Greetings from the busy city of Seoul! As an exchange student here, I’ve dived headfirst into a whirlwind of vibrant experiences that are both thrilling and distinctly different from what I’m used to back in Finland.
University life in Sungkyunkwan University is full of versatile activities. Campus clubs are a big part of the student experience, helping all students to find communities and common interests amongst the university students. The different themed clubs are offering everything from calligraphy to K-pop dance clubs. I decided to join a Magic and Tarot club. I didn’t know my beloved hobby back in Finland would be so trendy and popular in Korea! Turns out there are tarot reading booths all around universities, since it’s especially “in” amongst students!
Not only that, but it has been a fantastic way to meet new friends with common hobbies and improve my Korean skills by interacting with the local people. In Finland, university associations aren’t really that much of a thing or less active, so this sense of community is a refreshing change. Overall I feel like the University life just feels more lively here, with many common activities, campus club culture and dorm life.
Free time offers a lot of options for different kinds of people, or days. For more serenity, the breathtakingly beautiful palace grounds, ancient buildings and traditional Hanok villages offer a glimpse at Korean history and cultural values that are still proudly held onto even in the everyday modern society.
Weekend nights are often spent wandering through the lively streets of Myeongdong, or for wilder party people, the streets and clubs of Hongdae. The contrast with Finland’s quieter, nature-centric weekends is striking. Even though partying is a thing even in Finland, Seoul’s energy is infectious, with vibrant street markets and bustling shopping districts around every corner.
When it comes to dining out, the communal aspect of Korean meals is a highlight. Sharing dishes like spicy kimchi stew and sizzling Korean BBQ with friends is a central part of socializing. In Finland, meals tend to be more individualistic, so the communal experience here feels both unique and heartwarming. The lively drinking culture in Seoul, with its karaoke bars and late-night eateries, is a refreshing contrast to Finland’s more fine dining- focused eating options or choosing between eating and drinking altogether.
And oh, all the places to visit around Seoul! From the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the trendy district of Gangnam, there’s always something new to discover. The contrast of traditional palaces with ultra-modern skyscrapers is a sight to behold. Not only that, but simply seeing real mountains everyday instead of just flat Nordic forests is something that is still hard to get used to.
Seoul is a city that never sleeps, and every day here feels like a new adventure. The blend of energetic student life, rich cultural experiences, and the warmth of new friendships makes this exchange an unforgettable journey.
Highly recommend to come explore this amazing country!
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