What it's like to study abroad in seoul 💌

TL;DR

The creator shares heartfelt experiences and memories from living in Seoul.

Transcript

all the videos i made in seoul capture about one percent of everything that happened in seoul today i'm gonna try and capture some of the stories that i didn't share the wholesome little moments of learning korean the casual magic and the beauty of soul the tea the days of pure adventure and meeting some of the most interesting people hey there guy... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 Engaging with locals in Seoul led to meaningful friendships, enhancing the stay and transforming simple encounters into cherished memories.
• 🇰🇵 Learning about the struggles and resilience of North Korean refugees highlighted the importance of empathy and cultural understanding.
• 😨 The balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being was crucial, with burnout reminding the creator of the need for self-care.
• 🌍 Participating in civic engagement projects provided valuable real-world experiences, deepening understanding of local issues and fostering a sense of purpose.
• 🍻 Exploring iconic locations associated with cultural phenomena like BTS linked personal interests to a deeper understanding of Korean society.
• 🛟 The experience of hiking in nature emphasized the importance of physical activity and appreciation for the outdoors amidst a busy life.
• 🏛️ Small, everyday interactions demonstrated the significance of language learning and cultural exchange in building connections and creating a sense of belonging.

Questions & Answers

Q: What led you to hike the biggest mountain in Seoul after finals?

After a taxing semester filled with all-nighters for essays, my friends and I wanted to escape the stress. We aimed to hike the biggest mountain, Bukhansan, to embrace the natural beauty and shake off the exhaustion, ultimately creating memorable moments amidst the gorgeous landscape.

Q: Can you describe your interaction with the woman you met while hiking?

While hiking, we serendipitously encountered a remarkable woman named Joo Young. She was an entrepreneur and university professor who inspired us with her independent lifestyle and love for adventure. Remarkably, she invited us to lunch at her restaurant, which deepened our understanding of her unique perspectives on life.

Q: How did the BTS-themed day enhance your experience in Seoul?

The BTS-themed day was unforgettable, as we explored locations significant to the band, including a café they frequented. This experience was an exciting blend of pop culture and personal connection, as BTS’s music resonates with complex emotional topics that many fans appreciate and relate to.

Q: What challenges did you face during your semester abroad?

My semester was filled with stress and burnout due to demanding coursework and adjustment to a new environment. Juggling heavy workloads left little room for personal creativity, and I struggled with mental health and stability amidst the rigors of university life abroad.

Q: What was your internship experience like with the North Korean refugee program?

My work with the non-profit supporting North Korean refugees was eye-opening. I assisted in crafting videos that told the students' stories, highlighting the discrimination they face in South Korea, and showcased their resilience while working on conveying their narratives through compassionate storytelling.

Q: Can you share a memorable small moment from your time in Seoul?

One memorable moment was when I communicated a few Korean phrases while exiting a local e-mart. Despite my limited language skills, the simple act of understanding a Korean sentence reinforced my desire to learn the language, showcasing the beauty of connecting through communication, even in small ways.

Q: How did living in a new culture change your perspective?

Living in Seoul expanded my comfort zone significantly, fostering personal growth and resilience. I learned to appreciate the beauty in everyday encounters, overcoming challenges, and adapted more leisurely and open-minded approaches to life, reflecting the diverse experiences I encountered while abroad.

Q: What are some key takeaways from your experiences in Seoul?

My experiences in Seoul offered rich life lessons about connection, independence, and cultural appreciation. The moments of learning, stress, friendship, and serendipity shaped my overall perspective, reminding me of the joy found in the simplest interactions and the adventures that come from being outside one’s comfort zone.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The content recounts the creator's personal journey in Seoul, emphasizing the deep connections made with locals and the enriching experiences of exploring the city.

• Key moments include hiking a significant mountain, interacting with inspiring individuals, and engaging in various cultural and learning experiences throughout the stay.

• The creator reflects on the challenges faced during their semester, including burnout, but ultimately finds joy in small interactions that shaped their appreciation for Seoul.