NTPU USR Integrates Industry and Culture: Korean Group Experiences Yingge Pottery in Taiwan to Practice Sustainability Spirit

2025-08-18

The College of Business at National Taipei University (NTPU) upholds the philosophy of "Connecting Locally, Embracing the World" through its USR (University Social Responsibility) program, focusing on promoting a low-carbon, mutually thriving living circle and sustainable low-carbon community actions in the San-Ying-Shu area. On July 4, 2025, NTPU hosted an overseas study group from Hanyang University’s Global YES MBA program in South Korea, visiting the renowned pottery hub of Yingge in New Taipei City. This marked an in-depth cultural exploration and hands-on experience exchange trip. By combining international collaboration with local revitalization, the USR team advances sustainable education goals centered on the cultural industry.

 

This event was carefully planned by Professor Wang Zhijian from the Graduate Institute of Information Management and jointly guided by Director Wen Yanfu and Professor Dai Minyu. NTPU graduate students Zhou Baolin, Lin Yutong, Chen Bozhen, and Wen Jiaqi assisted throughout the visit with reception and interpretation. The Korean delegation included Professor Namjae Cho and eight MBA students from Hanyang University. Accompanied by the USR team, they toured the important pottery community in Yingge, Taiwan, deeply experiencing the local artistic energy and cultural pulse.

 

The morning itinerary began at the Yingge Ceramics Museum, where through a professional guided tour, the study group learned about the transformation of Taiwan’s ceramics industry from traditional manufacturing to cultural creativity, and gained an understanding of the multiple values of pottery in materials, design, and socio-cultural aspects. Afterwards, they strolled through Yingge’s old ceramic street, personally feeling the rich craftsmanship atmosphere and local lifestyle of the neighborhood.

In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the well-known Yingge brand, Shu’s Pottery by Shin Wang Ji Ceramics, for a hands-on pottery DIY workshop. Under the guidance of professional instructors, participants practiced wheel throwing, shaping, and carving, creating unique pottery pieces that reflected their personal styles. Through this hands-on creation, participants not only learned traditional craft techniques but also broke down language barriers, fostering cultural exchange and emotional connections.

 

The event featured a special presentation by Mr. Steve Shu, the fourth-generation Chief Operating Officer of Shin Wang Ji Ceramics, who shared the brand’s founding story and business philosophy. Mr. Shu emphasized that “heritage and innovation, passing on beauty” is the core value the brand has long upheld. With the motto “Keep Going Forward” as their guiding spirit, they are dedicated to promoting the integration of pottery craftsmanship and contemporary design. He also shared how they realize a sustainable blueprint for the cultural industry through educational outreach, international collaboration, and deep local engagement, inspiring both teachers and students present.

 

A participant from South Korea remarked, “This was not just an art experience but a journey of spiritual reflection and cultural understanding. Creating with our own hands allowed us to truly feel the passion and respect Taiwanese artisans have for their land and heritage.”

 

The USR team from the College of Business at National Taipei University pointed out that this type of international cultural exchange activity not only helps international faculty and students gain a deeper understanding of Taiwan’s local culture and creative industries, but also strengthens the connection between education and social responsibility. It demonstrates the USR program’s effectiveness in promoting the sustainability of cultural industries, a global perspective, and regional prosperity, creating a concrete model for building a low-carbon living circle and international connections in the Sanying area.

 

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date:2025-08-11 14:14:10