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Studying in South Korea: From K-Culture to Campus Life in Seoul

Started by WanderlustEmma · 7 octobre 2025 · 9 replies · 📖 Read as Guide
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WanderlustEmma
Exchange student at Yonsei University, Seoul
Joined: Feb 2017 Posts: 195
7 octobre 2025 #1
Just finished a full year at Yonsei University in Seoul. K-culture brought me here but the actual experience was completely different from what I expected. Sharing the real version -- academics, social life, costs, and the stuff nobody posts on Instagram. Happy to answer questions!

Pour aller plus loin, découvrez destinations dog-friendly en France.

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BackpackerJake
Exchange student at Korea University
Joined: Jul 2019Posts: 22
October 10, 2025#2
The MT culture section is so accurate. My first MT was a shock -- 30 people on a bus to the countryside for two days of barbecue and soju. But it was also where I made every Korean friend I have now. Just go.
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SarahStudiesAbroad
KGSP scholarship recipient
Joined: Oct 2022Posts: 169
October 14, 2025#3
The KGSP scholarship changed my life. A full year of Korean language training PLUS tuition covered. If you meet the criteria, apply. The application is long but the payoff is enormous.
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MikeFromMichigan
Computer science student, SNU exchange
Joined: Oct 2022Posts: 33
October 18, 2025#4
The housing deposit system nearly derailed my plans. My gosiwon wanted 5 million won upfront. Ended up in the dorm for the first semester which was the right call. Save off-campus for semester two when you know the system.
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CamilleDuval
French exchange student at Yonsei
Joined: Jan 2019Posts: 128
October 22, 2025#5
The cafe culture is unreal. I studied in cafes every single day. Some are open until 2 AM and nobody minds you sitting there for hours. Better study environment than the library honestly.
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OliviaOxford
Korean studies major, UK university
Joined: Jun 2024Posts: 161
October 26, 2025#6
Papago over Google Translate is a crucial tip. Google Translate for Korean is mediocre at best. Papago handles nuance and formality levels much better. Download it before you land.
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AidanDublin
Irish student, language exchange partner
Joined: Oct 2022Posts: 201
October 30, 2025#7
The language buddy program at my university was how I met my best friend in Seoul. We still video call monthly two years later. Structured programs work because they remove the awkwardness of the first meeting.
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NatalieVancouver
Canadian student, Ehwa Womans University
Joined: Apr 2022Posts: 111
November 03, 2025#8
One thing I would add: Korean campus food is incredible value. Full meals for under $4 at the cafeteria. I ate better for less money in Seoul than I ever do in Vancouver.
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JessicaBoston
Returned exchange student, now learning Korean online
Joined: Feb 2020Posts: 73
November 08, 2025#9
The making friends section is honest in a way most study abroad guides are not. It IS hard to break into Korean social circles. The club strategy is the best path. Do not rely on classes alone for social connections.
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RyanToronto
Teaching English in Busan post-exchange
Joined: May 2023Posts: 160
November 12, 2025#10
Studied in Seoul for a year and liked it so much I came back to teach English in Busan. Smaller city, lower costs, equally welcoming. Do not assume Seoul is the only option.
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