In addition to the challenges of solving the problem of urban aging, which is represented by the change in population structure due to the low birthrate and aging population, our society stands in front of a barrier called "Covid-19." In these changes, socially disadvantaged are becoming more alienated. Today, we face a moment when we have to reflect on the meaning of "value to live together".

Under these circumstances, the Universal Design Center, the master of creative challenges, is opening to share "change for coexistence" in a safe and nondiscriminatory environment.

Universal Design is a value-based design that eliminates discrimination and encourage engagement to supports fair social participation. The Seoul Universal Design Center aims to realize urban spaces and services that anyone who lives in Seoul can enjoy regardless of physical, cultural, or emotional conditions through a cooperative system with citizens, public administration, academia, and businesses. To create sympathy for the beneficial society, citizens' active interest and participation, inclusive design standards through the experts' collective intelligence, and innovation through administrative support are necessary. Through this, we hope that Universal Design will become a "culture" with citizens, not a "technology."

I would like to express the meaning of opening the Universal Design Center as ±0. The zero means to fill up the shortage and to empty the overflow. It also means the center's goal of eliminating barriers and realizing today's safe and convenient day in Seoul without discrimination. The Universal Design Center will take the lead in creating social values by expanding emotional communication with the citizens' community and spreading good design through collaboration with experts, professional institutions, and administration.

I would also like to thank partner institutions and advisory groups including the experts and citizen participants.