Location

Tokyo, Kyoto, Seoul, Japan, South Korea

Program Description

Over five and a half weeks, students will immerse themselves in these dynamic countries' rich histories and vibrant business landscapes. They will engage with local traditions, explore historical sites, and experience the blend of ancient practices and modern innovations. Students will also interact with peers, fostering shared learning and diverse perspectives.

The program consists of two main courses. The first course will be taught by JMU professors about managing innovation and an overview of start-ups from Japan and Korea. The second course is a start-up class at Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea, with students from all over the world.

Gain valuable insights into Japan and Korea's innovative business practices and entrepreneurial ventures, enriching your academic and professional journey. Join us for this transformative summer program!

Location Description

Kyoto, Japan's capital from 794 to 1869, is the cultural and artistic heart of the country. This vibrant city, with a population of 1.45 million, is incredibly walkable and full of opportunities to meet traditional artists, craftspeople, and performers. Imagine strolling through streets lined with over 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Treasures of Tangible and Intangible Culture. As one of the few cities to escape the firebombing of WW2, Kyoto offers a rare and enchanting glimpse into Japan’s architectural past.

Tokyo, the dazzling capital of Japan and the world's most populous metropolis, was known as Edo before 1868. What started as a small castle town grew into Japan's political center in 1603 and one of the world's largest cities a few decades later. With the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the emperor moved the capital from Kyoto to Edo, renaming it Tokyo ("Eastern Capital"). Today, Tokyo is a playground of endless shopping, entertainment, culture, business, and dining options. Dive into its rich history through excellent museums, historic temples, and serene gardens. Despite its size, the city is a breeze to navigate, thanks to its top-notch public transportation system.

Seoul, officially Seoul Special City, is the capital and largest city of South Korea. The broader Seoul Capital Area, encompassing Gyeonggi province and Incheon metropolitan city, emerged as the world's fourth-largest metropolitan economy in 2014, hosting more than half of South Korea's population. Although Seoul's population peaked at slightly over 10 million, it has gradually decreased since 2014, standing at approximately 9.97 million residents as of 2020.

Director

Fariss-Terry Mousa | mousafx@jmu.edu | Management

C.K. Lee | lee3ck@jmu.edu | Management

Accommodations

While in Japan, accommodations will be provided for students through sharing double rooms in hotels. While in Korea, accommodations will be provided for students through Hanyang University student dorm.

Most breakfast and lunch meals will be provided as part of the program.

Additional Items to Consider

No visa is required for American citizens.

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must have a GPA minimum of 2.5.

No language requirement.

Open to sophomores and juniors. Students must be accepted into the COB or the entrepreneurship minor.

Students must successfully complete COB 300 or MGT 310 prior to the start of the program.