Students Explore Smart Cities and Digital Government During Summer in South Korea
Made possible by the Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program Development Grants, a group of students from the university embarked on an unforgettable journey to South Korea this summer as part of the PLAN 4395 course, led by Dr. Jiwon Suh. Over two transformative weeks, students explored the vibrant cities of Seoul and Jeju Island, immersing themselves in the rich culture, forward-thinking urban planning, and groundbreaking smart city innovations that define modern-day Korea.
For many students, this was their first time traveling internationally. "As exhausted as I was from constantly walking around Seoul, my study abroad trip to South Korea remains one of the most rewarding experiences of my life," wrote Ruby Tristan, an architecture major. "I learned to be adaptable, to think critically about my surroundings, and to engage with unfamiliar systems with patience and openness."
The curriculum was as rigorous as it was eye-opening. Through site visits to locations such as the Seoul Energy Dream Center, Emergency Operation Center, Transport Operation and Information Service Office, Digital Companion Plaza, the Hanwha Corporation Headquarters, and the Seoul City Hall, students gained firsthand insight into how South Korea leverages artificial intelligence (AI), sensor technology, and community-centered design to build sustainable and inclusive cities.
Elisabeth Fontenot, a student majoring in Sustainable Urban Design, found the public transportation system in Seoul especially inspiring and seamless. "Having complete access to reliable, easily navigable public transportation everywhere I went was mindboggling," she reflected. "We learned about the city's vision to bury even more transportation infrastructure underground to create additional pedestrian-friendly zones above. I think this approach is brilliant."
Meanwhile, students like Anderson Khuu and Joseph Silva emphasized the personal growth they experienced. From overcoming travel mishaps to presenting design proposals to local officials in Jeju, the trip challenged their confidence and strengthened their resolve. "I feel more confident in my goal to pursue graduate school in city planning," said Silva. "Working on a relevant project and presenting to Jeju's 15-minute city division was a milestone."
In Jeju, students collaborated with local agencies on a revitalizing and redesigning project for Jeonnong-ro Street. The assignment was not just an academic exercise. It was a meaningful contribution to the local community, underscoring the importance of accessible, people-first development. "It was so inspiring to see how Jeju weaves nature into its infrastructure," said LaKristie Davis, a public health major. "It's proof that sustainability and progress are not opposites. They can and should co-exist."
In addition to the classroom's projects and design studio, students also immersed themselves in Korea's cultural heritage. They donned traditional hanbok attire at Gyeongbokgung Palace, explored historic villages, and sampled local cuisine. "Walking through Seoul at night and feeling completely safe and in control was something I am not familiar with in American cities," wrote Lauren Holmes, who is studying International Business and minoring in Korean. "The trip gave me so much confidence and reminded me that important public safety and accessible infrastructure are crucial to a city's overall quality of life."
CAPPA’s Dr. Suh, whose expertise and personal connections in Korea significantly enhanced the program, was repeatedly cited by students as a highlight of the experience. "She made us feel safe, excited to learn, and see the value of maintaining strong networks," said multiple student participants. "None of this would've been possible without her leadership."
For many, the trip sparked hopes of returning to Korea, either for work, further study, or long-term living. "Since coming back, I have begun studying Korean with a level of discipline I had not expected from myself. I now want a career that allows me to travel and potentially live in South Korea," said Arham Shams Sameer. "This journey showed me how global education and cultural exchange can expand your worldview, push you to grow, and inspire you in ways you never imagined."
As the students returned to Texas, they brought with them more than memories. They carried a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper understanding of global best practices in planning and design, and the lasting impact of meaningful cultural exchange.
For more information about study abroad opportunities, check out our Study Abroad Programs page.