Gender and Culture in South Korea

South Korea 

This is an example of a past Summer program offered by CSB/SJU. This program is currently not offered.

Program Highlights

  • Visit organizations, events and historic sites including those critical for understanding gender issues in South Korea such as the Seoul International Women’s Film Festival, National Women’s History Museum, War and Women’s Human Rights Museum and the Women’s Center for Equality and Peace.
  • Tour by day and night including highlights like Gyeongbok Palace, Seoul Tower, a day trip to Bong Nyung Temple and Bukchon Hanok Village and step into North Korea by visiting the demilitarized zone (DMZ).
  • Learn about gender equality in the media, human rights and society by attending guest lectures delivered by Korean academics and professionals.
  • Get immersed in the local culture by participating in a city tour including a scavenger hunt with a prize for the winning team, taking a Seoul street food tour and participating in a Korean spirit and culture workshop. 
  • Common Curriculum Gender Designation

Course & Program Information

Course Name: Gender and Culture in South Korea

Course Number: GEND 180

Credit Number: 2 credits

Designation: fulfills Gender (GE)

Course Description:

This course is intended to teach students the ways in which gender and culture mutually inform one another and is based on South Korea’s society and economy. South Korea is one of the richest countries in Asia and represents one of the most striking examples of rapid growth post the Korean War. However, it is also one of the most gender unequal countries in terms of the experiences of women and men. While examining this paradox, the course is designed to understand the social construction of gender in South Korea, analyze the implications of that construction for the South Korean society and economy, and to evaluate those constructions and implications in the context of the United States. This course counts as part of the Gender Studies major and minor requirements and also carries the common curriculum gender designation.

Program Information:

Spend a fortnight centered in Seoul, South Korea. One of the largest cities in the world, where tallest skyscrapers coexist with ancient palaces and Buddhist temples, located on the Han River, Seoul represents a classic confluence of tradition and modernity. During our weeks in South Korea, we will spend our time exploring this intriguing space through day and overnight trips in and around Seoul, attending guest lectures and interacting with locals- learning about South Korean culture. The theme of our course will be gender. We will focus on understanding the similarities and parallels in gender norms in South Korea (with our own culture) and also how progress in gender equality has been achieved through the work of non-profit groups, academic efforts, films and public policy.

Program Cost & Financial Considerations

The estimated program fee was  $4,325 for 2020.  Additionally, students will pay the cost of 2 CSB/SJU credits at the reduced summer tuition rate. 

The Program Fee includes:

  • Housing while the program is in session.
  • All breakfasts and some other group meals.
  • Onsite orientation and 24/7 emergency support, guest lectures and guides.
  • Program-related excursions & entrance fees & guided tours to museums & cultural attractions
  • Public transportation cards and airport transportation
  • CISI Medical & Evacuation Insurance

The Program Fee does not include:

  • Passport application fee ($145)
  • Round-trip international airfare
  • Some food/meal expenses
  • Non-program travel or housing

The Short-Term Abroad Financing Brochure includes estimates for the items not included in the program fee, along with information regarding scholarships for study abroad.

See which Scholarships you may qualify for with participating on this program. 

Accomodations

Students will be staying in double hotel accommodation. Accommodation includes breakfast and wireless internet and the use of fitness centers. 

Program Director Information

Sucharita Mukherjee is an associate professor of Economics and Gender Studies. She teaches and writes about gender issues especially in the context of South and East Asia, She has led previous gender focused short term programs to Scandinavia and is excited to start the program in South Korea, which is one of the countries she teaches and researches about.