Q3. Reasons for extending the exchange student program.

I felt a good atmosphere of study during my exchange student program at CBNU because of wonderful air quality and big size of campus and it helped me a lot in my studies. At the same time, I made a lot of friends from different countries and majors. I realized cultural diversity. Just one semester was too short to me, so I applied for an extension of the exchange student program for deeper study.

Q4. Characteristics and strengths you would like to introduce to other friends.

Cheongju is located in the central part of Korea. It was selected as the best city for living in Korea in 2001. It is the center of political economy, education, culture, and tourism in Chungcheongbuk-do. Compared to Seoul, Cheongju is quieter and has better air quality.

Participating in an exchange student program is precious and memorable. It's amazing to live and learn in a different country.

When I meet an elderly person who I don't know on the subway or KTX station, they chat with me passionately and then we say goodbye politely. Korea is a polite and warm country.

Korea also provides many unique programs for foreigners, and I participated in the incentive tour program organized by the Korea Tourism Organization(KTO). It was a pleasant experience to meet many friends from various countries.

Q5. Recommended places in Korea and Cheongju.

I recommend Namsan Seoul Tower(N Tower), Gangneung, and Busan. 

N Tower is a romantic place where you can enjoy the beautiful night view of Seoul, taste delicious food and buy souvenirs.

Gangneung is located near the sea, so you can enjoy beautiful sea views and various cafes.

Busan is interesting place and you can enjoy ocean and local market such as Haeundae, Jagalchi Market, and International Market. I also ate ‘Mul-tteok’ which is a rice cake but only can eat in Busan and it is heated up with ‘eomuk(fish cake)’.

Q6. Advice to your juniors before entering Korea.

For applying a Passport, you have to go to where you born in.

When issuing a visa, you should carefully review the materials you need and at least two to three weeks in advance. Before entering Korea, the Korean government will provide masks, and alcohol-free disinfectants. What’s more, You don't have to carry too much clothes. The season in Korea is short, so you can buy the clothes you need after the quarantine is over. Before entering Korea, you must prepare thoroughly, relax your mind, and set detailed study goals.

Q7. Difficulties as a foreign exchange student in Korea.

There are still many difficulties in the life of other countries. When I first came to Korea, I had language communication problems and cultural differences. Sometimes I feel lonely because my family and friends are not around. However, as time goes by, the language barrier will gradually disappear in the basic communication and I’m able to improve my Korean speaking skills. When I make new friends, I feel no longer lonely. Every day is meaningful and enjoyable in Korea.