Seoul, South Korea: Society and Technology, Health and Well-being

Society and Technology

Discover the way Koreans integrate technology into daily life to create a sustainable future on this Take the World by the Horns program. South Korea is a leader in global innovation, ranking No. 1 in Asia and No. 5 in the world on the Global Innovation Index. You'll get a front-row seat to the entrepreneurial hub of South Korea; browse the world-famous Yongsan Electronics market, envision the future at the SK Telecom 2053 Experience, and get an inside look at the epicenter of Korean media at the Digital Media City in Seoul’s historic Olympic Park.

You will travel to Seoul in early August and embark on two weeks of travel and Korean language learning with our partner, EF Education First. Then, enroll in classes at Hanyang University and attend weekly cultural immersion visits to technology industry leaders or service learning opportunities. Monthly excursions include travel to cultural sites throughout South Korea such as Wolmi Island and Dajeon.

There is no language requirement for participation. Intensive Korean language lessons will be taught for the first two weeks at the beginning of the program but will not appear on your transcript. Upon your return, you may take a placement test or seek an evaluation to assess your UT Austin language course level.

Health and Well-being

Beginning in Fall 2025, students can also explore how South Korea is on the cutting-edge of medical technology, leading the world with innovations in diagnostics, treatments, and surgical procedures. They will have the opportunity to examine how the South Korean healthcare system and culture promotes overall health and well-being.

Academics

The courses listed below are for the Society and Technology program offered for Fall 2024. Fall 2025 courses will be updated in October.

The courses selected for this program will prepare students to consider the philosophical, cultural, and business implications of a rapidly changing society and allow them to connect with the designers of emergent technologies during program engagements. As a result, students will develop valuable skills in applying theoretical questions to practical applications.

• “Aesthetic Awareness in the Modern World” introduces students to fundamental aesthetic concepts central to technological design.
• “Philosophical Understanding of Science and Technology” facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the role of science and technology in modern society from a philosophical and historical perspective.
• “Culture of Korea and Korean Wave” examines how modern Korean culture has become increasingly popular on a global scale, while “Business Environment and Ethics” will allow students to explore the role of corporations in society and the impact of business activities on the environment.

Signature Course Offered

After completing their fall semester abroad, students can enroll in a signature course to continue to explore the academic themes with their cohort.

Professor Rachel Wellhausen’s signature course, Science, Technology, and Politics,” examines how developing technology can impact society. Students will connect their experiences with technology in Seoul to a broader framework and compare it to contexts within the United States. This course will help students unpack their experiences in South Korea and further explore their academic and professional interests.

Program Dates

2025 Program Dates

Costs and Financial Aid

The total cost of the program is $22,560 and includes all registration fees and tuition, overseas insurance, flights, passport, visa, pre-departure costs, housing, excursions, meals, and estimated personal expenses during the semester abroad.

You will be able to apply for federal and institutional financial aid to cover a portion or all costs of this program.

Application

The application for Fall 2025 is now open. The deadline to apply is December 1.