A Close Look at Korea’s Economic Development and Digital Transformation: ESADE International Study Visit 

The “ESADE International Study Visit: Digital Transformation” program successfully concluded its five-day program from January 26 to 30. A total of 47 participants joined the program, including 45 master’s students, one professor, and one staff member from ESADE Business School. 

At the opening ceremony held on January 26, Associate Dean Gangseog Ryu and Associate Dean Byung Cho Kim of Korea University Business School welcomed the participants. Associate Dean Gangseog Ryu remarked, “On behalf of Korea University Business School, I warmly welcome you and hope you will have a brief yet enriching learning experience.” Following the remarks, Program Director Byung Cho Kim introduced the structure and schedule of the program, marking the official start of the academic sessions. 

The study visit was led by Associate Dean and Program Director Byung Cho Kim and featured a curriculum integrating both theory and practice, with a focus on digital transformation. The main lectures included the following: △Digital Transformation and Data Literacy △Innovation and Strategy in Digital Transformation △Korea’s Economic Development Strategy: The Miracle on the Han River △AI and Creativity: At the Frontier of Everything △Customer Insights from Marketing Analytics △Data-Driven Decision-Making: Default Prediction △Digital Transformation and Business Analytics in Services. 

In particular, by incorporating sessions that examined Korea’s economic development strategy alongside lectures on digital transformation, participants were able to understand technological change and industrial strategy within a historical and macroeconomic context. The program went beyond technical learning, offering participants a comprehensive understanding of the structural foundations underlying Korea’s economic growth. 

During the program, participants took part in two field visits to leading Korean companies. They visited the headquarters of Amorepacific, where they toured the headquarters facilities and learned about the company’s digital transformation strategy. They also visited NC AI, where they participated in an office tour, a company introduction session, and a special lecture by the CPO, gaining firsthand insight into AI-based business models. These visits enabled participants to observe in practice the digital transformation strategies discussed in the classroom, further enhancing their understanding and engagement. 

Alongside the academic program, participants also engaged in cultural experiences in Korea. They joined an English-guided tour of Gyeongbokgung Palace and visited the National Palace Museum of Korea, experiencing Korea’s history and traditions firsthand. This component underscored the importance of understanding the digital economy within its broader social and cultural context. 

On the afternoon of January 30, a completion ceremony was held at Ahn Young-Il Hall in LG-POSCO Hall. Students who successfully completed the full program were awarded certificates issued in the name of the Dean of the Korea University Business School. Participants commemorated the five days of learning and exchange with a group photo. A farewell dinner followed, attended by Associate Dean and Academic Director Byung Cho Kim, as well as Professors Hyun Seok Lee and Jeunghyun Kim, who shared farewell remarks with the participants. 

Throughout the study visit, enthusiastic lectures were seamlessly integrated with student discussions, Q&A sessions, company visits, and networking opportunities, resulting in high overall satisfaction. Even in an unfamiliar environment, participants actively asked questions and engaged in discussions, demonstrating a strong commitment to gaining an in-depth understanding of Korea’s digital business models. Korea University Business School EEC plans to continue strengthening global partnerships through such international exchange programs and to collaborate with future global leaders in digital transformation and sustainable management. The program also reaffirmed the longstanding trust between Korea University and ESADE while paving the way for expanded academic and industry collaboration in the years ahead. 

Korea University Business School EEC (Executive Education Center) offers customized Study Visit programs for overseas universities. These programs integrate digital transformation, AI and data analytics, innovation strategy, Korea’s economic development model, company visits, and cultural experiences, enabling participating students to gain a comprehensive understanding of Korea’s industrial, technological, and business environment over a short period. The curriculum is jointly designed in alignment with the educational goals and academic focus of the partner university. Components such as lectures, company visits, seminars, student exchanges, and cultural activities can be structured in a modular format. The schedule and topics may also be tailored through consultation. Universities interested in participating in the Study Visit program may develop a customized program through prior consultation with Korea University Business School EEC. Inquiries may be directed to kubseec@korea.ac.kr.