Upland is operating on the absolute cutting-edge of technology, so it only makes sense to open up in Songdo, South Korea, a city that’s just as dedicated to the future, as well as the planet. Like a handful of cities around the globe, Songdo is embracing ubiquitous technology in an effort to develop itself into a smart city. However, evolving as a city involves more than just data collection. Songdo is also at the forefront of environmental awareness and has several systems in place to minimize waste and preserve resources.
A prime example of this is their pneumatic waste disposal system. You won’t see any trashcans on the street corners in Songdo, which also means there’s no need for garbage trucks. Instead, the city utilizes a system of pipes designed to suck garbage underground, where waste can be disposed of, but only after being separated from recyclable material.
The city’s water pipes operate similarly, ensuring that no clean drinking water is wasted in showers, toilets, and other applications.
The city is also home to the United Nations Green Climate Fund, selected for its eco-friendly practices that are an integral part of the city’s development and infrastructure. Songdo is also doing its part in the fight against carbon emissions with 25 kilometers of bike paths and electric vehicle charging stations.
These are just a few of the many ways that the people of Songdo, like Uplandme, Inc., are working towards a healthier and more sustainable future.
Songdo is an impressive endeavor in many ways, but to many of its people, it’s simply the city they love. It’s a magical place with plenty to offer. You can take a stroll through Central Park, inspired by its US namesake, with walking paths and a boating lake. It’s Songdo’s centerpiece, surrounded by towering skyscrapers.
Speaking of those surrounding skyscrapers, one of those happens to be the G-Tower. A 150-meter building with a 360-degree observatory on the 33rd floor, the tower offers stunning views of the city in all directions.
And if you’re interested to see just how this city came to be what it is, you can visit the Incheon Urban History Museum, a multilevel display centre that showcases many of the city’s land-reclamation projects.
Then there’s the Tri-bowl, a stunning piece of futuristic urban art that doubles as an exhibition hall and has hosted a wide variety of performances. K-pop fans in particular have fond memories of seeing some of their favorite bands live.
There’s so much more to enjoy about Songdo, like the NC Canal Cube Walk that runs along Central Park’s northwest corner, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Gyeongbokgung, my absolute favorite restaurant in all of Songdo, maybe even all of Incheon. The three-story building looks like a palace and people come from all over the city for their Yangnyeom Galbi (Korean BBQ Short Ribs). If you’re ever in Songdo, it’s a place that cannot be missed.
