Study Abroad in Seoul

three students pose for a photo in front of the Gangnam Style mural in Gangnam, Seoul
the crowded streets and neon signs of Hondae, Seoul at night
a student poses for a photo at Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul in a traditional Korean hanbok dress and umbrella
Seoul, South Korea's cityscape at sunset. The sky is pink, and in the foreground of the city is a body of water.

What to Expect in Seoul

Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient history and modern life converge. And you might have heard that Seoul was ranked third “best student city” according to the QS World University Rankings® 2022! Winning factors include a “24/7” culture thanks to night markets, late-night tea houses, and 115 museums; nine major subway (plus bus) lines so everything feels convenient; and a population of nearly 10 million people to enjoy all that it has to offer. 

 See our favorite sights at N Seoul Tower, Bukhansan National Park, Noryangjin Fish Market, Lotte World (the world's biggest theme park!), Bukchon Hanok Village, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and lots more. Aside from being a great place to visit, Seoul is also a wonderful place to study. Are you ready to do some Seoul-searching? 

Languages Spoken: 
Korean
Climate: 
Diverse
Currency: 
Korean Republic Won (₩)
Time Zone: 
GMT+9

Our Programs

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Study Abroad
A view of a Korean pagoda temple through tree.
Seoul, South Korea

Direct Enrollment - Korea University

Fall/ Spring/ Academic Year
None
Direct Enrollment
$
17500
Program Details
Study Abroad
sunrise over the river in Seoul
Seoul, South Korea

Direct Enrollment - Yonsei University

Fall/ Spring/ Academic Year
None
Direct Enrollment
$
17500
Program Details

Top 5 Things to Do in Seoul

Take in a View of the Cityscape at the N Seoul Tower
This communication and observation tower broadcasts signals for many media outlets in Korea.
Walk Around the Aldeia Hanok de Bukchon
With their tiled roofs and ornate architectural designs, these historically-preserved residential homes take you back 600 years ago.
Admire the Gyeongbokgung Palace
Live like a king for a day as you roam the grounds of the largest palace originally built by the Joseon dynasty in 1395, and restored in the 1800s.
Taste Korean Street Food at Gwangjang Market
With 100s of stalls to choose from, immerse yourself in flavors from the likes of tteokbokki, deep-fried rice rolls, dakgangjeong, and more.
Gaze at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza
Walk through the Plaza's curvy hallways and surrounding parks to navigate this nearly one million square-foot structure.

About the IES Abroad Center

A stone building covered in lush greenery sits on the Yonsei University campus.
IES Abroad Seoul

The Center staff are highly trained local professionals providing on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.   

While enrolling in your university, there is on-the-ground staff who are dedicated to supporting you during your time abroad. Get comfortable commuting to university and finding your study abroad hub; all the while, our staff is just a phone call away.

 

IES Abroad Seoul Staff

Kate Smart headshot

Kate Smart

IES Abroad Auckland, Christchurch, Seoul & Sydney Center Director

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Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Helpful Links

Blogs on Mental Health
Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
Blogs on Safety
Learn More About Health & Safety
PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

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The Student Experience

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Grace Heaton ,

Do It Scared!

Delve into the world of life in Nantes, France with me as I discuss all that the adjustment period of study abroad brings!

Daily Life
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Lily Nannini,

Surf Camp

I fell in love with surfing after the very first lesson. In this blog, I share my experience from three days at Surf Camp Australia :)

Field Trip/Travel
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Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

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Latest from Seoul

Follow @IESabroad on all your favorite social media platforms for the latest videos, photos, blog posts, and updates from our students and staff around the world.

IES Abroad News

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Want to study abroad in Seoul?

How will studying abroad in Seoul redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out. 

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