Study Abroad In Korea: 5 Things I Wish I Knew

Let’s talk about what it’s actually like studying abroad in S. Korea. From the moment you check in to your dorm to the academic culture shock in class, you’ll notice the differences. 

I’m not here to tell you to bring a universal adapter or get your visa on time (though… do that too). I’m here to tell you the random stuff about university life that I wish someone had told me before I landed.

Let’s get into the 5 things that surprised me the most 👇

1. Dorm life isn’t exactly like your school back home.

• Some dorms have a curfew, and others (like mine) had strict visitation rules and gender-separated floors and elevators.

• Most don’t allow food in your room, only in the communal kitchen. (Of course, there are a few sneaky ways around that.)

• No shoes inside! Bring a pair of slippers or house shoes.

• In my dorm, and many others, your student ID card acts as access into your room and then goes into a slot by the door which activates the electricity in your room. We're talking lights, outlets, even the Wi-Fi. So... don’t lose it!

• Quiet hours are serious business. This isn’t just a suggestion, it’s strictly enforced.

• Random tidbit: People put their wet umbrellas outside the hallways for them to dry after it rains (I'm obsessed)

2. People brush their teeth everywhere, and nap anywhere too.

• At school, especially after lunch, it's totally normal to see students brushing their teeth in the bathroom sinks (or hallways!), and even outside of school, in restaurant bathrooms or subway stations.

• Korean students can and will sleep anywhere. Study lounges, library chairs, café benches. If there’s a soft surface, someone’s probably napping on it.

• Not something you need to know, but definitely something you’ll notice and maybe start doing too. Just don’t put your shoes on the couch. Ever.

3. Class participation and punctuality are no joke.

• Participation in class, including attendance, is taken very seriously.

• Even in lectures with 50+ students, attendance will be tracked and noted.

• In the U.S. and some other countries, skipping class here and there might fly, but in Korea, being present is the default and being late? That’s recorded too.

• You’ll even see students running across campus to make it to class on time. Yes, literally running.

4. Classes seem chill, but don’t underestimate them.

• If you’re studying abroad for a semester, you’ll probably take lighter classes (and honestly, no shame in that!).

• At Korea University specifically, most exchange students get Fridays off, the dream for long weekends and quick trips. 

• But beginner Korean language classes? Monday through Thursday. 1 hour and 15 minutes each day. Way more time than I was used to.

• And Korean professors don’t do “letting class out early.” Expect to stay the full time.

• Even the “easy” classes are still rigorous. Korea’s education system is no joke, students work hard, and it shows. Although, more homework & studying = excuse to check out cute cafes.

5. Registration = War + Making Friends is Tricky

• Class registration? Pure chaos. Think: timed releases, frantic clicking, and hoping you’re fast enough.

• Most English-taught courses are packed with other exchange students, which is great for comfort, but not always for cultural connection.

• If you’re in a mixed class with Korean and international students, group projects can feel a bit divided since a lot of Korean students tend to stick together, not because they’re unfriendly, but because it’s easier to speak in their native language (which makes sense!).

• Honestly, I was hoping to befriend more local students, so that part surprised me a bit. Just something to keep in mind.

School in Korea is intense, structured, and very different from what I expected, but it also taught me a lot about work ethic, respect, and the rhythm of everyday student life. 

While studying abroad isn’t always aesthetic cafés and palace photos (though there’s plenty of that too), sometimes it’s about being confused and running to make it to class on time! That’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. 

If you’re planning to study abroad, you’ve got this. You will have the time of your life!

Until the next one,

Ashley 💌