🌸Hirosaki University Ambassador [Study Abroad Report] Hanako Watanabe, 2nd year student, Faculty of Education No. 2

Hello everyone! My name is Kanako Watanabe, and I'm currently studying abroad in South Korea. I have about a month left of my study abroad experience. Last time, I introduced course registration and the content of my classes. This time, I'll focus on the places and spaces that support the daily lives of South Korean university students.

About the area around Pusan ​​National University
The area around Pusan ​​National University has many shops catering to students, creating a convenient living environment. There are numerous restaurants and cafes in front of the university's main gate, where students can eat with friends or work on assignments after classes or during their free time. There are also many affordable eateries and Korean restaurants, making it easy for students to enjoy eating out. Many unique Korean cafes exist, each with its own distinct atmosphere, making finding your favorite a fun part of studying abroad. Furthermore, there are convenience stores, general stores, and bookstores around the university, so you can easily find everything you need for daily life.

Regarding the use of the cafe
In Japan, cafes are often seen as places to chat with friends or take a break, but in Korea, many students use them to study or do assignments. I often go to cafes with friends to do assignments during breaks between classes or after classes. Many cafes have power outlets at each seat, so it seems that many people bring their laptops and study materials and study for long periods of time.

About university libraries
In Korean universities, libraries are not just places to borrow books, but are used as central learning spaces for students. During breaks between classes and after school, many students visit the library to study alone or work on assignments with friends. Also, many university libraries in Korea have seat reservation systems in place. As a result, students can secure seats in advance, which I find to be efficient. During exam periods, many students study in the library from early morning until late at night, and it's not uncommon for most seats to be occupied. Furthermore, because libraries are open late into the night (some are even open 24 hours), I feel that the environment is well-suited for students to focus on their studies.

Conclusion
This time, I introduced places and spaces that support Korean university students. As I actually experience life as a student abroad, I realize every day that Korean university students lead fulfilling student lives by making use of various places not only on campus but also around the university. By experiencing these everyday spaces, I feel that I can get a closer look at Korean university culture and student life, which I wouldn't be able to learn about through classes alone. Three full months have passed since I started living in Korea. It makes me a little sad to think that the classes at university, meals with friends, and the streets I casually walk through will soon no longer be part of my daily routine. I want to cherish each day and enjoy my life in Korea to the very end.