Navigating the Application Process for Korean Arts High School as a Foreigner

As a foreigner interested in pursuing your passion for arts in South Korea, you might wonder how to apply to Korean Arts High School. Here's a detailed guide to help you through the process, along with recommendations on contacting relevant institutions for assistance.

Research and Recon

The first step is to conduct thorough research on the Korean Arts High School of your interest. Visiting their official website or social media platforms can provide valuable insights into their curriculum, facilities, and the application requirements. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the culture and practices that these schools uphold.

Contacting Relevant Institutions

If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the process, consider reaching out to the school directly. Many schools will have helplines or email addresses on their website for prospective students. If you still find it challenging, you could contact the Korean embassy in your country. The embassy can provide general information and guide you in the right direction.

Model contacts for reaching out include:

Phone: Obtain the school's contact number through its official website or social media. Email: Look for an email address under the 'Contact Us' section on the school's website. Korean Embassy: Email or call the nearest Korean embassy for more general information about studying in Korea.

Personal Experience: Traversing the Korean Arts Scene

My journey to Korean arts training began in the early 1990s when I expressed interest in training in South Korea. After initially passing a second-degree black belt grading, I was introduced to a prominent European instructor who shared his experience and offered to train with me before the grading. After passing, I spent two additional days with him before he returned home.

A month or two later, after a class, my instructor expressed interest in me continuing my training in Korea. He provided me with a package containing an introduction letter for a school in Korea and an invitation letter for the school. These documents were instrumental in securing my two-month stay in Korea. Despite the challenging training and the realization that most top instructors had moved to the US, I am glad I pursued this path.

Key Points to Remember

1. **Understand the Culture:** Korea has a unique martial arts culture, and being familiar with it can help you integrate better and understand the training process.

2. **Commitment:** Training in Korea involves rigorous daily practice. Be prepared to put in the time and effort to master the art.

3. **Networking:** Building relationships with instructors and fellow students can be highly beneficial for your growth and learning experience.

4. **Patience:** Adaptation to the way of life in Korea may take time. Being like a sponge and absorbing as much as possible will help you rapidly integrate into the community.

Final Thoughts

While the application process may seem daunting at first, it is a rewarding experience. The key is to stay committed, open-minded, and willing to learn. If you have a genuine passion for the arts and a strong desire to train in Korea, you will find a way to make it happen.