USAC South Korea: Undergraduate Courses at Kookmin in Seoul

I am super grateful for the support from both institutions in making the process as smooth as possible from departure to arrival and departing again. USACs preparation was surely a gift, Kookmin’s integration and support was helpful, and staff from both sides helped as much as they could!

Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

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Studying abroad in South Korea was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy—the constant weather changes made me sick more often than I expected, and the extra costs of medicine and care pushed my budget more than I had planned. But those challenges taught me how to adapt quickly and take better care of myself. What I enjoyed most was the feeling of actually living there instead of just visiting. Over time, I learned my way around, could order food without hesitation, and felt comfortable navigating the subway. I also built some amazing friendships that made the experience even more meaningful—we explored the city together, tried new foods, and shared a lot of laughs. Campus life was another highlight. I actually looked forward to going to class every day, not just to learn but to connect with my professors, who were incredibly supportive and engaging. Outside of school, I had so many personal adventures—whether it was wandering through traditional markets, going to noraebang alone, or staying out late for street food and drinks with friends. Those everyday moments, big and small, became memories I’ll carry with me forever. Overall, studying in Korea helped me grow more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, gave me lifelong friendships, and showed me how rewarding it is to embrace both the challenges and joys of living in a new culture. I will go back in the future and not just because I love it there, but because my vision of working there in the future as an English teacher is now certain.

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While not one of the popular schools such as Yonsei or Korea University, Kookmin was the best choice I could have possibly chosen to study at in Korea. I enjoyed the scenic views of Bukhansan Mountain and alongside the busy city life of Seoul. The professors at Kookmin such as Bobby truly care about their students and also made me feel welcome. I made so many great friends – local, international, and American that I will forever cherish my memories with and truly made my four months abroad so meaningful.

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I had the best time at Kookmin University with USAC. We went on excursions every week, multiple times a week. My favorite part was going to the DMZ and getting to see the border and North Korean “fake” village. Additionally, when I visited the DMZ, I got to go down an ex-North Korean spy tunnel.

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This program gave me the the chance experience so many new things.It’s been months since I’ve come home from my study in South Korea, but I still can’t believe I had a chance to do the amazing things I was able to. USAC guided me through every step of the process to get there and was always available if I had questions. When I first arrived on campus I was greeted by many friendly faces and we all got along at the dorms as well. You won’t feel left out or lost, because there are many others who are in the same place as you or are willing to hang out. Plus, USAC and the host university often plan activities so you get the most out of your stay. I would choose USAC again in a heartbeat!

I enjoyed going to Kookmin University through USAC. They allowed me to experience and explore a whole new world that wouldn't have been given to me had I gone anywhere else. I made many new friends and was able to travel and eat so many different things that I honestly wouldn't have gotten back home. They were accommodating and accessible to me and my home university. If given an opportunity to do it again, I would, 110%. I enjoyed my entire trip and can't wait to go back!

I attended the summer program and this was one of the most life changing experiences. Every part from the culture to the food was an amazing experience. If you are not really a big city life person then I think it would be great for you to attend Kookmin University. Kookmin is placed in the perfect in between the city and rural life. We stayed at the guest house and this was like any other dorm just a little more separated. The only thing that I would've like a little more would have been more direct contact with Kookmin students. But I'm sure if you stay for longer than the summer program you will get to experience more contact with them.

Kookmin University is a beautiful campus near the mountain. Every morning when I walked to class, we would be surrounded by the view of the Bukhansan Park filled of mountains. Walking through the sloping road from our dorm to class across campus has now turn into one of my fond memories of Korea. When speaking about my own experience of going to study abroad, like many others, it was my first experience going study abroad. I was scared of coming to a country where I don't speak the language or know anyone. I was terrified before I went and have imagine every worst scenario situation that could've happen but going to South Korea was an experience beyond my imagination. The memories and friendship I have gain after Korea was something I never imagine I would value so much. I now have people that I am keeping in touch with outside of my home state and outside of the United States!

This is my first time going abroad. I’m very happy I chose South Korea. My host university, Kookmin University, was such a great choice. There were many things provided that made me feel I was at home. The night life in Seoul is the greatest thing I’ve experienced. I’ve made so many memories here with friends I met through the USAC program. A cool thing about South Korea is its love for cafes. I highly recommend going to different cafes around Seoul. They’re perfect for studying. The food in South Korea is to die for. There’s a variety of things to try! There’s so many awesome things I didn’t get to see so I’ll definitely be back again. I also can’t forget to mention that the best part of my experience was noraebang, which is good ole karaoke!

