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Project to Give Hope to Marginalized Children in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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    • Program Fee
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    • -Early Bird Discount (0)days before start 0 %
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    (May include accommodation, meals, training, and program activities. Please check details.)
    ACPH0007
    Asia/Cambodia/Phnom Penh
    • Program Period: Available Year-Round
    • Application Period: Open Year-Round
    • Number of Participants: Unlimited
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    Program Creator / Park Ju-hong
    Even in Cambodia, the smiles of the marginalized children here feel somewhat different. That's because, despite countless wounds, you can see them doing their utmost to live together in harmony. Seeing them like that gives me hope and the courage to live
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    Creator rating
    4.6
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    • Learning & Growth
    • Leisure & Fun
    • Vibe
    • Facilities & Environment
    • Safety & Location

    Program Introduction

    This project teaches English to Cambodian children marginalized by diseases such as HIV/AIDS and helps them become self-reliant in society.Cambodia has a high child mortality rate due to HIV/AIDS. HIV and AIDS are typically transmitted through blood transfusions or sexual contact, but Cambodian children who test positive for HIV were infected by their parents. When families are financially strained, they cannot afford the medical expenses of sick children, so they may leave the child alone at home or abandon them to orphanages. In addition, many villagers hold prejudices against HIV and the disease, and may drive these children out of the community. For these children, education provides the skills needed to become independent in society. Please become a teacher who gives courage to children who are marginalized and suffering because of poverty and disease, helping them step out into the world!

    Recommended Duration by Participants

    12.6 Week

    Based on past participants’ experiences, we’ve organized the common themes of learning, reflection, and growth by time period.

    4Week
    Discover
    8Week
    Learn
    Recommended 12Week
    12Week
    Grow
    16Week
    Move Forward

    Why This Project

    What makes this project special

    #Love & Relationships#Wisdom & Capability#Inner Peace & Fulfillment#Warm bond with children#Boosting low self-esteem#Setting life direction#Improving communication skills#Plan it yourself#Children in poverty#Understanding Cambodian culture#Improving adaptability to unfamiliar environments#Learning responsibility#Global career#Expressing myself#Healing emotional wounds#Rediscovering inner passion#Gaining the courage to live#Reflecting on myself#Improving expressiveness
    3 Step

    12Week

    Grow

    We use a personalized education approach tailored to each child's individual characteristics. We expand the scope of volunteer activities and also contribute to improving health and science classroom environments. We learn sustainable volunteering practices by collaborating with local staff. Our relationships with the children go beyond being mere educators and develop into deep bonds. We realize that our volunteer work has a positive impact on the entire community. We feel the true value of life through volunteering. We develop the creativity to produce good results even with limited resources. We take the initiative to expand the scope of our volunteer activities. We foster a broad perspective that embraces diverse cultures.

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    Program Activities

    English requirement: ★★☆☆☆

    - Basic knowledge of sentence structure and grammar, and the ability to teach English using English is required.

    - However, participants will be assigned to classes appropriate to their English level, and most children's English proficiency is basic, so

    You don't need to have exceptional English skills!

    This project teaches English to Cambodian children and supports various educational activities.

    Most of the day is spent teaching English, and during the remaining time participants care for the children or take part in other activities (computer classes, drawing, play activities, hygiene education, etc.). Participants can engage in various activities according to their willingness and abilities.

    - The project generally runs 5–6 hours per day (Mon–Fri).

    * Project activity hours may change depending on local circumstances.

    - Participants will be assigned to suitable classes according to their English level.

    - Depending on the children's schedule, you may assist in teaching basic computer skills or various subjects such as art, music, physical education, hygiene, and character education as an assistant teacher You can participate.

    - Most activities include tasks such as caring for children.

    - Based on participants' willingness and abilities, extracurricular activities such as child health support and classroom decoration are possible.

    Schedule (example)

    Time

    Content

    14:00-16:30

    English class / Child care

    16:30-17:00

    Play activities

    * The above schedule may change depending on local circumstances.

    - We recommend setting the project's start date to the first or third Monday of each month.

    Program Inclusions

    • On-Site Orientation
      On-Site Orientation
    • Professional Training / Education
      Professional Training / Education
    • Daily Meals (3 per day)
      Daily Meals (3 per day)
    • Official Certificate of Completion
      Official Certificate of Completion
    • International Admin Support
      International Admin Support
    • Accommodation Included (See Details)
      Accommodation Included (See Details)
    • One-way Airport Pickup (Arrival)
      One-way Airport Pickup (Arrival)
    • 24/7 Emergency Contact Support
      24/7 Emergency Contact Support
    • Real-Time Support Service
      Real-Time Support Service
    • Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
      Personal Growth Support (Missions / Scholarships / Consulting)
    • Orientation Materials
      Orientation Materials
    • Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
      Pre-Departure Orientation (Korea GapYear)
    • Wi-Fi / Internet Access
      Wi-Fi / Internet Access
    • Host Institution Certificate
      Host Institution Certificate
    • Local Support / Inquiries
      Local Support / Inquiries

    About the Provider


    The organization carrying out this project was established in 2003. It not only provides medical care and health and nutrition support to Cambodian children who have been discriminated against by their communities and abandoned by their families because of HIV and other illnesses, but also supports their development through social services such as basic education and English instruction. In particular, it works hard to provide competitive technical and vocational training so that poor and sick children can naturally integrate into society when they become adults.

