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Animal Care & Rescue Project in South Korea - Seoul

Animal Care & Rescue Project in South Korea - Seoul

Purpose
Care for abandoned and rescued animals
Start dates
Programs start every Monday
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 4 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 16+
Accommodation
Volunteer guesthouse based in a temple
Apply for free
On this page:
  • Overview
  • Requirements
  • Gallery
  • Reviews
  • Arrival & Orientation
  • Volunteer Schedule
  • Accommodation & Meals
  • Pricing
  • Add-ons & Experiences
  • Entry & Visa Requirements
    •
    'Who is going' users image
    Who is going?
    Group video calls

    Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.

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    This program is ideal for:

    Volunteers who enjoy working with animals, especially dogs, and are interested in animal welfare and want to work outdoors.

    Project details

    Join us in caring for animals at a rehabilitation and rescue center nestled in the mountains just outside Seoul. As a volunteer, you’ll work side by side with local volunteers and the center’s dedicated staff to help maintain a safe and nurturing environment for over 100 dogs and one pig, all rescued from an illegal dog farm. Your efforts will play a vital role in providing these animals with the love and care they deserve.

    What to expect and how you'll make an impact

    Volunteers will work closely with shelter staff, where the goal is to take excellent care of the rescued animals, run campaigns for foreigners to adopt animals to take back home, or help the adopted animals make their way to their new home overseas.

    Tasks involved in the Animal Care project vary day to day and may include:

    • Cleaning enclosures
    • Organizing food
    • Assist with walking the dogs
    • Assist with basic socialization training
    • Washing dogs

    As the dogs have often suffered abuse it is important that, as a general rule, volunteers need to follow the safety instructions and not to whistle or make loud noises while at placement, as this can be seen as a sign of aggression. Volunteers need to try to build trust before going near the animals and we do not recommend this project for families with younger children who may become excited.

    Please note that this project is physically demanding and this is escalated during the summer months as the shelter does not have air conditioning and the weather is very humid.

    The project will provide you with boots, overalls and gloves.

    Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #15: Life on Land

    Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #15: Life on Land

    Human activity has altered almost 75% of the earth’s surface and around 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction. Nature is critical to our survival. We must promote kindness to animals and use regenerative techniques to combat deforestation, conserve biodiversity and protect wildlife.

    Why do Animal Care & Rescue volunteering in South Korea with IVHQ?

    While taking part on this project you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:

    • Helping care for dogs that need love and socialization which increase their chances of being adopted into loving homes
    • Understand realities of the dog meat trade in South Korea and the broader issues of animal rights and welfare.
    • Provide much-needed assistance to this shelter which operates with very limited resources
    • Help educate the local community and others about the importance of animal welfare and the need to stop practices like the dog meat trade.
    • Learn about South Korea and interact with the local community
    • Gain animal care experience
    • Connect with like-minded individuals in the field of animal welfare.

    Volunteer requirements

    • Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate in this program.
    • Volunteers aged 16 or 17 on their program start date are required to provide IVHQ with parental consent in order to participate in the program, and may be asked to provide additional documents to the local team.
    • All volunteers aged 13+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 13-17, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead.
    • All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance.
    • To respect the local culture and customs in South Korea, volunteers should be aware that they’re unable to have anything obstructing their face while at their volunteer placement.
    • All volunteers must speak fluent English.
    Are you eligible to volunteer?

    Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.

    Apply for free

    Not sure which program to join?

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    'Who is going' users image
    Who is going?
    Group video calls

    Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.

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    What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience

    RS
    Ranudy Samarawickrema
    13 Feb 2025

    My time volunteering allowed me to contribute directly to the community I worked with. Whether I was teaching, building infrastructure, or assisting with healthcare initiatives, I felt my skills were put to good use, helping people improve their lives. I’m proud to know that the work we did had a lasting effect, from providing better education to fostering a more sustainable environment. It’s incredible to think that my efforts were part of something bigger, creating long-term, positive changes in the community.

