Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

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

Program Details

Program Type
Provider
Degree Level
Bachelors
Housing
Dormitory
Language
English
Jun 15, 2026
Aug 27, 2025
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.

COMMUNITY REVIEWS SUMMARY

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

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion 💙

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.
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.
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.
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.

Impact 🌎

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.
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.

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

TEAN: 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 uni

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
  • 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
Showing 41 - 48 of 57 reviews
Ava
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Seoul Study Abroad

Seoul was such an incredible city to experience during the Spring 2023 semester. I had great quality of life in terms of safety, affordability, and amusement! There are endless things to do in Seoul like explore the food scene, take in the city's green spaces, do some great shopping, or going to karaoke. The TEAN staff was very helpful in making me feel prepared prior to my program in terms of helping me get my visa, teaching me about the cultural expectations of Korea, and even just guidance on what to pack. I also felt reassured in that there were TEAN staff members on-site during my stay abroad.

Pros
  • Rich culture
  • Affordable lifestyle
  • Amazing food
Cons
  • Homogeneous country (foreigners tend to stick out)
  • Intense heat during summer months
  • Language barrier
95 people found this review helpful.
Ping
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Foodies Delight

I studied abroad during the summer, and I loved it. It was shorter, and I didn't get to meet as many students at KU, but I got to meet many other people from the USA who were there to study. The dorms are very close to the MRT; you can take it anywhere. You literally can go anywhere. I loved how we could explore so much of the city and how easy it was. The food is fantastic, and you can get a variety of the same food, whether it is tteokbokki, bibimbop, jjajangmyeon, and more.

I went as the first group after COVID, so it was a little stricter, and we weren't allowed to do as much stuff. But it was so much fun just to be there and experience how beautiful the city is.

Pros
  • Easy public transportation
  • Amazing Food
  • Good for all ages
Cons
  • Lots of hills to walk up
  • Crazy drivers
109 people found this review helpful.
Stella
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

ISA/TEAN Study Abroad in Seoul, South Korea

Studying abroad in a city like Seoul has offered me so many new perspectives. South Korea was an amazing destination to study abroad; with so many places to explore, eat, shop, and see, I believe Korea has something for everyone. I am glad I chose this program to study abroad because they have provided me with numerous resources to make this trip as smooth as possible. The ISA/TEAN staff was extremely helpful throughout the process, and their activities, lunches, and orientations made the first few weeks in Korea feel less overwhelming. This allowed us to meet and make friends with other international students. The on-site team was wonderful, and they had all the resources necessary to assist the international students. The staff planned fun excursions for the TEAN students and were very easy to talk to!
One of the excursions included a weekend getaway to a city called Busan, where we had access to a private bus to take the TEAN students around the city and explore various popular travel locations. Seoul is a technologically advanced city where everything seems to make sense. Everything in Seoul is more efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and beautiful than anything I've seen in the United States. Seoul is buzzing with people and activities, with opportunities for amazing and fun nightlife, cafe hopping, city shopping, and even some sightseeing. The nightlife is a must-have experience for students studying in Seoul. Busan, a coastal city about 3 hours outside of Seoul, is a coastal town with incredible views and landscape, beautiful beaches and fish markets to try, and everything from Buddhist temples to small colorful villages to walk through. While Jeju is a small island off the coast of Korea, it is only an hour away by plane and has a completely different vibe than the city. It feels like a tropical vacation, complete with beautiful beaches, palm trees, fresh food and fruits, and amazing views. It has opened my eyes to the reality of the culture and way of life in Korea. I am happy to have experienced such a unique and advanced city, where I felt safe and independent despite the language barrier.

Pros
  • Fast and efficient transportation
  • Seoul is moderately foreign friendly
  • Has something for everyone
Cons
  • Spring/ Early Summer can get very hot, and there is little access to swimming in Seoul
  • Hard to engage in club/school organizations without knowing the language
  • Stares from locals can be overwhelming at first
110 people found this review helpful.
Adehl
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Study Abroad in Seoul

It was the best 4 months that I've ever lived. I highly encourage everyone to do a semester abroad! One of my favorite activities was going to a 24h spa at 3am and just relaxing there. I traveled a TON and had so many wobderful experiences! I got to see Jeju Island, visit many museums (a huge majority which was free), eat deliciois and cheap foods, and visit cute cafes. Seoul felt extremely safe. I traveled alone and never felt uncomfortable (also helps that people are respectful.) Once again come to Seoul because there is a lot to do (Im definitely going back) and it will be an amazing experience!

Pros
  • Safe
  • Cheap food
  • Great public transportation
Cons
  • None
112 people found this review helpful.
Meghan
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

BEST THREE WEEK EXPERIENCE!

