Anime and K-Pop: New Study Abroad Programs

The rise of global pop culture has significantly influenced education, inspiring new study abroad programs that immerse students in their favorite fandoms. Anime and K-Pop are not just entertainment; they represent cultural phenomena with deep historical, artistic, and literary significance. Recognizing this, universities and educational institutions worldwide have created unique anime study abroad programs and K-Pop study abroad programs. These programs provide students with first-hand experiences, from visiting animation studios in Japan to training at K-Pop academies in South Korea.

AnimeJapan is one of the largest anime conventions in the world, featuring exhibitions, industry panels, merchandise, and exclusive previews of upcoming anime series and films.

In recent years, the global fascination with K-pop and anime has surged, leading to the development of innovative study abroad programs that immerse students in these vibrant cultural phenomena. These programs offer unique insights into the creative processes behind some of the industry's leading figures. For instance, students can explore the artistry of top K-pop performers like Jungkook, who was honored as the Best K-Pop artist at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards. Additionally, the programs delve into the works of acclaimed anime creators such as Naoki Urasawa, renowned for masterpieces like "Monster" and "20th Century Boys," who inaugurated the Manga Barcelona event in 2024.

By participating in these study abroad opportunities, high school and college students gain first-hand experience in the cultural contexts and creative techniques that have propelled these art forms to international acclaim. This also ensures a deeper appreciation and potential career pathways. With the growing demand for pop culture-driven education, these specialized study abroad programs are opening new doors for students eager to blend passion with learning.

What Are Anime and K-Pop Study Abroad Programs

Anime and K-Pop study abroad programs are immersive educational experiences designed for students who want to explore their favorite pop culture phenomena while studying abroad. These programs go beyond traditional classroom learning, offering hands-on experiences, industry exposure, and cultural exploration in the countries that gave rise to these fandoms.

Manga are Japanese comic books or graphic novels, typically in black and white, while anime refers to animated TV shows or films, often adapted from manga.

Studio Ghibli remains one of the few studios that still prioritizes hand-drawn animation. At the same time, “One Piece” and “Dragon Ball Z” have significantly influenced the manga industry and continue to inspire new generations of readers and creators. Students in anime study abroad programs can visit these renowned animation studios, meet professional Manga artists, and take part in workshops on anime production in Japan.

K-Pop study abroad programs are based in South Korea, offering students the chance to train at prestigious dance academies, attend live music shows, and learn about the business side of the industry. Groups such as BTS, Blackpink, and ENHYPEN are some of the top K-Pop groups with millions of fans that pushed these programs to popularity. These programs blend entertainment with academic and career development, making them a dream opportunity for fans and aspiring professionals alike.

Participants are trained by experts, explore a full range of musical styles and visuals, from electronic and dance-pop to hip hop and R&B.

3 Benefits of Joining Pop Culture Study Abroad Programs

Participating in a study abroad program centered around pop culture offers unique benefits beyond just fulfilling fandom dreams. It will give you a chance to experience something you’re passionate about and learn what makes it such a significant trend globally.

1. Cultural and industry immersion

These programs provide direct exposure to the cultural and professional landscapes behind anime and K-Pop. Students in anime study abroad programs explore Akihabara’s anime hubs, attend animation workshops, and visit Kyoto’s International Manga Museum. K-Pop enthusiasts experience vocal and dance training from industry professionals and learn about the Korean entertainment industry.

2. Academic and career opportunities

Many of these programs integrate coursework with hands-on experience, providing academic credit and career-building opportunities. Learning directly from experts, networking with professionals, and understanding the production process of anime, music, and literature can open doors for students interested in careers in animation, entertainment, or publishing. These experiences strengthen college applications, résumés, and creative portfolios.

Study abroad programs allow participants to immerse themselves in the culture and learn new skills.

