Jung Won Sonn

Jung Won Sonn is an Associate Professor at The Bartlett School of Planning, University College London (UCL), where he has been a faculty member since 2006. He previously taught at the London School of Economics and held part-time and visiting roles at institutions including Jungbu University, Seoul National University, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His work spans urban and regional planning, economic geography, and development studies.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Urban Planning – University of California, Los Angeles (2004)
• M.Sc. – Seoul National University (1997)
• B.Sc. – Seoul National University (1994)

Research Interests:
Dr. Sonn’s research is centered on two key themes: the spatial dimensions of technological knowledge production and the political economy of regional economic planning. His work critically examines how cities and regions evolve in response to technological innovation and policy intervention, with a geographic focus on South Korea, the U.S., and China. He has led or contributed to major funded projects, including studies on localized knowledge spillovers, metropolitan innovation clusters, and smart city development.

His research also includes comparative studies of regional innovation systems, the role of the state in spatial planning, and the ideological underpinnings of urban policy discourses such as smart cities, eco cities, and creative cities. He applies Marxian and critical theoretical lenses to understand the dynamics of urban development and capital accumulation.

Scientific Awards & Recognition:

• Marie Curie Fellowship (European Commission)
• Benjamin Stevens Fellowship (North American Association of Regional Science)
• Leverhulme Trust research funding
• Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors funding
• Asian Institute for Regional Innovation funding
• Recognition of Contribution – Korea Planning Association (2020)

Teaching & Advising:
Dr. Sonn teaches urban economics, regional development, GIS, and research design at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His modules include Critical Debates in International Planning, Planning Research, and Management Theories for Planning Students. While no specific PhD students are listed, his extensive research collaborations and funded projects suggest active supervision and mentoring roles.

Professional Roles & Affiliations:
He is a life member of the Korean Association of Spatial and Environmental Research and a member of the standing executive committee of the Korean Planning Association. He has served as editor of the International Journal of Urban Sciences and delivered keynote speeches at major international conferences including the China Planning Society and the Asia Pacific Planning Societies.