This program is one of the best short term winter programs I have done. Korea University has a beautiful campus and great facilities. The professors were also amazing. I was able to take a class accredited for my major (Communication major) and have the chance to learn and then participate in Korean culture. I got an insight into Korean popular culture and how it is influential worldwide. I understand now. It is worthwhile to see the love for Korean culture (kdrams, kpop, Korean health and beauty products) and where it comes from. The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) also was very supportive. They provided support pre-departure and in-country. Before departing, there was a pre-departure orientation where we got to hear about the logistics upon arrival and during the program. We had a welcome and farewell dinner from TEAN. Also, in-country, the resident director was amazing. They gave great recommendations and were always responsive through Kakao Talk (Korea's messaging app). TEAN also had cultural activities as part of the program. We had a movie night were we ate Korean pizza and watched a Korean movie. There was a day where we went to the DMZ and Korean War memorial museum. I felt very supported by TEAN and my home university when going abroad. Overall, it was a wonderful experience thanks to TEAN and my university for making it happen! I would go back and do it all over again.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
One major thing I recommend to future students is to get a local SIM-card. This will help access anything you need while out and about: translating app, transportation app, or just finding nearby food. Another tip, Google maps does not work well in South Korea, so I used Kakao map or Naver map. Also, in the beginning I was told there would be a lot of walking and hills to go up and down but did not anticipate to be all over the city. Just be prepared to do a lot of hillwalking. But it is worth it to explore the city.
186 people found this review helpful.
Ana
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Seoul, a City of Possibilities

My study abroad experience in Seoul, South Korea was phenomenal. From animal cafes to nightlife the city of Seoul has a lot of extraordinary events. During my time in Seoul, I got to step out of my comfort zone and learn while living in a completely different culture. Each week Korea University hosted cultural events to immerse students into new and fun experiences. From the first to last day in Seoul, TEAN staff were always there and ready to help whenever. TEAN hosted its own orientation of Anam and Korea University before our official KUISC orientation, which I found more efficient and helpful than the one provided by the university. During orientation, TEAN gave us T-Money cards for the metro, which were godsend to our time studying abroad in South Korea. During the course of KUISC, I made amazing friends that I cannot picture my life without now.
During the Summer, the Korea University campus is full of greenery. The campus architecture makes the University look like a modern-day castle. In the Summer, the temperature is scorching, and the sky is mostly sunny. Located in the campus underground area, there is KU study rooms, a Morning Glory (stationary store), a CU (convenience store), cafes and restaurants, a cafeteria, and KU Optical. While classes were in session, I got to connect with knowledgeable professors in their field and learn in a small class setting, which facilitated the learning process. Professors hold office hours in addition to teaching classes, which are very useful. If you take third to fourth-year level classes, it will be difficult, but I learned great study habits during my time abroad.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
It is very easy to get into the mindset of wanting to skip class and neglect their studies. While this didn’t necessarily happen to me, I did observe many peers struggle with their grades at the end of KUISC. Students should keep in mind that they are still in school at the end of the day and maintain a healthy balance between studies and exploring. It will pay off in the long run.
186 people found this review helpful.
Breaun
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Fun way to explore a new country

I had a really good time attending Korea University over summer. It was really great to experience Korea for the first time with many other students from around the world! While studying at Korea University I was able to learn about Korean culture but also interact with a large global community. Not only was I able to meet many new friends during my time in Seoul, I was also able to have many experiences that I would not have had if I had attended a different program. From big group dinners to our big trip to Lotte World. If you would like to study in Korea, I would highly recommend studying in Korea through the Tean Summer in Seoul program. All of the Tean Staff members are so kind and so helpful throughout the whole process, from predeparture to return. 10/10!

182 people found this review helpful.
Isabelle
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Summer In Seoul & a Summer I'll Never Forget

My dream since I was 11 years old was to travel to Seoul, South Korea and learn all about Korean language and culture. I was really nervous about picking the study abroad right program. I wanted to challenge myself academically, but also leave enough time to explore and have fun. My university didn't offer a program to South Korea, but I saw TEAN's table at my university's study abroad fair. After speaking with the representative and researching Korea University; I knew that this was the right program for me. My sociology and Korean language classes at Korea University were challenging but the professors were amazing. The town of Anam was also amazing. I never felt unsafe once and that's saying a lot because I grew up in Baltimore. Anam also had some the best & inexpensive food that I ate while in Korea. During TEAN's welcome and farewell dinner, Sandra and Katie ( from TEAN) took us to awesome restaurants. The excursions that were included in this trip were so much fun. My favorite was Lotte World because I love amusement parks. During the excursions you could get to know your KUBA better ( Korean buddy) and then have a Korean friend for life. I honestly don't have one complaint about this program, I would go again in a heartbeat.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
My advice would be to try to go with the flow and explore as much as possible. Seoul is such a dense city and there are new places popping up every day. I was out of my dorm every day from 10am- until the subways closed at midnight and I still did not get to see as much as I would have liked to. Seoul tends to build upwards instead of outwards; so don't forget to look up above the first floor of buildings. Google maps and Apple maps don't work that well in Korea, so make sure you have Kaokao Map and Kakao Metro downloaded so you don't get lost. Don't skip out on the excursions because they're really fun and worth your time. TEAN has a great support system so don't hesitate to reach out to someone if you have questions or concerns. But my biggest piece of advice would be; watch out for mopeds.
181 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.