One of my longest stays in Korea was in the summer of 2017, where I enrolled in Korea University’s International Summer Campus (KU ISC). I mainly did it for two reasons: (1) I needed to clear modules after taking a 6-month leave of absence from school, (2) I really wanted to study in Korea (duh!).
I’ve talked about my amazing experience in Korea during that summer with so many of my family and friends that they’re probably sick of it by now. Heck, I still talk about it almost a decade after I went! But in all honesty, those were the best 6 weeks I’ve ever had.
Here’s a quick summary of my KU ISC experience which I hope will be useful!
Key details
Here are the key details about my time in KU ISC:
- Duration: 6 weeks
- Housing: CJ International House
- Meal coupons: Bought 40 to use in Anam Dormitory Cafeteria
- Modules (please note that I mapped modules from NUS Business School, you’ll have to check with your own school regarding module mapping)
- ISC129A Strategic Management –> BSP3001
- ISC305 Corporate Finance –> FIN3101
- ISC311 Global Leadership and Management –> MNO2007
Educational experience
Some programme participants may tell you that it’s all about having fun and not really about the studying.
However, if you’re of the camp that you probably should be taking your studies more seriously during summer campus, you’ll be happy to know that the balance is just nice.
I found that the pace was rigorous enough to cover enough content, yet manageable to balance both work and play throughout the 6 weeks.
Again, do note that this may differ based on the type of modules you take. I find that most people tend to enjoy their Korean language lessons the most due to the fact that you can apply it as soon as you step out of campus.
Housing
There are a few different dorms you can choose from, and I picked CJ House.
My room in CJ International House was spacious and well-ventilated, the bed was comfortable, and the toilet clean. I also liked the kitchen where we could eat and drink, with fridges provided as well.
The only thing I didn’t like too much was the fact that it was a bit of a walk (the slope really killed us). But it’s great for burning off all the calories you’re gonna get from eating fried chicken.
Dorm cafeteria food
A lot of friends have asked why I chose to do that and deprive myself of the chance to try more types of food sold on the streets.
The main reason was that proper meals in Korea tend to be a lil pricey, usually above 3000 won (~ SGD 3.70). As a student on a tight budget, consistently spending about 5000 won for every meal would probably bankrupt me before the programme was even over. Hence, I decided to save myself some money by buying cheaper meals.
The cafeteria changes the menu quite often, but you’ll usually get the same type of food the next week. Their Korean food is really good – my favourites are odeng and galbitang. I wouldn’t recommend their breakfast and Western food options though.
If you’re interested to read more details about my experience at KU ISC, you can check out my review done here in my bid to win a BTS album from Korea University (which I did! YAY)
NOTE: I’ve not been paid, sponsored, or requested to review or introduce KU ISC, but genuinely love the program so much that I’d highly recommend it to anyone. It also helps to know a lot more about what you’re signing up for because I was an absolute blur sotong and stumbled my way through a lot of the details.
Interested to know more or would like to ask detailed questions regarding KU ISC? Please feel free to drop a message or send an email! 😊
FAQ: Korea University International Summer Campus (KU ISC)
Thinking of doing KU ISC? Here are the quick answers (tap to expand).
KU ISC is Korea University’s official summer school programme where students take academic modules over the summer while also joining cultural activities and exploring Korea. It’s a popular option for credit transfer, gap-term study, or simply experiencing campus life in Seoul.
KU ISC commonly offers 4-week and 6-week tracks (the 6-week option is great if you want a fuller “study + travel” rhythm). Dates vary by year, so use the official KU ISC calendar for your intake year.
Application windows change annually, but KU ISC typically opens applications months in advance and closes them ahead of the summer start date. If you’re aiming for housing and popular classes, apply as early as you can and keep an eye on deadlines (application close, registration due date, payment due date).
It’s genuinely a balance. You can have an amazing summer social life, but the pace can still be rigorous enough to learn properly, especially if you’re taking business/econs-type modules. If you manage your time well, it’s very possible to do well academically and still travel a lot.
Often yes — many students do KU ISC specifically for credit transfer. But mapping rules differ by university and faculty, so you’ll need to confirm with your school’s exchange/registrar office before you commit. A good approach is to shortlist classes first, then get pre-approval (if your school offers it).
KU ISC has a formal registration process and an add/drop window. Some classes can fill up faster than others, so the practical tip is: register early, keep backups, and be ready to adjust during add/drop if your first choice is full.
There are multiple housing options, including on-campus dorms. In the TofuVTravels experience, CJ International House was spacious and comfortable, with shared kitchen/fridges — super convenient for a longer stay.
On-campus housing is generally worth it if you want to be close to classes, make friends easily, and keep your Seoul commute simple.
Yes, there are dorm cafeterias, and they’re a solid budget saver if you’re staying for weeks. In the TofuVTravels post, buying meal coupons for the dorm cafeteria helped keep daily costs down compared to eating out for every meal.
Simple tip: cafeterias are great for quick, filling Korean meals — and you can treat yourself outside when you’re craving something special.
Yes — KU ISC students usually have plenty of time outside class to explore on their own, meet friends, and go on weekend trips. The key is not overloading your schedule: pick a manageable course load, keep weekdays efficient, and save bigger adventures for weekends.
No — many courses are taught in English, and Seoul is very manageable for travellers. That said, learning basic phrases (hello/thank you/this one please) makes daily life smoother. If you take a Korean language class, it’s extra satisfying because you can use what you learn immediately.
Costs depend on tuition, housing type, and lifestyle, but you can absolutely manage it with smart habits. The easiest budget wins are: eat some meals at the dorm cafeteria, use public transport, buy daily essentials from convenience stores/supermarkets, and plan your bigger trips strategically (instead of spontaneous expensive day tours every week).
Visa needs depend on your nationality and the programme length. KU ISC provides official guidance and documents for students who need them, but always double-check current entry rules and timelines early (especially if you need an appointment or extra paperwork).
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