The City
With its 50 universities, 14 colleges, and numerous museums and libraries, the educational resources in Seoul are enormous. Seoul is also the center of government, business, and culture in Korea, with the head offices of virtually any enterprise—commercial, financial, or governmental—located in the city. Yet the world remained largely ignorant and unaware of Seoul, and of Korea as a whole, until 1988 when the city hosted the summer Olympic Games and 2002 when Korea co-hosted the World Cup. As the capital city of the nation with a long and rich cultural heritage and a strong growing economy, Seoul has much to offer.
The University
Sogang University is a Jesuit institution that was founded in 1960. Today it is one of the leading private universities in Korea, with approximately 13,000 students and more than 21 departments. Sogang’s excellent reputation in education has been well earned by its highly qualified faculty. In addition to its regular course offerings, the university also offers Korean language training for nonnative speakers at the Sogang International Institute of Lifelong Education. The Sogang University campus includes a modern gymnasium and sports facilities, a growing library, and an active student-life center.
The Program
The Boston College program at Sogang University offers a unique opportunity to study at a prestigious Jesuit institution in Korea. It is of particular interest to students specializing in the disciplines of history, political science, management, international studies, and Asian or Asian-American studies. BC students choose classes in the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS) where courses are offered in English. Students with sufficient Korean language proficiency may enroll directly in regular courses at Sogang University, while students with no language background enroll in a full-time intensive Korean language program or in a selection of courses taught in English.
Academic support
The Director of International and Public Relations serves as the faculty advisor for BC students at Sogang, and there is an officer available for all exchange students.
Housing
Student dormitories are within a 3–5 minute walk of the Sogang campus. BC students can stay with Korean roommates.
Activities
Club activities play an important role in student life at Sogang, where clubs abound—from taekwondo, kendo, and Korean dancing to skiing. BC students meet Sogang students at one of the activity groups, HUG (Hands Up for Gathering), where various field trips are arranged. Popular student attractions include Chandookkung and its secret garden, Insadong with antique stores, the 63 Building with IMAX theater and aquarium, and the night markets at Dong-Dae Moon and Itaewon.
