As Korea waves goodbye to social distancing rules, students who have unavoidably spent the past two years long-distance learning via zoom, are finally able to engage in various campus activities. However, there are students who also desire to broaden their horizon and explore other available activities off-campus but nearby. Often times, the language barrier is a deterrent for international students when considering these off-campus activities. This article will introduce four activities nearby Yonsei University’s Mirae campus, located in Wonju. International students can partake in these activities regardless of their Korean ability.
Nail Muse
‘Nail Muse’, a nail salon located in Musil-dong, about a 25 minute bus ride or a 12 minute taxi ride from the campus, boasts a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. With friendly English-speaking staff and a professional pampering session, it is very likely to turn you into a loyal customer. With the budgets of students in mind, their prices begin at 17,000 won for a comprehensive nail-care service and a basic non-gel polish colour. Everyone needs some pampering once in a while, whether it be on a monthly basis or on rare occasions. Nail Muse makes your visit to the nail salon the treat that it should be. They are open Mondays to Saturdays from 11am to 8pm, with their last available appointments being 7pm.
1850-1 Musil-dong, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do | TEL (010) 5062-6651
Painting Again
For those with an artistic flair, or simply those looking to paint as a hobby or stress reliever, ‘Painting Again’, an art class also located in Musil-dong, is the perfect place. The owner and one of the teachers can communicate in English. The teachers are friendly and very patient. Classes run both during the week and weekends, at various times throughout the day and evening. Students choose a time that is convenient for them and are able to adjust this time on a weekly basis to suit their needs or schedules. With a relatively inexpensive class fee of 100,000 won for four classes, inclusive of all art materials and supplies, this class is invaluable. One class lasts for an hour and a half. The teachers are professional art teachers and provide extensive help and encouragement to all their students. From the moment you walk into the classroom, the jazz music, the classroom’s aesthetic interior and the delicate smell of paint, immediately relaxes you. Joining this art class is also an opportunity to meet new people. Many students from Yonsei University’s Mirae Campus attend this art class as well as other people from various walks of life.
196-6 Man-daero, Musil-dong, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do
Sonkkeut Workshop
Sonkkeut Workshop is another place offering classes for those interested in making home decor items from rattan. The location is a mere 12 minute bus ride from the campus or a 5 minute taxi ride. As can be seen on their instagram webpage, they equip students to be able to create a variety of items such as baskets, lamp covers, place holders, figures and even furniture. A relaxing and enjoyable way to put a personal touch to home decor or make that perfect gift for a loved one, Sonkkeut Workshop’s classes offers something for everyone. Prices are based on the particular item one wants to create and you are able to choose 4 items at one time. Although the owner cannot speak fluent English, due to the nature of the classes, she is able to communicate with body language for successful delivery. They are only open during the weekdays 10am to 5pm. It is recommended that you contact the owner in advance via instagram to book an appointment before visiting.
20-7 Namwon-ro, Heungup-myeon, Wonju
Dororok Sewing Workshop
What about those who want to learn the art of making their own clothes, bags or other similar textile items? Dororok sewing class is the farthest from the campus being a 40 minute journey by bus or 16 minute journey by taxi. However, for the skills one can attain from attending these classes, the journey is worth it. Prices start at 150,000 won for eight classes. Each class runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes. Students can choose between 10:30am to 1pm or 2pm-4:30pm. Beginner classes learn how to make items such as bags, pouches and aprons. The owner is able to communicate in English and welcomes any international student who is interested in learning the art of sewing.
2020-7 Seogok-ri, Panbu-myeon, Wonju-si, Gangwon-do | TEL (010) 9410-4081
This article has covered four locations nearby the university’s campus where international students can confidently explore their hobbies and enjoy self-care treatments without worrying about their Korean skills.
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Hello Marilyn, its nice meeting you in person. Thank you so much for all your help. This information would help a lot too. You are amazing.
ReplyDeleteMy absolute pleasure! Thank you for reading!
ReplyDeletedefinately coming
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