Out-of-the-Box Things to Do in Summer in Korea

By Dhivyaa S. P.

Looking for a summer escape that’s more than just beaches and cafes?!

Tucked away in the peaceful corner of South Korea’s southwestern coastal islands is a volunteer experience that blends adventure, cultural exchange, and meaningful impact. Last summer, I swapped my research lab hours for salty air and community spirit at the Soan-do Workcamp, a week-long international volunteer program that turned out to be one of the most fulfilling chapters of my life.

A Global Gathering on a Tiny Island

The workcamp brought together 24 volunteers from across the globe, all converging on Soan-do with a shared purpose: to connect with the local community and contribute to environmental and cultural projects. Our daily routines didn’t just revolve around hard work; they were infused with moments of joy, bonding, and discovery – of each other, of Korean culture, and of ourselves.

Teaching Cultures, Sharing Values

One of the highlights of the camp was spending time with local school children, introducing them to our countries through playful lessons on traditional attire, sports, and customs. The curiosity in their eyes and their excited questions reminded me of how powerful cross-cultural exchange can be, even on a remote island.

We also engaged in a reflective project where we shared quotes on patriotism from historical freedom fighters of our home countries. These deeply personal messages created space for conversations about history, identity, and the values we carry with us across borders.

Giving Back and Breaking Bread Together

The camp wasn’t all about classrooms and conversations. We also got our hands dirty – literally. From cleaning the local beach to scrubbing moss-covered public benches and gardening in the sweltering heat, our days were packed with community service. Though the Korean summer heat came at us in full force with government-issued heatwave warnings, we learned to pace ourselves, stay hydrated, and support one another through every task.

And then came the grand finale: a global food night, where each of us cooked a dish from our home country. Over shared meals, we didn’t just exchange recipes – we shared laughter, stories, and a little piece of home.

Friendship in the Unexpected

What truly made the Soan-do Workcamp unforgettable were the small, spontaneous moments. We wrote letters to one another, sealing memories and reflections in envelopes to be treasured later. One of the most unexpectedly delightful activities? Laundry day. Imagine a group of people from different continents, united by the buzz of washing machine and the scent of detergent, laughing together as we sorted clothes. It was simple, lowkey – and completely wonderful.

Lessons from the Tide

For me personally, this camp was a journey of many firsts. I learned to float on water (a major milestone!!!) and even discovered the joy of skipping stones across the sea. It was during those quiet moments on the beach, after a long day of work, that I felt a deep sense of belonging – not just to the group but to a larger world stitched together by shared purpose and open hearts.

Why Should You Consider a Workcamp in Korea?

If you’re spending your summer in Korea and looking for something out of the ordinary, ditch the tourist traps and dive into a workcamp. You’ll not only give back to a community but also gain long-lasting memories and friendships.

The Soan-do Workcamp left me with sun-kissed skin, sore muscles, and a heart full of gratitude. It reminded me that true travel isn’t always about where you go but how deeply you connect – whether that’s with people, with place, or with your own sense of purpose.

Cover Photo by Dhivyaa S. P.