From December 11th to 16th, 2023, a diverse group from Vietnam Japan University, including 4 master’s students from the Global Leadership (MGL) program and 3 undergraduate students majoring in Japanese Studies, participated in the 9th Youth Global Leadership Program in Seoul. This enriching experience was guided by Dr. JungHyun Jasmine Ryu, JICA expert, lecturer of the Master program in Global Leadership (MGL). This program was organized by the Asian Charity Center, which also featured outstanding student delegations from various countries, including Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Thailand, and Indonesia. This diversity of participation allowed our students to not only understand Korean industry but also to engage with and learn from peers from different cultural and academic backgrounds, fostering a broader global perspective.
Over the course of the six-day program, students from Vietnam Japan University engaged in a range of enriching activities. This included attending a series of lectures delivered by esteemed lecturers and experts from Korea, offering insights into the country’s remarkable economic development and its cultural heritage. The topics were diverse and intriguing, including Modern History of Korea by Prof. Lee Jungwon, Dynamic Innovation Korea by Prof. Chu Wujin, Digital Platform Leadership Innovation by Prof. Han Insu, “HYO” by Prof. Park Heewon, Asean and Korea by Prof. Im Hongjae, and a notable lecture on “Korean Soft Power” by Dr. Jung Hyun Jasmine Ryu. In her presentation, has discussed a wide range of themes to demonstrate how Korea utilized its influential soft power to enhance international position in recent years.
Vietnam Japan University students with Dr.Ryu in 9th YGL Program
This comprehensive lecture series was instrumental in achieving the program’s primary objective of enhancing leadership skills, while also enriching our Master of Global Leadership (MGL) students’ understanding of Korea’s multifaceted aspects. Through these sessions, our MGL students gained a solid foundation in various Korean topics, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and context to deeply engage in and benefit from the diverse activities scheduled for the remainder of the program. This opportunity significantly contributed to broadening their academic and cultural perspectives, an essential aspect of their global leadership training at Vietnam Japan University.
Insights into Korean Industry with Visits to Major Companies and Educational Institutions
Visiting Nongshim Factory
Additionally, our students had the unique opportunity to visit several key industrial and educational sites in Korea, enhancing their practical understanding of global industry dynamics. These visits included the headquarters of the renowned cosmetics brand Nature Republic and the WBS television channel, which is dedicated to people with disabilities. They also toured Hyundai’s automobile factory and Nongshim’s production line for noodles and snacks. A visit to the campus and hospital of Dankook University further provided our students with a realistic perspective on Korea’s industry and its contributions to global influence.
Visiting Hyundai Automobile Factory
Discovering Seoul’s Historical Essence: VJU’s Journey Through City Hall, Royal Palaces, and Traditional Villages”
Vietnam Japan University’s Students at the new Seoul City Hall
On their final day in Seoul, the Vietnam Japan University team explored key historical sites, vividly showcasing the city’s rich heritage. Their journey began at the Seoul City Hall, where its transformation from the old building, now the Seoul Metropolitan Library, to the new, greenery-adorned structure, revealed the city’s evolving administrative history. The new City Hall, with its traditional Hanok rooftop-inspired design, displayed Seoul’s achievements and history through innovative technology.
Our students also had a chance to visit the symbol of Korea’s traditional culture and history – Gyeongbokgung Palace. Here, dressed in elegant hanbok, the team explored the majestic architecture and serene gardens, immersing themselves in the history of the palace. The excursion concluded in Bukchon Hanok Village, where they navigated through narrow alleys lined with traditional houses, blending modern touches with historical charm. Participating in a tea ceremony, the team enjoyed local flavors while absorbing the cultural richness of Seoul, despite the rain, offering a poignant glimpse into the city’s soul.
During these events, the students from Vietnam-Japan University not only enjoyed memorable personal experiences but also actively engaged in and successfully fulfilled the agenda of the exchange program. Their enthusiastic participation and accomplishments during this program significantly enhanced the reputation of Vietnam Japan University and positively represented Vietnam’s culture and people to an international audience.
