by Yeonsoo Kim

Hey everyone!

I’m currently soaking up everything South Korea has to offer as an exchange student and let me tell you, it’s been a whirlwind of new experiences. I thought I’d share a bit of my journey with you all, especially for those considering an exchange or just curious about life on the other side of the world.

One of the absolute highlights so far has been going on a picnic to see the cherry blossoms. Korea’s cherry blossom season is something out of a dream. The air is slightly crisp, and the streets and parks are lined with these spectacularly blooming trees. I went to Han River in Seoul, which is famous for its gorgeous cherry blossom festival. Although I went there a bit later than the peak season, The ground was still a carpet of pink and white petals, and everyone was out enjoying the scene—families, couples, and plenty of fellow students. We laid down mats, bought chicken and tteokbokki and just relaxed under the canopy of blossoms. It was meaningful as a break from the usual hustle of school life.

Another experience was the Hello Kitty exhibition in Seoul. Now, I’ve never been the biggest fan of Hello Kitty, but this exhibition was too cute to pass up. It was like stepping into a giant dollhouse, surrounded by all things Kitty or other Sanrio characters. The ‘cuteness’ presented there was incredible! It was fascinating to see how Hello Kitty has influenced fashion, art, and culture globally.

Living in Korea has been a blend of such experiences. Every day comes with its own set of surprises, whether it’s navigating the subway, trying out a new street food, or making friends from all around the globe.

For students back in New Zealand thinking about where to go on exchange, Korea offers a vibrant culture, rich history, and modern dynamism. Plus, the academic environment here is very rigorous—you really get to push your academic boundaries as well.