Kyungil University Photography Students Showcase Projects at International Photo Fairs in Kyoto and London

Students from the Department of Photography and Imaging at Kyungil University in South Korea have showcased original photobooks at international photography fairs in Kyoto, Japan and London, United Kingdom, as part of a specialized academic project.

The project, which integrates standard classroom instruction with non-curricular programs, was designed to move student work from the academic environment into the global art market. According to reporting from Gyeongbuk Ilbo, the initiative culminated in the exhibition of student-produced photobooks in two major international art hubs before returning to South Korea for a final display.

The program is led under the administration of Kyungil University President Jung Hyun-tae, focusing on a curriculum that bridges the gap between theoretical study and professional practice. By linking course requirements with extracurricular development, the university enabled students to manage the entire lifecycle of a photobook, from conceptualization and photography to publishing and international distribution.

International Exhibition Circuit

The photobooks first appeared at an international photo fair in Kyoto, Japan, a city recognized for its deep historical connection to photography and traditional arts. Following the Japanese exhibition, the works were transported to London, United Kingdom, to be featured at an international photo fair, exposing the students’ work to a diverse European audience and industry professionals.

This international circuit serves as a practical application of the department’s goal to foster global competency among its students. By presenting their work in Kyoto and London, the students gained direct experience in how their visual narratives are received by different cultural demographics and international curators.

Academic Integration and Seoul Finale

The Department of Photography and Imaging structured the project to ensure that the creative process was supported by academic rigor. The integration of non-curricular programs allowed students to receive mentorship and technical guidance beyond the constraints of a traditional semester schedule, facilitating the high production standards required for international fairs.

The project is scheduled to conclude with an exhibition in Seoul, South Korea. This final stage is intended to share the results of the international tour with the local academic community and the general public, documenting the evolution of the works from their inception in the classroom to their display in Japan and the United Kingdom.