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Itinerary
Seoul - Soup Kitchen
About Your Location
Seoul, the capital and the most expensive metropolis of South Korea, pulsates with life, housing over 9.9 million souls. It's a city where the grandeur of ancient royal palaces and sacred shrines seamlessly blend with cutting-edge architecture and towering skyscrapers, creating a mesmerizing skyline. Renowned for its efficient public transportation network, Seoul's comprehensive subway system spans 15 lines, ensuring every corner of the city is accessible, while buses and taxis run all night, facilitating smooth and timely commutes.
Aims & Objectives
- Lend a helping hand in the soup kitchen.
- Contribute to UN’s 17 sustainable development goals - #2 Zero Hunger.
- Learn about Korea and interact with the local community.
- Give you practical experience in the kitchen and an insight into food preparation.
- Contribute to UN’s 17 sustainable development goals - #2 Zero Hunger.
- Learn about Korea and interact with the local community.
- Give you practical experience in the kitchen and an insight into food preparation.
Weekly Schedule & Activities
Mandatory Orientation Day
On Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.
Schedule for Introduction Day
- Breakfast
- Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
- South Korea Do's and Don'ts, Dress Codes and Basic Culture Lessons
- Seoul City Tour
- Dinner
Monday to Friday
Breakfast at the accommodation and transfer to the Soup Kitchen by 09:00.
Assist at The Soup Kitchen
Finish serving and clean up the Soup Kitchen by 14:20
Kyungdong Market Tour: A walking tour of Korea's oldest traditional medicine market after the soup kitchen activity.
Activities & Events
Monday Afternoon
Explore the neighborhood and get to know the Jong-ro district with us. You will visit either Gyeongbokgung or Jongmyo Shrine and will experience both the modern and traditional sides of Seoul through a city tour of the old town. This journey ensures a deep dive into Korean history and culture.
Tuesday or Thursday Evening
The visit day, either Tuesday or Thursday evening, will be determined by our local staff's judgment, you will have the opportunity to visit one of Korea's most popular culinary destinations. We'll either explore the bustling Gwangjang traditional market, where you can sample famous snacks like Korean pancakes or raw beef dishes, or stroll through the vibrant streets of Yeonnam-dong, known for its young artists and creative atmosphere. This excursion offers a chance to unite with fellow participants and local coordinators, diving into the heart of Seoul's culinary scene and experiencing the ultimate in local food and culture.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***
On Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.
Schedule for Introduction Day
- Breakfast
- Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
- South Korea Do's and Don'ts, Dress Codes and Basic Culture Lessons
- Seoul City Tour
- Dinner
Monday to Friday
Breakfast at the accommodation and transfer to the Soup Kitchen by 09:00.
Assist at The Soup Kitchen
Finish serving and clean up the Soup Kitchen by 14:20
Kyungdong Market Tour: A walking tour of Korea's oldest traditional medicine market after the soup kitchen activity.
Activities & Events
Monday Afternoon
Explore the neighborhood and get to know the Jong-ro district with us. You will visit either Gyeongbokgung or Jongmyo Shrine and will experience both the modern and traditional sides of Seoul through a city tour of the old town. This journey ensures a deep dive into Korean history and culture.
Tuesday or Thursday Evening
The visit day, either Tuesday or Thursday evening, will be determined by our local staff's judgment, you will have the opportunity to visit one of Korea's most popular culinary destinations. We'll either explore the bustling Gwangjang traditional market, where you can sample famous snacks like Korean pancakes or raw beef dishes, or stroll through the vibrant streets of Yeonnam-dong, known for its young artists and creative atmosphere. This excursion offers a chance to unite with fellow participants and local coordinators, diving into the heart of Seoul's culinary scene and experiencing the ultimate in local food and culture.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***
Optional Culture Week
Start your volunteer journey with Culture Week in Seoul, a vibrant and immersive introduction to South Korea’s rich traditions and modern lifestyle. This week-long experience is designed to help you feel at home while exploring the heart of Korean culture - beyond the surface of K-pop and Korean cinema.
