Daily Busan
Busan sets a blueprint for 15-minute cities
Carlos Moreno, who popularized the 15-minute city concept, had high praise for Busan's urban development policies.
Carlos Moreno, the renowned scholar behind the 15-minute city concept, visited Busan from March 23 to 24 to experience the city's urban development firsthand.
A professor at the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne, Mr. Moreno introduced the 15-minute city concept in 2015. The model envisions cities where residents can access essential services, such as work, shopping, healthcare, education, and leisure, within a 15-minute walk or bike ride from their homes. The idea promotes sustainable, human-centric urban living by reducing car dependency, enhancing local economies, and improving overall quality of life.
Mr. Moreno's connection with Busan began in 2022 when he participated in an online discussion with Mayor Heong-joon Park regarding the city's 15-minute city initiative. Later that year, he visited Busan for the World Knowledge Forum, where he praised the city's urban planning efforts.
Mr. Moreno visiting children at the Deullak Nallak in City Hall.
On his most recent visit, Mr. Moreno witnessed Busan's plans come to life. On March 23, he visited the Deullak Nallak children's center in Busan City Hall and the Cheongnyeon Jakdangso in Jung-gu District.
The Deullak Nallak program is a key pillar of the initiative, as it provides educational and cultural experiences for children throughout the city. The Cheongnyeon Jakdangso is a culture, leisure and work space for young adults.
The following day, Mr. Moreno explored Danggam Linear Park. Designed to provide residents with green spaces close to home, the award-winning park features pedestrian-friendly pathways and Korean-style gardens.
Mr. Moreno then met Mayor Park at Domoheon to share his impressions. He commended Busan's efforts, noting that it was impressive to see citizens enjoying the new spaces and infrastructure. He also expressed optimism about Busan's potential to lead the expansion of 15-minute cities across Asia.
Moreno plans to host a global conference on 15-minute cities in Paris on Sept. 4 and invited Busan to share its experiences.