Urban Design & Sustainability
Why Choose This Program?
Explore
Have fun discovering Seoul through the lens of sustainablity.
Network
Meet new friends and city changemakers. Build your own community.
Get Inspired
Develop skills in design thinking and collaborate to model your own city that mitigates climate change.
The Destination
Welcome to Seoul, a bustling metropolis balancing modernity with eco-conscious living.
Among towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks is Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Renowned for its technological advances and forward-thinking initiatives, this city of 9 million residents pledges to reduce its carbon footprint by 2030. Projects like the Cheonggyecheon Stream, which has provided a green space for residents, a renewed habitat for biodiversity, and a natural way to cool the surroundings, is an excellent example of what Seoul has in mind for its future.
Explore Seoul’s past visiting landmarks like the Five Grand Palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village, showcasing the traditional side of life in Korea. The surrounding mountains, passing Han River, and the N Seoul Tower provide views of beautiful landscapes. Seoul's many traditional markets, like Gwangjang, the oldest in the city, and street food eateries in neighborhoods like Hapjeong offer exciting opportunities to eat like a local. Meanwhile, Hongdae and Changdong’s vibrant karaoke venues and street art will help you discover the spirit of South Korean pop culture.
Witness it all while traveling safely on Seoul’s metro, contributing to the city’s emission reduction efforts.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Seoul.
Sample Itinerary
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Choose your own Korean name and craft a traditional Korean seal. Discover the cultural meaning behind Korean names and traditional seal-making.
- Explore the small alleyways of Bukchon Hanok Village. Understand the harmony between tradition and modernity and how Seoul preserves its cultural heritage within a modern urban environment.
- Cruise along the Han River and keep an eye out for key landmarks and smart city projects. Discover how Seoul is developing its urban spaces with sustainability and the future of the city in mind.
- Take an overnight trip to Jeonju and explore Jeonju Hanok Village. Discover how traditional architecture, walkable streets, and cultural heritage preservation can contribute to sustainable urban development.
- Go on a guided street food and night market tour. Taste a variety of Korean street foods, from traditional snacks to modern fusion dishes, while experiencing Seoul’s vibrant local culture.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
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Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to current high school students—Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. Students must have completed Freshman year of high school before traveling on program.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
- Please note: South Korea maintains strict regulations regarding medications brought into the country. We encourage student families to consult with their doctor and research whether the student's medications are legal and available in South Korea.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2027 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,900 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2027 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,900 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Group Flight
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Philip Jung
Center Director
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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