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Volunteer Programs in Seoul, South Korea

One, two, three…kimchi! You might not love this side dish now, but after volunteering abroad in Seoul, you’ll want it with every meal. Experience the vibrancy of Korean culture and leave craving more. While Psy put Korea on the map, hidden gems like kimbap, K-dramas, and keyboard stickers await. Keep reading to learn how you can volunteer abroad in Seoul!
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Maximo Nivel volunteers

Featured Provider of the Month

11 Volunteer Programs in Seoul, South Korea

Travel For Teens

9.67

3

Travel For Teens: South Korea Discovery and Service

South Korea is the undiscovered gem of the Far East, with food, K-culture, and mountainous scenery that you will never forget! Our discovery trip begins in Seoul, where we explore regal palaces and bustling downtown neighborhoods, and have fun at the theater. Then, we tour Korea’s modern port city of Busan, visit the ancient capital city of Gyeongju, and explore the rural beauty of South Jeolla Province. Our final destination is Jeju Island, recently listed as one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of the World. After a couple of days exploring this island paradise, we will go back to Seoul to K-party it up with some K-pop hologram shows and a meal at the N-Seoul Tower. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain community service hours assisting a Buddhist temple with their farming projects, an enriching experience for both you and the people who sustain off this land! This program is perfect for any teen finishing grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 and looking to gain a global perspective while discovering one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.

Greenheart Travel

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Teach English in a Homestay in South Korea with Greenheart

Experience all that South Korea has to offer with Greenheart Travel’s Teach English in a Homestay Program. Tutors spend 15 hours per week teaching English to their host families. They spend their additional time living and breathing South Korean culture and language.  Our placements are with host families in or around Seoul, providing our participants with easy access to one of South Korea's most amazing cities! This is a volunteer, unpaid teaching placement designed for deep cultural immersion and exchange.  If you want to live off the beaten path and make lasting connections, the homestay program is for you!

Involvement Volunteers International

10

2

Childcare and After-School Support in Seoul, South Korea

The daycare centre is conveniently situated, just a quick 20-minute subway ride from the accommodation. Your role here is crucial in providing basic English education. You could lead activities tailored to the kids’ skills or organize special programs for different seasons or events. And there’s an exciting opportunity for you to learn some Korean from the children, too, fostering a rich cultural exchange. No specific qualifications are needed – we’re looking for enthusiastic individuals willing to lend a hand however they can, whether it’s through language practice or academic support. You’ll have the chance to engage in a variety of activities, from playing games to helping out during meals and ensuring the kids stick to their hygiene routines. You’ll be interacting with children aged 6 to 12, entering their middle childhood phase. Our ultimate aim is to create a nurturing environment for kids from diverse backgrounds, where they can develop language skills, experience different cultures, and grow personally. By joining us, you’ll be making a real difference in these kids’ lives while gaining valuable experiences yourself.

See All 4 Programs

Korea GapYear 한국갭이어 KGY

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Animal Welfare Volunteering in South Korea

Support rescued animals and experience Korean culture up close through Korea Gap Year’s Animal Welfare Volunteering program. This program is ideal for those passionate about animal rights, interested in basic care, or simply looking to share time and kindness with animals in need. You’ll help care for stray and rescued dogs through daily routines like feeding, walking, bathing, and grooming. Whether it’s cleaning shelters, supporting adoption events, or offering gentle attention, your time helps animals feel safe, healthy, and loved. Join us for 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, or 24 weeks—choose what fits your schedule. Activities run Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with evenings and weekends free for cultural exploration. No special qualifications are required. Communication is in basic English or Korean, and a full orientation is provided before you begin. Activities are subject to availability.

See All 5 Programs

How to Volunteer Abroad in Seoul

Prepare to Study Abroad

Set Goals

Volunteering in Seoul is more than handing out worksheets or helping with cleanup drives. Setting personal goals can deepen your connection with Korean culture and make your experience truly meaningful.

  • Diverse volunteer roles. Whether you’re drawn to teaching, environmental work, or cultural projects, there’s something for everyone.
  • Short or long term—your call. Programs range from a few weeks to several months, letting you customize your commitment.
  • Cultural immersion. Between your volunteer hours, you’ll experience everything from K-dramas and themed cafés to local hikes and traditional festivals.

Understand the benefits

Seoul is a fantastic base for volunteering. It’s safe, easy to get around, and full of opportunities to grow.

  • World-class academics with international focus. Study at top universities like Universidade de Lisboa or Nova SBE, both offering courses in English and strong global programs.
  • Endless things to do. Think rooftop sunsets, nearby beaches, late-night fado, and weekend train rides to Porto or Lagos.
  • A lower cost of living than other Western European cities. Whether it's rent or a café meal, Lisbon stretches your student budget further than places like Paris or Amsterdam.

Things to know

A bit of insider knowledge can go a long way when you're settling into life as a volunteer in Seoul.

  • Accommodation - You might stay with a host family or live in a volunteer house. Both are great in different ways. Host families give you a real local connection, while volunteer houses are social and fun.
  • Teaching - English teaching is in high demand. You don’t need to be an expert since many programs offer basic training, and you’ll learn a lot as you go.
  • Seasons - Seoul doesn’t mess around with weather. Summers are hot and humid with surprise rain, winters are icy and snowy. Pack for the season and bring good shoes.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

I volunteered in South Korea in Childcare and After School Support program.

October 29, 2025by: Mary - - IrelandProgram: Childcare and After-School Support in Seoul, South Korea
10

I volunteered for a month (from September 28th to October 25th, 2025). Every Monday, we would meet up in the lobby to plan our English lesson materials for the rest of the week. After preparing everything, we would have lunch together with the guide. We usually took our time for lunch because we had to be at the location around 3 p.m. Once we arrived at the location, we would introduce ourselves to the children and start the lesson. We had two-hour lessons, with a 10-minute break in between. We usually finished class at 5 p.m. Then the assigned guide would go back to our accommodation with us, making sure we didn't get lost. Every day, we went to different schools. We worked from Monday to Friday. We met in the lobby at 12pm, every day. Sometimes, the volunteering organization would propose some trips to the Korean countryside to see more of Korea, meet other people, and help people. I took part in two trips: one to harvest chili peppers for the farmers and one to harvest apples. I had so much fun and interacted with locals. Unforgettable memories. Local team was friendly and kind. I had so much fun with them. As for food, I couldn't be any happier. It was so good. Accommodation was okay. I was in a dorm if 6 person. It was sometimes challenging but bearable for a month.

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