(NEWS) BANGKOK, 2026-Apr-23 — /Travel PR News/ — Industry organisations are placing increased focus on preparing the next generation of tourism professionals, as the sector continues to adapt to shifting global dynamics and workforce demands.
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced that its first Youth Symposium of 2026 will take place on May 11 in Pohang, hosted at Lahan Hotel. The event will be held alongside the PATA Annual Summit 2026, aligning with the broader theme of building resilience within the travel and tourism industry.
Supported by the Gyeongsangbuk-do Culture and Tourism Organization, Pohang City and the PATA Thailand Chapter, the half-day symposium is designed to connect students and young professionals with industry leaders through a programme of keynote sessions, panel discussions and interactive dialogues.
According to details shared by organisers, the event will focus on equipping participants with practical insights into emerging industry trends, including sustainability, heritage tourism, and the growing role of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence. The programme also aims to address the transition from education to employment, a key challenge as the sector evolves.
Speakers are expected to include representatives from major tourism organisations and companies, including the Sarawak Tourism Board, Booking.com, Intrepid Travel and AirAsia MOVE, reflecting a mix of public and private sector perspectives.
The choice of Pohang as host city also reflects a broader effort to highlight destinations beyond traditional tourism centres. Known as one of South Korea’s industrial hubs, the coastal city has been positioning itself as a destination that combines innovation with cultural and natural attractions.
Organisers say the symposium will also provide networking opportunities between participants and industry professionals, with the aim of fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among future tourism leaders.
The initiative underscores a wider trend within the global travel sector, where workforce development and youth engagement are becoming central to long-term sustainability and growth strategies.
