Step into Seoul 2040
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Step into Seoul 2040 *
Welcome to Seoul 2040, an event where urban leaders from different timelines meet to share visions, strategies and solutions for better futures for our cities.
A guide to the futures
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A guide to the futures *
Timeline Divergence
Normally, we are only aware of our own timeline, but researchers have discovered alternate futures that diverged from our “prime” timeline after the Metropolis 40th Anniversary Congress in 2025. Using a device called the Alternate Futures Temporal Effect Revealer (A.F.T.E.R.), representatives from these alternate timelines can backcast and gather for this first-of-its-kind summit. This groundbreaking experiment allows each participant to be a pioneer in shaping their city’s future.
The field of Futures Archeology was born out of this discovery. This innovative field uses many of the same tools and methods as strategic foresight, such as analyzing horizons, signals, drivers, and scenarios. This conference will draw heavily on these concepts from strategic foresight to help participants better understand and prepare for the future.
Participating Timelines
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Participating Timelines *
You will engage with representatives from four distinct futures, each timeline shaped by their own drivers of change and actions:
Baseline
Futures much like our “prime” timeline, where systems continue along today’s path with only minor changes.
New Equilibrium
Futures that show some intentional change. However, competing drivers of change have prevented complete transformation. The result is a balanced, mixed-result that looks significantly different from Baseline.
Transformation
Futures that are almost unrecognizable, with new systems replacing old ones through technological and social leaps. Many see this as “preferable,” though it’s not for everyone.
Decline
Futures where systems are no longer fit for purpose, and begin to struggle or collapse. Often an advanced stage of Baseline Continuation, but with systems in further decline.
We have invited representatives from each of these groups to share how their specific area of expertise has evolved in their timeline. The topics covered are:
Social
Futures where no one is left behind, aiming for cities that celebrate care, erase inequality, and ensure every community thrives.
Innovation
Bold technological and social innovation ideas from across timelines, with creative, people-powered solutions that reshape city life for the better.
Climate
Metropolises in harmony with nature, that are resilient, adaptive, and powered by circular systems that sustain life.
Governance
Leadership that listens, including responsive, transparent systems shaped by the voices of all inhabitants.
Urbanism
Cities designed for living, with spaces that reflect community identity, balance urban–rural life, and grow sustainably.
Be prepared for surprises, as a single word might have a completely different meaning in another timeline. Proceed with curiosity.
Futures Cheat Sheet
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Futures Cheat Sheet *
In a future where collapse is concrete reality, or where humanity is starting to tackle climate change, words don’t ring the same bells and emotions. What does “social”, “governance” or “technology” mean to them ?
Contribute to the 2040 Time Capsule
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Contribute to the 2040 Time Capsule *
Before you leave, don’t forget to prepare your contribution for the 2040 Time Capsule.
This special archive will hold the hopes, fears, provocations and guest records from the Prime Timeline 2025, providing a unique record of what you think the future holds.
What to contribute:
Written reflections
Symbols, drawings, or speculative headlines
Quotes or prompts from Summit sessions
Digital or physical artifacts
Ideas to get you started:
What truth or lesson from 2025 is most important for the future?
What imagined future do you want someone to discover in 2045?
Final submission details will be announced during the summit. Get ready to leave your legacy.
