To broaden students' international perspectives and deepen their understanding of the music and media industries, students from the Diploma of Vocational Education (Music and Media Production) programme embarked on a six-day study tour to Seoul and Busan in South Korea. The trip provided them with a valuable first-hand experience to explore the heart of Korea's music and media industries, while experiencing the country's unique culture and professional production practices.
During the exchange tour, students participated in a workshop on the traditional Korean percussion instrument, the Janggu (hourglass drum). Through hands-on drumming and rhythm training, they gained understanding into how traditional Korean music conveys the emotions and cultural spirit. They also visited the SJA Music Institute for an academic and practical exchange and took part in a K-pop music production workshop, where they learned about the full process of song production, including songwriting, arrangement and recording. Students also enjoyed in a jam session with local students, using music as a bridge to foster creativity, mutual understanding and cross-cultural music collaboration.
In addition, students toured MBC Television, one of South Korea's leading broadcasting stations, where they learned about television programme production, including programme creation, live broadcasting operations, editing and post-production processes. This visit broaden their knowledge and provided them with a deeper understanding of career development opportunities and operational practices within the media industry. While in Busan, students also visited several interactive media exhibitions and attended the Busan One Asia Festival (BOF), experiencing the vibrancy and appeal of Korean pop culture up close. Through observing performances and participating in exchange activities, they gained firsthand insights into how the Korean Wave industry successfully integrates innovative technologies, global market strategies, and local cultural elements to achieve international recognition.
At Youth College, learning extends far beyond the classroom, embracing learning opportunities that empower students to grow, explore and thrive. This overseas exchange programme not only provided students with valuable professional knowledge and hands-on experience, but also inspired them to explore the limitless possibilities of music and media creation from a broader global perspective. The experience has laid a stronger foundation for their future studies and career development.
