Visit South Korea

Yes, while it’s important to be cautious and follow all health requirements, such as mask mandates and testing, fully vaccinated travelers are welcome to visit South Korea and study, teach, work and more in 2022-2023!

South Korea is a leader in many economies including tech, fashion, and beauty. Students can enjoy an international community, an abundance of cultural activities, and an education from some of the top universities with reasonable tuition fees. Plus, it's full of natural beauty and bustling cities waiting to be explored!

South Korea has several large cities perfect for study abroad students like Busan, Seoul, Daegu, and Daejeon. Seoul is the capital and the largest city in South Korea, making it one of the best places to further your education overseas.

South Korean public universities generally cost about $4,350 per semester. Private universities can cost more, starting at $5,800 per semester. Some of the top institutions can cost around $6,500 per semester. These fees may also change depending on if you enroll at a university directly or through a third-party provider. In addition to tuition, you'll need to consider the costs of flights to South Korea and living expenses such as rent, groceries, utilities, and extracurricular activities.

South Korea has a low cost of living relative to the United States, making it a fantastic destination for a budget gap year. Your highest expenses will likely be housing, but teachers in South Korea will often find programs with accommodations included, or monthly housing stipends! Additionally, there are work exchanges and short-term jobs for gappers looking to lower their expenses even more.

A gap year in Korea offers the opportunity to boost your resume, gain valuable experiences, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the land of the morning calm. With dormant volcanoes and mountains spanning nearly 75% of the country, Korea is a place of natural beauty, drawing hikers and other outdoor adventure seekers. Foodies will also be delighted during their time in Korea, as its affordable food markets are sure to get your taste buds going.

A visitor visa in South Korea is valid for 90 days (depending on what passport you hold). For longer stays, or if you plan on working during your time in South Korea, you will need to apply for the relevant visa. To research and apply for a visa based on your circumstances, visit the Korea Visa Portal.

There are many gap year programs in South Korea for travelers interested in teaching. TEFL certification courses are a great option among those interested in teaching English, and many of these programs even offer accommodation, flight reimbursement, and an excellent monthly wage.