A delegation from the La Consolacion College Bacolod School of Architecture arrived in South Korea for an international academic tour designed to expose students to global architecture, heritage, urban design and cultural learning.
The delegation is composed of 127 architecture students, six faculty members and three administrators. The group will take part in a multiday “Seoulful Korea” educational tour from June 14 to 20, with activities that combine academic benchmarking, architectural site visits and cultural immersion.
The itinerary includes a benchmarking visit to Cheong Ju University School of Architecture, where students and faculty are expected to gain insights into architectural education and design practices in South Korea. The group will also visit notable design, heritage and urban destinations, including Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Starfield COEX Library, Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbok Palace, Insadong Street, Cheonggye Stream, Gwanghwamun Square, Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, N Seoul Tower and Nami Island.
LCC Bacolod President Sr. Flolyn S. Catungal, OSA, said the international exposure forms part of the college’s commitment to provide students with learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
“This academic journey gives our architecture students a wider lens through which to understand design, culture, heritage and community,” Catungal said. “We want them to see how architecture speaks to people’s way of life, history and aspirations. Experiences like this help form professionals who are globally aware, socially responsible and deeply grounded in service.”
Dr. Vincent Raymund Alovera, dean of the School of Architecture, Fine Arts and Interior Design, said the tour is an important opportunity for students to connect theory with actual built environments.
“Architecture is best learned not only through drawings, lectures and studio work, but also through direct encounter with spaces, structures, communities and cultures,” Alovera said. “By observing South Korea’s architectural landmarks, urban spaces and heritage sites, our students can better appreciate how design responds to history, innovation, technology and human experience.”
The visit to Dongdaemun Design Plaza, designed by Zaha Hadid, is expected to provide students with exposure to contemporary architecture and complex spatial design. Heritage and cultural sites such as Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbok Palace and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress will allow them to examine how historic environments are preserved, experienced and integrated into modern urban life.
The tour also includes cultural activities such as a gimbap-making experience, visits to Korean public spaces and exposure to local dining, giving students a broader understanding of culture as an influence on design and place-making.
School officials said the international academic tour supports LCC Bacolod’s goal of preparing future architects who are not only technically competent, but also culturally sensitive, creative and responsive to the needs of communities.
The delegation is expected to return to Bacolod on June 20.