College of Business
AACSB International EQUIS - European Quality Improvement System

Young Scholars Programme study tour in Seoul


A group of 29 students from the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) returned from a study tour in Seoul, Korea, 22th – 27th May. The expedition was led by Dr Chung-leung Luk, Assistant Professor of the Department of Marketing, and sponsored by the College and the Office of the Vice-President (Student Affairs).

The YSP students visited various Korean companies in the trip including Korean Broadcasting Systemand Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation, the two leading South Korean television and radio networks; Hyundai Motors, a multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Seoul; Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., one of the world's largest manufacturers of mobile phones, smartphones and other electronic products, and other corporates, to learn about the success of these companies and their business operations.

Besides, the group attended a lecture in Seoul National University, to experience a different learning culture and environment, and have networking opportunities with other business students there. They also participated in some cultural activities during the tour, such as visiting the Gyeohnbokguang Palace and the National Assembly, to deepen their understanding of Korea.

Martyn Strydom, one of the YSP members, shared his experience, Especially enriching were the company visits. The magnitude of the production plants at these companies was almost unimaginable. The most remarkable moment was witnessing man and machine working together seamlessly inside the Hyundai Motors factory ― the single production plant efficiently produces a vehicle every ten seconds on average.”

“It was an exceptionally unique experience to learn about the culture and economy of Korea, whilst at the same time allowed us to connect with the elites from Korea,” he said.

Another participant, Natalie Wong Hong-yiu, BBA Marketing, said, “Korea has a harmonious blend of historic and contemporary cultures. It’s not surprising to find a historical architecture next to a modern skyscraper in the city.”

“I was astonished to see antique temples and old buildings are well preserved and maintained in Korea. We can learn from them in striving for balance between urban development and heritage conservation,” Natalie said.

About the Young Scholars Programme

The College launched the Young Scholars Programme in 2009 with the aim of nurturing outstanding undergraduate students to become future leaders in the region/world. The programme provides the following opportunities:

  • Overseas study tour during Year 1 summer break
  • Leadership training and other workshops for whole-person development
  • Networking with top business students admitted locally and overseas
  • Professional mentorship provided by professors and/ or professional practitioners
  • Cultivation of social responsibility through community services and voluntary work

For details and application to the programme, please visit the YSP website.