    Accommodation


    During the project period, you will stay in guesthouse-style volunteer accommodation with other participants. At the volunteer lodging, you can live with friends from various nationalities and enjoy communal living.

    The accommodation is operated and managed directly by a local partner organization and is located in the city, allowing you to live safely.Rooms are typically shared by up to three people, and each room is equipped with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and basic furniture.The common areas include tables, chairs, and a balcony, providing spaces to relax or spend time with friends in the evenings after activities or on weekends.

    For meals, at the designatedBreakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided at the restaurantYou can choose your preferred menu, and lunch can be taken as a packed meal. Breakfast is usually simple—bread, eggs, fruit, etc., often with tea—while lunch and dinner offer various dishes such as fried rice, noodles, curry, and meat dishes. The accommodation is located in downtown Phnom Penh, making it convenient to participate in the project on weekdays and sightsee nearby on weekends. It takes about 30 minutes on foot from the accommodation to the activity center, or about 25 minutes by tuk-tuk, Cambodia's local transport.

    Shared rooms (3–5 people) / Private bathroom (hot water available) / Three meals per day (breakfast/lunch/dinner) provided / Air conditioning / Wi‑Fi provided

    *Cambodia is typically hottest between March and May, and spots tend to fill up quickly between July and August.

    *Travel time to the activity center may vary depending on traffic conditions.

    *The above photos are example images for reference; room layouts and furnishings may vary depending on the time of participation and local conditions.



    Cambodia's transport infrastructure is limited, and public transport systems like city buses and subways are not well developed. The main modes of transport are motorcycle taxis (riding on the back of a motorcycle) and tuk-tuks, three-wheeled vehicles converted from motorcycles. Motorcycle taxis are very dangerous in terms of safety. Therefore, even if it costs a bit more, we recommend using tuk-tuks for safety.Unlike regular taxis, tuk-tuks do not have fixed fares; prices are negotiated with the driver each time. Recently, many people also book and pay for tuk-tuks using mobile apps.

    Typical one-way fares start at around 2 USD, but costs vary widely depending on distance, time of day, number of passengers, and other factors. You may be confused at first by the unfamiliar transport system compared to our country, but if you understand Cambodia's relatively limited transport system and follow local customs, you'll be able to enjoy your time in Cambodia even more!

    Location Overview

    Region:Cambodia, Phnom Penh

    The official name of Cambodia is the Kingdom of Cambodia, and it borders Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand in southeastern Indochina.Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is the economic and political center where the painful past of the French colonial era coexists with modern development. The city is full of attractions such as the National Museum, the Royal Palace, the Prime Minister's residence, and the Independence Monument. On the other hand, you can also see the lives of Cambodians who struggle amid rapid economic growth because political instability has prevented the benefits of development from being distributed evenly. For this reason many international NGOs and relief organizations are working to help rebuild Cambodian society across education, the economy, agriculture, and politics.


    1. Silver Pagoda

    The Silver Pagoda is named for the more than 50,000 pieces of silver inlaid in the temple floor. While the interior may appear to be simple metalwork at first glance, if you look closely you will see intricate patterns engraved on the silver-colored tiles, so it is worth paying attention to details you might otherwise miss. The temple houses a golden Buddha statue weighing 90 kg and various other Buddha images displayed with elaborate decorations. Like the Royal Palace, a strict dress code is enforced, so be sure to wear long sleeves and long pants.

    2. Russian Market

    The Russian Market is a traditional market for Phnom Penh residents. Locally it is called "Psar Tuol Tompong," a name that originated from when Russian-made goods were sold there. You can browse a wide variety of items—traditional Cambodian food, books, clothing—and it is especially known for artifacts and handicrafts for foreign tourists. Visiting a local market frequented by residents is one of the best ways to truly experience the area's culture. Take time to stroll through the Russian Market and get a feel for everyday life in Cambodia.

    3. Tuol Sleng Museum

    This site preserves Cambodia's painful history. Originally a school, it was used as the headquarters of the security forces during the Khmer Rouge regime, which carried out mass killings. People were imprisoned and killed here, and the records of those massacre sites have been preserved. It was a place where young people who opposed the Khmer Rouge were tortured and interrogated, and even the beds where they died and the skulls are kept here. By visiting and listening to a guide, you can learn about Cambodia's tragic history and take time to mourn the dead.

    Small tips about transportation in Cambodia

    Cambodia's transportation infrastructure is weak, and public transit systems like city buses or subways are not well developed.

