will happen simultaneously in the metaverse. Starting in 2023, all the city’s main events will follow this format and people around the world will be able to attend.
Tourist attractions will also have their spotlight, even constructions lost to time. One of them is Donuimun Gate, which was destroyed in 1915 during Japan’s dominion over Korea.
In 2023, Metaverse 120 Centre will make its debut. There, public officials will be available to provide consultations through avatars. Up until now, civil services were only available at Seoul City Hall.
There is still much to be developed and adapted, from technology to laws and regulations. Seoul is pioneering the way to the metaverse, but soon we might see many other cities follow its steps.