Each day from Monday to Friday, you'll take part in 5 to 6 hours of guided cultural activities, including:
- Exploring centuries-old royal palaces and learning their stories
- Creating traditional Korean handicrafts, like your own personalized seal
- Tasting authentic Korean street food at bustling local markets
- Discovering Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods and hidden gems
- Learning essential Korean phrases to navigate daily life
- By the end of the week, you’ll feel confident navigating the streets, ordering food, and exploring Seoul just like a local.
Good to know:
Due to the active nature of the program and the warm weather, a decent level of fitness is recommended. All entry fees for scheduled cultural landmarks, excursions, and adventure activities are included in the program.
Each day from Monday to Friday, you'll take part in 5 to 6 hours of guided cultural activities, including:
- Exploring centuries-old royal palaces and learning their stories
- Creating traditional Korean handicrafts, like your own personalized seal
- Tasting authentic Korean street food at bustling local markets
- Discovering Seoul’s trendiest neighborhoods and hidden gems
- Learning essential Korean phrases to navigate daily life
- By the end of the week, you’ll feel confident navigating the streets, ordering food, and exploring Seoul just like a local.
Good to know:
Due to the active nature of the program and the warm weather, a decent level of fitness is recommended. All entry fees for scheduled cultural landmarks, excursions, and adventure activities are included in the program.
Public Holidays
Please note that if a public holiday falls on a weekend (Saturday or Sunday), a substitute holiday may be designated on the following Monday.
Public holidays 2026
06 June
15 August
21-27 September **
03 & 09 October
25 December
Public holidays 2027
Please note 2027 dates are only a guideline and can change.
TBA
13-19 September **
Please note that these dates may change or be amended due to local situations.
** Chuseok Holiday - Special Program
The following schedule outlines the confirmed Cultural Program for September 21-25, 2026, during the Chuseok holiday period in South Korea. In 2026, Chuseok falls on September 24, with public holidays typically observed from September 24-26. As Chuseok follows the lunar calendar, exact dates change each year. Future program schedules may therefore be adjusted in line with the official national holiday calendar and partner site availability.
2027 info TBA.
Monday - September 21, 2026
Orientation and Introduction to Korean Thanksgiving, Program briefing and cultural overview, Introduction to Chuseok traditions and customs, Visit to N Seoul Tower, Traditional Korean games session
Tuesday - September 22, 2026
Traditional Culture and Hands on Experiences, Songpyeon rice cake shaping workshop, Visit to the National Museum of Korea, Cultural exchange session
Wednesday - September 23, 2026
Modern Korean Leisure Culture, Full day visit to Lotte World Adventure, Exploration of Korean entertainment and youth culture
Thursday - September 24, 2026
Hanbok and Traditional Heritage Day, Hanbok rental experience, Visit to a royal palace or traditional hanok village, Walk through Insadong, Traditional crafts and calligraphy activities
Friday - September 25, 2026
Han River and Nature Experience, Han River cruise, Riverside observatory visit, Nature walk and picnic at a Han River park, Program reflection and wrap up
Please note: The order or specific sites may be adjusted depending on public holiday operating hours, weather conditions, and availability during the Chuseok week.
Public holidays 2026
06 June
15 August
21-27 September **
03 & 09 October
25 December
Public holidays 2027
Please note 2027 dates are only a guideline and can change.
TBA
13-19 September **
Please note that these dates may change or be amended due to local situations.
** Chuseok Holiday - Special Program
The following schedule outlines the confirmed Cultural Program for September 21-25, 2026, during the Chuseok holiday period in South Korea. In 2026, Chuseok falls on September 24, with public holidays typically observed from September 24-26. As Chuseok follows the lunar calendar, exact dates change each year. Future program schedules may therefore be adjusted in line with the official national holiday calendar and partner site availability.
2027 info TBA.
Monday - September 21, 2026
Orientation and Introduction to Korean Thanksgiving, Program briefing and cultural overview, Introduction to Chuseok traditions and customs, Visit to N Seoul Tower, Traditional Korean games session
Tuesday - September 22, 2026
Traditional Culture and Hands on Experiences, Songpyeon rice cake shaping workshop, Visit to the National Museum of Korea, Cultural exchange session
Wednesday - September 23, 2026
Modern Korean Leisure Culture, Full day visit to Lotte World Adventure, Exploration of Korean entertainment and youth culture
Thursday - September 24, 2026
Hanbok and Traditional Heritage Day, Hanbok rental experience, Visit to a royal palace or traditional hanok village, Walk through Insadong, Traditional crafts and calligraphy activities
Friday - September 25, 2026
Han River and Nature Experience, Han River cruise, Riverside observatory visit, Nature walk and picnic at a Han River park, Program reflection and wrap up
Please note: The order or specific sites may be adjusted depending on public holiday operating hours, weather conditions, and availability during the Chuseok week.
