Korea
University, founded in 1905, is widely acknowledged as one of the best
universities in Korea. Its reputation for quality is based on excellence
in teaching and research, as well as service to Korean society. Eminent
faculty, outstanding students, and internationally recognized research
programs all contribute to the University’s academic fame. As a major
comprehensive university of 33,000 students, Korea University offers a
rich variety of courses in the Liberal Arts and Sciences, as well as in
professional fields of Law, Medicine and Business Administration. As a
global university, it comprises of numerous international programs and
foreign faculty. Today over 30% of all courses are lectured in English,
and by 2010 this figure is set to reach 50%.
Korea University enjoys a tradition and reputation incomparable to any
other university in Korean society. Established during the final years
of the Chosun Dynasty, the University was created by royal edict when
Emperor Gojong sought a modern university as a means of sculpting
national identity and averting Japanese colonialism, and “national
salvation through education” became the founding spirit of the
University. Today, Korea University continues to play its special role
as the guardian of Korean tradition and self-determination, while making
global impacts.
As one of the country’s oldest and largest universities, Korea
University offers studies over a broad range of subjects and unequalled
depth in resources and facilities. Each of its 18 colleges and divisions
and 18 graduate schools are highly competitive, but perhaps Korea
University is best recognized for its strong programs in Law, Business
Administration, and Humanities. It is also renowned for its innovative
work in engineering, advanced technologies, medicine as well as in
international and Korean studies.
Korea University faithfully lives up to its founding spirit by providing
high-quality education. In fact, academic excellence is cited most often
by students as the primary reason for application to study. The teaching
reputation of faculty is another main reason cited by students for
selecting Korea University. Of its 1,020 faculty members, 95% hold a PhD
or highest degrees in their fields. Although many professors enjoy
international prominence through involvements in a wide range of
scholarly activities, teaching is their foremost priority. Programmes
are geared toward helping students develop competencies in analytical as
well as practical skills. While professors have varied philosophies of
teaching, there exists a common commitment to raising leaders who think
creatively and critically.
The University campus covers over 182 acres and is home to more than
33,000 students from all over the nation and the world. With its
majestic gothic architecture, sprawling lawns, seasonal trees, and
abundant flowers, Korea University is known to have one of the most
beautiful campuses in Korea. The nation’s most ambitious and brightest
students enjoy the beautiful campus along with the camaraderie, which
makes it more active, intellectual and intimate campus atmosphere.
The University has more than 240 bilateral global partners for academic
collaboration and student exchange, as it has placed a strong emphasis
on international education: Through these partnerships, every year over
900 students study abroad. The University campus is truly global with
over 3,000 international students studying at KU in various programmes.
Korea University is 17th member of the Universitas 21, joining the
network in December 2004.
Korea University is also an active member of ISEP and played a
significant role in the establishment of APAIE (Asia-Pacific Association
for International Education).
The Universitas 21 Contact Manager at Korea University is Professor
Innwon Park, Vice President for Development and External Affairs.
Please direct enquiries to Mr D'Arcy Drachenberg, Universitas 21 Liaison Officer on tel + 82 2 3290 2952, fax +82 2 922 5820