When Rhea Lee moved from Seoul to Beijing at age 15, she wasn’t sure what to expect. “I had low expectations for Beijing – or China in general – before coming here,” admits the Western Academy of Beijing student. “I’d never visited and hadn’t heard many positive things.”
That changed quickly after her arrival. What surprised Rhea most was the kindness of the people in Beijing. “Everyone – from workers to my friends and teachers – was genuinely nice to me,” she recalls. “That wasn’t what I expected at all.” She did have some culture shock, in the aspect of studies; she felt like the academic life here was way more chill and laidback compared to the strict and competitive environment there.
Before China, Rhea had spent her whole life in Seoul. The move represented a major life change. Outside of school, she maintains several passions. Music remains important to her, though she hasn’t played guitar in two years since moving. When she did play, she particularly enjoyed performing Billie Eilish’s “The Feather.”
Her culinary preferences are quite diverse. Although she is Korean, Rhea favors Japanese cuisine, especially salmon sushi, along with Italian staples like pizza and pasta. Athletics also play a significant role in her life – she plays football for Anejo (a football club supported by WAB) and enjoys volleyball. At home, she cherishes time walking her dog.
Rhea’s story shows how moving abroad can actually be a refreshing treat for a new look in life. Beijing offered her more than she anticipated – a welcoming community and new opportunities to pursue her interests. The city she initially approached with hesitation has become her new home.
Although she left Korea at the young age of 15, she did speak English beforehand, having to practice and learn the language at her old school located in Korea. For the future, Rhea explains that she will most likely be graduating from WAB, aiming to be a part of the top universities within Korea, such as Korea University and others.
Images: Rhea Lee