Mandatory Volunteer Requirements
Minimum age of 18
Basic level of English
Police Clearance Certificate on sign-up
Prior experience in cooking is helpful but not required; willingness to learn is essential.
Ability to stand and work for long periods, assist in food preparation, and perform manual tasks such as washing dishes.
Basic level of English
Police Clearance Certificate on sign-up
Prior experience in cooking is helpful but not required; willingness to learn is essential.
Ability to stand and work for long periods, assist in food preparation, and perform manual tasks such as washing dishes.
What Makes a Good Volunteer?
Volunteers need to be flexible and keep an open mind concerning their placements as situations can arise beyond our control which could require you to be placed at a different project than the one you have initially chosen. We will of course always do our utmost to fulfill your initial wishes but do remember that where you are going is quite different from where you are coming and as such one should be prepared for things not always going according to plan.
Volunteering work and intercultural travel share a common trait: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. This program is designed for proactive individuals and groups that are prepared to adapt to the local environment and its current needs. Naturally, the scheduling and activities of our program are subject to change. At times, alterations in activities are due to changes in local conditions. This can be part of what makes overseas programs the interesting adventure and incredible learning experience that it is.
Volunteering work and intercultural travel share a common trait: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. This program is designed for proactive individuals and groups that are prepared to adapt to the local environment and its current needs. Naturally, the scheduling and activities of our program are subject to change. At times, alterations in activities are due to changes in local conditions. This can be part of what makes overseas programs the interesting adventure and incredible learning experience that it is.
How Long Should I Volunteer?
Our projects range from 1 week up to approx. 30 weeks. Projects have a specified minimum stay, then it’s up to you how long you can commit. In our experience the longer you stay the more you will gain, as your understanding of the project broadens and you take on more responsibilities. Every volunteer will be given a certificate of appreciation at the end of their stay as a symbol of volunteering stay.
Overzicht
What’s included?
Accommodation
Located in the vibrant and youthful heart of Hongdae, Seoul, our accommodation distinguishes itself as a contemporary temple and guesthouse. Nestled within Seoul's most energetic district, this unique establishment provides the perfect blend of Buddhist tranquility and urban excitement. Guests enjoy immediate proximity to a variety of conveniences including convenience stores, markets, and department stores, as well as direct connections to the airport and various downtown areas through easily accessible public transportation. Here, you're not just finding a place to stay; you're given the chance to participate in a lifestyle deeply intertwined with community and spiritual exploration.
Living conditions are comfortable with air conditioning for the hotter months and heat for the cooler months. Volunteers can expect to share a dormitory-style room with up to five other volunteers. These bedrooms are separated by gender with shared hot water showers and Western toilets (also separated by gender). There is a lounge area, as well as a dining area for volunteers to hang out and enjoy their meals together.
There is WiFi available at the volunteer accommodation.
Please note that the accommodation is within a temple and therefore volunteers are expected to be quiet after 22:00. It is important to note that volunteers are unable to consume alcohol or meat at the guesthouse.
Living conditions are comfortable with air conditioning for the hotter months and heat for the cooler months. Volunteers can expect to share a dormitory-style room with up to five other volunteers. These bedrooms are separated by gender with shared hot water showers and Western toilets (also separated by gender). There is a lounge area, as well as a dining area for volunteers to hang out and enjoy their meals together.
There is WiFi available at the volunteer accommodation.
Please note that the accommodation is within a temple and therefore volunteers are expected to be quiet after 22:00. It is important to note that volunteers are unable to consume alcohol or meat at the guesthouse.
Local transport
Arrival
The accommodation is a 5 min walk from Hongik University station and can be reached on a direct train from the airport, it takes approximately 45mins.
Your arrival airport train ride to the accommodation is included in your program fee. Please note that this meet and greet service is offered on Sundays between 10:00 to 17:00.
