Korean Science Trip

Over half term, a group of STEM enthusiasts explored the culture and cutting-edge technology of Seoul and Busan.

Ronnie in Year 10 reports back on the trip of a lifetime:

‘After an exhausting 12-hour journey, we watched a breathtaking sunset at the iconic N Seoul Tower followed by a comforting, traditional Korean hotpot, which foreshadowed all of the delicious food in store – a definite highlight for everyone. The next day, we started at HiKr Ground – an immersive cultural centre where we explored different photo rooms, listened to K-pop, and made our own keychains – followed by a visit to the National Museum of Korea. Our guide, Jiyoon, recommended that we rent hanboks (traditional Korean garments) to gain free entry – it was a great experience to be able to wear such a beautiful outfit.

We were lucky enough to be the first school group to be invited to visit Neurophet, a neuroscience company in Seoul developing AI technology in order to better identify Alzheimer’s from various scans of the brain. This technology can detect early signs of the disease many years before the symptoms manifest, allowing patients to access delaying treatments to provide them with more years of independence. Neurophet’s medical director, KiJeong Lee, spoke to us about their current work, including the potential issues that arise with treatment, as well as the hopes the company has for the future.

As well as Seoul, we visited Busan – possibly the highlight of the trip – and the Ulsan Hyundai motor plant, where we took a guided tour; it was fascinating to learn about the incredibly nuanced processes of making vehicles. That evening, aboard a modern yacht, we took in the sights of Busan’s high rise buildings, lit up like millions of stars illuminating our path across the bay. The next day in Busan, we went to the Science Museum for an intriguing lesson on electrolysis, led by a seasoned professional in her field, followed by a trip to Gamcheon culture village; this quaint little village, nicknamed Korea’s Santorini, was full of local craft-makers and colourful photo opportunities.

Unfortunately, our final day arrived all too quickly.  As we said goodbye to our VIP tour bus, we arrived at the airport to do tax returns from all our shopping! But as well as all our K-Beauty products and face masks, we also carried an utterly memorable seven days: bonding with different year groups, learning about STEM initiatives, and gaining insight into a fascinating different culture. None of this would have been possible without our accompanying teachers, Miss Osborne, Miss Elliott, and Ms Weekes.’