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Protect the Ocean and Experience Island Life in Korea

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$525Program Costs
Submit a ReviewNo Reviews
2012Year established

Program Overview

Spend 4 or 8 weeks on Wonsando Island in Boryeong, South Korea, helping protect the beautiful West Sea while experiencing the warmth of a local fishing village.

Join beach and coastal cleanups, collect litter through marine plogging, and lend a hand with village activities that may include gardening or seasonal tidal flat experiences. Along the way, you'll discover how small actions can help care for the ocean and the natural environment.

Life here is about more than volunteering. Share everyday moments with local residents and fellow participants, prepare meals together, and enjoy peaceful walks along the shore. You'll get a glimpse of a way of life shaped by the sea, far from the rush of the city.

You'll stay together in a shared village space, where cooperation and consideration are part of everyday life. Whether you're joining on your own or with friends, this is a chance to contribute to a local community, connect with people from different backgrounds, and make lasting memories by the sea.

If you're looking for a meaningful way to care for the environment while experiencing a quieter, more community focused side of Korea, we'd love to hear from you.

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Program Highlights

Protect the beautiful West Sea through beach cleanups and marine plogging.
Experience island life through seasonal village activities and local traditions.
Connect with local residents and discover the warmth of a traditional fishing village.
Share stories and meaningful moments while experiencing island life with fellow volunteers.
Slow down, enjoy coastal scenery, and make lasting memories in Korea.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
Pre-Departure Orientation
Training
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Certificate of Completion
Emergency Support

Exclusions

Travel Insurance
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
Public Transportation Pass
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
International Airfare

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • South Korea

Types & Subjects

  • Causes
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Marine Conservation

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Couples, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

All Ages

Duration

  • 5-8 Weeks
  • Winter
  • Summer
  • Multiple Year
  • 2-4 Weeks

Starts At

  • 4 weeks: $525
  • 8 weeks: $1,050

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Step 1 of 4Timing

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about Korea Gapyear.

What will I do as a marine conservation volunteer?

You'll join beach cleanups and marine plogging, collecting litter while enjoying the island's coastal scenery. Depending on the season and local conditions, you may also help with village activities such as gardening or tidal flat experiences.

Do I need previous volunteering experience?

You don't need to be an experienced volunteer. An interest in protecting the environment, a willingness to help, and consideration for the local community are great places to start.

What is it like to live in a Korean island village?

You'll experience a slower pace of life shaped by the sea, with coastal walks, a small harbor, and opportunities to connect with local residents. It's a chance to discover a side of Korea that feels very different from its busy cities.

Where will I stay during the program?

Participants stay together in a shared community space, such as the village hall. It's a communal living experience, so being considerate of others and willing to share space are important parts of daily life.

Can I join with friends or as a group?

Absolutely! The project welcomes groups from universities, clubs, and groups of friends. Working together to care for the coastline can be a meaningful way to share an experience and make memories together.

Do the volunteer activities vary depending on the season?

Yes. Activities such as gardening and tidal flat experiences depend on the season, weather, and local conditions. While the exact activities may vary, the project focuses on coastal cleanup and supporting the local village community.

What can I take away from this experience?

Beyond contributing to marine conservation, you'll have the chance to experience local community life, work alongside people from different backgrounds, and appreciate the impact of small actions. You may return home with new perspectives and memories of a very different side of Korea.

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

KSE
AWS
Leisure
SBB
National Award
Leisure Friendly Company
st
Certified Social Enterprise

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