Location
  • South Korea
    • Seoul
Term
Fall, J-Term, Spring, Summer, Winter
Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships, LGBTQIA+ funding, BIPOC funding
Health & Safety

Program Details

Program Type
Provider
Degree Level
Bachelors
Housing
Dormitory
Language
English
Oct 06, 2023
Jan 30, 2024
103 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Set amongst the foothills of picturesque mountains, Seoul is home to over half of South Korea’s population and is the epicenter of the country’s government and economy. TEAN's partnership with Korea University allows students to study abroad in Seoul throughout the year with a semester, summer or winter term program.

More than 40% of the courses available at Korea University are taught in English, so you can rest assured that you'll find course options to stay on track for graduation. Korean language courses are offered every semester at six different levels and students fluent in Korean, will have access to the school's full range of courses (with a few exceptions)!

The TEAN program also includes a fun orientation at the start of the semester along with in-country staff to provide support every step of the way.

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion

BIPOC Support

Here at TEAN, we strive to be a leader in supporting students from all backgrounds to be able to travel and learn abroad. Our aim is to empower our students and help prepare them for a life-changing experience. Everyone's identity is unique to them and can be an integral aspect on where a person chooses to study or intern abroad. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! The DEI team is passionate about advocating against social injustices, racism, homophobia, xenophobia and all discriminatory social constructs. It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

LGBTQIA+ Support

Here at TEAN, we strive to be a leader in supporting students from all backgrounds to be able to travel and learn abroad. Our aim is to empower our students and help prepare them for a life-changing experience. Everyone's identity is unique to them and can be an integral aspect on where a person chooses to study or intern abroad. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! The DEI team is passionate about advocating against social injustices, racism, homophobia, xenophobia and all discriminatory social constructs. It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Neurodivergent Support

TEAN is committed to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of neurodivergence. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Accessibility Support

TEAN is committed to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of accessibility. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Impact

Sustainability

TEAN’s Choose Earth initiative is our way of building environmental and social responsibility into the ethos and outcomes of education abroad. At TEAN, we believe that studying abroad should include learning about – and finding solutions to – our most challenging societal problems, such as sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity, resource use, habitat preservation, gender inequality and social injustice in a globalized world.

Ethical Impact

To this end, TEAN is committed to providing experiential learning opportunities abroad that help build the knowledge, skills and attitudes students need to become locally engaged, civically minded and globally responsible. We believe that studying abroad should include learning about – and finding solutions to – our most challenging societal problems, such as sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity, resource use, habitat preservation, gender inequality and social injustice in a globalized world.

Popular Programs

TEAN: Korea University

Study in Seoul at one of Korea’s leading private universities that’s known for its stunning urban campus and on par with the Ivy League schools in the U.S. Here students will have the opportunity to live in a vibrant capital city that blends high-tech modernity with ancient culture like no other. While studying a range of courses in English, students will also discover more about life in Korea by pairing up with a Korean student over the course of the semester for a local experience.

Korea University Summer Program

Spend the summer in one of the world’s most vibrant capital cities, Seoul, while studying at the distinguished Korea University. Known for its outstanding academic programs and beautiful campus, students can take a range of comprehensive courses, all offered in English, ensuring they still meet graduation requirements. Throughout the program, participants will have the chance to take part in fun activities designed to introduce them to the many facets of Korean culture outside of the classroom.

Hanyang University

Hanyang University, located in the South Korean capital of Seoul, is geared toward business, economics, and engineering majors. It's home to high-tech, multinational corporations like LG, Samsung, and Hyundai. All courses are taught in English by local and international faculty. Inside the classroom, mingle with local Korean students, TEAN students, and other international students. Outside of class, explore Seoul’s buzzing lifestyle, all while immersing yourself in Korean culture.

