Smart Cities & Sustainability
Why Choose This Program?
Explore
Have fun discovering Seoul through the lens of sustainablity.
Network
Meet new friends and city changemakers. Build your own community.
Get Inspired
Develop skills in design thinking and collaborate to model your own city that mitigates climate change.
The Destination
Welcome to Seoul, a bustling metropolis balancing modernity with eco-conscious living.
Among towering skyscrapers and historic landmarks is Seoul, the capital of South Korea. Renowned for its technological advances and forward-thinking initiatives, this city of 9 million residents pledges to reduce its carbon footprint by 2030. Projects like the Cheonggyecheon Stream, which has provided a green space for residents, a renewed habitat for biodiversity, and a natural way to cool the surroundings, is an excellent example of what Seoul has in mind for its future.
Explore Seoul’s past visiting landmarks like the Five Grand Palaces and Bukchon Hanok Village, showcasing the traditional side of life in Korea. The surrounding mountains, passing Han River, and the N Seoul Tower provide views of beautiful landscapes. Seoul's many traditional markets, like Gwangjang, the oldest in the city, and street food eateries in neighborhoods like Hapjeong offer exciting opportunities to eat like a local. Meanwhile, Hongdae and Changdong’s vibrant karaoke venues and street art will help you discover the spirit of South Korean pop culture.
Witness it all while traveling safely on Seoul’s metro, contributing to the city’s emission reduction efforts.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Seoul.
Sample Itinerary
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Craft a traditional Korean fan and explore the art of folk painting, delving into its historical significance and the sustainable use of natural materials in art creation.
- Explore the small alleyways of Bukchon Hanok Village. Understand the harmony between tradition and modernity and how Seoul keeps its heritage alive.
- Cruise along the Han River and keep an eye out for key landmarks and smart city projects showing off Seoul's commitment to sustainable urban development.
- Go on a guided street food and night market tour to taste a variety of street foods, from traditional Korean snacks to modern fusion dishes.
- Visit the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ), a business hub for Northeast Asia known for its eco-friendliness and sustainable development.
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.
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Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to current high school students—Freshman, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors. Students must have completed Freshman year of high school before traveling on program.
- 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 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,450 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,450 |
Ready to change your life?
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 WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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