BC Wood Korea and Korea Institute of Architects Luncheon Meeting

Meeting with the Newly Appointed KIA Leadership

On April 29, 2026, BC Wood Korea Representative JC Lee had a luncheon meeting with the leadership of the Korea Institute of Architects (KIA) to discuss ongoing cooperation in support of carbon neutrality policies and the promotion of wood utilization.

Key discussion points included:

  1. KIA executives and member firms will participate in the Global Buyers Mission (GBM), organized by BC Wood, to expand international exchange opportunities for architects and related industries, while enhancing understanding of the Canadian wood industry and wood construction practices. To support this initiative, they will join the GBM Information Session and Networking Event at the Embassy of Canada to Korea on June 12, where they will also have opportunities to network with major Korean associations and leading importers and distributors of wood products.
  2. BC Wood Korea, in cooperation with the BC Wood Japan Office, plans to develop a customized Extend Mission program for Korean and Japanese architects. The program will encourage exchanges among leading architects from Korea and Japan. During the GBM main event, participants will have opportunities to explore new wood products from Canadian exhibitors, network with buyers from 25 countries, and attend seminars by distinguished speakers through the Wood Talks program. The event is expected to provide participants with a highly meaningful experience in international exchange and the latest wood industry trends.
  3. Looking ahead, BC Wood plans to continue organizing seminars in conjunction with Canadian companies’ visits to Korea, including events such as Korea Build Week, while further strengthening cooperation related to carbon neutrality initiatives and the promotion of wood utilization.

 

Meanwhile, KIA currently has 6,096 member firms as of 2026. Through a seminar held last February, KIA successfully generated strong interest and positive responses from its members regarding the use of wood products in architecture and construction.

From left, Chairman Park SangJin (KIA), Senior Vice Chairman Yu JaiDeuk (KIA), JC Lee (BC Wood Korea Rep.), and Vice Finance Chairman Lee SooYeol (KIA)

About: KIA
Korean Institute of Architects
The Korean Institute of Architects (KIA) was established in 1957 with the mission of fostering and educating architects, protecting their professional rights, and promoting mutual collaboration among its members. As the official national member organization of the International Union of Architects (UIA), KIA represents the Republic of Korea on the international stage. Through the domestic and international exchange of architectural knowledge, experience, and information, the Institute contributes to the public good and seeks to advance architectural culture and promote the sustainable development of the architectural services industry.

As of 2026, KIA is a professional organization comprising 6,092 registered architect members. The Institute successfully hosted the 26th UIA World Congress of Architects in Seoul in 2017, and further strengthened its international standing by hosting the UIA Council Meeting in Seoul in 2025, reinforcing Korea’s position within the global architectural community.

In addition, through the annual Korea International Architecutre Festival(KIAF), KIA organizes a wide range of awards, exhibitions, seminars, and public engagement programs, including the KIA Awards, Special Awards, KIA Gold Medal, KIA International Competition, and the 100 Architects of the Year International Invitational Exhibition. Through these initiatives, the Institute actively promotes the globalization of K-Architecture, enhances the professional standing of architects, and raises public awareness and appreciation of architecture.