Programs

South Korea Beyond the Classroom

Group photo of Judy Genshaft Honors College students in South Korea

PROGRAM INTRODUCTION

Program Leader: Kevin Lee

This course will begin by building a Ƶal and cultural context through which we can further examine the many facets of Korea. Ƶ will develop a rich and diverse understanding of Korean culture and identity through an interdisciplinary exploration of various topics such as language, cuisine, traditions, Hallyu (Korean Wave), and more. Ƶ will Ƶ what it means to develop cultural competencies to support them in their future endeavors. Active participation, discussion, regular attendance, and a few activities outside of class time are required for optimal Ƶing.

To enhance the experience, there will be many experiential Ƶing opportunities, emphasizing Ƶing by doing. Some activities include group meals, a book club, attending cultural events, a taekwondo lesson, and Ƶing a K-pop routine. While Ƶing about a culture is valuable, connecting with individuals from that culture can provide a more personal perspective. We have the opportunity to connect with students from Yonsei University, one of the top three universities in South Korea! Ƶ are expected to regularly communicate with their pen pals during the course and can meet them when we travel to Seoul.

About the Trip

Honors students pose outside a night in Seoul South Korea

After completing the class, you will have the foundations necessary to experience South Korea to the fullest! For three weeks, you will explore everything from Seoul's Ƶal charm to its innovative skyscrapers. Some experiences will include visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace dressed in hanbok, touring the DMZ, taking a cooking class, exploring Yonsei University, and visiting various museums. You’ll be able to explore different neighborhoods to shop, eat, and engage with what the city offers. You will also have plenty of free time to pursue your own adventures!

PROGRAM DATES

Spring 2026 | May 11 - 30, 2026

  • Applications open: July 1, 2025
  • Applications close: Oct. 15, 2025
  • Course: Spring 2026
  • Travel: May 11 – 30, 2026

Program Cost

  • 2026 cost: To be determined in early fall 2025.
  • 2025 cost: $4,177.00 plus tuition, which is not included.

Program costs include:

  • Double occupancy hotel accommodations
  • Transit card (good for subway, bus, and some convenience stores)
  • Group excursions led by WorldStrides
  • Few group meals hosted by WorldStrides
  • Medical insurance

Program cost does not include:

  • Flight ($2,000-2,500)
  • Passport or visa

Program Accessibility 

When we travel to South Korea, there will be a lot of walking and stairs. The country has uneven paved sidewalks, dirt paths, hilly terrain, older buildings without elevators, and some smaller spaces.

What Ƶ Have to Say

Selfie-stye photograph of USF Honors student Mia Finocchiaro wearing traditional South Korean clothing.

"Every corner you turn reveals a mix of ancient wonders and vibrant modern culture just waiting to be explored! I have created unforgettable memories during my adventures, both with the group and on my own. Above all else, new friendships followed me back home. This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!" - Mia Finocchiaro


Ankit Patel with his pen pal from Yonsei university

“Studying abroad in South Korea is what I call a ‘remember that time when…’ experience. No matter where life takes all 20 of the students in our class, we will always be able to reflect on the core memories we built and the time when our classmates became friends, and our friends became family.” - Ankit Patel


Giovana at a tea ceremony

“This program allowed me to explore a country with a unique group of people and make memories I will never forget. The experiences that I had will forever be in my heart and influence how I perceive the world that surrounds me.” - Giovanna Viloria-Castillo 


 


More About the Trip

Want to Ƶ more? Listen as Honors students Giovanna Viloria-Castillo and Maryam Latif share details about South Korea Beyond the Classroom program.