South Korea

Attraction of Studying in Korea

The most attractive feature of studying in South Korea is the large number of students who are eager to learn! South Korea is a country that places a great deal of emphasis on education and one of the major attractions of studying in South Korea is the stimulation from the students and the environment around them.

There are many schools offering K-pop dance and taekwondo classes allowing students to not only learn the Korean language but also to experience the Korean culture they have always dreamed of. K-pop idol lovers will also be able to enrich their geek activities!

Popular Cities

1. 1. Seoul

   

   Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is one of the world's most cosmopolitan cities, consisting of 25 autonomous districts (gu) and 423 administrative neighborhoods (dong). The city is very popular among young people from all over the world because of its state-of-the-art fashion, authentic Korean cuisine and many trendy cafes.
   Although Seoul has a strong urban impression, it is actually a city with quite a long history. Temples, royal palaces and other historical buildings can be seen everywhere, making it a unique city where the metropolitan atmosphere and the buildings from the Korean dynastic era coexist.
   
   [Popular Spots]
   Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, N Seoul Tower, Lotte World, Myeongdong, Itaewon, Dongdaemun
   
   [Climate in Seoul]
   Seoul has four distinct seasons, with a very large difference in temperature between summer and winter. Winters are especially cold and wearing long down jackets are recommended.

2. 2. Busan

   

   Busan is the second most populated city after Seoul and is also the largest port city in South Korea. A popular tourist destination, Busan offers a wide range of scenery unique to a port city and is full of attractions that are different from those of Seoul. Just as each region has its own dialect, Busan also has its own unique phrases and intonations.
   Fresh seafood is the most popular gourmet delicacy in the port city of Busan. Visitors can enjoy plenty of seafood at Korea's largest seafood market and restaurants. Busan is also surrounded by mountains and the sea, and is blessed with a rich abundance of nature.
   Accommodations and transportation costs are lower than in Seoul, making Busan a great destination for those who are more price-conscious.
   
   [Popular Spots]
   Gamcheon Culture Village, Gwangalli Beach, Haeundae Beach, Haedong Yonggung Temple, Busan Tower
   
   [Climate in Busan]
   Besides having the four seasons, there is a rainy season and a typhoon season. Summers are hot and humid while winters are a bit colder, although temperatures do not drop as much as they do in Seoul.

Living in South Korea

Climate

Located in the mid-latitudes of the northern hemisphere, South Korea has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall and winter. Winters can be extremely cold requiring appropriate winter clothing. Due to the long north-south geography, there is a large difference in temperature between the north and south of the country. For example, the temperature in Seoul in the north varies greatly, while Busan in the south has a relatively mild climate. The humidity is low and there is little precipitation, so it is pleasantly cool and dry throughout the year.

Many roads in Korea are not well paved and are bumpy and sometimes caved in. On rainy days and the days following, be cautious as water tends to flood the roads.

Prices

Many people may have the impression that prices are low in South Korea but in recent years prices have shown a tendency to skyrocket. Be aware that many household goods such as toilet paper and food items in supermarkets are relatively expensive. Dining out, transportation, fashion items and cosmetics, however, can be purchased relatively inexpensively!

Korea is an advanced credit card society and credit cards are accepted at most stores even for small payments. Carrying only a small amount of cash and using credit cards as the main means of payment is recommended.

Public Order

Public safety in South Korea is considered relatively safe among Asian countries. However, the incidences of violent crimes tend to be a little higher and it is advisable to be careful when walking alone or going out late at night and to avoid such activities as much as possible.

Traffic in South Korea is on the right side of the road. Use caution when getting in and out of cabs. Be aware of traffic accidents in the center of Seoul, where traffic is very heavy.

Strikes and demonstrations are common in Korea. Tourists are rarely directly affected but it is advisable to avoid going near demonstrations when they are taking place.

Estimated Cost of Study Abroad

List of Language Schools