Unlocking Seoul: My Yonsei Summer Experience and Tips
안녕하세요!
Hey there! I’m Santi Untario, a Media Arts and Production student at the University of Technology Sydney. Guess what? I’ve decided to spice things up by studying Korean in the Yonsei International Summer School program in South Korea.
I think that the Korean media will rapidly grow its popularity worldwide and understanding their language and culture seems essential for my future career. My global short program experience was an exhilarating journey that blended academic exploration with cultural immersion.
Before you arrive in South Korea, here are the highlights of my global short program experience that might be insightful, ranging from finding the perfect place to live to mastering essential apps for survival in the bustling streets of Seoul.
My Little Story of Finding a Home
Securing a spot in the university dorms might seem tough since you’re competing with other exchange students worldwide. Moreover, the rooms are limited, usually on a first-come, first-served basis. This happened to me, but thankfully, I have found a place through Airbnb with plenty of options at reasonable prices!
I felt anxious when I arrived because my landlord didn’t speak English. Surprisingly, living with her was one of my best experiences in South Korea. Despite the language barrier, she was incredibly kind and treated me like her own daughter.
The landlord used Papago to show me the way to the university as we walked around the neighbourhood
My landlord went the extra mile to introduce me to the neighbourhood, making my first days in Seoul truly welcoming. Pro tip: Learning a few basic Korean phrases can go a long way in forging meaningful connections! On my last day in South Korea, she woke up early and cooked me samgyetang, a South Korean traditional ginseng chicken soup and it was really delicious.
Apps to Navigate Seoul Like a Pro
Hidden cafes in South Korea
Exploring the vibrant streets of Seoul requires more than just Google Maps. Never mind, Google Maps doesn’t even work in South Korea :(.
As I’ve learnt the hard way how to survive in Seoul, here are some essential apps that can save you time, and maybe even your life:
- Papago: Your go-to translation app. Translate Korean words accurately, even by scanning them.
- Kakao Talk: The lifeline for communication and a gateway to downloading other essential apps. Don’t forget to secure your Kakao Talk ID!
- Kakao Map or Naver Map: These GPS apps not only guide you but also unveil hidden gems, from delightful eateries to charming cafes. Google who?
- Kakao Taxi: Your reliable companion for hassle-free transportation. Don’t forget to get a T-Card for your travels – it works for buses and trains too!
My Tips for a Successful Summer Experience
Try speaking Korean
Embrace the local language, and you’ll find doors opening to warm hospitality. According to my experience, demanding English may come off as rude. A few Korean phrases can make a world of difference.
Drink Responsibly
As ambassadors of the University of Technology Sydney, maintaining a positive image is crucial. Drink cautiously and contribute to a positive cultural exchange. Don’t just punch the police when you’re drunk – which often happens according to the police in South Korea.
Time Management
Remember to strike the perfect balance between studying and exploring. The people I met during my summer at Yonsei will forever hold a special place in my heart. They are truly amazing! I will forever cherish our shared adventures and our shared adventures exploring Seoul and the countless late-night study sessions in cafes. Unlike Sydney, the cafes around Yonsei University operate 24/7, making it an absolute haven for night owls like me!
Food Hunting with my friends in South Korea
As I wrap up my summer at Yonsei, I can’t help but feel grateful for the amazing experiences and friendships that made this journey unforgettable. Leaving Seoul with a heart full of memories and new friends, I’m ready to carry these stories back home. Seoul, you’ll be missed, but the memories will last a lifetime!
Hope my experience may be somewhat helpful for the readers who want to study in South Korea.
Santi Untario
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Summer Session in Korean Language at Yonsei University, South Korea
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship Recipient
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Summer Session in Korean Language at Yonsei University, South Korea
Global Short Programs Travel Scholarship Recipient
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