French Students in Korea: 'Safety and Security Are Great, but Hierarchical Culture Is Shocking'

Yasmine Haddouzi, a French university student.

Having a strong interest in East Asian culture, especially the Korean language, she is currently studying Korean and film for a semester at Hongik University.

"I feel incredibly lucky to be staying in this country and to be able to have all the experiences it offers," Haddouzi said.

According to the French daily Le Monde on June 22 (local time), there were 2,438 French students studying in South Korea as of the end of April.

This is an increase of about 40% compared to 1,737 students in 2024.

A significant portion of French international students came to Korea through popular culture.

Candice Chatillon, who came to study Korean and visual communication, recalled, "I first encountered Korean culture during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. K-pop group songs were like an escape for me."

Erica Da Silva also said, "Unlike highly explicit American dramas, Korean dramas felt much softer and not vulgar. Studying in Korea means completely immersing myself in that culture."

Hugo Pallard, an art major, showed interest in Korean history.

"Korea has gone through numerous historical periods, foreign invasions, and external influences, and these experiences have contributed to forming a very unique artistic identity," he said.

What French students appreciate most about living in Korea is safety.

Amayna, a graphic design major, said, "I have never felt unsafe on the subway or in the streets. Although I have to be careful at night, I feel more secure here than in France."

Maïwenn Corbel also highly praised Korea's public transportation for being "very well-developed, convenient, pleasant, and punctual."

In addition, Corbel pointed to the "speed and efficiency of the Korean healthcare system" as a strength.

"Even for minor treatments or checkups, everything is highly organized and accessible," she said.

While it is convenient to live in, there are also aspects that are difficult to adapt to.

Etiquette culture is a prime example.

Lola Plantard expressed disappointment with customs "steeped in Confucianism," confessing, "It feels like belonging to another era."

She pointed out, "Gender discrimination, hierarchical structures, and indifference to mental health, the environment, or vegetarianism are widespread."

In particular, she said, "I was very surprised that the obsession with appearance is so strong here. There are very different and demanding aesthetic standards, not to mention plastic surgery, makeup, cosmetics, and clothing."

Morgane also added, "It creates pressure to always try to become more beautiful."

Some also pointed to latent racism or the rejection of other cultures in Korean society as problems.

Alicia cited an instance where a K-pop dance club banned foreigners.

Korea's work culture is also difficult to understand for those from France, where labor rights are stronger than in almost any other country.

Jeanne Rousseau, an international business major, pointed out "Korea's work culture, namely the highly vertical hierarchical structure and taken-for-granted overtime work," as a problem.

"It's nice to work in relation to Korea, but working like a Korean is hard to do," she said.

Restrictions on employment due to student visas, administrative difficulties, and language barriers are also obstacles to local adaptation.

Benjamin Joinau, a professor at Hongik University, advised, "Korea, which is sometimes portrayed fantastically, is often perceived as a wonderful country in France, where people like to experience foreignness. But reality is not that simple. You should come with concrete plans, not fantasies."

Despite these difficulties, the overall evaluation of French students is positive.

Accordingly, to promote youth exchange, the two countries agreed to revise the 'Working Holiday Agreement' during French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to South Korea last April.

The main content is to raise the upper age limit for participating in the working holiday program from 30 to 35.

The working hours allowed under this system may also be increased from the current 25 hours per week.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.