Korean Everyday Life Through the Eyes of an Erasmus Student at Soongsil University in Seoul

8. 4. 2025 Author: Sofia Sliacka My Erasmus stay in South Korea and my first impressions so far have been among the most intense and enriching experiences I've had during this period. Every day here, I discover something new – from history to high-tech daily life – and I’m constantly fascinated by how organized and thoughtfully planned everything is. For example, the ability to rent a power bank in the subway using a QR code and return it at a completely different location. Everything is fast, efficient, and it’s clear how much Koreans value systematic progress.

One of the most beautiful moments was when I wore a traditional hanbok and walked through the grounds of the royal palace – it felt like stepping into the past for a while. During this trip, the weather showed us all its moods, but even so, it was a wonderful moment. The same goes for a light hike to N Seoul Tower, where you get a breathtaking view of Seoul laid out before you.

Seoul itself is an absolutely fascinating city – full of contrasts between modern neighborhoods and older alleyways that captivate with their diversity. At night, the city literally comes alive and takes on new colors thanks to the lights, neon signs, and the energy of the streets. As you wander around in the evening, you’re met with joyful shouts and laughter coming from small street stalls with folding chairs. In front of them are carts full of fish cakes and Korean classics like tteokbokki, rice cakes in traditional spicy gochujang sauce. An evening stroll through the city feels like stepping into an entirely different universe where everything is constantly moving.

The university environment is very inspiring – I’m studying courses focused on international relations from an Asian perspective, which is greatly broadening my horizons. There’s a strong emphasis on teamwork and critical thinking. Professors encourage discussion and truly appreciate when we share insights from our home universities.

Soongsil University has a beautiful campus, and the area around the school is full of cafés. On every corner, you’ll find convenience stores open 24/7. At the same time, I’ve gained the feeling that this stay is teaching me greater independence, flexibility, and giving me a whole new perspective on the world. It’s an incredible opportunity to be part of a community of people from different corners of the globe.

Every day here brings something new – and even though I sometimes get lost in the subway or in the language, it’s precisely in those moments that I realize it’s all worth it. This opportunity to get to know a new culture brings me joy and inspiration for the future.