Korean Language & Culture
Immerse yourself in the language and culture of Korea, improving your fluency while exploring Seoul.
Spend a semester abroad improving your Korean fluency. Connect with local culture through your welcoming host family, taking 20 hours per week of language classes, and learning the customs of Korean life.
Outside of the classroom, explore Seoul’s energetic streets and historic sites. Wander through the palaces of Gyeongbokgung, savor street food at bustling markets like Gwangjang, and witness a cityscape dotted with ancient temples set aglow by neon lights. After your semester abroad, you’ll return home with life-changing experiences and newfound friendships, ready to succeed in college and beyond.
All CIEE Gap Year Abroad programs offer the option to take college-level coursework online at a discounted rate through Arizona State University (ASU). Visit our College Credit page to learn more.
Why Choose This Program?
Strike a Balance
Benefit from CIEE's global support and cultural expertise, while exploring the world at your own pace.
Develop Skills
Develop foundational skills in intercultural learning for a better understanding of the world and skills for the global workforce.
Live the Language
Take 15-20 hours per week of Korean language classes designed to improve real-world skills.
96%
of alumni said their language skills improved
94%
said they learned to interact with different cultural backgrounds
89%
said their level of independence increased
The Destination
Home to five grand palaces from the Joseon Dynasty, Seoul is one of the most historically rich capitals in East Asia. These centuries old landmarks sit blocks from lively neighborhoods, creating an atmosphere where daily life is steeped in culture and tradition. In every corner of Seoul, there’s something to experience. Explore Myeongdong’s buzzing food stalls and storefronts or stroll through the quiet alleys of Bukchon Hanok village, lined with traditional wooden homes. Shared meals are a central part of life here, and families and friends often share large helpings of sizzling barbecue meat or spicy snacks like tteokbokki (rice cakes).
Escape the city limits on possible excursions to places like scenic Nami Island, home to beautiful gardens and idyllic villages, and the DMZ along the 38th Parallel for a glimpse into Korea’s complicated political past and present. Whether from the classroom or while exploring the diverse beauty of the city, Seoul invites you to deepen your language skills and grow within one of Asia’s most notable destinations.
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Sample Itinerary
Top Rated Activities
A Day Touring Gyeongbokgung, Korea’s Ancient Palace
Gyeonbokgung Palace is one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks in Seoul, and for good reason! This ancient temple complex dates back to 1395 and was established during the Joseon Dynasty. Spend the day touring the grounds as you discover the ancient and historic tradition of the structures and the royal families who once called the palace home.
Learn more about the nation’s beloved written language, Hangul, which was created and distributed in Gyeongbukgung Palace. Pose for photos with friends amongst the colorful temple pillars as you take in views of the sprawling grounds and beautiful Bugaksan Mountain, perfectly positioned behind the palace. Witness the Changing of the Guards ceremony, a vibrant display of traditional uniforms, music and choreography. Although the original palace structure was destroyed during the Japanese invasion in 1592, walking the restored palace complex will provide an eye-opening glimpse into Korea’s vast history.
A Visit to Seoul’s Historic Hanok Village
Spend the day wandering one of Seoul’s most beautiful neighborhoods, Bukchon Hanok Village. This historic area is home to hundreds of preserved hanok, traditional Korean houses that are built with natural materials like wood and stone and designed in harmony with nature. The village’s winding lanes offer a rare glimpse into life in centuries past, all just steps away from the towering skyscrapers of modern Seoul.
After your walk, settle onto floor cushions for a Korean tea ceremony, where the rich aroma of steeping leaves fills the air. Later, join a calligraphy workshop, guided by an artist who will demonstrate how to shape Hangul characters with graceful brushstrokes. By the end of the day, you will have experienced Korean traditions not as an observer, but as an active participant.
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Eligibility
- Program open to recent high school graduates (no more than 2 years post-graduation) who:
- Are at least 17 years old at the time of their departure
- Are in good academic standing
- Demonstrate—through the application and interview process—flexibility and maturity.
- No previous language experience required.
- For more information, refer to our detailed Gap Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$50
Priority deadline discount
Apply to a fall semester or academic year program by June 1 and automatically get a $400 discount. Apply to a spring semester by October 1 and get a $400 discount. Discounts are deducted from the final balance.
Insurance
The program fee includes iNext travel insurance. Additional information about insurance can be found on the FAQ page.
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $14,500 |
| Total Fees | $14,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $14,500 |
| Total Fees | $14,500 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Ready to change your life?
Our Staff
Philip Jung
Center Director
Raised in Toronto, Canada, one of the world's most culturally diverse cities, Philip developed a deep passion for cross-cultural connections and education. He holds a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics with...
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