ISSM 2025 Highlights: The Values and Roles of Science Museums in the Age of AI
- ASPAC Network
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
The 15th International Symposium of Science Museums (ISSM 2025) was held on October 30–31, 2025, at the National Science Museum of Korea, bringing together science museum professionals from across the globe. The symposium provided an important moment to reflect on achievements while looking ahead to the evolving role of science museums in an AI-driven society.
Under the theme "The Values and Roles of Science Museums in the Age of AI," ISSM 2025 focused on how artificial intelligence is transforming exhibitions, education, and public engagement. Keynote speakers highlighted that AI should not be viewed simply as a technical upgrade, but as a catalyst for rethinking museum missions. Emphasis was placed on human-centered design, accessibility, and the continued importance of trust and dialogue between museums and their communities.
Three main sessions showcased diverse international case studies, ranging from AI-powered interactive exhibits to personalized learning tools and organizational strategies for strengthening AI capacity. Ethical and social considerations were central to the discussion. Sessions addressing AI ethics, data bias, and generative AI underscored the growing responsibility of science museums as public spaces for critical reflection. Collectively, the presenters emphasized that science museums should engage with AI both as tools to enhance meaningful museum experiences and to facilitate the public dialogue on its social impact.
The key outcome of the discussion was the 2025 ISSM Consensus, where the domestic and international participants jointly acknowledged shared values and future directions for science museums in the AI era. The consensus provides guidelines for meaningful engagement with AI in science museums.
The symposium also featured a rich academic program featuring more than 80 oral and poster presentations, hands-on workshops, and a special exhibition of Artience Daejeon, combining science, technology, and art.
