Journal of Urban Culture Research

Journal Policies

JUCR staff — 2026-06-18

When Cities Begin to Dream Through AI

Bussakorn Binson — 2026-06-18

Reviewing Tourism and Urban Development in the United Arab Emirates

Adriaan De Man — 2026-06-18

Cities are emerging as tourist hubs and heritage-based leisure is central to economic diversification strategies that improve conditions to residents and visitors. Within this context, urban tourism has gained prominence in the international travel market. Considering the expansion of tourism in the Arabian Gulf States, it is important to reflect on the role it can play in the expansion strategies of cities, building on global practice. This paper explores a particular aspect of this reality, namely the incorporation of heritage elements and their commodification in the urban setting of the United Arab Emirates. It elaborates on recent sources and addresses related issues such as cultural preservation, destination branding, and economic impact. The results consist of an overview of the balance between benefits and drawbacks when using urban heritage features as a tool for tourism development.

Music-Based Smart Digital Interventions for Health: A Scoping Review

Jin Hyung Lee — 2026-06-18

This scoping review systematically maps and synthesizes empirical research on smart, digital technology-delivered music interventions for health. Following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines, a comprehensive search of six electronic databases yielded 30 included studies spanning four clinical domains: psychological and mental health, neurological and motor rehabilitation, aging and cognitive care, and acute care and symptom management. Studies employed four primary technology categories: mobile applications, artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, wearable biosensors, and alternative interface platforms. Findings demonstrate that smart digital music interventions are broadly feasible and acceptable, with preliminary efficacy across diverse populations. The field is adapting and expanding to include adaptive, closed-loop systems that modulate musical parameters in response to real-time physiologcal data, moving beyond traditional music interventions. Key gaps include standardized outcome frameworks, longitudinal data including adherence, and clinical validation of AI algorithms and machine learning systems.

Traditional Music Kongkil: The Meaning of Philosophy and the Challenges of Contemporary Life

Harpang Yudha Karyawanto — 2026-06-18

Traditional Kongkil music from Bungkal Village, Ponorogo, East Java, Indonesia, constitutes a form of local cultural heritage imbued with philosophical and social meaning. As a bamboo-based musical tradition employing slendro and pelog scales, Kongkil reflects the relationship between humans and nature while articulating values of social harmony within the community. This study aims to examine the philosophical meanings embedded in Kongkil music and to analyze its transformation in response to contemporary social and cultural change. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and literature review. The data were analyzed comparatively to identify patterns of continuity and transformation in the meaning, function, and presentation of Kongkil music. The findings indicate that Kongkil conveys moral values such as mutual cooperation, togetherness, and social justice, particularly through its lyrical content and performance practices. Although its presentation has developed through the incorporation of additional instruments, expanded performance formats, and the use of technology, its philosophical essence remains preserved. Kongkil continues to function as a medium of reflection, moral expression, and cultural continuity. This study concludes that the preservation of Kongkil music requires an adaptive and balanced approach that engages contemporary developments while sustaining the core values embedded in the tradition.

The Promotion and Preservation of the Klong Luang Lanna Drum Competition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage

Ong-art Inthaniwet — 2026-06-18

The Klong Luang Lanna drum holds profound cultural significance in Northern Thailand, yet the tradition currently faces systemic threats that jeopardize its long-term sustainability. This research employs an ethnomusicological approach combined with Participatory Action Research (PAR) to investigate the cultural roots and support its recognition as national intangible cultural heritage (ICH). Key findings reveal critical historical evidence through archival photography and identify a significant inflationary trend in drum scale, indicating a transition from ritualistic use to competitive display. The study further analyzes internal and external threats, including declining youth participation. To ensure cultural sustainability, this research proposes a multidimensional framework involving community-led organizations, digital storytelling, and formal ICH registration. Ultimately, this study contributes a strategic roadmap for safeguarding sonic heritage, bridging traditional community practices with contemporary urban cultural policy.

Cartoons and Graffiti: Consolidated Forms of Peaceful Protest in the Contemporary Arab World

Salud Adelaida Flores Borjabad — 2026-06-18

The emergence of the Arab Spring and networked society has led to the consolidation of graffiti and cartooning as two forms of artistic expression in the contemporary Arab world. These forms were utilized as peaceful means of protest to demand the restoration of social and political rights that had been deprived. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to analyze and explore how these two expressions evolved and diversified in the Arab world, ultimately becoming a form of peaceful protest. The methodology employed will be qualitative, given the theoretical nature of the topic. Specifically, a visual ethnographic approach will be used to examine the images presented in this work as a sample. The expected outcome of this research is to emphasize how these two relatively unknown forms of artistic expression have become an alternative means of communication, capable of engaging society and stimulating their involvement in political and creative processes.

