South Korea

WHY we need you in South Korea

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Why Involvement Volunteers International?

Hanok Village

Volunteer in South Korea

Visiting South Korea can be a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The country boasts breath taking natural scenery, such as the Seoraksan National Park, which is known for its stunning mountain range and colourful autumn foliage. South Korea’s cities offer a fascinating blend of modern and traditional architecture, with towering skyscrapers and ancient palaces coexisting side by side. The capital city of Seoul, in particular, is a bustling metropolis that combines the modern amenities of a global city with a rich cultural heritage.

Aside from its natural beauty and urban attractions, South Korea is also a great destination for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Visitors can sample traditional Korean cuisine, attend cultural performances, and explore historical landmarks such as the Gyeongbokgung Palace or the ancient city of Gyeongju.

Volunteer Projects in South Korea

ANIMAL SHELTER

If you have a passion for animals and want to make a difference in their lives, consider joining the Animal Care Program in Korea. This program collaborates with local animal shelters throughout the country to provide care and support for abandoned or mistreated animals, including cats and dogs.

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Start Dates: Weekly All Year Round (Sat/Sun Arrivals)
Min Duration: One Week
Min Age: 16 Years
Special Requirements: N/A

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SOUP KITCHEN

The issue of world hunger is a significant problem that requires urgent attention. The COVID-19 pandemic has only worsened the situation, and Korea is no exception. Hunger disproportionately affects the most vulnerable members of society, including young children, senior citizens, and homeless individuals.

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Start Dates: Weekly All Year Round (Sat/Sun Arrivals)
Min Duration: One Week
Min Age: 16 Years
Special Requirements: N/A

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HOMELESS SUPPORT

The program collaborates with The Big Issue Korea, and volunteers will work alongside the salespeople to provide moral support and assist in selling the magazines.

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Start Dates: Weekly All Year Round (Sat/Sun Arrivals)
Min Duration: One Week
Min Age: 18 Years (below 18 need to have an adult with you)
Special Requirements: N/A

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ECOLOGICAL PARK CONSERVATION

Assist with the rehabilitation of the Han River ecosystem, including activities such as planting trees, cleaning up litter, and removing harmful organisms. These efforts have had positive results, as otters, which had left the river due to pollution, have been able to return and make the Han River their new home.

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Start Dates: Weekly All Year Round (Sat/Sun Arrivals)
Min Duration: One Week
Min Age: 16 Years
Special Requirements: N/A

culture

CULTURE WEEK, SEOUL

Come and sample Korea, the most fashionable country in Asia. Witness the fast-paced and contemporary city of Seoul up close. Uncover the essence of Korean culture, which extends beyond K-pop and K-movies. Indulge in authentic Korean cuisine, wander around the royal palace, and relax at trendy bars in Seoul's coolest district.

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Start Dates: Weekly All Year Round (Sat/Sun Arrivals)
Min Duration: One Week
Min Age: 16 Years
Special Requirements: N/A

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What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pickup
  • Local Transportation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion

Fees

All prices in USD
  • 1 Week - $625
  • 2 Weeks - $1175
  • 3 Weeks - $1695
  • 1 Month - $2250
  • 2 Months - $4410
  • 3 Months - $6595
Vol House

30 Years Experience

IVI is an Australian charity & non profit organisation founded in 1989 and is one of the pioneers of overseas volunteering successfully placing over 20,000 volunteers globally.  We accept volunteers from all over the world and place them in meaningful overseas missions.  

Affordable Volunteer Travel

We’re not motivated by shareholder profits.   Our fees are fully transparent to ensure maximum benefit where it is most needed. 

Safe & Responsible Projects

All projects include a dedicated 24/7 in-country management team, operational & risk assessment & overseas support contact.   All projects are personally inspected to ensure very high quality.
 

Work Experience & University Credits

We place thousands of Uni students and can assist you with course credits and in-field experience points.   Many of our project coordinators are qualified practitioners in their respective fields allowing unique in-field supervision and Uni accreditation options

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.

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.

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is a bustling and dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with traditional Korean culture. With a population of over 10 million people, Seoul is a vibrant and exciting city that offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Visitors can experience traditional Korean culture by visiting the city’s many historic temples, palaces, and markets, or they can indulge in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene by visiting its many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Seoul is also known for its innovative technology, fashion, and music industries, making it a hub of creativity and innovation.   

Our accommodation in Korea will vary on which project you choose, so please see individual project pages for specific information. Accommodation will most likely be in a dedicated volunteer house but may also be in a hostel close to the project. 

South Korean cuisine is renowned for its unique and delicious flavours, as well as its emphasis on fresh and healthy ingredients. One of the most popular and well-known Korean dishes is kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish made with cabbage, radishes, or cucumbers, seasoned with spices and chili pepper. Other popular dishes include bibimbap, a rice bowl with various vegetables, meat, and egg, and bulgogi, marinated and grilled beef.

Most of our programs will include a 1 day orientation on the first day, which will include things like a walk around the local area, explanations of where everything is, ATMs, how to get local sim cards, etc, and lessons on cultural norms and what to expect.

An arrival airport pickup is included in the cost of your placement. Accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees. Arrivals are on Saturdays and Sundays (please check the individual project for the pickup window times, as they can differ). 

If arriving outside the pickup times we can arrange a private transfer and extra night’s accommodation, depending on availability, or you can make your own way to the project. 

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.

 

Check out this amazing blog with step by step info on how to raise funds for your overseas volunteer experience to help maximize your impact abroad. Guide to Fundraising

Weekends & Extra Tours

Ready to Volunteer in South Korea?