    The personal fulfillment I’ve gained from volunteering has been incredible. Knowing that I’ve made a tangible difference in someone's life gives me a sense of purpose that is hard to find elsewhere. The gratitude expressed by the people I helped and the deep connections I formed have made this experience unforgettable. It’s a feeling that continues to motivate me to stay involved in social causes and pursue work that aligns with my values.

    Volunteering helped me see myself as a global citizen. I feel more connected to the world now, understanding the challenges that people in different parts of the world face, and realizing how much we all share. The cultural exchange I experienced, through learning from others and sharing my own background, was enriching and eye-opening. Volunteering has truly transformed my outlook on life. The lessons I’ve learned, the people I’ve met, and the contributions I’ve made have all shaped me into a more compassionate, resilient, and purposeful individual. I can’t wait to continue giving back in meaningful ways.

    ...
    Profile: Sri Lankan, 23 Volunteer trip: Ecological Park Rehabilitation in South Korea
    CG
    Cameron Green
    29 Nov 2024

    The support they provide is wonderful for a solo traveler, it really helped me feel confident in engaging in the program and making the most of my trip.

    ...
    Profile: Canadian, 32 Volunteer trip: Animal Care and Rescue in South Korea

    To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.

    Academic course credit

    Academic course credit through International Volunteer HQ and Intern Abroad HQ.

    Academic course credit

    Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!

    Learn about course credit

    Location

    Volunteer Abroad in South Korea with IVHQ

    Location

    Discover the Land of the Morning Sun

    Located in the capital of South Korea, Seoul is a melting pot of rich culture, high-technology, and exquisite cuisine. During their free time volunteers can visit Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, the UNESCO Heritage site of Changdeokgung Palace and Huwon (Secret Garden), or the bustling Myeongdong shopping district.

    Beyond Seoul, volunteers can visit Jeju Island, explore Busan, or Gyeongju (known as the “Museum Without Walls”). Try their hand at adventure sports or experience a Buddhist temple-stay and immerse in centuries old culture and religion in the country.

    Fun Fact: South Korea has one of the fastest internet connection in the world. You never have to worry about connectivity when you’re traveling in the country.

    Arrival and orientation

    The program orientation begins every Monday, and volunteers need to arrive in Seoul on the Sunday before program orientation.

    After registering for the program, please book your flights to the Incheon International Airport (ICN) in Seoul on the Sunday before your program orientation. Your airport train ride to the accommodation is included in your program fee. Please note that this service is offered between 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    When you arrive, you will be greeted 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. Your program fee covers your accommodation and includes the night before your program orientation.

    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.

    Orientation is hosted by the South Korean local team. There are two options for the orientation of the South Korea program:

    1-day Orientation:

    Orientation begins on your selected start date and covers everything you need to know about your volunteer program. You will have an introduction to the South Korea Program and the local staff, along with basics around South Korean customs, rules, expectations, and safety.

    This will be followed by a tour of the local area to show volunteers key spots like supermarkets, ATMs, and currency exchange centers. The local team can also assist in obtaining a local SIM card with data (LG U+).

    Afterward, you will join a project-specific meeting as part of the project preparation you’ll need to complete for the following day.

    5-day Introduction Week:

    The Introduction Week begins on the morning of your chosen start date and runs for the first five days of your stay. It is an excellent way to kickstart your volunteer abroad experience, and it covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in South Korea.

    Plus, you’ll learn more about the culture and tick off some must-do South Korean experiences, including calligraphy lessons, carving an authentic Korean stamp, visit to the COEX mall and Jogyesa temple, a Korean cooking class, and more! The Introduction Week will allow you to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.

    Volunteer schedule example

    Weekdays

    Start times and daily workload depends on the project that you are volunteering on, with some beginning in the morning and some in the afternoon. A typical schedule is as follows:

    7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Breakfast at the accommodation.
    9:00 AM Travel to placement to join local placement staff and begin work on your project.
    12:00 PM Lunch. Volunteers eat lunch at the dog shelter.
    1:00 PM Afternoon placement work begins.
    2:30 PM Afternoon placements usually end. Volunteers are free to return to the volunteer accommodation, plan for the following day’s activities or use their free time as they wish.

