South Essex Colleges Group students gain global engineering and automotive insight on Turing Scheme visit to South Korea

Engineering and automotive students from South Essex Colleges Group have returned from a two-week international study programme in South Korea, where they explored cutting-edge industry, infrastructure and technology as part of the UK Government’s Turing Scheme.

The 15-day Auto/Engineering & Industrial Education Programme, which ran from 4–17 March 2026, saw 19 undergraduate students from electrical, mechanical, automotive and industrial engineering pathways travel alongside four members of staff. The visit combined academic engagement, industrial site visits and cultural learning to provide a comprehensive understanding of South Korea’s globally recognised engineering sector.

The programme began in Seoul, where students were introduced to the country’s governance and urban development through visits to the National Assembly, offering a first-hand view of large-scale infrastructure in a modern mеgacity.

A strong focus on sustainability and environmental engineering followed, with visits to a major water purification facility and the Seoul Energy Dream Centre. These sessions enabled students to examine renewable energy systems, sustainable architecture and the challenges of managing resources in a densely populated urban environment.

Throughout the programme, students explored how historical and cultural contexts underpin technological advancement. Guided visits to palaces, traditional villages and heritage sites allowed them to compare historic construction techniques with contemporary urban design, deepening their appreciation of how engineering evolves over time.

Industrial engagement formed a central part of the experience. Highlights included a visit to a major automotive manufacturing plant in Ulsan, where students observed advanced production lines and automation in practice and sessions at leading research and innovation centres focusing on shipbuilding, robotics, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing.

In Busan, students examined coastal infrastructure, marine engineering and logistics systems, including a visit to Gamcheon Culture Village. Visits to technology parks and science museums further showcased the close collaboration between academia and industry in driving innovation.

Back in Seoul, the group explored future-focused technologies through visits to smart mobility and innovation centres, where they learned about electric vehicles, hydrogen energy and smart city development. A guest lecture delivered in partnership with a leading Korean university introduced students to the application of artificial intelligence in food engineering, highlighting interdisciplinary links across engineering fields.

The programme also encouraged international collaboration and cultural exchange. Students took part in informal networking with Korean university peers, as well as activities that introduced them to contemporary Korean society.

Accommodation was based in Seoul and Busan, with all travel facilitated by private coach to ensure efficient access to industrial and academic sites across the country.

The visit concluded with a farewell event in Seoul before the group returned to the UK, having gained valuable global perspectives on engineering practice and innovation.

This Turing Scheme experience forms part of South Essex College’s commitment to providing students with international opportunities that enhance technical knowledge, cultural awareness and employability in an increasingly global engineering and Automotive sector.

Ian smith, Head of School, said: “Traveling to South Korea is like stepping into a story book where a perfect blend of old and new. You can walk through peaceful historic sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and then, minutes later, find yourself surrounded by the bright lights and energy of modern districts like Myeongdong. Culturally, it’s a rich experience, from wearing traditional hanbok garments to exploring temples and markets. At the same time, the influence of K-pop and modern culture adds a fun, lively atmosphere, and every moment feels like a bridge between tradition and what’s upcoming in the future. South Korea offers a unique mix of tradition, innovation, great food, and memorable experiences.”