Christian, a student from Germany, decided to spend his summer at the HUFS Summer School in Seoul, a four-week program combining academics, culture, and exploration in South Korea’s vibrant capital. He already experienced studying abroad in the U.S. through a Fulbright scholarship. That trip sparked something in him, the desire to keep exploring. “I knew I wanted to go abroad again in 2025, and this time I wanted a place that felt completely new. South Korea, which from Germany feels like the other side of the world, seemed like the perfect choice.”
He found the HUFS International Summer Session in Seoul, a four-week program at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, known as Korea’s most international university. It was just what he was looking for:
“The program itself was a great mix: solid academics, lots of cultural activities, and enough free time to really get to know the country.”
If you’re looking for an academic adventure abroad, the Summer School in Seoul is the perfect opportunity.
First Impressions of Seoul
“My very first impression? Hot and modern. We arrived at around 35°C with high humidity, and you could immediately feel the energy of the city.
At the same time, I was impressed by how punctual and reliable public transport was.
It makes getting around so easy. And of course, the city lights and atmosphere felt almost futuristic.”
Classes and Learning at the Summer School in Seoul
The summer school offers students the chance to earn up to 10 ECTS (6 US credits) in just one month, with courses ranging from Korean language and culture to Asian politics and even unique options like Human Rights in North Korea or Korean Cinema.
For Christian, the teaching style stood out. “The classes were engaging and interactive. Professors didn’t just lecture, they encouraged us to think, debate, and bring in our own cultural perspectives. Sometimes discussions would start in class and continue over lunch, which made it all feel very alive. It wasn’t about memorizing facts, but about applying knowledge and learning from each other.”
Life in the Dorms
“I stayed in the dorms on campus, sharing a room with another participant. The rooms were well-equipped: we had desks to study, a small kitchen with a stove and fridge, 5G WiFi, and even a washing machine.
It was simple but practical, and the best part was the sense of community. We were always just a knock away from hanging out, cooking together, or planning the next trip.”
That community became the heart of the experience. “Meeting students from all over the world, bonding over classes, food, and spontaneous adventures, that’s what made the experience truly unforgettable.”
A Day in Christian’s Life
“A typical day? I’d wake up around 8 or 9, sometimes grabbing a White Chocolate Latte at the café around the corner before heading to HUFS for classes. Afternoons were often for homework or working on my project report for my university back in Germany. Later, I’d head out into the city with friends — sightseeing, exploring by train, or just walking around neighborhoods. Evenings often meant dinner with my roommate or a small group, usually Korean BBQ or chicken. Weekends were special with field trips organized by HUFS, and on Sundays we planned our own adventures. My highlight was visiting the DMZ, an experience I will never forget.”
Favorite Spots in Seoul
Christian loved the mix of big-city energy and quiet corners. “Food-wise, Korean BBQ is a must, but so is fried chicken. My favorite places were Olympic Park and the Han River. I come from a small village in Germany, so in a city as fast-paced as Seoul, these riverside places felt like little refuges. My most magical memory was on my last Wednesday: watching the sun set over the Han River with the skyline glowing in the distance. It was one of those moments where the city seemed to pause and breathe with you.”
Christian’s Advice for Future Students
His message for anyone considering the program is simple:
“Don’t overthink it, just go for it. Don’t worry about the language barrier either, with solid English you’ll get everything you need. My Korean vocabulary was literally just hello and thank you, and I survived just fine (and ate very well too). Be open, curious, and ready to step out of your comfort zone. Try all the food, explore the hidden corners of the city, and don’t be afraid to get lost. Sometimes that’s where the best adventures happen. And yes, brace yourself for the summer heat, it’s part of the experience.”
About the HUFS Summer School in Seoul
The Summer School in Seoul runs every July and August for four weeks. Students can earn up to 10 ECTS/6 US credits in fields like Asian studies, international business, anthropology, and cultural studies. Courses are taught in English, and the program includes cultural activities and optional field trips.
Hankuk University of Foreign Studies is ranked among the top universities in Korea and #1 in internationalization nationwide. Applications are simple, your study placement can even be confirmed in one day.
Learn more and apply to the Summer School in Korea here.
The post Christian’s Summer School Adventure in Seoul, South Korea appeared first on Asia Exchange.
Article source: https://asiaexchange.org/blogs/christians-summer-school-adventure-in-seoul-south-korea/