    Weekends

    Volunteers have the weekends free and there is no shortage of things to do in Seoul or around South Korea.

    For volunteers who prefer tranquility, various Buddhist cultural experiences and meditation are available at the accommodation. Conversations with monks are also possible.

    For more active volunteers, Hongdae, South Korea’s top youth street, is just a 10-minute walk away, where you can enjoy cafes and a youthful atmosphere. To visit other places like Gangnam, the subway from the accommodation can take you anywhere.

    Volunteers can make travel arrangements once in South Korea, with the advice and guidance of the local team.

    Accommodation and WiFi

    You’ll be staying in a temple, located in the heart of Seoul, the trendiest and most vibrant area Hong-Dae.

    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.

    The accommodation allows volunteers to access the famous ‘tea bar’ for complimentary tea from 9am to 10pm. Meditation sessions are also held every morning in the beautiful zen hall which volunteers are welcome to join.

    There is WiFi available at the volunteer accommodation, so volunteers can easily stay in touch with family and friends at home.

    Private room upgrades to a single room is also possible for an additional cost. These are subject to availability and once you have registered you will be able to request an upgrade. These are located within the temple on the same floor as the dorm rooms.

    For groups, couples, families who wish to book a private room upgrade, also have this option but it will be at a nearby hotel as the temple private rooms are single beds only.

    Please note that the accommodation is within a temple and therefore volunteers are expected to be quiet after 10PM. It is important to note that volunteers are unable to consume alcohol or meat at the guesthouse.

    If you wish to arrive earlier than your recommended arrival date or spend extra nights after your program, we can arrange additional nights of accommodation for you at an additional cost. You can book extra nights via your profile after registration, subject to availability.

    Meals

    Volunteers are served a mixture of South Korean and western dishes, with a ovo-vegetarian base. Volunteers will have the opportunity to experience rich and varied Korean cuisine, celebrated for its emphasis on balance, health, and seasonality. Korean meals are typically based around rice and are accompanied by a variety of side dishes predominantly made from vegetables.

    Breakfast at the temple includes traditional temple food, focusing on simplicity and vegan ingredients, with options for Western-style breakfasts such as cereal and toast also available. This meal is typically accompanied by tea, coffee, and fresh fruit.

    Lunch will typically be dishes that will consist of a mix of:

    • Kimchi (fermented vegetables, usually cabbage, which is a staple in every meal)
    • Bibimbap (a mixed rice dish with assorted vegetables, often topped with a fried egg and seasoned with spicy gochujang sauce)
    • Doenjang jjigae (a hearty stew made with fermented soybean paste, tofu, and vegetables)
    • Bulgogi (thinly sliced beef, marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilled or stir-fried)
    • Japchae (sweet potato noodles stir-fried with a mix of vegetables and sometimes meat)
    • Western option typically includes bagels

    Purified drinking water is also available in the accommodation; we do not recommend that you drink the tap water.

    Volunteers are provided with breakfast and lunch daily. If volunteers wish to eat out for dinner, there are some local restaurants to suit different tastes and budgets. Tuesday to Thursday evenings, volunteers can visit Gwangjang Market, a renowned market known for its wide array of traditional Korean street food. This provides an excellent cultural and culinary experience, sampling foods like mung bean pancakes (bindaetteok), spicy rice cakes (tteokbokki), and stuffed squid.

    If you have special dietary requirements, please let us know when you apply so that we can make arrangements for you. However, it’s essential to prepare for some flexibility due to the possible limits of resources at this location. We will do our best to see that you are well taken care of.

    Pricing

    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED

    Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.

    You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.

