How Studying Abroad in South Korea Changed My Life (And How It Can Change Yours Too)
A Leap into the Unknown
I was born and raised in Japan, and in 2007, I took my very first solo trip overseas—to Seoul, South Korea. This experience eventually inspired me to study abroad in South Korea. Looking back, I honestly don’t know where I found the courage to travel alone as a teenager. Maybe I was a little reckless… but aren’t the best adventures usually that way?
Did I speak Korean fluently? Not even close—I only knew how to say, “How are you?”
Was I confident in English? Also no.
But despite the language barriers and uncertainty, I wasn’t afraid. I was excited. I was ready.
Becoming a Student at Korea University
What I haven’t shared before is that this wasn’t just a vacation—it marked the beginning of my very first study abroad experience. I had the incredible opportunity to be an exchange student at Korea University, one of South Korea’s top private universities.
Located near Anam Station in Seoul, Korea University is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and global reputation. It offers a wide range of majors, from liberal arts and international business to engineering. (Fun fact: it’s also the alma mater of Ban Ki-moon, the former Secretary-General of the United Nations.)
A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Study Abroad Students
Whether you’re planning to study in Korea or anywhere else, here’s a practical guide to help you prepare for your own unforgettable experience:
- Identify Your Goals
- Estimate the Cost
- Look for Scholarships and Financial Aid
- Undersntand Visa Requirement
- Secure Housing and Finalize Your Plans
1. What do you want to gain from studying abroad?
Improve language skills? Pick a country where your target language is spoken.
Advance your career? Look into schools known for your field (e.g., aviation in the U.S., design in Italy).
Tip: For Japanese speakers, Korean can feel more approachable due to similar grammar and vocabulary.I picked Korean because I wanted to gain 2nd language quickly as possible. I did not have clear vision in my future goal, but it indeed helped me to gain a job in oversea at the end.
2. Estimate the Cost
Start budgeting early. Be sure to consider:
- Tuition and fees
- Books and materials
- Housing
- Daily expenses
- Flights, insurance, and visa fees
3. Look for Scholarships and Financial Aid
Look for Scholarships and Financial Aid.Many programs offer scholarships or monthly stipends.
When I studied at Korea University, I received 500,000 KRW/month (about $500 USD at the time) with no repayment required. You can check current info of Korea University from here.
Anywhere you go, you can always check with your school, local organizations, and government programs.
4. Understand Visa Requirements
Every country is different, but most student visas require:
- Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsor letters)
- Health checkups or interviews
- Early applications—don’t wait until the last minute!
Check official embassy or immigration websites for the latest updates.
5. Secure Housing and Finalize Your Plans
After you’re accepted, it’s time to arrange where you’ll live. Options include:
- University dormitories (great for meeting friends)
- Shared apartments or homestays (immersive)
- Private rentals or Goshiwons (budget-friendly and independent, just like I did)
It was not exist the website, but here is a good website to use to look for housing in korea: Staykorea.org
My Goshiwon Experience: Living Like a Local in Seoul
During my time in Seoul, I didn’t stay in a typical dormitory for international students. Instead, I chose a Goshiwon (고시원)—a budget-friendly, compact living space usually occupied by students or people preparing for exams.
The room was tiny—about the size of a walk-in closet—but neatly furnished with a bed, desk, and small storage space. There were no windows, and I shared the kitchen, bathroom, and shower with others. But here’s the part that won me over: unlimited white rice and kimchi included in the rent.
And the cost? Only $120 USD per month in 2007, including Wi-Fi, utilities, and food. For a student on a tight budget, it was perfect. The average Gosiwon rate now is $270-$340.
Some of my Korean friends advised against it—Goshiwons are often seen as low-cost housing with minimal security—but I wanted to experience what daily life was really like for Korean locals. What was supposed to be a short stay turned into a full year.
The people I lived with weren’t just students. There were all kinds of individuals—people preparing for national exams, part-time workers, and more. Most only spoke Korean, which meant I had to learn quickly. Every conversation turned into a mini language lesson, and my Korean improved much faster than I expected.
Living in a Goshiwon was one of the most authentic, eye-opening experiences of my study abroad journey. It helped me understand Korean culture on a deeper level—and reminded me that stepping outside your comfort zone is where real growth begins.
Final Thoughts: Studying Abroad Will Change You
Every country has different rules and expectations for international students, so do your research and don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s international office. Studying abroad truly changed my life. It helped me grow in ways I never expected—emotionally, socially, and professionally. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or simply curious about the world, I hope this guide gives you the confidence to take that first step.