Not many are aware of the top Korean Universities catering to international students, but this fact should not go unnoticed.
These institutions offer a wide array of benefits, including delectable Korean cuisine such as Korean barbeque paired with fresh kimchi, and an extensive selection of Korean beauty and skincare products.
Moreover, these universities serve as the breeding grounds for some of the most renowned K-Pop groups like LE SSERAFIM, TXT, (G)I-DLE, and the ever-popular NewJeans.
One of the major draws for international students is the affordability of degree programs, starting from [ppp1].
South Korea is emerging as a preferred destination for international students, with plans to significantly boost foreign enrollment in the coming years.
The South Korean government has introduced initiatives to attract top-tier international students, offering incentives such as scholarships, reduced language and visa requirements, and smoother pathways to permanent residency for master’s and doctoral candidates.
Given the declining number of high school-aged cohorts, the country is in need of high-skilled workers, prompting this strategic move.
South Korea aspires to position itself among the top 10 study-abroad destinations globally by 2027, actively investing billions of dollars to counteract declining birth rates and a shrinking population. Source: AFP
Korean universities for international students: Revisions implemented in 2024
In 2024, the Korean government has taken steps to recruit exceptional international students, aiming to address issues related to illegal immigration and further enhance the internationalization efforts of Korean higher education institutions.
This initiative involves an annual evaluation of colleges and universities to assess their capacity and performance concerning international students.
Certified universities will offer specific benefits to international students, including relaxed visa screening criteria and permission to work an additional five hours per week part-time.
Institutions failing to meet the evaluation standards will face scrutiny and potential repercussions, such as heightened visa screening procedures or a halt in the recruitment of international students.
Fortunately, around 18 universities qualify for these additional benefits. The complete list of certified universities and language programs can be found [ppp2].
Below are the top 10 Korean universities for international students offering English programs:
Korea University
Korea University (KU) stands out as a premier institution for international students, being the nation’s first university solely funded and administered by Koreans. With a diverse student body from around the world, KU offers a wide range of courses, including business administration, engineering, health sciences, and international studies, with over 70% of classes conducted in English.
Konkuk University
Konkuk University is recognized as one of the best in South Korea, offering 500 courses in English every semester and boasting a significant international student population. Programs in business, engineering, English literature, Korean language, and political science are among the offerings, with opportunities for internships and short-term stays.
Pusan National University
Pusan National University is a top choice for international students, providing an academic experience akin to Western universities through its English-based curriculum. Students can explore various programs such as law, economics, political science, and human rights, with the added benefit of free Korean language courses for exchange students.
University of Seoul
Established in 1918, the University of Seoul is renowned for its international programs and hosts nearly 2,000 international students annually. Offering courses in English, the university provides exchange opportunities and study abroad programs for a diverse academic experience.
Ewha Womans University
As Korea’s first university for women, Ewha Womans University offers a wide range of programs taught entirely in English, covering disciplines such as social sciences, business, sciences, and more. While primarily an all-female institution, Ewha welcomes international students of all genders for exchange programs.
Seokyeong University
Seokyeong University in Seoul, known for its business administration programs conducted in English, is committed to global engagement and recently established various departments to promote internationalization.
Chung-Ang University
Chung-Ang University aims to become a prestigious global institution, offering diverse programs in English and fostering cultural diversity. With a strong reputation in pharmacy, culture, and art education, CAU provides a comprehensive academic experience for international students.
Hanyang University
Hanyang University, initially an engineering institute, now offers a range of high-level engineering and business courses in English. With an international student intake of over [ppp3] annually, the university provides programs conducted in English by international professors.
Keimyung University
Located in Daegu, Keimyung University offers English programs for local and international students and emphasizes a rich cultural experience alongside academic pursuits.
Kyung Hee University
Kyung Hee University focuses on business, tourism, and hospitality programs conducted in English, serving as a gateway to global education with comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
These universities offer a diverse and enriching academic experience for international students seeking quality education in South Korea.