Korea: Seoul - Korean and East Asian Studies, Yonsei University

My study abroad trip to South Korea was a deeply personal and transformative experience that went beyond academics. As someone with a strong interest in East Asian culture and language, being immersed in Korean society allowed me to connect classroom knowledge with real-world interactions. I felt this through daily conversations, navigating cultural norms, or witnessing the pace of urban life in a completely different culture. What made my experience unique was how it deepened my understanding of identity and belonging, especially as someone already engaged in cross-cultural study. For future participants, I recommend staying curious, open-minded, and willing to engage with both the exciting and uncomfortable moments. Don't be afraid to step outside the expat bubble and build genuine connections; the growth that comes from cultural immersion is what makes this journey unforgettable.

This was my first time traveling anywhere alone, so I was pretty nervous at first. This only intensified, not in Korea, but in my home airport as they had somehow lost my bag. However, this all went away as soon as I arrived in Korea. The first thing I noticed was how kind everyone was, including the airport workers who tried their best to help me with the bag problem through the language barrier.

This was a common theme throughout the trip, as Korea was by far the most positive and respectful place I’ve been a tourist in.

This fact, along with the great selection of restaurants, the beautiful street markets and parks to walk around in, the intriguing and very well organized classes, and the friend groups you will make along the way makes South Korea, and specifically Yonsei University, worth the travels and more.

Also, if you were wondering, I did get my bag back.

South Korea is one of the best cities you could travel to they have so many activities and events that my home country does not have. Yonsei University has an amazing student environment with lots of school spirit and sports games that’s nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. As a Mexican-American I was even able to feel at home because of the amount of Taco places all over Seoul. There is even a Latin American restaurant that incorporates food my mom would cook for me at home. Coming here is a once in a lifetime experience that I’ll remember forever so if you’re even thinking about coming to Seoul, just do it! USAC is here to help you with the process.

Seoul has many many things to offer, so no matter who you are, you will find something!

Here at Yonsei University- the classes are super laid back. With that being said, your final exams will weigh a lot more than what they do in the US ( most being 50%). Along with that, attendance is almost mandatory here.

I would say Seoul is very affordable- as you can get a great meal for less than 11 dollars! Convenient stores are also a good choice! As well as food, a subway trip will cost around 99¢. Have fun in Seoul!

I loved staying in Seoul at one of South Korea’s sky universities. I had a lot of fun, and I want to keep going back. I am excited to see where my future will take me, now that I have had a unique experience abroad and have learned a new language. Seoul has so many cafes, noraebangs, craft workshops, and tours you can book. Additionally, traveling outside the city, I loved Busan the most. It had a rich culture distinct from Seoul, and the people were so welcoming, despite having less of a foreigner population than Seoul. The beautiful temples, palaces, and rich cultural and historical preservation will forever be ingrained in my memories.

Studying abroad in Seoul was one of the most rewarding and unforgettable experiences of my life. From the moment I arrived, I was embraced by the vibrant culture, accessible transporation, and an exciting blend of traditional and modern life.

The city has so much to offer—whether it’s exploring ancient palaces like Gyeongbokgung, taking the train to Busan, or even eating all the dlicious Korean street food. Seoul is a city that never sleeps, so there is always something new to discover or a new place to explore.

What made my experience truly special was the opportunity to connect with people I otherwise wouldn't have the opportunity to meet. Whether through classes, student groups, or just striking up conversations in cafes, I formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime. The support system, both from my peers and the program/university staff, made transitioning to a new culture much easier. Academically, the experience was both challenging and enriching. I got to study topics I wouldn’t have explored back home, all while gaining a global perspective. The professors were knowledgeable, and I loved how engaging and interactive the classes were.

If I had to sum it up in one sentence, studying in Seoul was a beautiful balance of personal growth, cultural immersion, and non-stop adventure. It was an experience that helped me grow not just academically but also as a person. I can’t recommend it enough to anyone considering studying abroad in South Korea!

I spent an unforgettable spring semester at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, from February 22 to June 22—truly the best 120 days of my life! Yonsei offers a diverse array of unique courses not available at my home university. I enrolled in four classes: Contemporary Korean Culture & the Korean Wave, Intensive Korean Language, Understanding K-Pop, and Pre-Modern Korean History. Each class deepened my understanding and appreciation of Korean culture.

My language course, in particular, significantly enhanced my Korean skills. Before arriving in Korea, I knew the Korean alphabet (Hangul) and could speak a few basic words. By the end of my semester, I was able to hold simple conversations and read the signs throughout the city.

Located in Sinchon, Yonsei University is a stunning campus right in the heart of Seoul. The city's extensive 233.69 square miles offers endless adventures, from exploring new districts to discovering cozy cafes perfect for studying and sampling traditional Korean dishes at various restaurants.

The hardest part was saying goodbye—not only to the beautiful country of Korea but also to the incredible friends I made during my time abroad. Although I arrived alone, I left with countless friends from all over the world.

I studied abroad at Yonsei in Seoul, South Korea! I had an amazing time getting to immerse myself in the Korean academic culture with all of my classes. I was lucky enough to get a dorm on campus, which was an amazing experience and allowed me to be close to campus and really feel what student living was like! One of my favorite classes was my Korean Art History course where I not only got to learn about the cool artistic developments throughout Korean and East Asian history but also got to deep dive into the Korean history itself. Outside of my classes, I loved getting to explore the city from the street markets to historical landmarks right there in the city center. I also enjoyed trying the local food, meeting new people, and experiencing everything that Seoul had to offer. The whole experience was unforgettable both academically and personally.