Beyond the Headlines: Investigating Media Framing of Malaysian Human Trafficking in Southeast Asia During Covid-19

Muhammad Asim Imran — 2026-06-18

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of human trafficking involving Malaysians in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. Employing a systematic review approach based on the PRISMA methodology, the study examines 63 news records from The Star, covering the period from March to September 2022. The findings reveal a notable increase in media coverage during this time, signaling heightened awareness of Malaysian human trafficking issues. The COVID-19 pandemic emerges as a critical factor exacerbating vulnerabilities and contributing to a surge in trafficking incidents. Malaysians were identified as victims of forced labor in diverse industries, including online scams and illegal gambling. The study highlights the significant role played by human trafficking networks and unscrupulous employers in trapping individuals in exploitative situations. The study underscores the urgency of strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing law enforcement, and fostering international collaboration to address challenges of human trafficking in Southeast Asia.

The Subjectivity and Conformity Issues in Contemporary Practices of Algorithmic Creativity

Tetiana Sovhyra — 2026-06-18

This article examines the issue of subjectivity and conformism in algorithmic cultural practices (robotic performances and neurocomputer installations “A3 K3 Dragan Ilic," “Alone Together," “NOOR” and “AIBO”). The focus is on the technological features of algorithmic creativity, which is based on machine learning, stylistic imitation and computational data processing. In this context, ethical and legal issues related to copyright and the recognition of artistic works created by artificial intelligence are analyzed. In particular, mechanized artistic practices create the illusion of autonomous creativity, whilst retaining the decisive role of human subjectivity in the organization and interpretation of cultural processes. Algorithmic creativity remains dependent on human programming, technological mediation and artistic conception. However, the creative process involving BCI may take on characteristics of subjectivity. This is evidenced by court rulings on the determination of subjectivity and copyright in works created through algorithmic computations.

Community Development and Economic Value Creation through Thailand’s Tier 2 Film Industry: The Forest Surrounding the City Strategy

Sammiti Sukbunjhong — 2026-06-18

Tier 2 films, specifically those designed for the local audience, play a vital role in Thailand. The research has two objectives: 1) to analyze the process of Tier 2 Thai films in alignment with the concept of the 'forest surrounding the city' strategy, and 2) to propose a model for community development and economic value creation within the Thai film industry based on the 'forest surrounding the city' strategy. The research reveals that the majority of Tier 2 Thai films apply the strategy through storytelling and character creation, focusing on local narratives that portray a simple and uncomplicated life. These films emphasize elements such as fun, humor, and the struggle against the power of money and the insincerity of urban society. Furthermore, Tier 2 Thai films contribute significantly to community development and economic value creation through key cinematic elements, including scenes, language, costumes, and the incorporation of music, art, and culture.

Reflecting Role of Culture in Place Branding: A Literature Review

Denny Indrayana Setyadi — 2026-06-18

Culture is a complex and contested concept that cannot easily be understood through a single definition. Nevertheless, culture plays an important role in place branding strategies and is interpreted in diverse ways within place branding scholarship. This study aims to identify and reflect upon the various roles of culture in place branding through a review of previous studies, particularly within the fields of Social Studies and Arts & Humanities published between 2008 and 2026. Using a literature review approach, the study collected data from the Scopus database and employed thematic analysis to examine how culture is conceptualized and positioned within place branding discourse. The findings reveal ten major themes representing different cultural roles in place branding, including everyday culture, cultural identity, gastronomy, sports, cultural heritage, festivals, community participation, cultural critique, cultural production, and the relationship between traditional and contemporary culture. Based on these findings, this study proposes a reflective checklist consisting of critical questions that may be used as an initial framework for identifying and reflecting on the role of culture within place branding practices, particularly in the context of urban culture and city branding. Rather than functioning as an evaluative measurement tool, the checklist is intended to encourage deeper reflection on the cultural dimensions and potentials embedded within place branding strategies.

