Korea Temple Stay: Bridging Technology, Arts, and Mindfulness
Program Description:
Korea Temple Stay is a two-week study abroad program where technology, creative practice, and mindfulness come together. Designed for students in Purdue Polytechnic's School of Applied and Creative Computing, it blends hands-on workshops and university lab visits with Korean culture, time in nature, and reflection at historic temples.
The experience invites students to step outside familiar routines, exchange ideas with Korean peers, and see their work through a new cultural lens. Come ready to experiment, connect, and discover what a change of perspective can spark.
Tentative Program Itinerary:
Seoul · June 9–13
Walk historic city walls, explore lively neighborhoods, and experience the art, food, and music of Seoul. Meet Korean peers at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU).
- Wednesday, June 9th- Depart: Fly from the U.S. to Incheon.
- Thursday, June 10th- Welcome to Seoul: Arrive and take an evening walk from Dongdaemun along the Seoul City Wall.
- Friday, June 11th- Campus and culture: Meet peers at SKKU, explore Gwanghwamun Square and Cheonggyecheon Stream, and enjoy a cultural performance or festival.
- Saturday, June 12th- Art and the Han River: Visit the National Museum of Korea, Urban Plant Hangang Bridge, and Nodeul Island.
- Sunday, June 13th- Neighborhoods and skyline: Explore Insadong, Ikseon-dong, Myeongdong, and Hongdae before sunset views from N Seoul Tower.
East Sea Coast · June 14–16
Learn to surf at Seorak Beach, enjoy the coastal scenery, and hike mountain trails where nature and Buddhist heritage meet.
- Monday, June 14th- Seorak Beach: Travel to the coast for a beginner surfing lesson with instructors. Check in at DIAMER, then enjoy local seafood and an evening walk.
- Tuesday, June 15th- Naksansa Temple: Visit the coastal temple and explore the surrounding area.
- Wednesday, June 16th- Seoraksan: Hike in Seoraksan National Park and visit Sinheungsa Temple.
Daejeon · June 17–18
Meet Korean students, exchange ideas, and experience campus life through collaboration across technology and the arts.
- Thursday, June 17th- Connect at CNU: Travel to Daejeon, meet students at Chungnam National University (CNU), and explore local youth culture.
- Friday, June 18th- Creative computing workshop: Work together on ideas connecting digital arts and advanced computing. Enjoy a festival, concert, or performance in the evening.
Temple Stay · June 19–22
Unwind at a temple nestled in Gyeryongsan's forests. Meditate, share tea, and make space to reflect on the journey.
- Saturday, June 19th- Settle in: Arrive, attend orientation, and begin the temple's daily rhythm.
- Sunday, June 20th- Practice mindfulness: Experience seated and walking meditation, temple food, a tea ceremony, and reflection.
- Monday, June 21st- Reflect: Continue the temple routine with meditation and guided reflection.
- Tuesday, June 22nd- Carry it forward: Complete the temple stay with final practice and reflection.
Wed, June 23 · Choose your next step: The two-week program concludes. Depart for home or continue at SKKU through its International Summer Semester and a research internship, extending your experience in Korea to ten weeks.
Click here to apply
Contact program leader Cho Smith via email with your questions.