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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - South Korea is synonymous with innovative spirit and educational prowess. With flagship programs in arts, business, and engineering, some of the best universities in South Korea are prime destinations for both domestic and international students.
List of the Best Universities in South Korea
Times Higher Education ranks Seoul National University and KAIST among the best universities in South Korea. Other world-class institutions in the country include:
1. Seoul National University
Regarded as the crown jewel of South Korean education, Seoul National University is the country’s oldest and most prestigious institution. Home to 30,864 students, SNU isn’t just one of the best universities in South Korea; it’s also an impeccable global education powerhouse—ranked in the world’s top 100. Upon global engagement, SNU excels by providing more than 800 academic exchange opportunities.
2. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
A beacon of innovation in science and technology, KAIST is the first South Korean university focused on the field. Comprising five colleges, the university’s 11,999 future researchers are dedicated to pursuing groundbreaking research across disciplines such as physics, mathematics, engineering, and even humanities and social sciences. Of course, supported by the presence of six state-of-the-art research institutes.
3. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)
Sungkyunkwan University elevates future-oriented pursuits to new heights, securing first place for employment rates for nine consecutive years. With a history dating back to the Joseon Dynasty, SKKU is an adaptive, ever-evolving institution that treats every aspect of life with importance. It operates across three campuses, each with a distinct focus on humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
4. Yonsei University (Seoul Campus)
If you’re in search of the best universities in South Korea for international students, Yonsei University is the place to be. Founded in 1885, Yonsei is the country’s first Western institution of learning, as highlighted by QS Top University. Having stood the test of time, it now boasts more than 153 research centers and institutes, supporting the education of over 38,000 students.
5. Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH)
POSTECH is a small but mighty institution focused on producing top-tier engineers and scientists. Renowned for its programs in optics and materials science, the university pushes the boundaries of research through 144 research institutes, including the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory. More to that, POSTECH also fosters close partnerships with 139 universities and institutions across 34 countries.
6. Korea University
With a reputation as one of the “SKY” universities (Seoul National, Korea, Yonsei), Korea University enjoys a legacy of academic excellence and a strong alumni network. Providing a diverse array of programs ranging from sciences and liberal arts to professional disciplines like business and law, the learning experience at KU is powered by more than 167 groundbreaking research centers.
As one of the best universities in South Korea, KU's strong academic reputation goes together with its stunning campuses that feature lush green spaces and beautiful stone architecture—often captivating many.
7. Sejong University
With a long history dating back to 1940, Sejong University is a rising star in South Korea’s academic landscape. Widely regarded for its hospitality and tourism management program, this private university boasts over 90 global collaborations in fields such as engineering, computer science, and chemical engineering.
8. Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)
Founded in 2009, UNIST is a testament to the power of science and technology, dedicated to establishing impactful professionals. For international students, UNIST is especially an ideal destination, as all lectures are conducted in English.
Though younger than most of the country’s universities, UNIST has accomplished an impressive mark by hosting three IBS on-campus research groups with funding of over KRV 200 billion.
9. Hanyang University
Hanyang University prides itself on fostering the country’s first engineering institute, as well as the school of architecture and civil engineering. Despite its strong emphasis on engineering, Hanyang has produced hundreds of thousands of global-minded graduates who are equipped to make a difference in diverse fields, even being named “the Engine of Korea.”
10. Kyung Hee University
Kyung Hee rounds out the list of the best universities in South Korea. Established in 1949, Kyung Hee has grown remarkably over the years, championing the vision of a 'Cultural World for Humanity' as a leader in academic progress and the creator of shared values for humanity. Its hotel and tourism management, as well as international development programs, are among the university's most renowned fields of study.
These top South Korean universities are a depiction of what excellence in education and innovation can achieve. If you’re eager to continue the discovery of Asia’s education landscape, be sure to explore the best universities in China.
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