The Nature, Culture, and Design (NCD) International Advisory Board recently held meetings again in New York City for the 7th Semiannual NCD International Advisory Board Meeting. Participants met to discuss the progress of one of the world’s largest mixed-use development projects planned near Seoul, South Korea in Guri City. The multibillion-dollar development, called the NCD project, will include a central business and leisure district showcasing the Guri World Design Center (GWDC), a cultural district with several themed communities along the Han River, and a medical and education district including a state-of-the-art medical hospitality facility and prestigious international school.

Participants came to New York for an update on development progress as well as to give support and guidance for overall development. The NCD project continues to make positive progress and is in the review process by the Korean government. Members are excited for the opportunity to move the project forward in 2014.

Board members believe Guri City is an ideal location to build a design hub and destination city in Asia. Sixty percent of the world’s population is within a six hour flight from Seoul and Guri City. Some of the largest economies in the world are found in Northeast Asia including China, Japan, Russia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The most renowned and internationally know urban planning, architecture, and interior design firms accommodate most of the development projects in Asia. As a result, the largest design market is located in Asia. The GWDC will serve as an access point for international businesses and the growing market opportunities found throughout Asia.