Studying abroad in Seoul brings new growth and challenges. Homesickness was a steady feeling, but it deepened my appreciation of home and self. This semester taught me to value small comforts and close relationships. Returning home, I carry fresh perspectives and gratitude for all the moments—both joyful and tough—that shaped me. If you feel homesick abroad, remember it means you have something special waiting for you back home.

Balancing Yonsei’s demanding academics with the excitement of exploring Seoul proved challenging but rewarding. With heavy coursework and a new learning style, finding time for adventure was tough, but every moment was worth it. My advice: build a balanced schedule, embrace the challenges, and leave room for growth beyond the classroom.

Studying abroad in Seoul is filled with excitement and challenges, but it’s the small things—coffee rituals, late-night snack runs, wandering with no plan, and short calls home—that bring real comfort. These everyday joys quietly stitch new routines and help the city feel more like home. What small comforts have helped you settle in a new place?

Volunteering to teach English to Korean senior citizens became my most rewarding study abroad experience in Seoul. Despite beginner Korean skills and initial nerves, I found connection, culture, and friendship in our weekly classes. These moments showed me that studying abroad is about unexpected bonds and learning beyond the classroom. If you’re hesitant to volunteer abroad, this is your sign to dive in and embrace the joy of showing up.

This research explores the Korean philosophy of inyeon, which describes fate and interconnectedness shaping relationships across lifetimes. Rooted in Buddhist teachings, inyeon influences communication, social behavior, and relationship views in Korea today. The study blends historical and cultural analysis, highlighting inyeon’s enduring relevance and its role in connecting heritage with globalization, as depicted in media like the film “Past Lives.”

This paper compares HYBE’s Weverse and SM Entertainment’s Bubble, two leading K-pop fan platforms that monetize parasocial relationships differently. Weverse offers a large community-based experience with free and paid content, while Bubble provides exclusive, pay-per-artist messaging. Both exploit fans’ emotional investment to generate revenue but raise ethical concerns over privacy, commodification, and accessibility in digital fandom.

Netflix’s marketing of Korean dramas balances local adaptation through subtitles, dubbing, and regional partnerships with global campaigns and algorithmic suggestions. While expanding K-media’s reach, the platform risks cultural commodification by simplifying Korea’s identity for broader audiences. This dynamic shapes perceptions and raises questions about cultural authenticity and influence.

BTS and ARMY have turned fandom into a global force for good. BTS’s early charity and global diplomacy inspired ARMY’s massive fan-driven campaigns supporting causes worldwide. Together, they use digital platforms to raise funds, spread awareness, and create real social impact beyond music, showing how modern pop culture can drive positive change.

This piece highlights how automotive design often ignores women, who are over half of drivers, by focusing on an average male body. This leads to higher injury risks for women. Female crash test dummies are underused and lack accurate representation. Improving safety requires inclusive testing, more women in automotive roles, and promoting STEM education for girls. Designing for the margins ensures fairer, safer vehicles for all.