Korea Youth Summit 2026 | Fully Funded International Youth Conference in South Korea
The Korea Youth Summit 2026 is a premier international youth leadership and cultural exchange program held in Seoul, South Korea. Organized by Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB), the summit gathers motivated students, emerging professionals, activists, and young entrepreneurs from around the world to collaborate on solutions tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over several days of workshops, panel discussions, project challenges, and cultural programs, participants develop leadership skills, expand professional networks, and deepen cross-cultural understanding.
Quick Summary
- Event: Korea Youth Summit 2026
- Location: Seoul, South Korea
- Dates: 2 – 5 February 2026
- Organizer: Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB)
- Eligible Age: 15 – 40 years old
- Language: English
- Funding: Fully Funded & Self-Funded tracks available
- Theme: Empowering Youth: Bridging Divides, Building Bridges
Why Attend the Korea Youth Summit 2026?
- International recognition for CVs, scholarships, and internships
- Global networking with peers and mentors
- Practical leadership experience through workshops and team projects
- Cultural exchange in Seoul for enhanced global perspective
Summit Theme and Focus Areas
Main theme: Empowering Youth: Bridging Divides, Building Bridges
- Quality Education (SDG 4): Inclusive and equitable education solutions
- Decent Work & Economic Growth (SDG 8): Youth employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship
- Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure (SDG 9): Digital inclusion and sustainable innovation
- Sustainable Cities & Communities (SDG 11): Resilient and inclusive urban planning led by youth
Benefits and What Is Covered
Fully Funded Korea Youth Summit Participants
- Round-trip airfare to Seoul (terms and eligibility vary by region)
- Accommodation for the duration of the summit
- Meals and cultural program access
- Airport transfers and local transport during the summit
- Participation in all workshops, panels, and networking events
- Certificate of participation
Self-Funded Participants
- Access to all summit sessions, workshops, and competitions
- Accommodation and meals included in the program package (for summit dates)
- Cultural immersion opportunities in Seoul
- Certificate of participation
Both tracks are intensive and interactive, ensuring every attendee leaves with new skills, project ideas, and contacts.
Eligibility and Who Should Apply
- Aged 15–40 years at the time of participation
- Proficiency in English (all sessions conducted in English)
- Interest in leadership, community service, innovation, or SDG-related projects
- No criminal record or extremist affiliations
Ideal Candidate Profile
- University students, recent graduates, and young professionals
- Youth activists and community leaders with project experience
- Aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators
- Applicants seeking international exposure and cross-cultural collaboration
How to Apply: Korea Youth Summit Application Process
- Online registration: Complete the registration form on the official website. Select your preferred track (fully funded or self-funded).
- Submission materials:
- Completed registration form
- Personal essay (statement of purpose)
- CV or résumé
- Relevant certificates (optional)
- Shortlisting and interviews (fully funded): Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an online interview.
- Acceptance & LOA: Successful applicants receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) for visa and travel planning.
Important Dates & Registration Deadlines
- Fully Funded Registration Window: 6 August 2025 – 17 September 2025
- Self-Funded Registration Window: 6 August 2025 – 3 January 2026
- Acceptance Announcements (LOA): 5 – 10 October 2025
- Summit Dates: 2 – 5 February 2026
Apply early and prepare supporting documents well in advance, especially if you need a visa.
Visa Guidance for Nigerian Applicants
- Valid passport (at least six months from travel date recommended)
- Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from organizers
- Completed visa application form and passport photos
- Proof of funds or sponsorship (if applicable)
- Travel itinerary and confirmed accommodation details
- Additional documents as requested by the South Korean Embassy or visa center
Visa Fees (Approximate for Nigerian Applicants)
- Single entry (less than 90 days): ₦60,000
- Single entry (more than 90 days): ₦90,000
- Double entry (6 months): ₦105,000
- Multiple entry (1 year): ₦135,000
Processing time: 10–15 business days (allow up to a month during busy seasons). Submit your visa application at least 6–8 weeks before travel.
Estimated Budget: How Much to Expect (Nigerian Perspective)
- Registration fee: US$15 (self-funded applicants)
- Program package: Approx. US$660 (lodging, meals, activities)
- Return airfare: US$800–US$1,500 from Lagos/Abuja to Seoul
- Visa fee: ₦60,000–₦135,000
- Local expenses and insurance: US$100–US$300
Book flights early and compare routes to secure the best rates.
Tips for a Strong Application to the Korea Youth Summit
- Write a compelling essay about your leadership and community impact
- Show measurable outcomes from your projects
- Emphasize collaboration and plans to apply summit skills locally
- Practice interview skills for fully funded selection
- Prepare documents (passport, recommendations, certificates) early
Related Opportunities You Shouldn’t Miss
- Fully Funded Conferences and Youth Summits in 2025/26
- Fully Funded Helsinki Security Forum Youth Delegate Program
- KFUPM Scholarship 2026 in Saudi Arabia for Nigerian Students
Impact: How the Korea Youth Summit Strengthens Careers and Communities
Participation can lead to project partnerships, scholarships, internships, and collaborative social enterprises. Alumni often lead community initiatives, win grants, or work with NGOs and international organizations. The summit helps scale local solutions and build resilient leadership pipelines.
Are You Summit-Ready? Instant Eligibility Check
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Korea Youth Summit is an annual international youth conference organized by Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB), focused on leadership development, cultural exchange, and collaborative action on global issues.
The 2026 summit will be held in Seoul, South Korea from 2 – 5 February 2026.
Any motivated individual aged 15–40 with a strong interest in leadership, community projects, or SDG-aligned work can apply. Applicants should have good English language skills.
There are two participation tracks: fully funded (covering airfare, accommodation, and program costs for selected candidates) and self-funded (participants pay some or all travel expenses and program fees).
Self-funded participants may pay an initial registration fee of US$15, and around US$660 for the program package that covers accommodation and summit activities. Flight and visa expenses are separate.
Nigerian applicants should apply through the South Korean Embassy or the designated visa center. Required documents typically include the LOA, passport, completed visa form, photos, and proof of funds or sponsorship.
Apply during the official windows listed above. For fully funded consideration, apply between 6 August 2025 and 17 September 2025. For self-funded participation, the registration window runs until 3 January 2026.
Yes. All participants receive a certificate of participation upon completing the summit.
Closing Thoughts
The Korea Youth Summit 2026 presents a rare opportunity for young Nigerians and global youth to gain leadership skills, expand their networks, and contribute to solutions for pressing global problems. Whether you are aiming for the fully funded track or planning to attend as a self-funded participant, the summit can catalyze your career and community impact.
Apply early, tailor your application to show measurable results and clear plans, and prepare for visa and travel logistics well ahead of time. Seize the chance to participate in the Korea Youth Summit 2026 — it could be the launchpad for your next big project or international collaboration.