The Republic of Korea has been a longstanding and valued partner of the World Bank Group, sharing its experience in rapid economic growth and high-density urbanization through knowledge, technical expertise, and financial support. Since 2018, the Global Smart City Partnership Program (GSCP) has supported more than 65 engagements across over 40 countries and facilitated more than 70 knowledge activities, helping World Bank teams and client countries advance smart city development. Building on these achievements, the program transitioned in 2026 to the Livable Cities Lab, broadening its focus from "smart cities" to practical urban digital interventions that improve infrastructure, service delivery, and urban management. The Livable Cities Lab leverages the knowledge, tools, and implementation experience developed through GSCP to help teams identify and scale digital solutions that make cities more livable, efficient, and responsive to residents' needs.