    Duration
    Program Fee
    Due 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    1 week $667 Equivalent to $95/day
    2 weeks $1,244 Equivalent to $89/day
    3 weeks $1,821 Equivalent to $87/day
    4 weeks $2,398 Equivalent to $86/day
    5 weeks $2,974 Equivalent to $85/day
    6 weeks $3,551 Equivalent to $85/day
    8 weeks $4,705 Equivalent to $84/day
    10 weeks $5,859 Equivalent to $84/day
    12 weeks $7,013 Equivalent to $83/day
    • All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
    • A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
    • Recommended spending money: Volunteers in South Korea generally find US$150 to be sufficient for weekly expenses, including transport and miscellaneous spending.
    • Any changes or cancellations within 14 days of your start date are subject to a US$150 late change/cancellation fee.
    • Breakfast and Lunch
    • Airport Pick-up
    • Accommodation
    • 24/7 in-country emergency support
    • In-country program orientation
    • Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
    • Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
    • Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
    • Comprehensive in-country day to day support and guidance
    • Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
    • Certificate of International Volunteer Service

    Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.

    • Dinner
    • Return to the airport when your program finishes
    • Transport to and from your volunteer placement each day
    • Flights
    • Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
    • Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.

    Popular add-ons & experiences in South Korea

    Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ South Korea program.

    Introduction Week
    Introduction Week

    Learn more about South Korean culture and tick off some must-do Seoul experiences

    $630

    Introduction Week

    Introduction Week
    The Introduction Week in Seoul offers an ideal way to deeply engage with South Korean culture and comfortably transition into your volunteer project. This week goes beyond the surface of K-pop and K-movies, providing you with a true taste of Korea’s rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle. You'll savor authentic Korean cuisine, explore historic royal palaces, learn the intricate art of Korean handicrafts, pick up essential language skills,  hike through Seoul's breathtaking mountain landscapes and more!

    By the end of the week, you'll feel at home in this dynamic city, confident in navigating its streets, and fully prepared to embark on your volunteer journey.

    What Awaits You During Culture Week

    Each day of Culture Week includes around 3-5 hours of curated activities, from exploring cultural landmarks to engaging in hands-on experiences like calligraphy or Korean cooking classes. The remaining hours of the day, as well as weekends, are yours to explore as you wish. Whether you’re up for a day trip, a scenic hike, or simply relaxing at the guesthouse, the local team is on hand to help plan your adventures and make reservations.

    Introduction Week Highlights

    Monday:

    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Program Orientation: Get an overview of your upcoming experiences to ensure a smooth start.
    • Neighborhood Tour: Familiarize yourself with the area around your accommodation.
    • Lunch: Share a meal with fellow participants, fostering a sense of community.
    • Visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace: Explore Seoul’s most significant heritage site.
    • Myeongdong Market: Indulge in street food and shop in one of Seoul’s liveliest areas.
    • Welcome Party/Tea Ceremony: Enjoy a warm welcome with traditional Korean tea.

    Tuesday:

    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Korean Language Lesson: Dive into the local language, equipping you with basic communication skills.
    • Visit HIKR Ground (showcasing K-Pop and K-Drama experiences)
    • Museum Tour: Discover the story of King Sejong and the invention of Hangul; practice writing your name in calligraphy.
    • Lunch
    • Insadong Tour: Wander through Seoul’s most famous street for traditional Korean items.
    • Traditional Stamp Making: Create your own engraved stamp in Insadong.

    Wednesday:

    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Hiking at Blue House Trail: Enjoy stunning panoramic views of Seoul
    • Lunch
    • Bukchon Hanok Village Tour: Explore this charming neighborhood filled with traditional Korean houses.
    • Tea Time at Bukchon Observatory

    Thursday:

    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Seongsu-dong Street Tour - often called the "Brooklyn of Seoul," is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. 
    • Walk at the Seoul Forest - Seoul’s largest urban parks, offering a mix of green spaces, cultural spots, and wildlife encounters.
    • Lunch
    • Free time at Lotte Tower - The Tallest Skyscraper in Korea
    • Visit to the traditional market 'Mangwon Market' - a beloved traditional market in Seoul, South Korea, known for its vibrant atmosphere, affordable street food, and fresh produce. 