When you arrive, you will be be met at the airport by a member of the local team. The airport is a 1-hour train ride from the accommodation. If there are volunteers arriving within a few hours of your flight, the local team will wait and transfer volunteers to the accommodation altogether.
If you are traveling to South Korea before your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a pre-arranged destination in Seoul, the day before your program orientation. You also have the option to make your own way to Seoul.
The accommodation is located near the subway station and is walking distance to shops, mini-mart, ATM, supermarket, local restaurants, and coffee shops.
The transportation costs are not included in the program. Typically, we take a bus from the accommodation, and the round-trip cost is less than 3 euros per day. The local team will accompany you to ensure smooth transitions and provide insights into navigating Seoul's efficient public transportation system.
The accommodation is a 5 min walk from Hongik University station and can be reached on a direct train from the airport, it takes approximately 45mins.
Your arrival airport train ride to the accommodation is included in your program fee. Please note that this meet and greet service is offered on Sundays between 10:00 to 17:00.
When you arrive, you will be be met at the airport by a member of the local team. The airport is a 1-hour train ride from the accommodation. If there are volunteers arriving within a few hours of your flight, the local team will wait and transfer volunteers to the accommodation altogether.
If you are traveling to South Korea before your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a pre-arranged destination in Seoul, the day before your program orientation. You also have the option to make your own way to Seoul.
The accommodation is located near the subway station and is walking distance to shops, mini-mart, ATM, supermarket, local restaurants, and coffee shops.
The transportation costs are not included in the program. Typically, we take a bus from the accommodation, and the round-trip cost is less than 3 euros per day. The local team will accompany you to ensure smooth transitions and provide insights into navigating Seoul's efficient public transportation system.
Meals
Breakfasts are prepared at the accommodation. We will provide you with 2 meals (breakfast and lunch) a day including during the weekend. Lunch is provided at the Soup Kitchen. Participants eat what they prepare and serve for the day.
Please inform us of any allergies you may have or any dietary requirements, so that the team leaders and coordinators are prepared and special arrangements can be made for you.
There are many options for dinner; the city has a fantastic food culture with plenty of markets and restaurants. You can budget the cost per meal at around 5-10 euros (at own cost).
Please inform us of any allergies you may have or any dietary requirements, so that the team leaders and coordinators are prepared and special arrangements can be made for you.
There are many options for dinner; the city has a fantastic food culture with plenty of markets and restaurants. You can budget the cost per meal at around 5-10 euros (at own cost).
Additional info
What to Bring
Dress Code in South Korea
Respectful Attire: Dress modestly to align with local cultural norms, especially when visiting temples and palaces.
Appropriate Clothing: Avoid wearing anything too short, tight, or revealing. Ensure your shoulders and legs are covered.
Western Clothes: These are fine as long as they meet local standards and are respectful in terms of graphics, symbols, or text.
Closed-toe shoes, preferably non-slip, for safety and comfort while working in the kitchen.
Optional Items:
Hairnet or Hat: To prevent hair from falling into food and maintain kitchen hygiene.
Aprons: Aprons are often provided, but bringing your own for extra comfort is recommended
Local SIM Card
We highly recommend buying a cheap local SIM card for your whole time in South Korea for your own personal safety and for easier/cheaper communication with other participants, staff and family back home, and especially if travelling to us by yourself, this becomes especially useful.
Dress Code in South Korea
Respectful Attire: Dress modestly to align with local cultural norms, especially when visiting temples and palaces.
Appropriate Clothing: Avoid wearing anything too short, tight, or revealing. Ensure your shoulders and legs are covered.
Western Clothes: These are fine as long as they meet local standards and are respectful in terms of graphics, symbols, or text.
Closed-toe shoes, preferably non-slip, for safety and comfort while working in the kitchen.
Optional Items:
Hairnet or Hat: To prevent hair from falling into food and maintain kitchen hygiene.
Aprons: Aprons are often provided, but bringing your own for extra comfort is recommended
Local SIM Card
We highly recommend buying a cheap local SIM card for your whole time in South Korea for your own personal safety and for easier/cheaper communication with other participants, staff and family back home, and especially if travelling to us by yourself, this becomes especially useful.