    The main modes of transport in Cambodia are motorcycle taxis, where you ride on the back of a motorcycle, and tuk-tuks, three-wheeled vehicles adapted from motorcycles. Motorcycle taxis are very dangerous in terms of safety. Therefore, even if it costs a little more, we recommend using tuk-tuks for safety.

    Unlike regular taxis, tuk-tuks do not have fixed fares; the price is negotiated with the driver each time. A typical one-way fare starts at around 2 USD, but costs vary widely depending on distance, time of day, and number of passengers.

    You may be confused at first by a transportation system different from what you're used to, but if you understand Cambodia's relatively poor transport infrastructure and adapt to the local culture, you will have a more enjoyable time in Cambodia!

    Dates & Fees

    - The minimum participation period for this project is At least 4 weeks.

    The cost of this projectis listed at the top of the current pagewhere you can easily check detailed amounts by duration and option.

    * For popular projects, there may be no openings, so please apply quickly to secure a spot.

    Eligibility

    - Physically healthy adults aged 18 or older

    - People interested in education or international development cooperation

    - Those currently teaching English or interested in English education

    - People who want to teach English to orphans and young children in Cambodia

    - People who want to participate in volunteer activities with friends from various countries

    - People who want a unique experience during their vacation

    - Those who can communicate at a basic level in English

    - People who have an open mind. If any of these apply, you're OK!


    Up to 257,000 KRW refund!(Click ▶ for details)

    * If you have difficulty paying the full amount,Prepay a registration fee of 500,000 KRWIf you pay the remaining balance within two weeks, the procedure to confirm project participation will be initiated based on the date the registration fee was deposited to verify availability and TO. Securing a spot quickly is important to participate on your desired dates and period! (Non-refundable once participation is confirmed.)

    * However, if the start date is imminent, the schedule for paying the remaining balance may vary depending on the situation.

    Early bird discounts andUrgent applicationInformation

    Due to normal processing procedures and the gap year preparation period, projectapplications are recommended to be submitted at least 3 months before the project start date.and,As a rule, applications should be submitted no later than two months before.However, in unavoidable circumstances or if you urgently need to join a project, you can pay an additional fee for the urgent application service, and we will assist with expedited processing as much as possible.

    * We assist with expedited processing as much as possible, but there is basic time required for communication with local organizations and confirmation of participation, and all procedures proceed the same as for regular participants, soparticipants using the urgent application service must actively cooperate with the Korea Gap Year operations team.They must do so.

    ** Those who apply at least 180 days before the start date can receive an early bird discount.

    *** The urgent application service can be requested from the options above. For inquiries related to the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

    - Provided items: automatic registration for gap year missions and notes / full OT materials provided immediately upon participant confirmation / additional urgent staffing deployment / support in preparing documents if needed, etc.

    * If you have difficulty calculating dates, please refer to the Naver Date Calculator >>Go to Naver Date Calculator

    Notice: For urgent applications, there may be no available TO (available slots) depending on local circumstances, and subsequent procedures will proceed according to the Gap Year refund policy. Also, participants are responsible for any issues caused by their lack of cooperation.

    Included items

    1. Local project implementation and training fees

    2. Local orientation fee

    3. Accommodation during the project period

    4. Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the project period

    5. Airport to accommodation pickup fee (one-way)

    6. Korea Gap Year Overseas Experience Certificate

    7. Participation fee

    8. Registration and placement, training, and project implementation costs

    9. Project application and processing fees

    10. Online orientation fee

    Items not included

    1. Round-trip airfare

    2. Round-trip transportation between accommodation and volunteer site (tuk-tuk)

    3. Visa issuance fee

    4. Individual travel insurance

    5. Other local living expenses

    * Please book flights and transportation after you have received final confirmation of project participation and your departure schedule.

    Estimated costs

    (Based on 1 week)

    Item

    Details and remarks

    Amount

    Category

    Round-trip airfare (tax included)

    Varies depending on the flight

    Approximately KRW 350,000–800,000

    Exclusions

    Visa issuance fee

    Visa screening and issuance fees

    US$30

    Individual travel insurance fee

    Varies by insurer and duration

    Approximately KRW 10,000

    * Airfare may vary depending on the flight.

    * Local living expenses are based on average estimates and may vary depending on participant preferences.

    * Participants' travel expenses and personal spending money are separate.

    Note (Estimated local prices)

    Accommodation

    Per night

    Meals

    Per meal

    Guesthouse

    Approximately KRW 10,000

    Local meal

    Approximately KRW 2,000

    Hotel

    Approximately KRW 20,000

    Restaurant

    Approximately KRW 5,000

    *Estimated local prices are based on average standards and may vary depending on participants' preferences.

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    For any additional inquiries about the project, please contact our operations team via email (program@koreagapyear.com )
    or consult with one of our program consultants via KakaoTalk.

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