For the first time in its history, Light Asia left Asia. The 2026 edition arrived at one of the world's most extraordinary sites — the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, for four days of forum, workshop, and light.
From the first walkthrough of the villas to the night the lights came on — five lighting designers, twenty-five students, one archaeological park.
On behalf of KKDC and Light Asia NPO — thank you. Hosting the first Light Asia outside Asia, in Pompeii, is something we are deeply proud of, and grateful for.
It was a powerful experience for each of us, in our own role — KKDC as organizer, our lighting designers as guest teachers and team leaders, and the students as the true protagonists. On this two-thousand-year-old land, we learned from one another and crossed past the edges of what we each already knew, while the Archaeological Park, our university partners, and our co-organizers witnessed, first-hand, just how much talent these students carry.
Light transmits emotion; light brings ambient magic, and as professionals ourselves, we could feel it too — what took shape here also strengthened the connection within us — KKDC people.
What we will carry with us is the shared meals, the late nights, and the quiet thrill of watching centuries-old frescoes come alive under new light. This is not where it ends: we are already thinking about how to keep this circle alive, a community for the students, the designers, and everyone who was part of Pompeii, because what we built here deserves more than a full stop.
We will keep this mission going — sharing knowledge and lighting the future, together.
Light Asia is Asia's leading platform for lighting design, architecture, and academic research — an intensive forum that brings together international designers, professors, and students. The Archaeological Park of Pompeii — a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by light for two millennia — became the setting for a dialogue about light, history, and human experience. For KKDC, bringing Light Asia to Italy, the country that has shaped our design identity most, was a conversation long overdue.
Light Asia 2019 — Shanghai, China
Light Asia 2026 — Pompeii, Italy
Light Asia was founded by KKDC as a Non-Profit Body Corporate — a platform for the global lighting design community built entirely on the altruistic gift of knowledge and time. No commercial agenda. Built entirely on voluntary participation.
For programme information, participation enquiries, or press, visit the official Light Asia website or contact KKDC directly.
