I Want to Study Abroad in South Korea—But How?

Studying abroad in general is always going to be a good idea. You can complete your degree, earn degree credits, or learn new skills all while immersing yourself in a culture that’s completely different from yours, receiving more than just a regular tourist experience.

You’ll be able to fully immerse in your surroundings.

You also have the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and forge deep friendships. And nothing brings people closer than going through the hectic life of a student together! The shared experiences of pulling all-nighters, working together on team projects, and unwinding after a long day of classes can be instrumental in connecting with people from other parts of the world.

Study abroad is valuable—that much is for sure. But with dozens of destinations to choose from, how are you supposed to pick? If you’ve landed here, then you’re already considering study abroad in South Korea. Great choice! Now it’s time for the next steps.

We’ll explain exactly how to study in Korea!

Why study abroad in South Korea?

First, let’s review some of the best reasons to study abroad in South Korea. This is a study abroad destination that continues to gain popularity year after year.

Arguably, South Korea’s best export at the moment is their pop culture. Many people outside of the country have started learning the Korean language, motivated by the interest in understanding k-dramas and k-pop songs and artists on a deeper level. But South Korea is definitely so much more than that.

Did you know that South Korea boasts some of the top educational institutes in Asia? If you really want an academic challenge, this could definitely be the place for you.

South Korea also has a vibrant street food culture, where people of many income levels can have access to delicious, filling, and nutritious food at affordable prices.

One of our personal favorite experiences while in South Korea is spending a day in a jjimjilbang, also known as a Korean Bathing House. Similar to the Japanese Onsen, this is where you can soak in hot thermal waters, sweat it out in saunas, and if you’re daring, receive a full body scrub from strong-armed Korean ladies stationed there for this very service.

So you’re probably thinking now: I want to study in South Korea! Lucky for you, we’ve laid out all the steps below.

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How to study abroad in Korea

Are you ready to experience South Korea as a study abroad student?

Making the decision to study abroad in South Korea will be the beginning of a grand world adventure in which you explore a new language, culture, and history that has thrived for thousands of years, and continues to innovate at the head of the curve.

Here’s a guide on how to study in Korea.

1. Decide on the study program you want

There is something for everyone when it comes to studying abroad in Korea. If you’re the academic type who thrives in rigorous and challenging situations, consider diving right in to a local university with credentials that are on par with or exceed the standards of some Ivy League colleges.

If you’re interested in the Korean Language and culture, why not consider an immersive language experience? You can easily return home fluent in Korean! For a more relaxed, holiday-type experience, there are also study trips that aren’t as rigorous, and give you the benefits of learning alongside fun activities and excursions!

There is also the option to combine your studying experience with internships at the same time. The possibilities are nearly endless!

2. Choose a city or town

Busan? Seoul? It’s up to you!

Now that you’ve decided what you want to do when you study abroad in Korea, it’s time to answer the next question—where exactly in Korea do you want to go? The easy answer may be “wherever the school is” which makes total sense. Most academic opportunities are also in the capital city of Seoul.

However, now with the increase in online courses, sitting in a classroom may be more of a want than a need. If you have the flexibility to study remotely, there are many intriguing options in South Korea from where you could have your study abroad experience.

Busan, for example, is the second largest city in Korea. This port city has a completely different vibe from Seoul and may be the perfect mix between traditional life and a bustling city. There are cool courses and interesting volunteer opportunities as well, in case you want to enhance your time studying in South Korea.

If you want to really step out of your comfort zone, you could explore the rural regions of Korea’s South Jeolla Province, or even experience the amazing natural beauty of Jeju Island.

3. Do some additional research on a personal level

If you’re going to be leaving home for the first time, there are a few things to take into consideration before jumping on that plane. Getting yourself mentally prepared and in the correct mindset is instrumental for having the best experience you can have abroad.

For example, as excited as you may be to leave home, homesickness can be a real deterrent to your experiences while you’re abroad. In South Korea, where 95% of the population is homogenous, not knowing fluent Korean may especially contribute to an isolating experience.

The key is to be prepared for this and get yourself ready to really step out of your comfort zone, take the experience in your hands, and really put yourself out there. A fun way to do this is to participate in casual language exchange programs while you’re there (if your study abroad program doesn’t already offer them!).

Don’t show up in Korea unprepared—try to learn what to expect!

A great place to start would be to seek out expats and foreigners who already live in South Korea, or even program alumni who participated in your same program. There are numerous expat groups on Facebook and other social media channels that you can join before departing. Additionally, your program provider should be able to connect you with alumni if you’re curious to hear their testimonials.

Also, don’t stress too much about this step. Your program provider or study abroad office exist to help you with these particular challenges. They can help get you settled, put you in touch with local and foreign friends, and support you in times of need while you’re studying abroad in South Korea.

4. Apply for visa

So the decision has been made—you’ve decided to study in South Korea! Now it’s time for the nitty-gritty of the paperwork. The ideal time to start your visa application process would be at least 6 months before you intend to go to South Korea.

Again, your program provider or study abroad office should be able to help you coordinate the logistics of applying for your visa. Depending on what kind of program you’re participating in, how long your program lasts, and if your experience involves direct enrollment in a Korean university, you may need to secure a student visa. In other cases, a tourist visa will suffice for your experience.

Reach out to your study abroad office or program provider if you’re unclear about what your next steps are for obtaining a visa to study abroad in Korea.

5. Final preparations

Once all the fine details are worked out, it’s time to get excited!

Here are a few other pointers to think about when you’re preparing to study abroad in Korea:

• Have additional funds saved. The Korean currency (won) comes in large denominations that run up in the thousands and millions. While this does not mean that Korea is expensive, it can be easy to get carried away with spending money. Always have a currency conversion app in your phone so you can keep track of what you’re spending.
• If you have the freedom to choose where to stay in Korea, consider accommodation options that are within walking distance of public transportation. South Korea is a fairly safe country, and you’ll have no problems walking around even at night. Taxis are fairly cheap as well, but the highly efficient public transportation system will be a great way to get around.
• If you’re choosing an experience that may be academically challenging, be prepared to get REALLY challenged! Traditionally, university professors are notorious for being very tough on students, but don’t let that deter you! As mentioned previously, going through the rigors of academic life with your fellow students can be great bonding experiences that can forge lifelong friendships.
• Korean culture is likely very different from anything you may have experienced before, so going in with an open mind is of utmost importance. For example, in Korea, it’s considered impolite and even aggressive to look people in the eye when speaking! Therefore, if you meet Koreans who struggle to make eye contact with you, it does not mean that they don’t like you. They’re just being polite!

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Your adventure in South Korea is practically around the corner!

Can you picture yourself there already?

Being away from home, although temporarily, can be a scary experience. However, the rewards are endless and the impact will last for many years to come. The further you explore outside your norms and comfort zone, the stronger you will grow.

South Korea is a great option for those who seek any sort of challenge, be it academically or culturally. Your experience awaits!

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