Hanyang Summer School

Study in Seoul at the largest international summer school program in South Korea at the respected Hanyang University. Choose two or three classes in the fields of your choice while also being introduced to the contemporary South Korean culture through included excursions and activities. Throughout it all, you’ll also receive beginning-to-end support from resident TEAN staff, accommodation and more to make the most of your summer in Seoul!

Esports in Seoul

Become fully immersed in South Korea’s esports scene through joint programming with Gen.G, one of the world’s leading esports organizations. Get an inside look at the mecca of esports, experiencing firsthand the exciting culture of the industry alongside professional players and coaches.

Winter Term in Korea

Make the most of your J-Term in studying at Korea University in Seoul! While wintering in Seoul, you will enjoy delicious street food, sledding, K-Pop holiday concerts, and warming up in Korean hot springs. This program is available at Korea University. Choose between Korea University’s two- or three-week sessions . You will explore Korea’s dynamic destinations and experience all that is Korean culture while earning up to six credits.

hanyang u

Take advantage of your winter break by spending your J-Term in Korea’s vibrant capital! While wintering in Seoul, you will enjoy delicious street food, sledding, K-Pop holiday concerts, and warming up in Korean hot springs. This program is available at Hanyang University. Choose between Hanyang University’s two- or three-week sessions . You will explore Korea’s dynamic destinations and experience all that is Korean culture while earning up to six credits.

yonsei university

Yonsei University is one of the top-ranked universities in South Korea and is known for its rigorous academic programs. It offers a wide range of courses and has a strong reputation for producing talented graduates who excel in various fields. Yonsei, a “SKY” University, has a strong international presence and is recognized globally for its research and academic contributions.

Yonsei

Study at Yonsei University, one of South Korea's leading universities over the summer. Yonsei offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that cater to various interests and talents. This fosters a sense of community and allows students to pursue their passions outside the classroom. Throughout it all, you’ll also receive beginning-to-end support from resident TEAN staff, accommodation and more to make the most of your summer in Seoul!

yonsei winter

Take advantage of your winter break by spending your J-Term in Korea’s vibrant capital! Yonsei University is one of the top-ranked universities in South Korea and is known for its rigorous academic programs. It offers a wide range of courses and has a strong reputation for producing talented graduates who excel in various fields.

Scholarships

TEAN by WorldStrides Diversity Scholarship

This scholarship is offered for summer and semester programs and is intended for students with identities historically underserved in education abroad. This can include, but is not limited to, individuals who identify as African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, Alaskan Native, American Indian, Native Hawaiian, LGBTQIA+, First-Generation College Students, U.S. Military Veterans, students with disabilities, and/or students at Minority-Serving Institutions.

Value
$2,500 - $5,000

Program Reviews

4.93 Rating
based on 41 reviews
  • 5 rating 92.68%
  • 4 rating 7.32%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Academics 4.5
  • Support 4.8
  • Fun 4.95
  • Housing 4.6
  • Safety 4.95
Showing 1 - 8 of 41 reviews
Default avatar
Adrienne
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Grateful for my time with TEAN in Seoul!

I truly had the best time studying abroad in Seoul for a semester. There is so much to do and explore in Seoul and I definitely want to go back someday!
I'm really grateful for the support that TEAN gave me, from helping me with documents and housing to picking me up at the airport, and organizing fun activities to meet new people! This was my first time traveling on my own and it was nice to have support and the TEAN community, especially when getting adjusted to a new country. They showed us how to use the subway and navigate our classes and quickly we became independent students exploring the city on our own!
For school, I mainly took political science, history, and Korean language classes. The professors were engaging and I learned a lot. There wasn't really any homework, which was nice for afternoon and weekend adventures, but I did have to study hard for midterms and finals. Also, I always felt safe everywhere I went in Korea, even late at night. The food was delicious and I was always able to find a vegetarian option, which was important to me. Seoul is a great city to study abroad to learn about a new culture and meet people from around the world. I am so glad that I did and it will be a time that I will always look back on and never forget!

