The prizes and distinctions of the Académie d’Architecture celebrate people, works, and knowledge that shape architecture, landscape, and urban planning. They honour careers, achievements, and initiatives that advance teaching, research, and practice, while also standing as a testament to resilience and creativity in challenging times.
Among these awards, the Grand Medal, created in 1977 by the Académie (founded in 1840), is one of France’s most prestigious architectural distinctions. It recognises architects whose work and careers embody excellence, innovation, and service to society. In addition, the jury occasionally bestows a Special Mention of the Grand Medal to highlight architects whose career reflects outstanding values of universality, humanism, and intercultural dialogue.
In 2025, the Académie awarded this Special Mention to several architects from around the world. Among them was Prof. Young Keun Han, President of the Korean Institute of Architects (KIA), professor at Hongik University, and UIA Region IV Council Member.
For more than three decades, Prof. Han has been a leading voice in Korean and international architecture, championing a committed, humanist, and intercultural vision of architecture. Trained in both Seoul and Paris, he embodies the ongoing dialogue between Korea, France, and the global architectural community.
Through his leadership roles in the KIA, UIA, UNESCO-UIA initiatives, and beyond, he has advanced architectural education, professional exchange, and responsible design that serves the common good. His career reflects a constant effort to build bridges between nations and disciplines, making architecture a force for humanity.
The UIA congratulates Prof. Han on this recognition of his contributions to the profession and to society.