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Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

Name: Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea
Brand: WorldStrides
SKU: 53021
Rating: 4.88 (57 reviews)

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WorldStrides

4.88 (57 reviews)

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Students

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Adventure travelers

Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

WorldStrides

4.88 · 57 reviews

Community Choice Award Winner

Location

South Korea
- Seoul

Term

Fall, Spring, Summer, Winter

Subject Areas

Accounting Architecture Asian Studies Biology Business Chemistry Communications Computer Science Design Economics Education Engineering Finance International Relations Mathematics Physics Political Science Psychology Public Health Sociology +10

Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships, Payment plans, LGBTQIA+ funding, BIPOC funding

Health & Safety

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Program Details

Program Type

Provider

Degree Level

Bachelors

Housing

Dormitory

Language

English

Last Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Last Reviewed: Aug 27, 2025

Wish List

150 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

The capital of South Korea, Seoul is truly a modern, cosmopolitan, and dazzling city.

Seoul is among the largest cities in the world in terms of both population and area, with over 20 million people residing in the metropolitan area. In addition to the unique classroom culture and college atmosphere, Seoul offers natural beauty through its royal palaces, Buddhist temples, sleek skyscrapers, and cutting-edge technology. Plus, there is an excellent public transportation system that allows you to get anywhere in the city within minutes.

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COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

Students praise the program’s strong support, smooth logistics, and helpful staff, which ease cultural adjustment and visa processes.

AI-generated summary from verified community reviews Read reviews →

Video and Photos

Students dressed in traditional Korean dress

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Diversity & Inclusion 💙

BIPOC Support

Our team is committed to providing exceptional support through identity-focused advising and resources for students, university partners, and staff. We have developed our Community and Impact Committee to help serve all students and stakeholders, particularly the needs of underrepresented student populations.

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LGBTQIA+ Support

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Neurodivergent Support

WorldStrides is devoted to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of neurodivergence. Our Health & Safety team is available to answer questions about insurance and medication, as well as provide students with materials on overseas access to support.

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Accessibility Support

We are dedicated to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of accessibility. With our wide portfolio of program types and locations we’re confident there is a suitable and accessible program for each student. Accommodations abroad can be complex and take time, so those with accessibility needs should inform WorldStrides of any accommodations requests as early as possible in the advising process.

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Impact 🌎

Sustainability

We have partnered with Fill it Forward to engage team members and program participants in waste reduction practices. The goal is to encourage the elimination of single-use waste. Every QR code scan shows the impact of reusable bottles and unlocks a donation to environmental impact groups.

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Ethical Impact

WorldStrides, a global organization, is committed to educate and serve communities worldwide. Our commitment is fueled by the passion of our team members and partners to make experiential learning accessible, while also being socially, environmentally, and ethically responsible. Together, we accomplish this by investing in initiatives to promote inclusion, diversity, and sustainability.

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Program Highlights

Seoul is known for its impressive skyline. The cityscape showcases a blend of traditional Korean architecture and contemporary high-rise buildings.
South Korea is renowned for its high-quality education system and prestigious universities. Many universities are ranked among the top in Asia.
Korea and Yonsei University are members of the prestigious group of SKY universities in Korea, similar to the Ivy League in the U.S.
Sogang University is renowned for its academic excellence, particularly in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and business
Hanyang university is known for courses in technology and science, with hands-on learning in high-tech labs and unique innovation spaces.

Popular Programs

Korea University

Spend a semester, summer, or j-term at Korea University—one of Asia’s top universities—studying business and a variety of other subjects while immersing yourself in the rich culture and dynamic energy of Seoul.

Hanyang University

Accelerate your STEM and business studies at one of Asia’s most cutting-edge universities while living in the vibrant capital city of Seoul.

Yonsei University

Spend a semester, summer, or j-term studying at Yonsei University, one of Asia’s most prestigious institutions, while living in the heart of Seoul—a global capital of innovation, culture, and entertainment.

Sogang University

Spend a semester or summer in Seoul taking English-taught courses at Sogang University, South Korea’s oldest Jesuit institution, situated in the vibrant and artsy Hongdae district.