Critical Participatory Action Research for Revitalizing Local Music and Performing Arts in the Post-Pandemic Transition of Salaya

Nantida Chandransu — 2026-06-18

This study employs Critical Participatory Action Research (CPAR) to examine the adaptive revitalization of local music and performing arts in Salaya's post-pandemic transition. Through the Collaborative Cultural Action Network (CCAN – comprising artists, academics, administrators, and citizens – the research facilitates a collaborative ecosystem for cultural asset co-creation. Implementation operates across two levels: strategic management of intersubjective agreements, and artistic creativity via a dual-track strategy. This strategy combines active conservation of phleng lae, phleng ruea, lakhon chatri, likay, and trae wong with creative deconstruction, specifically the luk thung song “Yu Yen Pen Suk Na Salaya” and the Kanlapaphruek project. Findings demonstrate that peri-urban cultural resilience is achieved through community agency, shifting residents from passive participants to active co-designers. Recommendations advocate institutionalizing sustainability through local policy integration, preserving living expressions while fostering artistic fluidity and responsiveness to unpredictable volatility.

Destandardization of Art at Flash Mob Performance in Public Space: A Case Study of Beksan Wanara from the Yogyakarta Court, Indonesia

R. M. Pramutomo — 2026-06-18

Flash mob performances in Indonesia emerge in response to urban affluence. Flash mobs, as an activity, explore unconventional performance spaces. The goal of this article is not only to address previous research gaps but also to explain how flash mob art performances have challenged aesthetic standards. Information about traditional dance flash mobs is widely discussed on various social media platforms. Data were collected through an intensive literature study, including desk review and document analysis. The findings suggest that flash mob articles are successful in engaging people of all ages as participants in public space dance performances. Visually, flash mobs provide a recreational understanding to the community in public spaces. In this context, the potential of flash mob performances extends into non-art activities like marketing and specific therapies. In this regard, participant audiences are aware that they do not need special skills to join flash mob performances.

Art in Health: Angklung Musical-Based Interventions for Older Adults in Southeast Asia

Muhammad Asyraf Mohd Bakri — 2026-06-18

Arts in healthcare can support emotional, cognitive, and social well-being among older adults. Angklung, a traditional Indonesian bamboo instrument recognized by UNESCO, has potential as a culturally grounded, music-based intervention in older adult care. This systematic review, guided by the PRISMA framework, examined Angklung-based interventions for older adults in Southeast Asia. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, with the final search completed on 19 November 2024. English-language studies published between 2010 and 2024 were included if they focused on Angklung-based or Angklung-related interventions involving older adults and reported outcomes related to well-being, cognition, emotion, social engagement, motor function, or accessibility. A total of nine studies met the eligibility criteria. The findings suggest that Angklung-based interventions may support memory recall, emotional regulation, social interaction, motor coordination, and accessibility. Three intervention types were identified: Music Angklung, involving listening-based engagement; Activity Angklung, involving group performance; and Assistive Angklung, involving Smart Band and Internet of Things-based support. Music and Activity Angklung were mainly associated with emotional, cognitive, and social engagement, while Assistive Angklung supported participation among older adults with physical or functional limitations. However, the evidence remains preliminary due to small samples, varied study designs, inconsistent reporting, and limited long-term follow-up. Further research is needed to examine effectiveness, scalability, and integration into community-based older adult care programmes. This review contributes by positioning Angklung as a culturally relevant, non-pharmacological approach with potential application in arts-in-health and older adult care in Southeast Asia.

Analyzing the Transformation of Urban Open Spaces in the Historical Process with Cultural Codes: The Case of Konya Kültürpark

Ayse Tuzun Guner — 2026-06-18

Urban spaces undergo significant physical and social transformations in response to changes in socio-cultural structures. In this process, the functions and meanings of public space are redefined. Urban open spaces, as key components of public space, provide important insights into social structure and cultural dynamics. This study examines Konya Kültürpark, located near the historical city center, through three main periods: pre-Republican, Republican, and post-Republican. The transformation of Kültürpark as an urban open space was analyzed through a literature review and interpreted using cultural codes. Cultural function diagrams were produced to represent spatial use, and a comparative analysis was conducted across the identified periods. The findings indicate that both the boundaries and functional structure of Kültürpark have evolved in parallel with socio-cultural changes. While some functions disappeared over time, others were transformed or sustained. The study demonstrates that urban open spaces can be interpreted as dynamic environments shaped by the interaction between spatial transformation and socio-cultural change.

