Camborne Students Visit South Korea and Meet North Korean Defector

Students from a Camborne secondary school have returned from South Korea after a trip that included a face-to-face encounter with a North Korean defector, who shared her story of life under severe restrictions and the risks she took to escape.

The group from Camborne Science & International Academy (CSIA), part of Athena Learning Trust, visited Seoul as part of a trip designed to broaden horizons and deepen understanding of global history, society and culture.

Life in the Capital

During their time in Seoul, students explored a mix of historic and modern landmarks. They visited Namsangol Hanok Village to learn about traditional Korean life, and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza, recognised for its striking contemporary architecture. The itinerary also included Gyeongbokgung Palace, a Buddhist temple, and a walk along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, a restored waterway running through the heart of the capital.

A Moment That Will Stay With Them

One of the most significant parts of the trip took students to the Korean Demilitarised Zone (DMZ), the heavily monitored border that has divided North and South Korea for decades. There, they heard a talk from a North Korean defector, who spoke about life before and after her escape, including food shortages, severe restrictions on daily life, and the dangers she faced in leaving the country. Students were also given the chance to ask her questions directly.

The group rounded off their time in Korea with a visit to the Gamaksan suspension bridge, taking in the country’s mountainous landscape.

Emma Haase, Principal of Camborne Science and International Academy, said: “This was an incredible adventure for our students, and one that gave them experiences they will remember for a long time. From visiting iconic landmarks to learning about different cultures and hearing powerful personal stories, they really embraced every part of the journey.”

The school says it is committed to offering students opportunities that extend learning beyond the classroom, building knowledge, confidence and curiosity about the world.