As South Korea welcomes a record number of international students, these universities have become the country’s biggest global campuses.
South Korea has rapidly become one of Asia’s leading study destinations. According to the Korean Ministry of Education and the government-run Study in Korea platform, the country hosted more than 253,000 international students in 2025, the highest number in its history. This marks a dramatic increase from just over 90,000 students a decade ago, driven by expanded scholarships, more English-taught programs, and the Korean government’s goal of making the country a global education hub.
But where are all of these students choosing to study?
While South Korea is home to more than 400 higher education institutions, a relatively small group of universities consistently attracts the largest numbers of international students thanks to their academic reputation, global partnerships, English-language courses, scholarships, research opportunities, and vibrant campus life.
1. Kyung Hee University
Kyung Hee University has long been considered one of South Korea’s most international universities. Its Seoul and Global campuses welcome students from well over 100 countries, and its exchange programs are among the largest in the nation.
The university is particularly popular for business, international studies, hospitality, tourism, media, and Korean language education. Its iconic Gothic-style campus has also become one of the most recognizable university landmarks in Korea, making it a favorite among exchange students and international applicants alike.
2. Yonsei University
As one of Korea’s prestigious SKY universities, Yonsei University consistently ranks among the country’s top choices for international students.
Its Underwood International College, numerous English-taught degree programs, and extensive exchange partnerships attract students from around the world. Located in Seoul’s vibrant Sinchon district, Yonsei also offers an exciting student lifestyle surrounded by cafés, restaurants, shopping streets, and easy access to the city’s public transportation.
For many international students, Yonsei offers the perfect balance between academic excellence and campus life.
3. Korea University
Another member of the renowned SKY universities, Korea University has invested heavily in internationalization over the past decade.
The university is especially popular among students studying business, economics, political science, engineering, law, and international relations. With exchange agreements spanning hundreds of universities worldwide and modern research facilities, Korea University continues to attract students from North America, Europe, and across Asia.
Its famous campus traditions and strong alumni network are also major attractions for students seeking both academic and professional opportunities.
4. Hanyang University
Known as one of Korea’s engineering powerhouses, Hanyang University has become a leading destination for students interested in science, technology, engineering, and innovation.
The university maintains close partnerships with major Korean companies, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and industry experience. It also offers numerous English-language courses and graduate research opportunities, making it especially attractive to STEM students from overseas.
5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)
Founded in 1398, Sungkyunkwan University combines centuries of history with cutting-edge research.
Its long-standing partnership with Samsung has strengthened programs in engineering, semiconductors, computer science, business, and biotechnology. The university has also expanded its English-medium courses and international scholarships, making it one of the fastest-growing destinations for international students interested in technology and research.
6. Seoul National University
As South Korea’s highest-ranked university in most global rankings, Seoul National University remains one of the country’s most prestigious institutions.
Although admission is highly competitive, SNU attracts outstanding students from around the world, particularly at the graduate level. Its strengths in engineering, medicine, public policy, natural sciences, business, and humanities have helped build its reputation as Korea’s flagship research university.
For students pursuing advanced research and academic careers, Seoul National University remains one of the most sought-after destinations in Asia.
7. Ewha Womans University
Ewha Womans University is one of South Korea’s most internationally recognized institutions and the world’s largest women’s university. While its undergraduate programs admit women only, the university welcomes thousands of international students through its undergraduate, graduate, exchange, and Korean language programs.
Ewha is particularly well known for media and communication, business, international studies, education, design, public health, and social sciences. The university also offers generous financial aid through programs such as the Ewha Global Partnership Program (EGPP) and various International Student Scholarships, making it an attractive option for women seeking higher education in Korea.
Located in Seoul’s Sinchon district alongside Yonsei University and Sogang University, Ewha gives students access to one of the capital’s most vibrant university neighborhoods while offering a beautiful campus that has appeared in countless Korean dramas and travel guides.
More Than Just Rankings
Although global rankings influence many students’ decisions, they are rarely the only factor.
International students also consider scholarship opportunities, tuition costs, English-taught courses, Korean language support, internship connections, employment prospects, campus diversity, and quality of life.
Universities in Seoul often appeal to students seeking networking opportunities and city life, while institutions outside the capital may offer lower living costs, smaller class sizes, and generous scholarship packages.
Choosing the right university ultimately depends on each student’s academic goals, budget, and preferred lifestyle.
Korea’s Growing Global Education Hub
The rapid rise in international enrollment reflects South Korea’s increasing influence in higher education. Government initiatives such as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), expanded English-language programs, simplified visa policies, and the worldwide popularity of Korean culture have made studying in Korea more accessible than ever before.
For many international students, earning a degree in Korea is no longer just about academics. It is an opportunity to experience Korean culture firsthand, build an international career, learn a new language, and become part of one of Asia’s fastest-growing academic communities.
As the number of international students continues to climb each year, these universities remain at the center of Korea’s transformation into a truly global destination for higher education.