    Friday:

    • Breakfast at your accommodation
    • Korean Cooking Class: Engage in a hands-on cooking experience and learn to make delicious Korean dishes.
    • Lunch: Enjoy the meal you’ve prepared.
    • War Memorial of Korea: Gain insights into the Korean War and its impact.

    Important Information

    • Flexible Itinerary: The schedule may be adjusted based on weather, project needs, or unforeseen circumstances.
    • Extended Program: The Introduction Week adds an extra week to your volunteer program, allowing for a smooth transition and comprehensive orientation.
    • Fitness Requirements: Given the active nature of this week and the outdoor activities involved, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

    What to Bring

    • Comfortable Shoes: Essential for the numerous walking activities.
    • Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself during outdoor activities.
    • Technology: A functioning smartphone, tablet, or laptop for language lessons and personal use.
    • Hydration Gear: Refillable water bottles and hydration packs to stay hydrated throughout the day.
    • Insect Protection: Mosquito repellents and other preventive measures for outdoor activities.

    Dress Code

    • 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.

    This Introduction Week is designed to fully immerse you in South Korean culture, preparing you for an unforgettable volunteer experience while helping you feel at home in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

    ...
    $630 pp
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • Accommodation
    • Breakfast and Lunch
    • Orientation
    • Gyeongbokgung (Royal Palace) Tour
    • Welcome Teatending
    • Korean Language class
    • Caligraphy lesson
    • Korean Stamp Carving
    • Insadong Tour
    • War memorial tour
    • Blue House hike
    • Bukchon Hanok Village
    • Cooking Class (Traditional Korean Food)
    • Myeondong Street Food Market
    • Visit HIKR Ground (showcasing K-Pop and K-Drama experiences)
    • Mangwon Market
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    Accommodation upgrade in nearby hotel
    Accommodation upgrade in nearby hotel

    Do you want your own private room in a hotel while volunteering in South Korea? Enjoy your own private space in comfort and style during your volunteer experience, with IVHQ’s affordable accommodation upgrade.

    From $530

    Accommodation upgrade in nearby hotel

    Accommodation upgrade in nearby hotel
    Volunteers on the South Korea program are typically accommodated in a guest house sharing a room with other volunteers and sometimes other travelers; however, if you were interested in staying in a local hotel instead, then the private hotel room upgrade may be for you!

    It is near to the guesthouse (200m) so you will be able to walk there each day to meet up with the other volunteers. You will walk to the guesthouse each day to have breakfast with the other volunteers.

    Reminder: Only one person needs to purchase this private room in a hotel upgrade and please note who the other volunteer is that you will be booking the private room in the hotel with.

    If you are a group or family that wants to stay together you'll just need to add two private rooms in a hotel to your itinerary. 
    ...
    From $530 pp
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • Hotel Room with double bed or two single beds
    • Private Ensuite
    • Breakfast and Lunch
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    Airport Pick Up (for volunteers arriving outside of the pick up window)
    Airport Pick Up (for volunteers arriving outside of the pick up window)

    If you’re arriving outside the airport pick up dates/times, book this add on now!

    $110

    Airport Pick Up (for volunteers arriving outside of the pick up window)

