Description

Seoul (pop. 10,421,782) is both the largest city and capital of South Korea. It is located in the northwest corner of the country and has the large Han River running through its center. Seoul one of the most prosperous cities in the world, and is currently ranked first in the world for opportunities in information technology. It has the third largest subway in the world, the fastest internet connections in the world, and is adjacent to some of the country's most beautiful island parks.

Highlights

What is Seoul like?

Seoul is among the largest cities in the world in terms of both population and area. Not only are there lots of people, but the city stretches over a large area of land. Luckily, there is an excellent metro system that allows one to go anywhere in the city within a minutes.

Seoul is one of the world's top ten financial centers, and is home to some of the largest technology corporations such as Samsung and LG. The city hosted the 1988 Olympics, the 2002 World Cup, and is the 2010 World Design Capital. Seoul is considered to have the best technological infrastructure in the world with nearly city-wide wireless internet and DMB (mobile TV technology).

The rapid technological change that has occurred in South Korea's capital is called the "Miracle on the Han River". Since the vast majority of this change has occurred in the last fifteen years, there are still many traditional areas of Seoul that stand in stark contrast to the high-tech exterior. Visitors can still see the ancient palaces of the Joseon Dynasty (late 14th - early 20th Century) as well as visit traditional tea houses and local boutiques.

Points of Interest in the City

There are several things that visitors to Seoul should not miss:

Namdaemun (Sungnyemun) Gate - One of the last remaining sections of the original city wall, and the most treasured of Seoul's historic landmarks, this southern gate is the oldest wooden structure in the city. Originally built in 1398, it was mostly destroyed by a fire in 2008 and is currently being restored. The largest traditional market in Korea is next to the gate, and it offers great bargains and wonderful traditional food of every variety.

Five Palaces of the Joseon Dynasty - These are located throughout Seoul, and range in age from 900 years to 400 years old. Although most were destoyed at various points throughout history by the Japanese, they have largely been restored. Perhaps the most impressive is Changdeok-gung, although Gyeongbok-gung is certainly the most important historically.

Namsan Tower - One of the tallest buildings in Asia, the top floor offers of panoramic view of the entire city. This experience gives one a sense of just how large and beautiful the city really is.

Itaewon - This area of Seoul not only is home to a US military base, but is also the most diverse region of the city, offering restaurants from around the world, and shops of every variety. Visitors are likely to see people from around the world, including a large number of Americans in this area of the city.

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

9,950 - semester

Program Fees Include:

Pre-departure advising
* Tuition at host university
* Official transcript from host university
* On-site ISA office
* Full-time ISA resident staff
* On-site cultural and academic orientation
* Airport reception and transfers
* Student Housing
* Internet access
* Tutorial assistance
* Excursions
* Cultural Activities
* Medical insurance
* Student services
* Visa support

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

American, Canadian and Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Dormitory

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Disciplinary Clearance Form
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Job and Internship Network

ISA (International Studies Abroad)'s Mission Statement

To provide high quality education abroad opportunities to American and Canadian college students at an affordable price. We recognize that we play an important role in the worldwide effort of international educators to increase individuals' awareness of cultures and societies outside of their own national boundaries.

Year Founded

1987