Sejong University

Study at Sejong University, one of Asia’s top institutions for hospitality and tourism, and take courses alongside both Korean and international students in the dynamic city of Seoul.

Konkuk University

Spend a semester in Seoul, South Korea, combining academic coursework with a hands-on internship at the vibrant and well-respected Konkuk University. Earn academic credit at Konkuk University while interning with Gen.G, one of the top global esports organizations, on this esports-focused program in Seoul in the summer.

Program Reviews

4.88 Rating

based on 57 reviews

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Rating Spread Study

5 rating 87.72%
4 rating 12.28%
3 rating 0%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 0%

Academics 4.45
Support 4.8
Fun 4.9
Housing 4.55
Safety 5

Good for Students, Foodies, Adventure travelers

Showing 17 - 24 of 57 reviews

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

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)

This was along the Han River with friends! we were waiting to watch a firework show and there were a ton of people there.

This was by a bridge right near my campus! I was taking a late night walk and I felt very safe and it was pretty peaceful too.

This was at the popular samoyed cafe in Hongdae and the dogs were very cute!

This is bingsu and it was one of my 5 favorite things I've had in Korea!

This is a beautiful view of Seoul from Namsan Tower!

This is Dakgalbi I had at a restaurant in Hongdae and it is so delicious and you need to try it when you go!

This is a pretty sunset I saw my third day here along the Han River!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Questions & Answers

Did some people speak English?

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...

By Christine Weyers on March 22, 2019

How much does it cost?

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.

By Education Abroad Network on November 27, 2018

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose TEAN South Korea for several reasons. I have wanted to study in Seoul for as long as I can remember, but I was initially apprehensive and needed a program that would support me, especially with the application process, which I found quite overwhelming. TEAN stood out to me because they not only provide assistance with the application process but also support you throughout your entire time there. Additionally, they offer airport pick-up to your dorm or hotel, which was very reassuring for me as someone with anxiety. They also organize activities to help familiarize you with the country, which I think is fantastic because it allows me to get to know South Korea before exploring on my own.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

TEAN provides assistance with various tasks, but the one I found most helpful was their support in organizing paperwork. They offered a website that allowed me to keep track of everything in a step-by-step manner, with someone available to help me stay on top of deadlines and applications. Additionally, they hosted a pre-departure Zoom session that helped me better understand the program and hear about the experiences of other students. Although I had to book my flight on my own, it wasn't difficult, as we received email reminders about our travel arrangements. While applying for my ARC, I also had to keep track of my paperwork to ensure everything was completed on time.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

Studying abroad might seem intimidating and scary because it's a whole different country, but I promise everything works out in the end. Don't hesitate to approach your school's study abroad office for assistance, and don't be afraid to venture out and explore the world. Before I went to South Korea, I was nervous and thought I wouldn't fit in or make friends. However, I was wrong; I met some of the most amazing people and spent the best four months of my life there. So, go out and explore—live your best life!

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

When you first arrive, you are filled with adrenaline, eager to explore until you feel a bit burned out. I remember that during the first three weeks with TEAN, they took us around the city to visit the museum, the palace, and even some places outside of Seoul. They also introduced us to various Korean restaurants. Thanks to TEAN's guidance, I had the opportunity to visit these locations without having to navigate on my own. After a month, I started to settle into the country as if it were my second home. I enjoyed my days attending classes, hanging out with friends, and even traveling outside of the country from time to time.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was the language barrier, but while living in Seoul, I found that everything had English subtitles. Most of the people I encountered were willing to help. I made it a point to learn the basics of Korean to get around, which was a significant help. Being able to say "hi" and "thank you" in Korean brought smiles to the faces of the locals, and they appreciated my effort to learn their language.

Statue of Admiral Yi Sun-sin in Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, South Korea. The tall statue stands on a pedestal with Korean inscriptions, surrounded by a fountain and numerous visitors. The background features lush green mountains under a cloudy sky.

Toni Clark

2024 Alum

About WorldStrides

As a leader in international education for over thirty years, WorldStrides is dedicated to providing university and college level students the opportunity to discover, learn, and enjoy a way of life other than their own. We offer a diverse portfolio of education abroad programs across Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Pacific. Our...

Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea