Why Roots & Routes
Roots & Routes is a program connecting Korean-American students (grades 7-12) with their heritage through educational exchange at Minjok Leadership Academy and cultural immersion across Korea.
KMLA Exchange
Exclusive access to Korea Minjok Leadership Academy, one of Korea's top schools. Experience their world-class education system firsthand.
Cultural Sites
Visit iconic landmarks: Gyeongbokgung Palace, DMZ, temples, traditional villages. Participate in hands-on activities: Hangul calligraphy, traditional crafts, and more. crafts,
Small Groups
Limited to 25 students for personalized attention, meaningful connections, and an intimate learning environment throughout the journey.
Expert Guidance
Led by experienced cultural educators and Korean teachers. Develop cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and global citizenship skills that prepare you for an interconnected world.
What's Included
Round-trip flights, hotels, KMLA dorm stay, and private transportation throughout Korea
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. All entrance fees, workshops, cultural activities, and tours
Experienced cultural educators, Korean teachers, and 24/7 supervision throughout the trip
Temple Exploration
Temple
Traditional Hanok Stay
Hanok Village
Historical Reflection
Independence Hall of Korea
Visiting the Blue House
Blue House
Understanding Division
DMZ & JSA
Culinary Culture
Korean Cuisine
School Life
School
Spiritual Sites
Temple
Educational Workshops
Throughout the Journey
Program Details
Dates
April 2–11, 2026
Who Can Apply
Students in grades 7–12
Group Size
Maximum 25 students
Program Cost
$3,900 per student
What's Included
Application Process
Online Application
Complete our online form with student information and essay responses.
Virtual Interview
Selected applicants will be invited to a virtual interview with program directors.
Payment Schedule
Security Deposit: $1,000
Submit with your application. Fully refundable if not selected for the program.
Balance Payment: $2,900
Due upon acceptance into the program, along with passport information..
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Fee: A $200 administrative fee applies to all cancellations after acceptance.
Refund Amount:
- Before airline ticket purchase: Full refund of payments made, minus $200 cancellation fee.
- After airline ticket purchase: Full refund minus $200 cancellation fee and any non-refundable airline fees (per airline's cancellation policy).
Note: The $1,000 security deposit is only refundable if you are not selected for the program. Once you accept your spot, all payments are subject to the cancellation policy above.
10-Day Trip Route
Sample Itinerary
Schedule subject to change
Arrival & Seoul City Tour
Friday, April 3 • Seoul
Arrive at Incheon International Airport. Begin Seoul city tour with a visit to Namsan Tower for panoramic city views. Hotel check-in and orientation session with activities to meet fellow participants.
Seoul Historical & Cultural Immersion
Saturday, April 4 • Seoul
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and the National Folk Museum. Explore Insadong for traditional crafts including hanbok try-on and seal carving experiences. Afternoon shopping, then stroll through Bukchon Hanok Village and the Cheonggyecheon stream.
Modern Korea & Cultural Exploration
Sunday, April 5 • Seoul → Hoengseong
Explore the National Museum of Korea to understand Korean history and culture. Visit Lotte Sky (Seoul Sky observation deck) for stunning city views, then head to Gangnam COEX K-pop Square to experience contemporary Korean culture. Evening departure for Minjok Leadership Academy in Gangwon-do.
5-7
Minjok Leadership Academy (KMLA) Exchange
Monday-Wednesday, April 6-8 • Hoengseong (Gangwon-do)
Three-day immersion at one of Korea's most prestigious schools. Experience world-class education and Korean student life:
- •Class observations and academic activities with Korean students
- •Student exchange, peer interactions, and cultural dialogue
- •Campus tours and exploration of state-of-the-art facilities
- •Leadership and global citizenship workshops
- •Farewell ceremony and reflections on the exchange experience
UNESCO Heritage & Korean Independence
Wednesday, April 8 • Yeoju → Cheonan → Gyeongju
Visit Yeoju Sejong Royal Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site honoring King Sejong the Great, creator of Hangul. Travel to Cheonan to explore the Independence Hall of Korea, learning about Korea's journey to independence and modern democracy. Continue to Gyeongju for evening arrival and cultural orientation.
Ancient Silla Kingdom Experience
Thursday, April 9 • Gyeongju
Full-day in Gyeongju, the ancient capital of the Silla Kingdom. Explore sites including Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the royal tombs. Participate in traditional cultural activities and enjoy a unique hanok stay experience, sleeping in a traditional Korean house.
Gyeongju Sites & Return to Incheon
Friday, April 10 • Gyeongju → Incheon
Morning exploration of additional Gyeongju historical sites and cultural landmarks. Travel to Incheon in the afternoon. Evening shopping at Incheon Songdo for last-minute souvenirs and gifts. Group reflection dinner and preparation for departure.
Final Reflections & Departure
Saturday, April 11 • Incheon → Newark
Visit Incheon Immigration Museum to learn about Korean diaspora and immigration history. Program wrap-up session with certificates and group photos. Farewell dinner. Airport check-in at 9:00 PM. Depart Korea and arrive back in Newark, USA (same day due to time difference). Return home with unforgettable memories and global perspectives.
Note: This is a sample itinerary. Specific activities, timing, and locations are subject to change based on weather, availability, and group dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule a call to learn more?
Yes, we're happy to answer any questions you have about the program. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our program director.
Schedule a Free ConsultationHow do I apply?
The application process has two steps:
- Online Application: Complete our online form with student information and essay responses.
- Virtual Interview: Selected applicants will be invited to a virtual interview with our program directors.
Visit the application page for full details and to begin your application.
Do students need to speak Korean?
No! The program is designed to be accessible regardless of Korean language ability. All activities include English support, and Korean language skills are not required.
How is safety ensured?
We maintain a 1:10 chaperone-to-student ratio, provide 24/7 emergency support, use only pre-screened accommodations and transportation, and include comprehensive travel insurance for all participants. Safety is our top priority.
What is Minjok Leadership Academy?
Minjok Leadership Academy (KMLA) is one of Korea's most prestigious high schools, known for academic excellence and innovative educational approaches. The 3-day exchange is an exclusive opportunity for our students to experience this world-class institution firsthand.
Can my child attend if they've never been to Korea?
Absolutely! Many participants are visiting Korea for the first time. The program is designed to be accessible and enriching whether this is your child's first trip or they've visited before.
Past Trips
Summer 2019 - Seoul, Gyeongju & Suwon
Our 2019 cohort explored Seoul, the ancient capital of Gyeongju, and historic Suwon. Highlights included visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Gyeongju, touring Suwon Hwaseong Fortress, and the powerful experience of the DMZ tour.
Trip Highlights
- •Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul
- •UNESCO World Heritage sites in Gyeongju
- •Suwon Hwaseong Fortress city tour
- •DMZ tour and historical presentation
- •K-pop dance workshop
- •Traditional Korean cultural experiences
What Students Say
This program changed my perspective on what it means to be a global citizen. The connections I made with Korean students were genuine and eye-opening. I came back with friends for life and a deeper understanding of another culture.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but the program exceeded everything I imagined. From exploring ancient temples to chatting with students my age about K-pop and school life, every day was memorable. This trip inspired me to continue studying Korean.
The hands-on cultural experiences were incredible. The program organizers really care about creating meaningful experiences.
Ready to Apply?
Secure your spot for Spring Break 2026.
Questions? Email edutogether22@gmail.com