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welcome | program | frequently asked questions | itinerary | application | em@il |
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The cost for the program changes year-to-year, depending on exchange rates and inflation. Currently, KEEP participants are being asked to pay $1500 to cover program costs, housing, meals, and transportation within Korea. Participants are responsible for travel arrangements to the KEEP Orientation in Los Angeles and the roundtrip flight to Seoul. If you have questions, please consult us before making travel arrangements. [back]
Historically, the orientation has begun in the last weekend of July or the first weekend of August. The program usually lasts two to three weeks. In 2003, the program started on August 1 with an Orientation in LA and ended on August 18 in Seoul. [back]
KEEP usually designates a group photographer and/or a videographer. In order to protect the security of those we meet during the program, individual participants must get permission from KEEP in advance if they plan on using photos, videos, or other recordings for their own projects. [back]
No. Currently, KEEP does not have the resources to organize more than one program a year. [back]
Living arrangements in Korea have varied from year to year. In 1999, the participants stayed at the YMCA (two to three per room) as well as nawaoori (a civic organization/guest house). During the program, personal space will be limited. This is, in part, a recognition and sensitivity to the lack of space available for the majority of people living in Korea. Real estate is a rare commodity. Often times, activists live at home with their parents or families and sacrifice their personal living space in order to prioritize their work. [back]
> Will I need to speak fluent Korean to participate in the program?
No, but it helps. Fluency in Korean is not a disqualifying factor in applicant selection. We do our best to provide translation every year. However, having a better command of the language helps and we encourage participants to brush up on their Korean as much as possible before the program. [back]
> What pre- or post-KEEP activities are involved in participating in the program?
KEEP participants will be asked to participate in study sessions and community forums before and after the program. These activities are considered an important part of KEEP and are designed to provide a basic understanding of the issues explored during the program. After the program, KEEP participants organize report-back events and other activities as a way to communicate their summer experiences to members of the community. [back]
> If I am in Korea before the program, will I still be able to participate? What is the purpose of the orientation?
The orientation is an important part of KEEP and is required for all participants. The orientation strives to prepare participants for the various cultural and historical aspects of the trip. It is an opportunity to discuss the roles and responsibilities of participants and coordinators. Often times, the orientation is the crucial moment when participants begin to bond and develop friendships that continue after the program. Although the orientation is mandatory, exceptions may be made on an individual basis. Selection priority will be given to those applicants who can attend the orientation. [back]
> Will I be able to visit relatives or friends during the program?
Personal visits to friends or relatives should be scheduled after the three-week program. [back]
To inspire a new generation of Korean Americans to make the necessary links between struggles in Korea and our community work here in the United States. [back]
KEEP is supported by the work of two organizations: Nodutdol for Korean Community Development in New York City; and, Mindullae Center for Korean Community Development in Los Angeles. In collaboration with a partner organization in Seoul, Korea - the Korea International Network (KIN) - these organizations provide the necessary support to plan, administer, and develop the annual summer program. [back]
KEEP is run by volunteers and funded by Nodutdol for Korean Community Development in New York City and Mindullae Center for Korean Community Development in Los Angeles. We organize various fundraising activities throughout the year. [back]
> Are there any scholarships/subsidies available?
This will depend on the funding priorities for a given year. Contact the [KEEP Planning Team] to see if any scholarships or grants are available. [back]
In past years, individuals who have been accepted to KEEP but could not afford the program fee have organized their own personal fundraising events and activities. For example, some participants have hosted a brunch for friends or organized house parties to subsidize their travel. [back]
> Who is eligible to apply for KEEP? Who has gone on past summer programs?
While the application process is open to everyone, we prioritize those who have a demonstrated commitment to developing the Korean community in the United States. We encourage and actively recruit from a wide range of people: past KEEP participants have included staff and members of community-based organizations, labor unions, and workers centers, graduate students and undergrads, media activists, poets, school teachers, office workers and professionals, professors, service workers, poongmul players, artists, and performers. Please explore the rest of our [website] to get a better sense of what KEEP is about and whether our mission fits your interests and goals. [back]
Participants have the flexibility to arrange their own roundtrip tickets to Los Angeles and Seoul. If you need help, contact the [KEEP Planning Team] and we can arrange for you to travel with other participants. Some participants may want to stay in Korea beyond the program - if this is the case, you need to take into consideration visa requirements and other logistical issues. Please contact us for more information. [back]