ICPI Interlock Design Issue 4 2018

 FEATURE STORY 12th International Conference on Concrete Block Paving Sidewalk and Public Space Design Emphasized at E very three years, researchers, manufacturers, consultants, academics, and suppliers from around the world gather at the international conference on concrete block paving. The Korean Block Association hosted the October 2018 conference in Seoul. The event was co-sponsored by the Metropolitan Government of Seoul and the Korean Block Association. This amazing, very modern, safe city of 10 million people nestled next to North Korea, crowns a free, democratic nation to the south totaling 52 million people. The Metropolitan Government has a special interest in concrete block paving because it is the standard pavement for sidewalks. There are some notable exceptions. Cut granite pavers are used in the downtown core around high- rent buildings and old stone units grace historic palaces, gates, courtyards and temples. Like Europe, there is a 2000-year tradition of using segmental paving in Korea. This tradition continues via the Sidewalk Improvement Division of the Seoul Metropolitan Government. An impressive opening keynote address was given by Jong Hyeon Ha with the Seoul City Hall Safety Management Bureau. Continues on page 18 16