From May 27 to 30, 2025, Seoul, Republic of Korea, hosted the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture, co-organized by the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) and Arts Council Korea (ARKO). This biennial event convened cultural leaders, policymakers, and artists from around the globe to explore the theme "Charting the Future of Arts and Culture."

The summit aimed to future-proof the cultural and creative sectors by addressing current and projected digital and technological realities. It provided a platform for exchanging knowledge and co-creating pathways to advance arts and culture globally.

The program was structured around three critical themes:

1. Knowledge Systems and Agency: Exploring diverse knowledge systems and their role in shaping the future of arts and culture.

2. Participatory Systems and Connectedness: Fostering inclusive participation and global connectivity within the cultural sector.

3. Digital Systems and Technology: Addressing the impact of digitalization and technological advancements on the arts.

Notable sessions included the "World Café: (Re)Imagining Our Futures," a participatory dialogue where delegates shared ideas to shape the future of arts and culture. Another key session, "The Ethics and Governance of AI in Future-Proofing the Cultural and Creative Sectors," focused on how artificial intelligence can be used effectively to protect human creativity and ensure a level playing field.

The summit also featured discussions on cultural rights and responsibilities for a sustainable future, exploring topics such as cultural rights, labor rights, intellectual property, and the collective rights of Indigenous peoples. Additionally, the role of culture in climate action and sustainability was examined, highlighting how the arts can contribute to addressing the climate crisis.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including policymakers, academics, government representatives, cultural and community leaders, practitioners, and professionals working in the fields of arts, culture, creative and cultural industries, as well as other related sectors.

The summit underscored the importance of integrating diverse knowledge systems, promoting inclusivity, and leveraging technology to advance the arts and culture sector. By addressing topics such as AI ethics, cultural rights, and climate action, the event highlighted the sector's role in fostering sustainable and equitable societies.

As the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture concluded, it left participants with a renewed commitment to collaboratively shape a sustainable, just, and inclusive future for arts and culture worldwide.