For Alexandra, South Korea wasn’t a random choice.
It was something that had been in the background of her life for years: first through music, then through series, and eventually through a growing curiosity about what everyday life there actually looked like.
Now she’s not just watching it on a screen anymore.
She’s living it.
Between classes at Hanyang University ERICA Campus, nights out in Seoul, and spontaneous plans with friends, her life looks very different from what it did back in Germany, and that’s exactly the point.
It Started Way Earlier Than You’d Think
Some study abroad decisions happen quickly.
This one didn’t.
“I’ve loved South Korea since I was about 12 years old. At first, I was drawn in by K-pop and K-dramas, but over time, I became more interested in the country’s history and culture.”
What changed over time is how she saw it.
What started as entertainment turned into real curiosity about how people live, what daily routines look like, and what’s behind everything she had been watching.
“I believe that to truly understand a culture, you need to live there for a longer period of time.”
That idea stuck. And eventually, it became a decision.
Arriving in Seoul: Not What She Expected
Big cities can feel overwhelming at first.
Seoul could have been one of those places, but for Alexandra, it wasn’t.
“One of the first things I noticed was how clean everything is and how much effort is put into making life easier for people.”
Instead of feeling lost, things actually felt… organised.
“I was also pleasantly surprised by how easy it is for foreigners to find their way around. There are many signs in English.”
Even as a newcomer, the city doesn’t push you away, it kind of helps you settle in faster than you’d expect.
That first impression matters more than people think.
The Side of Korea You Don’t Always Hear About
Before coming, she had heard that people might seem distant, but that didn’t really match her experience.
“What surprised me the most has been the people. It’s true that Koreans can seem a bit shy and
reserved at first, but when you approach them proactively, they are incredibly kind, helpful, and
open. People offer to buy you food, give you small snacks, or help you find the right place without
hesitation. I’ve had many situations where locals went out of their way to help me, which really left a strong impression on me.”
It’s less about first impressions, and more about what happens after. Those are the moments that change how a place feels.
Life between classes
One thing Alexandra didn’t expect? How much freedom she’d actually have.
“My weekly schedule at university is actually quite flexible. Students can choose their own courses
and timetables, so I only have two regular classes and one Korean language course. This means I
have two full days off each week.”
Which means her week doesn’t revolve entirely around studying. And in a city like Seoul, that makes a huge difference.
Her routine isn’t repetitive, it shifts depending on plans, mood, and opportunities:
- classes a few days a week
- Korean language learning
- evenings out (karaoke, cafés, nights in the city)
- exploring different neighborhoods
- traveling when there’s time
“Seoul offers so many different activities and experiences that there is always something fun to do.”
And even after a few months, it doesn’t feel like she’s “done” experiencing Seoul yet. There’s still a lot she’s looking forward to, especially when it comes to making the most of being there.
“There are two main things I’m most excited about: traveling and meeting new, interesting people. I
would also love to build meaningful connections with Korean people that could last into the future.”
It’s not just about short-term experiences. For her, there’s also a more personal side to it, the idea of building connections that last beyond the semester itself.
And in the end, that’s often what stays the longest, not just where you went, but the people you met along the way.
Making Friends Happens Faster Than You Think
Before leaving, Alexandra had the same worry most students have.
“At the beginning, I have to admit I was a bit worried that things might not go well and that I
wouldn’t meet anyone. But very quickly, I found friends and met people who are kind and
trustworthy.
There are also many university events where you can meet new people, especially if you participate
in cultural and social programs.”
And her advice is simple:
“Make sure to join as many open events as possible!”
Because once you do, things tend to fall into place naturally.
And then there’s the city itself. Because Seoul isn’t just a backdrop to all of this. It has its own energy, and once you’ve settled in, you start to really feel it.
Seoul by night
Seoul during the day is already a lot: big, busy, always something happening. But at night, it’s a completely different vibe. The city doesn’t slow down, it just shifts. More lights, more energy, more people out doing things.
“What I’ve enjoyed the most so far is the night view over Seoul. Standing at the top of N Seoul
Tower and looking out over the city in the evening feels almost magical. Seoul is definitely a city
that comes alive at night.”
And after a while, it’s not just those big moments that stand out.
“Even the sunsets in South Korea have something special—they make everyday life feel lighter.”
Even simple things, like walking around at sunset or heading somewhere with friends, feel a bit different.
If You’re Hesitating
Alexandra’s message to students hesitating to study abroad:
“I would say that I completely understand, because I felt exactly the same way. But one thing I can
say for sure is that after about a month, you will feel fully settled and comfortable.
That first month goes by very quickly—between adjusting to your new home, getting to know the
university and meeting new people, and even learning small everyday differences (like telling
yogurt apart from sour cream in Korean supermarkets!).
So just be prepared to gain an incredible amount of joy, new experiences, and unforgettable
memories from this journey.”
The post Study in Seoul: From K-Dramas to Real Life in South Korea appeared first on Asia Exchange.
Article source: https://asiaexchange.org/blogs/study-in-seoul-from-k-dramas-to-real-life-in-south-korea/
