Students gain firsthand industry experience through speaking opportunities, professional networking, and discussions on the future of esports.
BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA — Mason Korea students and faculty participated in the World Esports Summit 2026, held in Busan on October 7–8, engaging with esports industry leaders, professionals, and fellow participants to explore the future of esports and the growing importance of youth involvement in the industry.
The two-day summit provided an opportunity for Mason Korea students to connect with industry professionals, exchange perspectives, and gain firsthand insights into the rapidly evolving global esports landscape.
Mason Korea Students Take an Active Role in Industry Discussions
Mason Korea student Jiwon Bae represented the university as a speaker during the Youth Agenda Setting Session on October 7. Featuring discussions under the themes "Why Youth Voice?" and "My Esports, My Story," the session provided a platform for young participants to share their experiences, perspectives, and aspirations for the future of esports.
Bae's participation highlighted the importance of giving students a voice in industry conversations and creating opportunities for the next generation to contribute to discussions shaping the future of esports.
Fellow Mason Korea students Sujin Kim and William Roberts also actively participated in the summit, engaging with esports professionals and industry representatives through networking opportunities and discussions. Their participation allowed them to explore potential career pathways, learn from experienced professionals, and build connections within the esports community.
Connecting Academic Perspectives with Industry Expertise
Mason Korea Professor James Broderick participated as a discussant during the Dialogue with Esports Leaders session on October 8, contributing valuable insights to conversations about the future of esports and youth engagement.
The session brought together industry leaders and young participants for an exchange of ideas, providing an opportunity to explore emerging challenges, opportunities, and the evolving relationship between education and the esports industry.
Dean Soyoung Kwon also attended the summit, further demonstrating Mason Korea's commitment to connecting academic experiences with professional and industry engagement.
Expanding Learning Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Throughout the summit, Mason Korea students had the opportunity to engage in conversations about the future of competitive gaming, youth participation, and the global esports ecosystem. The event also featured discussions surrounding the Esports Youth Busan Declaration and the 2027 Agenda, emphasizing the role of young people in shaping the industry's future.
Beyond attending sessions, students gained valuable exposure to industry perspectives, developed professional connections, and experienced firsthand how international conferences can serve as platforms for learning, collaboration, and career exploration.
Mason Korea continues to provide students with opportunities that extend beyond traditional classroom learning, encouraging them to engage with industry professionals, explore emerging fields, and develop the skills and networks needed to succeed in a global environment.
Through experiences such as the World Esports Summit 2026, Mason Korea reinforces its commitment to preparing students for meaningful professional opportunities while empowering them to contribute to conversations that shape the future of their industries.
