Welcome to the GBDA (Geospatial Big Data Analytics) Lab in the Department of Urban Planning and Design at Hongik University. Our research explores the intersection of urban studies, geospatial big data, machine learning, and computer vision, aiming to better understand and address pressing urban challenges.

Research Focus

1. Geospatial Big Data for Urban Analysis

We leverage massive and heterogeneous geospatial data from IoT devices, satellite, and aerial imagery to examine urban form, land use, infrastructure distribution, and socio-spatial dynamics. Moving beyond the limitations of traditional GIS, our work provides deeper insights for urban policy and planning.

2. Machine Learning for Spatial Pattern Detection

We develop algorithms to detect and predict patterns in transportation flows, spatial inequality, neighborhood change, and urban shrinkage or revitalization. Our models support evidence-based decision-making for sustainable urban development by integrating spatial and temporal data.

3. Computer Vision for Spatial Information Extraction

Using deep learning, we automatically detect, classify, and monitor urban features—such as buildings, roads, and green spaces—from satellite, aerial, and street-level imagery. These methods enable precise 2D/3D urban morphology analysis, land cover change, and disaster monitoring.

Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Research

The GBDA Lab brings together researchers with expertise in urban planning, geospatial analytics, data science, and computer vision. We actively engage in interdisciplinary projects, open-source tool development, and industry–academia collaborations, striving to expand the frontiers of urban data science.