• Participants must be at least 18 years old.
• Participants should be in good physical health, as some activities may include walking, meditation, and yoga sessions.
• A respectful attitude towards monastics, temple rules, and the peaceful environment of the temple is expected.
• No alcohol or inappropriate behavior is allowed. Participants should follow all guidelines set by the temple and program coordinators.

• Accommodation
• 2 meals p/day 
• Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
• Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
• 1 day orientation
• In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
• Fundraising support
• University course credits (where applicable)
• Certificate of Completion

• Airfares
• Travel Insurance
• Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

Monday to Friday

Morning Routine

• Early morning wake-up before dawn
• 33 prostrations (bowing practice)
• Seated meditation session
• Traditional monastic breakfast (baru gongyang)
• Temple chores: sweeping, cleaning, and organizing the temple grounds

Afternoon Activities (vary by day)

• Tea ceremony training and serving guests
• Visits to major temples in Seoul
• Optional sessions: Tai Chi, sound meditation and so on.
• Silent walks and personal reflection time

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul

This historic palace was built in the 14th century and showcases traditional Korean architecture and culture. Visitors can watch the changing of the guard ceremony, explore the palace grounds and museums, and even rent traditional Korean costumes to wear while touring.

Hike in Seoraksan National Park

Located in the eastern part of the country, this park is famous for its stunning mountain scenery, including the highest peak in the Taebaek mountain range. Hiking trails range from easy to challenging, and visitors can also enjoy hot springs, temples, and scenic waterfalls.

Explore Jeju Island

This volcanic island off the southern coast of the Korean peninsula is a popular destination for its unique natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can hike up Hallasan Mountain, explore lava caves, relax on the beach, and visit museums showcasing the island’s history and culture.

Experience the nightlife in Hongdae

This trendy neighborhood in Seoul is known for its lively nightlife, street performances, and music venues. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and bar-hopping in the area, and catch performances by local indie musicians and street artists.

Attend a traditional Korean festival

South Korea is home to a variety of traditional festivals throughout the year, showcasing the country’s culture, history, and heritage. Festivals such as the Boryeong Mud Festival, the Andong Mask Dance Festival, and the Jinju Lantern Festival offer a unique and immersive experience for visitors.

Visit the DMZ

The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a buffer zone between North and South Korea that has become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the Joint Security Area, the Third Tunnel, and other sites that offer a glimpse into the country’s tense history.

Shop at Myeong-dong

This bustling shopping district in Seoul is a must-visit for fashion and beauty enthusiasts. It’s home to a wide range of shops, from high-end luxury brands to street vendors selling trendy accessories and cosmetics.

Visit the Jeonju Hanok Village

This historic village in the southwestern part of the country offers a glimpse into traditional Korean architecture and culture. Visitors can walk through the winding alleys lined with traditional houses, enjoy local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities such as making traditional crafts.

Additional Requirements

• Participants must be at least 18 years old.
• Participants should be in good physical health, as some activities may include walking, meditation, and yoga sessions.
• A respectful attitude towards monastics, temple rules, and the peaceful environment of the temple is expected.
• No alcohol or inappropriate behavior is allowed. Participants should follow all guidelines set by the temple and program coordinators.

Additional Equipment

Packing List
        Clothing

• Comfortable, modest clothing for temple life (e.g., long sleeves, long pants/skirts, no revealing clothing).
• Lightweight, breathable clothes for meditation and yoga (preferably loose-fitting).
• Warm clothing (for cooler seasons, as mornings and evenings can be chilly).
• Comfortable shoes (for walking around the temple grounds).
• Socks (you’ll need to remove shoes indoors).
• Slippers (or comfortable indoor footwear for temple use).

Documents

• Passport
• Flight info, insurance, vouchers, visas

Health & Safety:

• Hand sanitizer, face masks (if required)
• First-aid kit (medications, sunscreen, insect repellent, rehydration tablets)

Essentials:

• Toiletries (shampoo, soap, etc.)
• Day pack, small travel towel, reusable water bottle
• Moneybelt, locks for bags
• Personal entertainment (books, cards, music player)

Optional Items:

• Light snacks (for personal use, in case of hunger between meals).
• Small gifts or souvenirs (to share with the temple community, optional).
• Reading materials (about Buddhism or spiritual topics, if desired).

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: KR – Holidays – All Programs

South Korea is a country located in East Asia, known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural scenery, and modern infrastructure. With a population of over 51 million people, it is a highly developed and prosperous nation that has made significant contributions to global industries such as technology, entertainment, and automotive manufacturing. South Korea is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples, palaces, and museums showcasing the country’s fascinating history and traditions. Overall, South Korea is a dynamic and exciting country that combines traditional values with modern innovations, offering a unique and multifaceted experience for visitors and residents alike.

The climate in South Korea varies depending on the region and time of year. Generally, South Korea has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F) and occasional monsoon rains. Winters are cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around -5 to 5°C (23-41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F) and colourful foliage.

The southern regions of South Korea, such as Jeju Island and Busan, tend to have milder winters and warmer summers compared to the northern regions. The mountainous regions in the east, such as the Seoraksan National Park, experience cooler temperatures year-round and heavy snowfall during the winter months, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Overall, the climate in South Korea offers a variety of seasonal experiences, from cherry blossom viewing in the spring to skiing in the winter.

Schedule

Monday

• Orientation
• Walk around to get to know the neighborhood
• Visit the Royal Palace or the Shrine
• Shopping and Street food at Myeongdong Street
• Welcome Tea Tending

Tuesday

• Korean Language Lesson
• Visit HIKR Ground (showcasing K-Pop and K-Drama experiences)
• Sejong Admiral Yi Sun-sin Museum and Experience Traditional Korean Brush Calligraphy
• Insadong Street Tour
• Carving/making an authentic Korean stamp

Wednesday

• The Blue House Tour
• Bukchon Hanok Village Tour
• Tea Time at Bukchon Observatory

Thursday

• Seongsu-dong Street Tour
• Walk at the Seoul Forest
• Free time at Lotte Tower
• Visit to the traditional market “Mangwon Market”

Friday

• Cooking class (Traditional Korean food)
• Visit to War Memorial Hall

This schedule is subject to change and/or amendment depending on weather conditions, local conditions, and unforeseen circumstances.

South Korea has a rich and unique culture that is deeply influenced by its history and geography. The country is known for its emphasis on respect for elders, social hierarchy, and a strong work ethic. This is reflected in various aspects of daily life, from the use of formal language to the importance of education and career success.

South Korea is also known for its music and entertainment industry, particularly in the K-pop genre, which has a massive following globally. The country’s cultural heritage is preserved through various traditional festivals, historical landmarks, and art forms such as traditional dance, music, and crafts.

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