Location:

Hwasun, Korea

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Academic Year, Fall Semester, Spring Semester, Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

*Due to the global health status worldwide, USAC is making programmatic changes to Summer & Fall 2021 programs, and some options might not be available. These changes are posted on individual program pages on the USAC website.* 

Summer 2021 has moved to an online format. 

Live and study in Gwangju, the sixth largest city in one of the most rapidly developing nations in East Asia, to fully enjoy the beautiful natural habitat, delicious cuisine, and rich artistic history of southwestern Korea. An hour by plane south of Seoul, it is located in the middle of South Jeolla province and is one of the most historically significant areas in the region. Gwangju was established as a city in 57 BC and is the birthplace of the modern democratic movement in Korea. During the period of Japanese rule, students in Gwangju ignited one of the major nationwide uprisings of the colonial period. Fifty years later, Gwangju was the site of the May 18 Democratic Uprising against the then-military dictatorship. It’s now home of the Square of Democracy and National Cemetery that commemorates the 518 uprising.

All students must attend the mandatory orientation session provided by Chonnam National University. The day’s activities include a welcoming ceremony, activities to get to know your fellow students in smaller groups, as well as more practical introduction to the campus and city. CNU Buddy Program: Designed to ensure every student feels comfortable in their new surroundings, the buddy program pairs international students with local CNU students, enabling you to make lifelong friendships, learn about student life in Korea, and venture out and around Gwangju. Field Trips: Sample locations for these excursions include: Gwangju May 18 Memorial Park, Homestay home visit, Korean Folk Village and Temple Stay, Gyeongju, Busan, and the Boryeong Mud Festival.

Program fees include tuition, 1-day orientation, some field trips in and around Gwangju, some cultural events, and health insurance.

Setting Description:

Gwangju is rich in cuisine, natural scenery, and culture and art, with exhibitions, festivals, and colorful, vibrant performances throughout the year. The city is home to a former World Cup Stadium venue, professional baseball and soccer, and plays host to the annual World Kimchi Culture Festival, Art and Design Biennales in alternating years, and Universiade, a university-level sports festival that is the largest multi-sport event after the Olympics. Sports, music, and cultural festivals are not to be missed as well as fashionable Chungjangno, the “street of youth.”

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

Learn more about USAC scholarships and discounts at https://usac.edu/money-matters