Top 10 Best Universities in South Korea

South Korea is a leading economic power, with its GDP ranking high compared to other countries in the region. With a thriving entertainment industry and numerous multinational corporations, South Korea prioritizes workforce development. Students, both domestic and international, are professionally trained in modern educational environments, with most graduates securing attractive jobs. South Korean universities boast advanced facilities, providing the best resources for student learning. The government places significant focus on these institutions.

Moreover, degrees from South Korean universities are internationally recognized, offering graduates opportunities to work globally. Therefore, studying in South Korea is a smart choice for young people today. Korea University is the first and best business university in South Korea, renowned for its high-quality education and its substantial contributions to society.

The university offers programs in law, liberal arts, medicine, nursing, communications, political science, economics, life sciences, biotechnology, and engineering. With 81 departments across 15 schools and 75 research institutes, the campus spans about 195 acres and is home to nearly 40,000 students from around the world.

Website: https://www.korea.ac.kr/mbshome/mbs/university/index.do

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/ku1905

Yonsei University is a private university located in Seoul, South Korea. Founded in 1885, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Along with Seoul National University and Korea University, it forms the prestigious SKY trio, considered the top three universities in South Korea.

Every year, only about 1% of high school graduates are accepted into Yonsei, highlighting its competitive nature. Yonsei is one of the four South Korean universities to be included in global rankings such as the ARWU World University Ranking, QS World University Rankings, and The Times World University Ranking in 2010. In 2011, Yonsei was ranked 129th globally and 18th in Asia according to QS World University Rankings.

As of April 1, 2019, Yonsei University is based in the Sinchon district of Seoul, with two additional campuses in Wonju, Gangwon Province, and Songdo, Incheon. The university has a student population of 26,530 undergraduates, 11,437 graduate students, and 4,178 faculty members. Yonsei offers a wide range of programs, including economics, engineering, life sciences, social sciences, humanities, technology, health sciences, and the arts. The main campus in Seoul is spacious and picturesque, with state-of-the-art facilities and a vast library system with over 2 million print volumes, 58,600 electronic journals, and 226 databases.

Website: https://www.yonsei.ac.kr/en_sc/index.jsp

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/yonsei.eng

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) is a private institution located in Seoul and Suwon, South Korea. Its origins date back to 1398 with the establishment of Sungkyunkwan, the highest educational institution during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties, akin to China’s Taixue. The development of Hangul and much of Korea's cultural heritage can be traced back to the scholars and educators of this institution. The name ‘Sungkyunkwan’ signifies an institution dedicated to fostering a better society.

During the Japanese occupation, Sungkyunkwan was downgraded and eventually closed by the Japanese army to make way for the establishment of national universities focused on scientific research. After Korea's independence, Sungkyunkwan University was founded in 1946 by its former principal, Kim Changsook.

Today, the university has two campuses: one for the humanities and social sciences in Seoul and the other for natural sciences in Suwon. It has 18 undergraduate schools and 12 graduate schools. Since receiving funding from Samsung in 1996, SKKU has become a global leader, establishing world-class research centers in South Korea. The university is also renowned for its medical programs, with the Samsung Medical Center being internationally recognized.

SKKU has risen rapidly in international rankings. In 2013, it ranked 5th in South Korea, following SNU, KAIST, Yonsei, and POSTECH, and was ranked 23rd among Asian universities according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The humanities and social sciences campus is located near the historic Sungkyunkwan, once home to the royal palaces and shrines of Seoul. The institution has a rich legacy dating back to 1398, and today it stands as a leading university with over 130,000 alumni.

Website: https://www.skku.edu/skku/index.do

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/sungkyunkwanuniversity1398

Hanyang University is a prominent South Korean university, with its main campus in Seoul and an additional branch, ERICA, in Ansan. The university’s educational philosophy centers around love for truth and action. Renowned for its engineering programs, Hanyang is also the oldest technical university in the country.

The university traces its origins to the Dong-Ah College of Engineering, established in 1939 during the Japanese occupation of Korea. Its mission was to train engineers and experts for a free and independent Korea. After independence in 1948, it was recognized as the country’s first four-year engineering college. By 1959, it had gained university status. In the 1960s and 1970s, Hanyang’s graduates played key roles in Korea's industrialization and modernization. The Ansan campus, now known as ERICA, was founded in 1979 and later became a hub for industrial education and research.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Hanyang expanded its research in a variety of fields, from economics to engineering. The university has also been a leader in internationalizing its programs, with special funding for scientific research, such as the BK21 program. It is home to significant R&D projects, including the Quantum Optical Research Center. In 2006, Hanyang was ranked as one of the top universities in South Korea, and globally, it ranked between 303-401 in the Shanghai Jiao Tong University rankings.

