From social enterprises to automotive giant: CUHK Business School students explore the realm of innovation in South Korea
20 undergraduate students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School embarked on a 5-day study trip to South Korea last December. In collaboration with Hanyang University, the trip aimed to offer a taste of social innovation and cultural exchange to these young minds.
To ensure the students would make the most of this valuable experience, a series of workshops were conducted in Hong Kong prior to the trip. The tour commenced with an insightful lecture on the social innovation landscape in South Korea, delivered by Professor Shin Hyunsang and Professor Christian Park at Hanyang University.
(From left) Professor Shin Hyunsang, Vice President of Global Social Innovation Foundation, Dr Fred Ku, Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies) at CUHK Business School, and Professor Christian Park, Associate Professor of Department of Cultural Anthropology at Hanyang University ERICA
Guided by Stanford Social Innovation Review (SSIR) Korea Next Impact Team, the students visited Seoul Upcycling Plaza and social enterprises in Seongsu-dong, a repurposed industrial area that has undergone a remarkable revival driven by the younger generations. By interacting with the local enterprises, the students gained firsthand insights into how social innovation is integrated into business. The inspiring experience led them to reflect on their future roles in driving social innovation in Hong Kong.
Another highlight of the trip was the immersive visit at Hyundai Motorstudio Seoul. Delving into the intersection of innovation, design, and technology, the students learned about the brand philosophy of the leading automotive manufacturer and its impact on society.
The trip concluded with a networking dinner held at Hanyang University, where participants cherished their valuable connections and unforgettable experiences.