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Everything with this experience was a lot of fun. One thing that I might’ve had issues with was there was not a lot of opportunity to mix with Korean students and there was issues with courses being offered in English and then changing it to not offered. Other than that the experience was amazing and was a lot of fun

I was able to have the time of my life at Kookmin University in South Korea, the country that is known for their rapid technology innovations and “KPOP,” a genre of music that is creating a sensation worldwide. Being able to be part of their Finance studies, I had a glimpse of how professors directly care for their students, following up with any questions we had about lectures. USAC connected with my university in South Korea, giving us opportunities to go on field trips to historical monuments and did activities that gave us direct hands on learning experience, such as making candles out of sesame oil! There was not a moment in South Korea that I was bored, there was always an event going on either at school or in town that allowed foreign students to participate at our own comfort with the locals! Go study abroad! It was all worth it in the end- there are so much more out there, go and explore!

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For many years I have wanted to visit Seoul, South Korea, and this program gave me the opportunity to do so. South Korea has one of the most dynamic societies I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing. Seoul is an absolutely gorgeous city filled with a rich culture yet modern economy. On the same street, you can see modern high rises that rival any countries and traditional food stands. Speaking of food, everything is delicious and cheap. Anywhere you go in Seoul, there will always be someone making food that you can consume, either at the stands or walking. There are also plenty of places to buy things, so make sure to pack lightly. The people in Seoul are generally very kind and respectful. They are willing to assist you if you're lost or need anything else. Foreigners are overall very welcome within South Korea. Korean fashion is also unique in comparison to the fashion present in the USA. Every district in Korea seems to have formed its own type of clothing. Hongdae is where most people are dressed in street-wear whereas Gangnam is where most people wear name-brand clothing that costs more than my left arm. Kookmin University is also a wonderful school, located in a very beautiful part of Seoul. There is not much to do around the school, but if you cross the street, some more traditional-style restaurants can be found if you just go down the stairs. The campus itself is very well put together. There are many trees and lovely plants not native to the USA as well as a large dragon fountain right at the entrance of the school. If you're looking for some cool spots on campus, the Student Union building has a wonderful bakery right outside the doors of the second floor (try the Squid Ink Bread, it's basically the best thing I've ever eaten). I can't say much about the on/off-campus dorms or even the Stay4U accommodations, as I lived off-campus the entire year I studied in Korea. If you are planning on living in on-campus dorms, be aware that there is a curfew and it's quite far from where most young people like to go to hang out. If you are looking for accommodations off-campus, I would suggest looking into an AIRBNB, Seoul's Craiglist (it's not as shady as American Craigslist, but still be careful) or even on Facebook Marketplace. Overall the city is very welcoming to those who love city life, so I encourage you to take the leap and go there. The only thing I would suggest is that you arrive in Korea with some knowledge of culture, respect, and the Korean language. You do not have to be completely fluent in Korean, but being able to read it is very helpful when getting around. Also, if you plan on staying for a year, you should look into getting a bank card attached to your transit card, it makes traveling and purchasing things much easier. There is even a bank on Kookmin campus that can help you do this! Good luck and have fun!

Kookmin University had a gorgeous campus located in the backyard of Bukhansan Mountain national park. Classes were filled with international students and Korean students, and the lectures were in English. USAC offered support whenever I needed questions, and the apartment given was really modern and was located in the heart of Seoul. That meant it was far from campus so it was quite a commute to school, but there were the options of dorms on campus, too. It just depends on if there is availability once you enroll.

I wouldn't trade anything for this experience! Seoul is an amazing city and there is so much to do! It was definitely an honor to be among the first group of students to partake in this exchange program at Kookmin University. The students, professors, and even the locals were very kind and approachable so there was hardly any hesitation to ask for help getting around. Also, the university provided fair academic standards even though it was quite different such as their grading system. One thing that can be improved on, is being able to navigate through the university home page, etc.

Being the first American cohort of students at Kookmin led to some special fanfare, especially concerning events at home! Kookmin University is a beautiful kid-sized institution with talented and friendly professors and staff. One hiccup was the administration, who were unhelpful at best. The international affairs office seemed unprepared to deal with us, but if you're self-reliant, it shouldn't be a problem! I had to live a 40 min bus ride away from campus due to a housing issue but was reimbursed some money for the additional expense. Therefore, I lived right by Seoul Station and Itaewon and had a blast. In either the apartments or dorms, one is sure to make friends from around the world. Seoul is a beautiful, busy city that is adjusting slowly in some places and very rapidly in other places to outsiders. If you are Western, be ready to adapt and have one of the best experiences of your life!