As of March 2001, Hanyang had 20 departments, 92 undergraduate programs, 15 graduate schools, two hospitals with a combined 1,600 beds, and 43 research institutes across both its Seoul and ERICA campuses. It has a total enrollment of 36,000 students, including 9,400 graduate students. The faculty includes 1,120 full-time professors, 2,260 adjunct professors, and over 1,140 teaching assistants. The ERICA campus hosts major research institutes, such as the Korea Industrial Technology Research Institute, LG Innotek, and the Korea Electrical Engineering Research Institute.

Website: https://www.hanyang.ac.kr/

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/HanyangUniv

Kyung Hee University (KHU) is a prestigious private university located in South Korea, with campuses in Seoul and Suwon. Founded in 1949, it is considered one of the best universities in the country. Kyung Hee is part of a larger educational system, offering comprehensive education from kindergarten to postgraduate levels.

As of 2020, Kyung Hee University enrolls around 33,000 students. It consists of 24 undergraduate colleges, one general graduate school, 13 specialized graduate programs, and 49 research institutes. The university is known for its collaborations with 434 partner universities across 69 countries, providing students with extensive opportunities for international exchange. Kyung Hee is also famous for its Korean Medicine program, recognized as a leader in traditional Korean and other Asian medical practices. The university’s mascot is the Laughing Lion, symbolizing truth and wisdom, while the dove represents global peace. These symbols are prominently featured in Kyung Hee's sports teams and promotional materials, enhancing its global brand.

The university’s official flower is the magnolia, which symbolizes resilience, beauty, generosity, and unity. Kyung Hee traces its roots back to 1949 as Sin Heung College, a two-year institution. Amid the Korean War’s financial crisis, Young Seek Choue acquired the struggling school in 1951, and by 1952 it was recognized as a four-year university. The graduate school was established in 1954, and the name was changed to Kyung Hee University in 1960.

Kyung Hee has hosted numerous prestigious events, such as the 1968 conference of the International Association of University Presidents, and it was a key player in the proposal for the United Nations' International Day of Peace in 1981. The university hosted the 1999 Seoul International NGO Forum, and in 2009 it organized the Global Citizen Forum. Kyung Hee received the UNESCO Education for Peace Award in 1993. The university has fostered global partnerships, including joint summer programs with the University of Pennsylvania and official collaborations with institutions like Peking University, Ritsumeikan University, Moscow State University, the UN Economic and Social Affairs Department, and NGOs worldwide.

Website: https://www.khu.ac.kr/kor/main/index.do

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/kyungheeuniv

Ewha Womans University is the largest women's university in the world. It has educated many prominent female leaders, including prime ministers, ministers, and members of parliament in South Korea. Often referred to as a "paradise for women," the university blends classic and modern architectural styles. Ewha offers a wide range of programs, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, music, fine arts, design, business, and health sciences. The university consists of 11 undergraduate colleges with 65 departments and 13 graduate schools offering advanced degrees.

Founded in 1886 by American Methodist missionary Mary F. Scranton, Ewha is a private institution dedicated exclusively to women. The university's name, "Ewha," meaning "Pear Blossom" in Korean, was given by Emperor Gojong of the Joseon Dynasty in 1887. Originally known as Ewha Haktang, it was Korea's first and largest institution for women's education. With over 130 years of history, Ewha continues to be a leader in modern education, making it the top choice for female students in South Korea.

The term "Ewha" in Korean refers to the pear blossom, symbolizing beauty and resilience. The university’s founders believed that each woman in their community deserved respect, which is reflected in their use of the term "womans" (singular) instead of the plural "women". This unique linguistic choice emphasizes the individuality and importance of each woman. Ewha's education quality is exceptional, and many influential female leaders, including prime ministers and ministers, are proud alumni of this prestigious institution.

Website: http://www.ewha.ac.kr/ewha/index.do

Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/EwhaWomansUniversity

Sogang University was founded in 1960 by the Catholic Society of Korea, and it is a private institution located in Seoul. Known as one of South Korea's leading multidisciplinary universities, Sogang offers 27 different fields of study for students to choose from. With its Catholic foundation, the university places a strong emphasis on social sciences rooted in Christian principles.

Sogang's teaching methods stand out for their unique integration of Catholic beliefs with traditional Western education. The university is conveniently located with excellent transportation links, including buses and the subway, making it easy for students to commute. In 2008, it was ranked the top four-year university in South Korea by JoongAng Ilbo, and in 2009, it was ranked second in terms of alumni reputation and capability by Chosun Ilbo. It consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in South Korea.

The university offers a comprehensive Korean language education program for international students, ensuring they are well-prepared before entering their specialized courses. Sogang provides 27 undergraduate programs across nine faculties and a wide range of graduate programs, including one general graduate school, six specialized graduate schools, and five specialized research departments. The university employs 434 professors and specialists dedicated to providing high-quality education and strong support for international students.