    Airport Pick Up (for volunteers arriving outside of the pick up window)
    If you arrive outside of 10am to 5pm on Sunday before your program begins, your airport pick up is not included in your Program Fee. In this case, you can either make your own way to the program or book this add-on so the local team can organize your airport pick up.
    ...
    $110 pp
    • USD
      • United States Dollars - $
      • Australian Dollars - AU$
      • Brazilian Reals - R$
      • British Pound Sterling - £
      • Canadian Dollars - CA$
      • Chinese Yuan - CN¥
      • Euros - €
      • Hong Kong Dollars - HK$
      • Mexican Pesos - MX$
      • New Zealand Dollars - NZ$
      • Singapore Dollars - SG$
      • Swiss Francs - CHF
      • UAE Dirhams - AED
    What's included
    • Transport via private car by our local team from the airport to the volunteer accommodation in Hongdae
    • Stress free pick up with a member of our local team waiting for you in the arrivals lounge
    How to book?
    1. Apply and register for an IVHQ volunteer program.
    2. Once you have paid your Registration Fee to secure your place on your chosen IVHQ volunteer program, you'll be able to book your add-ons, experiences, and tours in your MyIVHQ account.
    Apply to volunteer Log in
    View all add-ons & experiences

    Check what's required to visit South Korea

    Safety and support

    Safety and support with IVHQ

    Safety and support

    IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.

    • All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
    • All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
    • All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
    • All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
    Learn more about IVHQ's safety

    Essential country information

    Essential country information

    Capital Seoul
    Population 9.78 million
    Languages Korean, English and Mandarin
    Currency South Korean won (SKW)
    Time zone UTC+09:00

    Weather and climate

    Seoul is located in the northwest of South Korea, a short distance from the coast of the Yellow Sea, which has a continental climate. This means Seoul has a hot and humid climate during the summer season, with cold and dry weather during the winter season. Spring and autumn are mild and short in duration. The average annual temperature is 12.8°C. The coldest month is January with -1.9°C, the hottest month is August with 26.1°C, and the annual temperature difference is very large with 28.0°C.

    Apply to check if you're eligible!
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    Animal Care in Rome, Italy
    Animal Care Volunteer Project in Manuel Antonio - Costa Rica with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
    Volunteer on the Elephant Welfare project in Sri Lanka with IVHQ
    Elephant Welfare in Sri Lanka
    Volunteer on the Horse Caretakers project with IVHQ in Portugal
    Horse Caretakers in Lisbon, Portugal
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project in Greece, Athens with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Athens, Greece
    Biological Park Conservation volunteering in Portugal with IVHQ
    Biological Park Conservation in Miranda do Corvo, Portugal
    Animal care volunteering in Tanzania with IVHQ
    Animal Welfare in Arusha, Tanzania
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project with IVHQ in Cordoba, Argentina
    Animal Care in Cordoba, Argentina
    Volunteer on the Animal care project in Barcelona, Spain with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Barcelona, Spain
    Volunteer on the Animal Care Volunteer Project in Cape Town, South Africa with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Cape Town, South Africa
    Animal care volunteering in Guatemala with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Antigua, Guatemala
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project in Chiang Rai, Thailand with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Chiang Rai, Thailand
    Volunteer on the Animal care project in Croatia with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Split, Croatia
    Wildlife Conservation volunteer project in Botswana with IVHQ
    Wildlife Conservation in Botswana
    Volunteer on the Animal care project in Romania with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Miercurea Ciuc, Romania
    Hedgehog Conservation volunteering in Portugal with IVHQ
    Hedgehog Conservation in Porto, Portugal
    Veterinary Care volunteer project in Jamaica with IVHQ
    Veterinary Care in St Mary, Jamaica
    Volunteer on the Therapeutic Horse Care project with IVHQ in Portugal
    Therapeutic Horse Care in Porto, Portugal
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project in Lima, Peru with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Lima, Peru
    Volunteer on the Bear Conservation project in Croatia with IVHQ
    Bear Conservation in Kuterevo, Croatia
    Animal care volunteer project in Trinidad and Tobago with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Crown Point, Trinidad and Tobago
    Wolf Conservation volunteering in Portugal with IVHQ
    Wolf Conservation in Mafra, Portugal
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project in Mexico with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Merida, Mexico
    Animal care volunteer project in Jamaica with IVHQ
    Animal Care in St Mary, Jamaica
    Volunteer on the Animal Care project in Cambodia with IVHQ
    Animal Care in Cambodia

    How to get started

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