Exchange Report

As I am enrolled in the CEMS Master’s program, which requires an exchange semester at a partner university, I did not need to apply separately for the exchange through WU. Regarding preparation for the exchange semester, the most important step is applying for a D-2-6 student visa for South Korea. At the beginning of July, we received an email from Korea University containing the Certificate of Admission and the Certificate of Business Registration of Korea University. Both documents are required for the visa application. After receiving these documents, I was able to apply for the visa at the Korean Embassy in Vienna. Additional required documents, such as a valid passport and proof of financial means, are listed on the embassy’s website. The visa processing was very efficient, and I received my visa within one week. Once you have received your visa, the next important step is to make an appointment at the immigration office in Seoul. Students initially receive a single-entry visa only. In order to leave South Korea for travel purposes and re-enter the country, it is necessary to apply for a Residence Card / Alien Registration Card. Korea University sends instructions on how to book an appointment via email. While it is possible to apply for the residence card through the university, which is generally recommended, I chose to apply independently, as I was able to secure an early appointment at the immigration office in early September. Based on my experience, I would recommend applying on your own if possible, as I received my residence card significantly earlier than friends who applied through the university. Finally, I recommend booking flight tickets before receiving the visa, as prices tend to increase closer to the semester start date.

In general, I recommend staying in Anam, the area surrounding the university. Although there are more central and lively neighborhoods in Seoul, living close to campus is extremely convenient and also very safe. Additionally, most exchange and local students live in this area, which makes it easy to meet friends and socialize on a daily basis. Anam is well connected to other popular areas such as Itaewon via public transportation, so while it is not the most central district, reaching other parts of the city is still quick and uncomplicated. Most exchange students stay in so-called Korean Goshiwons, which are small, affordable rooms typically equipped with a bed, a desk, and a closet. I chose to stay at Coco Livingtel, which was recommended to me by a former exchange student. The room was very basic but functional, and I had my own private wet cell as well as a window facing outside. It is important to note that not all rooms offer these features, some require sharing bathroom facilities or only have a window facing the hallway. Therefore, I strongly recommend applying early if you prefer a private bathroom or an outside-facing window. I applied for my room in May. While the rooms are not the cleanest and you can hear a lot from the hall and other rooms, the accommodation is very affordable compared to other options in Seoul. Another major advantage is the location. Coco Livingtel is only a ten-minute walk from the university campus. As it is particularly popular among international students, it was easy to meet people and build friendships. Overall, I would recommend this Goshiwon, especially for students who are looking for a budget-friendly and well-located accommodation option.

Korea University has a very modern and spacious campus, offering numerous restaurants, cafés, and green areas where students can relax or study between classes. Within the CEMS Master’s program, the semester at Korea University is divided into two modules. The first module runs from September to October, while the second module takes place from November to December. Students are free to distribute their courses across the two modules according to their personal preferences. For example, some students choose to complete all courses during the first module, leaving the second module entirely free. I personally decided to take most of my courses in the first module in order to have more flexibility for traveling during the second one. Most courses are attended together with MBA students, and attendance is mandatory in the majority of classes. In general, the academic workload is noticeably lighter compared to WU. There is a strong focus on group work throughout the semester, and most courses conclude with a final exam. The teaching style is predominantly lecture-based. Due to Korea University’s curve grading policy, achieving good grades is relatively easy. I would also strongly recommend taking the Korean language beginner course, as it is both fun and practical for daily life in Korea, and it can be used to fulfill the CEMS language requirement.

Regarding transportation, I recommend purchasing a T-Money card directly at the airport upon arrival. This card can be used on all forms of public transportation in Seoul, including subways and buses, and can easily be topped up at any subway station or convenience store. For those who plan to use public transport frequently, there is also the option of buying a Climate Card, which requires a higher one-time payment but allows unlimited use for an entire month. During the night, you can either rely on night buses or use ride-hailing services such as Uber. Overall, Seoul is a very safe city. I never felt really uncomfortable, even when walking alone at night, and incidents such as theft are very rare compared to many European cities. In terms of social life, the city offers an endless variety of activities. Living in Seoul never gets boring, whether it is sightseeing, exploring different neighborhoods, or visiting the many cute cafés. As an exchange student at Korea University, you are automatically assigned to a KUBA group, which consists of a small group of exchange students and a Korean buddy. These groups regularly organize social events such as Korean BBQ nights or parties. I met many of my close friends through my KUBA group.

I truly spent some of the best months of my life in Seoul. The city’s culture is incredibly rich, and exploring it was exciting from the very first day. As mentioned earlier, life in Seoul never gets boring, and the food is incredible. Most importantly, I met truly special people during my time there, people I now consider close friends. This exchange semester is an experience I will always look back on very fondly.