Wang Center for Global Education

Republic of Korea:  Exploring Business and Culture of Dynamic Korea

The Course:

This study away course focuses on broadening students' global perspectives in business and culture in Asia using an illustrative example of South Korea.  Students will examine how South Korea, one of the Four Asian Tigers (including Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore), has developed into and become one of the G-20 major economies in the world.  Students will learn about well-known corporations such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, POSCO by visiting companies and their manufacturing facilities.  In addition, students will experience Korean traditional culture by visiting numerous cultural and historical sites under the UNESCO World Heritage such as Changdeokgung Palace and Bulguksa Temple as well as participating in various traditional ceremonies.  Finally, students will explore Seoul, one of the most vibrant, dynamic cities in the world.

Course Description:

Reviving from the rubble of the Korean War, economic success stories of South Korea have become a role model for many developing countries.  In 2010, as a member of the G-20 major economies, South Korea has generated the twelfth largest GDP (PPP) in the world.  It is a home of many well-known global consumer brands.  Students will have the opportunity to visit and learn about Samsung, LG, and Hyundai as well as other capital-intensive companies in the digital electronics, automobile, shipbuilding, and steel manufacturing industries.  For over 4,300 years, Korea has developed a country rich in history and culture, as shown in its traditional architecture, ceramics, sculptures, paintings, and performing arts.  Students will visit sites such as Changdeokgung Palace, Seokgurm Grotto and Bulguksa Temple which the UNESCO has recognized for their cultural significance to the common heritage of mankind.  Also students will learn about Korean traditional arts and culture by going to museums and shows, participating in events, and staying at Hanok, Korean traditional houses.  As a leading global city, Seoul is home to more than 10 million.  Students will be exposed to technologically advanced infrastructure through the innovative public transportation system and high-speed mobile internet service.  And students will have the opportunity to examine the popular culture.  South Korea isknown as the "Hollywood of Asia," exporting K-pops and dramas to many countries in Asia.

Course Highlights:

Company visits:

  • Samsung, Hyundai Motors, LG, GM Korea, etc.

Cultural visits:

  • Museums, temples, palaces, traditional markets.
  • Taekwondo, calligraphy, tea ceremony, wedding.
  • DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) that divides Korea

Other Highlights:

  • Cosmopolitan experience in Seoul
  • Skiing at Pyeong Chang (2018 Winter Olympics)
  • Korean pop (K-pop) immersion (It's HOT in Asia!)
  • Grand-scale Indoor Amusement Park
  • Bullet train at 190 miles per hour

Course Objective:

  • Identify well known brands of South Korea and examine their competitiveness and business strategies
  • Discover how South Korea has become one of the major economies in the world in the half century after the Korean War.
  • Explore Korean arts and culture by visiting cultural and historical sites listed under the UNESCO World Heritage.
  • Experience Seoul, one of the most modern and dynamic cities in the world.

Course Credit:

BUSA 486: Department credit. 

Program Fee:

 $4,899. Includes airfare, lodging, program related transportation, and supplemental study abroad insurance. PLU reserves the right to add a surcharge in response to unanticipated price increase.

These estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee.  Actual expenses may vary according to student interests, individual needs, and spending habits:

  • Passport (new) = $110 / Passport (renewal) = $135
  • Visa fees (required for some non-US passport holders) = varies
  • Pre-travel evaluation at the PLU Health Center = $45 *All students are required to visit either the PLU Health Center or a personal healthcare provider to achieve the proper medical clearance.  Be aware that other medical providers may charge additional fees that may result in a higher cost than the PLU Health Center.
  • Immunizations = $0 to several hundred dollars **Vaccination needs vary on destination and individual medical history, and may be costly.
  • Airline baggage fees = approximately $25 for each checked bag
  • Books, supplies, course materials = varies
  • Cell phone and cell usage = varies
  • Personal Expenses = approximately $600. Check with your faculty leader for an accurate estimate for your destination.

Application Deadline:

April 13, 2012. A non-refundable deposit of $50.00 is required with the application. A $250.00 non-refundable program payment to confirm participation in the course is due within 10 days of notification of acceptance. Maximum of 18 students

Travel Immunizations recommended.  Please see PLU Health Services' website for additional information.

Contact
Wang Center for Global Education
253-535-7577
253-535-8752 (Fax)
868 Wheeler Street
Tacoma, WA 98447-0003