The CLS Korean program in Gwangju is hosted by Chonnam National University (CNU), a group of 19 colleges and 11 graduate programs with histories dating back more than 100 years. Founded in a period of transition in South Korea, CNU students and the citizens of Gwangju played a significant role in the nation’s development. In addition to its rich history, Gwangju is a vibrant city known for its delicious food and multiple cultural festivals.

Through the intensive eight-week program, CLS Korean Program participants practice their growing language skills both inside and outside of the classroom. Students participate in approximately eighteen hours per week of classroom instruction where they learn the four major skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing in Korean. Over the summer, students cover the equivalent of one year of Korean instruction at the college level. Excursions and activities introduce students to various aspects of Korean culture and society outside of the formal classroom environment. Past activities and excursions have allowed students to explore traditional music and martial arts, learn more about important STEM topics in Korea, and the everyday lives of Korean people.

In Gwangju, students live in the campus dormitory with a CNU student. CLS students can walk to their classes, the campus cafeteria, and a range of restaurants in the neighborhood. As part of the language partner program, CLS students are paired with Korean language partners for one-on-one sessions to practice their language skills outside of the classroom and explore Gwangju. In past years, CLS students and their language partners have enjoyed visiting temples, talking about cultural similarities and differences, and attending sports games.

Language partners and roommates are prepared to help CLS students learn to navigate tasks of daily living in their new city such as grocery shopping, navigating public transportation, and accessing recreation facilities. In many cases, CLS students maintain long-lasting relationships with their roommates and language partners, staying in touch after the program and continuing to practice their Korean language skills.