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice is to pack as lightly as you possibly can! There is so much inexpensive shopping, so every ounce in your suitcase counts. Do a lot of research on what to bring, because it is hard to get some things like an extra electrical outlet converter when you're there, and only bring a few of your favorite clothes.
Pros
  • Easy to navigate without knowing the language well
  • Easy transportation system
  • With a sim card wifi access is fast and everywhere
Cons
  • There's some air pollution in the spring, so its good to check the air levels and wear a mask outside
5 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Grace
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

I highly recommend!!

I had an incredible time on my study abroad in Seoul! I went to Hanyang University and I loved everything about my experience. Seoul is also very safe, and as a woman, I never felt unsafe walking around by myself, especially at night. The excursions that were included in my program were very nice and fun as well! The academic schedule and courseload were different than I'm used to but the professors are very helpful and are always willing to answer any questions! There is a lot to do and eat too.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
The most unfamiliar thing I ate was both live octopus tentacles and chicken feet. I am a very picky eater but I wanted to try something new because this type of food isn't very common where I live.
Pros
  • Safe
  • Great transportation system
  • Tons of stuff to do and eat
Cons
  • slightly expensive
  • somewhat of a language barrier (if you don't know any Korean)
  • sort of hard to make friends with other Korean students (esp if you can't speak Korean)
8 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Sophia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Semester In Seoul

My experience in Seoul was absolutely fantastic, and the experience was made even more enjoyable by working with TEAN. They take care of all communication with your home and host schools, transfer your transcripts and even help you apply for your visa. They also pick you up from the airport and plan excursions. Seoul is a beautiful city with lots to do and amazing food. Korea university offers amazing classes and you experience such a fun sense of pride going to such a fantastic school. I would definitely recommend Seoul for studying abroad.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
if i could do everything all over again i would choose to study for an entire year instead of just one semester. I was worried that i would arrive and might not want to stay for a year so i only applied for one semester, however i think if you have the opportunity to stay for a year you should. there is so much to do in Seoul and you could stay there for years and never get bored.
Pros
  • use of english on public transport
  • great food
  • solo traveler friendly
Cons
  • weather
13 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Bella
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An Amazing Opportunity

Studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea, was such an amazing opportunity for me. It was so meaningful to be fully immersed in a different culture and live my new everyday life there. In Seoul there were so many fun and exciting things to do. I felt that I could never get board being there.
With the support from TEAN I felt prepared and confident during my time abroad. If I could I would go back in a heartbeat! Studying abroad in South Korea has made a realize my true passion for international work and travel.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I would probably say raw meat. Although intimidating at first it actually was pretty good! I had it in a popular dish known as bibimbap.
Pros
  • Friendships
  • Experience
  • Public Transportation
Cons
  • Went by too fast
14 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Bella
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An Amazing Opportunity

Studying abroad in Seoul, South Korea, was such an amazing opportunity for me. It was so meaningful to be fully immersed in a different culture and live my new everyday life there. In Seoul there were so many fun and exciting things to do. I felt that I could never get board being there.
With the support from TEAN I felt prepared and confident during my time abroad. If I could I would go back in a heartbeat! Studying abroad in South Korea has made a realize my true passion for international work and travel.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
I would probably say raw meat. Although intimidating at first it actually was pretty good! I had it with a popular Korean dish known as bibimbap.
Pros
  • Friendships
  • Experience
  • Culture
Cons
  • Went by too fast
20 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Ana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Summer In Seoul

I had such a great time during my time in Korea! It was my first time going to a foreign country by myself but I had such a pleasant experience and it was definitely something I will remember for the rest of my life. The classes and campus were very nice and the professors were very kind. I was able to cross off a lot of things I wanted to see off my list like temples and popular areas in Seoul. I also got to take dance classes at a famous dance studio and tried so much amazing food. I would really recommend the experience to anyone and would love to go back and do it again.

