Lian Jiaqi

403950598@qq.com

ON the evening of May 4, the special program “Ode to Youth – 2025 May 4th Youth Festival,” hosted by China Central Television (CCTV), was broadcast simultaneously on CCTV and other platforms.

Supported by the Publicity Department of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee and Shenzhen Media Group, the gala brought together young representatives from across China, including students from multiple Shenzhen universities, who expressed the vigor and spirit of youth through song and storytelling.

A standout moment of the event was the performance by the International Choir of Shenzhen University (SZUIC), which delivered the moving song “Nice to Meet You.”

Founded in 2016 by South Korean doctoral student Shin Moon-sub, SZUIC is a multicultural ensemble with members from countries including China, South Korea, and Thailand. Embracing the belief that “music knows no borders,” the choir aims to convey emotions and foster cross-cultural understanding.

Since its inception, SZUIC has earned recognition by performing at prominent occasions like Shenzhen University’s 40th anniversary celebration, key campus ceremonies, and significant public events.

The choir has also participated in CCTV’s global “Hear Each Other” concert and recorded the theme song for CCTV’s documentary series “Classics on the Stream: The Prime of Youth.”

Shin told Shenzhen Daily that 18 international students representing 16 countries participated in the filming of this year’s program.

“The participants filmed scenes at iconic Shenzhen landmarks including Talent Park, Crescent Valley at Shenzhen Bay Park, and the OCT Loft Creative Culture Park. This experience was invaluable both artistically and culturally,” he said.

For Shin, singing in a chorus is not only a healing experience but also a powerful way to foster unity and connection in a world.

Originally from South Korea, Shin set aside his musical aspirations for practical reasons after his family relocated from Busan to Seoul. However, he found renewed inspiration after moving to Shenzhen in 2010 to study and live.

After graduating as part of the inaugural bachelor’s cohort in Chinese Language and Literature at Shenzhen University, Shin went on to pursue advanced studies in law, all while actively nurturing his passion for music. Encouraged by his university, he founded the SZUIC in 2016. The choir quickly became a vibrant platform where students from diverse cultures could come together to share and celebrate music.

Sri Lankan master’s student Mihindi Amarasena from Shenzhen University’s School of Management expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to perform.

“Singing ‘Nice to Meet You’ allowed me to feel the warmth and unity of youth worldwide. I look forward to more opportunities to grow and share music in the future,” she said.