Study abroad in South Korea this summer.

South Korea

SUMMER IN SEOUL: FROM K-POP TO PEACE TALKS—DISCOVER GLOBAL KOREA!

May 18 – June 22, 2026 (five weeks)

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the political, cultural, and economic heart of East Asia’s most dynamic democracy. A global city where skyscrapers rise beside ancient palaces, Seoul blends K-POP energy, cutting-edge innovation, and centuries of tradition. From the bustling markets of Insadong to the quiet courtyards of Jogye Temple, the city offers a window into both Korea’s modern transformation and its enduring cultural roots.

Students will explore the intersection of culture, international relations, and peacebuilding on the Korean Peninsula—examining how Korea’s divided history and global reach shape diplomacy, identity, and popular culture.

PLSC 250: Introduction to International Relations (1 unit)
Fulfills the Social Inquiry (AISO) general education requirement 

PLSC 379: Peace and Conflict on the Korean Peninsula (1 unit)
Eligible for Political Science and Global Studies elective credit

Students will enroll in two courses for a total of 2 units, both taught in English by Dr. Monti Narayan Datta, Professor of Political Science, and recipient of the 2025 Distinguished Teaching Award from the American Political Science Association, and the 2025 Distinguished Educator Award from the University of Richmond.

Optional non-credit Korean language classes are available for students interested in building basic communication skills.

All instruction is in English; no prior Korean language experience is required. 

While these courses are especially relevant for Political Science and Global Studies majors, all University of Richmond students—regardless of major—are welcome and encouraged to apply. Note that PLSC 250 also satisfies the Social Inquiry general education requirement, making it a great option for students looking to fulfill a core curriculum component while studying abroad. 

 

Through coursework, guest lectures, and field-based learning, students will:

· Experience how popular culture—from BTS to Squid Game—reflects Korea’s soft power and global influence.

· Learn how South Korea rose from authoritarianism to becoming one of the most robust democracies in the world today

· Explore how South Korea has navigated its geopolitical security challenges over the past century

· Engage with local NGOs, scholars, and journalists who are working on peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula, helping bridge the gap between North and South as well as healing historical grievances between Korea and Japan

· Meet with Buddhist monks and learn about spiritual approaches to peace.

· Learn about Dr. Datta’s research on the legacy of enslavement on the Korean Peninsula, from the “comfort women” of the colonial era to modern forms of exploitation.

$6,400

Costs are approximate, do not include airfare, and are subject to change without notice as a result of fluctuations in currency values and other factors. Participants are responsible for arranging and purchasing their own transportation to and from the program site.

• Financial Aid: Students who anticipate needing additional financial aid should view the Nuts and Bolts section of this website and make contact with the Office of Financial Aid with question.
• Student Athletes: You are eligible to apply for a Weinstein Grant to provide reimbursement toward the cost of airfare. The application deadline is February 16. More information and the application can be found here.
• Cost Calculator: Estimate total program costs and payments here.

What's included?

• 2 units of University of Richmond credit
• Housing in shared rooms in apartments
• Course materials
• On-site orientation
• Welcome meal
• Faculty-led field trips and excursions both within the city and beyond, including transit tickets
• On-site oversight by UR faculty leader and program partner IES Abroad
• 24-hour on-call emergency support, including travel, sickness and injury insurance

Not Included:

• Meals. Students will have kitchenette facilities available as well as access to low cost cafeteria dining.

Orientation
During orientation in the late spring, participants will meet the group, receive important logistical and cultural information, and begin to prepare for their exploration abroad. Attendance at all orientation meetings during the spring semester is mandatory. Students will also participate in an on-site orientation upon arrival.

 

Housing & Location

Students will stay in shared rooms in serviced apartments arranged by IES Abroad Seoul. Accommodations feature modern amenities (shared bathrooms, kitchenette and laundry facilities) and convenient access to public transportation, campus facilities, cafés, restaurants, and cultural sites in the heart of downtown Seoul.

Cultural & Experiential Highlights

In addition to classwork, the program includes several cultural excursions and workshops:

· Gangnam Style Seoul Immersion — Visit historic palaces, explore neighborhoods like Insadong, Hongdae, and Gwanghwamun

· Jogye Temple & Buddhist Engagement — Meet with monks and explore how Buddhism shapes social ethics and peace initiatives

· Peace & Reconciliation Visits — Interact with NGOs, activists, journalists, and scholars working on human rights, peacebuilding, and inter-Korean relations

· Cultural Workshops — Participate in a K-POP dance class, Korean cooking workshop, and Taekwondo experience. Learn how to meditate with Buddhist monks.

· Train to Busan — Visit Korea’s second largest city on a weekend trip inspired by Korea’s most famous Zombie film

· Optional DMZ Excursion — A weekend trip to the Demilitarized Zone as we consider ways to build peace between North & South Korea

Application Deadline

February 16, 2026

Apply online through Gateway Abroad, our study abroad application portal.