What was your funniest moment?
Getting lost on public transportation.
Pros
  • Language immersion
  • Friendships
  • Food
Cons
  • Dorm location
  • Weather
  • Language barriers
17 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Brittany
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Home Away From Home

This past semester abroad was everything I hoped it would be! It is crazy how the places I used to save as future traveling inspo were now close enough to visit and explore.

Seoul was the perfect city to live in because of how much there is to do and how affordable it is to visit other areas. I took several day and weekend trips outside of Seoul, and the process was very simple. I could not recommend it enough.

The people are very kind, and I felt welcomed immediately at Korea University. A lot of my favorite memories are conversations with strangers who showed me Korean affection. My favorite is a woman I met at BBQ. I visit her almost weekly with friends because she says I look like her daughter who is studying abroad. She even asked me to call her aunt!

The TEAN staff also made it easy to make friends because there are scheduled outings and a group chat. They are all very kind and helpful, so do not be afraid to send them a message on Kakao when you are having a problem.

As a foreigner, you will be stared at and potentially harassed, but as long as you react maturely, you will be okay. Especially when you travel to cities that are more rural, the stares will increase, and random strangers will probably come up to talk to you. Just keep this in mind and always be with another person! You may also face some discrimination. I experienced it at a museum when I was forced to pay more than the entry fee because I was not Korean. In one of my classes, I also had this problem because the grader said I was destined to not succeed because I am from America. There seems to be a lot of unwritten rules and expectations in coursework that students from America are unaware of. The best solution is to ask your professor detailed questions about what they are looking for and remain kind and respectful.

It is important to stay on top of your studies and reach out for help! I do this by scheduling time to talk with my professors. The class I mentioned facing discrimination in, is where I started to do this. I meet with the professor often to go over assignments, and we have tea. It has made a negative situation very positive!

The most important thing if you visit is to get out of your comfort zone. I flew here alone, but I am leaving with friends. I had never practiced Korean with a native Korean, and now I have hundreds of times! Make the most of your time and accomplish everything you want to do.

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
While abroad in Seoul, I decided to participate in the trip to Tokyo, Japan! The most unfamiliar food I ate was Takoyaki, including bits of Octopus moving on top! I had never seen anything like it before in the states, so it was an interesting but fun experience.
Pros
  • Food
  • Kind People
  • Never Bored
Cons
  • Discrimination
18 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Kathryn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Studying abroad

I have had a really great time at Hanyang. The classes were a lot less strict then I thought they were going to be. The on site staff are very nice and respond very quickly. Had housing on campus at the dorms and they are nice and have their own bathroom and good space. The campus is nice just hilly. I feel safe walking around at night and you really can leave your belongings and no one will really take. The people here are polite but it’s hard making friends with Koreans because of the culture of who is a friend and who is noona or oppa. So if you want to make Korean friend you have to make one the same birth year as you or the dynamic will never exactly be friend with an older Korean. The there are a lot of fun things to do and you should definitely travel around Korea!! Definitely go to cafes in the Hongdae and Seongsu area. Go sheep cafe called Thanks Nature Cafe. The transportation system is smooth and cheap.

What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
I saw two IVE members at Everland.Also I got into a ONEUS fansign.
Pros
  • Beautiful Campus
  • Food is cheap
  • Clothing is cheap
Cons
  • You have to walk hills and stairs
  • Guys spit everywhere
  • No trash cans
20 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers

In Seoul, I would say that quite a large amount of people can understand and speak at least a little English. In popular areas with heavy foot traffic like Hongdae, Myeongdong, itaewon and Dongdaemun you should be ok to use English because they get a lot of foreigners there. At Korea University in Anam since there are a lot of university students that had to study English back in high school and...

Hi Trya! The cost of our program in Seoul can vary term to term and depending on which program you are interested in (summer or semester or winter term). I recommend visiting our website to see current pricing for upcoming programs.