Website: https://www.sogang.ac.kr/index.do

Fanpage: www.facebook.com/sogangfacebook

The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is the most prestigious research-focused university in South Korea, Asia, and globally in the fields of science and technology. It was the first graduate school in Korea dedicated to advanced scientific research. Initially founded in the 1960s, KAIST was established to produce scientists and engineers to meet the rapidly growing technological needs of South Korea.

KAIST has been recognized as one of the top universities in Asia and the world. In 1999 and 2000, the university was ranked the best in Asia for science and technology by AsianWeek magazine. By 2009, KAIST was ranked 1st in Korea and 21st in the world in Engineering and IT, and 39th worldwide in Natural Sciences. In 2013, it was ranked 3rd among universities under 50 years old globally. KAIST offers undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, with more than 7,336 students enrolled across its campuses in Daejeon and Seoul. By February 2006, KAIST had graduated over 6,500 bachelors, 14,800 masters, and 5,380 PhDs.

KAIST continues to lead in research and education in fields such as mechanical engineering, information technology, applied sciences, business management, and creative arts. It is organized into six colleges, two schools, and 33 departments. The university also includes three affiliated research institutes: the Korea Institute for Advanced Study (KIAS), the NanoFab Center (NNFC), and the Korea Science Academy (KSA). KAIST's campuses include multiple dormitories for both male and female students, along with accommodations for married students.

Website: http://kaist.ac.kr/ Fanpage: www.facebook.com/KAIST.official

Seoul National University (SNU) is a prestigious public research university located in Seoul, South Korea. Founded on August 27, 1946, SNU is one of the three top universities in South Korea, known as the SKY universities, alongside Korea University and Yonsei University. The university has three campuses: the main campus in Gwanak-gu, and two satellite campuses in Daehak-ro and Pyeongchang. It includes 16 academic institutes, a research school, and 9 specialized colleges.

With nearly 17,000 undergraduate students and 11,000 graduate students (as of 2011), SNU is one of the largest and most well-funded universities in Korea. It has a rich history that traces its origins to the educational foundations established by King Gojong of the Joseon Dynasty, including institutions such as the Beopkwan Yangseongso Law School and Hanseong Sabeomhakgyo Teacher’s College.

SNU is home to over 700 academic partnerships and international organizations across 40 countries, including major institutions like the World Bank, the University of Pennsylvania, and Washington University in St. Louis. The business school offers dual-degree programs with Duke University, ESSEC Business School in France, Hitotsui University in Japan, and Yale University. SNU also provides global exchange programs in business administration, science, and doctoral studies with universities across multiple continents.

In response to South Korea's push for globalization in education, SNU has increased its international faculty to over 240 professors, accounting for 4% of the total faculty in 2010, though this number has since decreased. The university also has a long history, dating back to the Imperial University of Gyeongseong established during the Japanese occupation, and its modern form was consolidated after Korea’s independence.

Website: https://www.snu.ac.kr/ipsi241013.html Fanpage: www.facebook.com/SeoulNationalUniversity

Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) is a private research university located in Pohang, South Korea. Established in 1986 by POSCO, a steel manufacturing company, POSTECH is home to the Pohang Institute of Science and Technology Research (RIST), also funded by POSCO.

In 1994, POSTECH founded the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory (PAL), a third-generation synchrotron light source, and it has since become a national research facility. The PAL-XFEL, a fourth-generation X-ray free electron laser, was completed in 2016 with a cost of $390 million, becoming the third of its kind in the world. This development is expected to push the boundaries of research in life sciences, materials science, chemistry, and physics. In 1998, POSTECH was ranked by Asiaweek as the best science and technology university in Asia.

From 2002 to 2006, POSTECH was ranked as the top university in South Korea by JoongAng Ilbo. In 2010, it was ranked 28th in the world by Times Higher Education, and in 2011, it was ranked 53rd globally and 6th in Asia. In the 2017-2018 QS World University Rankings, POSTECH placed 71st worldwide. It consistently ranks as the third best university in South Korea, after Seoul National University and KAIST, in the QS Asian University Rankings.

However, in the Times Higher Education rankings, POSTECH ranked 53rd in 2013, as the emphasis shifted from reputation to more objective measures like research impact. From 2012 to 2013, POSTECH was ranked number one in the “100 best young universities under 50 years old.” The New York Times and International Herald Tribune have highlighted POSTECH's rapid rise as a young institution leading the global rankings within less than 50 years.

POSTECH's Tae-Joon Park Library, completed in 2003, spans 24,420 square meters and houses 352,977 books and 8,324 journals in both print and digital formats. By 2005, the library’s collection had expanded to approximately 320,000 books, 3,500 journals, 7,000 e-journals, and 25 databases. The library collaborates with various industrial, educational, and research institutions and is part of an inter-university data exchange program involving over 150 institutions nationwide.

Website: https://www.postech.ac.kr/eng/ Fanpage: www.facebook.com/POSTECH1986