Developing a Sustainability Framework for Enhancing Public Art Projects in Nigeria toward Urban Regeneration

Peter Oluwagbenga Odewole — 2026-06-18

This study examines the role of public art towards urban regeneration, cultural preservation, and socio-economic development, addressing critical challenges in the Nigerian public art sector. It adopts a qualitative research design based on literature review, and Eisenhardt’s theory-building approach, drawing on secondary data to generate insights from case-based analysis. Two contemporary Nigerian public art initiatives were examined using within-case and cross-case thematic analysis. The study integrates placemaking, cultural economics, social capital, place attachment, and regulatory theories to develop a sustainability framework for enhancing public art practice and administration in Nigeria. The study’s findings indicate that sustainable public art interventions for urban regeneration depend on adequate funding, participatory governance, community engagement, supportive policy environments, and culturally grounded artistic practices. The study provides insights into how future public art projects in Nigerian urban spaces can foster social cohesion, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth. It offers valuable implications for artists, urban planners, community organizations, policymakers, and public art stakeholders.

Towards Rural Landscape Planning, the Importance of Heritage Preservation in Oases in Mediterranean Countries – Case Studies: Siwa Oasis (Egypt), Ghardania Oasis (Algeria), Gafsa Oasis (Tunisia) and Figuig Oasis (Morocco)

Mouatassim Souad — 2026-06-18

As for this paper, it intends to evaluate the status of conservation of Mediterranean oases such as Siwa of Egypt, Ghardaia of Algeria, Gafsa of Tunisia, and evaluate Figuig of Morocco. The purpose is to outline the measures and recommendations that can be included in practice in order to reconsider heritage protection in Figuig with references to other oases. Hence, in this study, it analyses the main problems and solutions concerning heritage management based on the analysis of the literature and comparison of different cases. Thus, the results highlight the importance of sustaining the involvement of the local communities, the proper farming techniques, the promotion of eco-tourism, and the effective use of modern technologies for the preservation of the cultural and geographical identity of the oasis. Therefore, the aim of this research is to establish the measures on which the sustainability and preservation of the Figuig oasis could be addressed and handed down to the next generations.

Governance, Smart Urbanism & Urban Resilience in the Western Balkans: Comparative Insights from Prishtina, Tirana, and Podgorica

Binak Beqaj — 2026-06-18

The imperative for urban resilience is intensifying globally, yet its application in the transitional context of the Western Balkans remains underexplored. Cities in this region, such as Prishtina, Tirana, and Podgorica, navigate post-conflict recovery, rapid urbanization, socio-economic pressures, and escalating climate threats. While smart technologies and sustainable urban development paradigms offer promising pathways to resilience, their effectiveness is contingent upon robust governance and supportive institutional frameworks, which are often fragmented in these environments. A comprehensive approach is therefore essential for sustainable urban development in the region. This study aims to critically analyze the factors shaping urban resilience in the Western Balkans. It evaluates the effectiveness of smart technologies, the role of sustainable housing policies, and the impact of governance models on the adaptive capacity of cities, with a specific focus on Prishtina, Tirana, and Podgorica in comparison to other global cities. A convergent mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative analysis involved statistical modelling of resilience indicators across eight cities, including a regression analysis to identify key predictors. Qualitative analysis included thematic coding of 30 policy documents and 25 semi-structured interviews with urban planners and policymakers to uncover governance challenges and policy implementation gaps. The findings reveal that Western Balkan cities score significantly lower on resilience metrics compared to their Western European counterparts. Qualitative data link low resilience to post-conflict legacies, informal settlements, and fragmented governance structures.

Creative Urban Care for Older Adults in Thailand: Drama Therapy and an Innovative Expressive Arts Framework for Better Urban Ageing

Dovrat Harel — 2026-06-18

This article examines drama therapy with older adults across three institutional contexts in Thailand: Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society; Kwong Siew Foundation Hospital; and Sawangkanives Housing, Thai Red Cross Society. Drawing on a practice-based qualitative study involving 60 older adults, facilitator observations, semi-structured interviews, reflective writings, and institutional descriptions, the article explores how drama therapy was adapted across medical, chronic-care, and senior residential settings. The findings suggest that drama therapy supported memory sharing, emotional expression, social connection, belonging, and quality of life among participants. The article argues that drama therapy should be understood not merely as entertainment or supplementary activity, but as a form of creative urban care that contributes to quality of life, cultural participation, and healthy ageing. It concludes by proposing a modular expressive arts framework for urban ageing that integrates drama, music, visual art, movement, mindful drawing, storytelling, and community-based creative leadership. The concept of creative urban care is offered as an innovative expressive arts framework that contributes to urban culture research and ageing studies.