Diplomacy & Peace Studies
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-World Experience
Explore South Korea and Taiwan's history and how the two nations have achieved peace and stability. Come home with improved communication, negotiation, and debating skills and a greater understanding of diplomacy.
Credentials for Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, and a proposal for a peace-building initiative.
Life Skills and New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships of different backgrounds from across the U.S.
45
Hours Of Expert Instruction
3
Weeks Pursuing Your Passion
1
Life-changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Seoul and Taipei, two of the most dynamic cities of East Asia.
South Korea and Taiwan’s strategic locations make them central hubs for regional diplomacy. These two nations, known for their safety and quality of life, have achieved peace and stability in a short period of time. Despite having complex relationships with major world powers, they boast influential companies with a global presence, particularly in technology and trade, largely due to their diplomatic efforts.
Seoul exudes a frenetic pace and provides a window into the immensely popular South Korean culture—K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema. On the other hand, Taipei offers a serene atmosphere and a chance to participate in traditional Chinese customs, preserved better in Taiwan than in China. Both cities are replete with iconic landmarks, from Gyeongbokgung Palace to Bukchon Hanok Village, and Taipei 101 to Elephant Mountain. While exploring busy streets and markets, enticing foods, like Korean rice bowls, Taiwanese hamburgers, shaved ice desserts, and Boba Tea, await!
As you immerse yourself in the cultures, food, and shared history of the region, you’ll discover the uniqueness and global significance of these great cities.
Program Blogs
A Modern-day Escapade into Historic Tainan
This past weekend, students journeyed to Tainan to explore its profound historical significance as one of the Taiwan's oldest cities. Initially established by the Dutch in the early 17th century... keep reading
Kimchi Making, Hanbok, and Markets, Oh My!
What a whirlwind the last few days have been here for our Seoul Global Navigators! Students here have really hit the ground running and immersed themselves right into Korean community... keep reading
CIEE's Got Talent
What a group of talented students! Our Kpop Immersion group learned how to dance to "How Sweet" by New Jeans by the well-known dancer Hexxy. They did well trying to... keep reading
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Explore the culinary traditions of Taiwan and Korea (South Korea and North Korea) in cooking workshops with your friends. Learn about the authentic flavors of the region.
- Experience street performers and new styles of fashion in the Hongdae neighborhood of South Korea. Choose your favorite themed café!
- Reflect on courage and sacrifice at the only United Nations Memorial Cemetery in the world, located in the city of Busan—South Korea’s largest port city.
- Visit the Joint Security Area in the DMZ and delve into the complex history of Korea's division and the Korean War, including the armistice that brought the war to a ceasefire.
- Meet representatives and government officials at the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) to learn about U.S. diplomatic policy in Taiwan.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More Questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I and II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date |
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to Local Phone and WIFI
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Erik Perez
Executive Director of Regional Management – Africa, Middle East, Latin America, and Pacific Rim
Erik Pérez earned his B.S. in Economics from the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC) and his M.A. in Economics as a Fulbright Scholar in the U.S.
Ready to change your life?
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