Go Global: My South Korean Odyssey

Written by Richard Xu | Edited by Luci Kugathasan

Introduction 

On March 1st, 2024, I attended Go Global’s South Korea study tour at Kyung Hee University in Seoul, an institution that prides itself in advancing scholarship and peace. The trip provided me with insight into the history and philosophy of Korean culture. From the vibrant streets of Soeul, to the serene landscapes of Jeju Island, South Korea is rich in cultural heritage, dynamic cities, beautiful landmarks and beautiful nature. 

 

(The front of Kyung Hee University. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

Arrival and Orientation  

Upon arriving at the Incheon International Airport, my uncle (who was also visiting South Korea at the time), picked me up and dropped me off at the university. I had already missed orientation day as I received my Visa late. If I had arrived late, I would have had to either book a taxi or take the two-hour subway. Pro-tip to those wanting easy travel; consider buying a T-money card from a convenience store and load it with money as it is convenient and cheaper. 

 

(Fountain at Kyung Hee’s International Seoul Campus Office. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

Exploring the Gyeongbokgung Palace 

Studying in Seoul has given me many opportunities to travel and explore. I visited Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the striking emerald and red colours of the entrance immediately caught my attention. I was surrounded by traditional Korean architecture and was especially enamoured with the decorations from the Joseon Dynasty. Wearing a hanbok was one of the most memorable aspects of my visit. Hanbok is traditional clothing for Korean individuals, used to signify a person’s social identity through its patterns and colours. Hanbok is now usually worn during special occasions such as celebrations, festivals, weddings, and ceremonies. Renting the hanbok for a few hours allowed me to have a fuller experience, as I felt a deep connection to the history and culture of the place. 

 

(Richard Xu and friends outside of Gyeongbokgung Palace. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024)

 

(The Gyeongbokgung Palace. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

Living in South Korea  

Living alone in South Korea presented a unique set of experiences for me. Living in a different country felt like being a fish out of water, especially since I don’t live alone in Australia. My accommodation was a room with two beds that I shared with a travelling Australian. It was well-designed and cost me $1,260.52 for one semester with the option to collect a $67 deposit refund when I checked out. This small space would be my home for the next 4 months while I explored this new city. I learned that one significant adjustment was the university offering lunches and dinners priced at $5-7. However, I also had a 7-Eleven or CU near me where I could buy lunch boxes or instant noodles if I wanted a snack. Language barriers were a difficulty, but I could somewhat use Korean to get my way around the area. Observing traditions and customs and participating in festivals around South Korea was a fulfilling and exciting experience. 

 

(Korean spicy stir-fried chicken (dak galbi) with cheese and noodles. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

(Richard Xu and friends outside Kyung Hee University. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

Outdoor Activities  

What made my trip to South Korea even more fun were the activities Kyung Hee University had to offer for students studying abroad. They were also convenient, as they would schedule them on a Wednesday or Friday when I could go out and explore. An activity I attended and enjoyed was a workshop on making ssal-gangjeong (sweet rice puffs), where we got into groups and made our own puffs. 

 

(Richard Xu and other students studying abroad attending a workshop on making ssal-gangjeong (sweet rice puffs). Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

(Two ssal-gangjeong (sweet rice puffs) made from the workshop. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024) 

 

Leaving 

Finally, as the months passed, my accommodation in Hoegi felt cosier and more and more fun because of the new friends I made there. Each day brought new challenges and joys, and by the time I had to leave before June 24th, my accommodation felt like a home away from home, where I made new connections with others, with myself and my culture. 

 

(Richard Xu and friends hanging out together in accommodation space. Photo credit: Richard Xu, 2024)