The PATA Youth Symposium 2026 (PYS 2026), organised by PATA and co-hosted by the Handong University, will take place alongside the PATA Annual Summit 2026 in Pohang, Korea (ROK).
PYS 2026 will examine how the public and private sectors are collaborating in response to rapidly evolving global realities. Key discussions will highlight best practices in sustainability initiatives, the advancement of heritage tourism through effective stewardship of cultural assets, and how young tourism professionals can actively prepare for and shape their future career pathways.
Keynote Speeches
Interactive Panel Discussions
Student-led Dialogues
Programme
0900-0920
Welcome by Master of Ceremony & Icebreaking
0920-0940
Opening Remarks
Keynote: Navigating Towards a Resilient Future
Setting the tone for the Symposium, this keynote offers a big-picture view of the current and future landscape of tourism resilience. It will examine global trends shaping the industry, including sustainability, climate adaptation, shifting traveller expectations, and long-term sector resilience.
0940-0955
Presentation: AI in Tourism Resiliency
An exploration of how artificial intelligence is strengthening tourism resilience across planning, operations, and visitor management. The discussion will highlight real-world applications of A.I. in demand forecasting, crisis response, workforce planning, and sustainability, while considering the skills and governance needed to deploy these technologies responsibly.
0955-1010
Maritime Sustainability / Ocean Conservation
Focused on the vital role of oceans and coastal environments in tourism, this segment explores maritime sustainability and ocean conservation efforts. It will highlight how responsible tourism practices can protect marine ecosystems while supporting coastal and island communities.
1010-1025
Keynote: Gastronomy Tourism Trends
An overview of how gastronomy is shaping destination development worldwide, with insights into emerging food tourism trends, evolving traveller preferences, and the growing role of culinary experiences in expressing local identity and culture.
1025-1040
Panel Discussion on Local Gastronomy Tourism
A multi-destination discussion featuring public sector and destination leaders sharing best practices and on-the-ground experiences in gastronomy tourism. The conversation will highlight how destinations can leverage food heritage, support local producers, and strengthen community-based tourism.
1040-1120
Discovering Career Trends and How to Get Ready
A forward-looking conversation linking the morning’s insights to career development in tourism. Panellists will share perspectives on emerging career pathways, future-ready skills, and practical ways young professionals can prepare for a changing industry.
1120-1155
PATA Youth and Internship Programme
1155-1200
Lunch
1200-1300