3. Unforgettable travel and cultural experiences

Beyond their specific themes, these study abroad programs allow students to experience new countries, languages, and traditions. Students in anime study abroad programs enjoy Japan’s temples, shrines, and vibrant cityscapes on top of being able to discover Ghibli Park in Tokyo.. K-Pop study abroad participants explore Seoul’s bustling streets, traditional palaces, and trendy cafés. These programs offer both structured learning and personal exploration, making the travel experience even more meaningful.

6 Top Study Abroad Programs

Finding the right study abroad program tailored to anime or K-Pop interests requires research and planning. With the increasing number of new study abroad programs, students should consider factors like program length, curriculum, included experiences, and budget before applying. We have scoured our database to hand-select the best programs that provide immersive experiences tailored to specific interests in either anime or K-Pop, so here’s our rundown of the most interesting new study abroad programs to consider:

Anime-Focused Programs

1. CIEE High School Summer Abroad: Pop Culture in Tokyo

The program immerses students in Japan's anime and manga industries through interactive classes with professional artists and designers. Participants create their own characters and storylines, visit art museums, anime schools, and cultural centers, and explore Tokyo's vibrant districts like Akihabara and Odaiba. The program also includes cultural experiences such as visiting Sensō-ji Temple and excursions to natural sites near Mt. Fuji.

“Life-changing program, complete with cultural immersion. I will forever have a love for Tokyo and Japanese culture! Investigating pop culture is a great way to understand history, current events and contemporary as well as traditional culture.” - Maria Delgado, 2024

Participants can experience the cultural phenomenon of anime and manga.

2. Go! Go! Nihon: Otaku Japan Study Trip

Organized by Go! Go! Nihon, this 3-week program immerses students in Tokyo's otaku culture. Activities include visits to the Ghibli Museum, maid cafes, and interactive experiences like VR gaming and samurai training.

3. Nanzan University Anime Study Tour

Nanzan University's Anime Study Tour is a three-week program in Nagoya, Japan, offering lectures on Japanese anime and culture, complemented by field trips to anime-related sites such as Ghibli Park, Kyoto, and Hida-Takayama. Participants engage with local students through the "Anime Study Buddy" system, fostering intercultural exchange and deeper understanding of Japanese society.

K-Pop-Focused Programs

1. CIEE: High School Summer Abroad: K-Pop Immersion in Seoul

The program offers students an in-depth exploration of South Korea's K-Pop culture. Participants engage in expert-led classes covering various musical styles and visuals, meet industry professionals, and collaborate on creating a music video. The program also includes visits to significant K-pop sites in Seoul, providing a comprehensive understanding of this global phenomenon.

“The CIEE program put us in a K-Pop studio and connected a long history of art, music and culture to the contemporary scene that I and many of my fellow students have been obsessed with!” -Daniela P. 2023

Participants are able to experience anime and K-pop.

2. ACOPIA: K-Pop Training Camp

The program offers training from seasoned coaches, Korean language lessons, and cultural experiences. Participants visit Korean performing arts schools and top entertainment firms, providing a comprehensive understanding of the K-Pop industry in Seoul.

3. Rolling Korea Language & Culture School: Korean Plus K-Pop Course

RK in Seoul offers a program combining semi-intensive Korean language courses with K-Pop dance and vocal lessons. This program is ideal for those looking to improve their language skills while engaging with K-Pop culture.

Anime and K-Pop study abroad programs offer an exciting blend of education and entertainment, allowing students to dive deep into their favorite cultural phenomena while gaining valuable academic and career experience. These programs provide a rare opportunity to explore the industries and locations behind anime, music, and fantasy literature, making learning more engaging and immersive.

Turn your fandom into an unforgettable adventure with these epic study abroad programs!

With more new study abroad programs emerging each year, students have the chance to turn their passions into educational adventures. Whether aspiring to work in animation, the music industry, or creative writing, these programs help students build skills, make global connections, and create unforgettable memories. For fans ready to take their love of anime or K-Pop to the next level, studying abroad in Japan or South Korea is the ultimate dream come true.