International Students At Korea University: What's The Count?

Korea University is a private university in Seoul, South Korea, with a student body of over 20,000 undergraduate and 10,000 graduate students. The university has a strong focus on supporting international students, offering English-language degree programs and services like mental health counselling in English. The overall number of international students at Korea University is about 4,000.

Korea University's international student population is about 4,000

Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, has an international student population of about 4,000. The university offers a supportive atmosphere and programming for both domestic and international students. It provides services like mental health counselling in English, as well as academic and accessibility support for students with learning differences and physical disabilities. International students can also benefit from personalised academic mentoring and guidance.

The university has over 59 academic departments and programs, organised into 17 colleges and schools. These include the College of Liberal Arts, the College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, the College of Political Science and Economics, and the College of Engineering. The language of instruction is usually Korean, but Korea University also offers English degree programs in the College of International Studies (CIS) and Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS).

Korea University is considered one of the top universities in South Korea. In 2021, it was ranked 69th in the world. The university has an overall student body of over 20,000 undergraduate students and over 10,000 graduate students. It has 81 departments in 19 colleges and divisions, as well as 18 graduate schools. The university's alumni association consists of more than 280,000 graduates.

The university offers English-taught degree programs in the College of International Studies and Graduate School of International Studies

Korea University has witnessed a notable increase in its international student population, reflecting the broader trend of South Korean universities attracting a growing number of international students by offering English-taught degree programs. This shift towards globalization in South Korean higher education has elevated the country's competitiveness in educational services, ranking 23rd out of 140 countries according to the World Economic Forum (2015-2016).

The College of International Studies and the Graduate School of International Studies at Korea University exemplify this commitment to providing English-taught degree programs. These institutions offer a range of Master's degree programs that are specifically designed to cater to international students seeking to pursue their academic interests in a global context.

The College of International Studies:

The College of International Studies offers a diverse array of Master's degree programs that are taught entirely in English. This includes specializations such as International Commerce, International Development & Cooperation, International Peace & Security, Area Studies, and Korean Studies. By choosing one of these programs, students can expect to engage with a curriculum that combines theoretical frameworks with practical tools, enabling them to address pressing issues in various fields related to international studies. The college also offers a blend of coursework, research, and, in some cases, internships or practical training, to ensure a well-rounded educational experience.

The Graduate School of International Studies (KU GSIS):

The Graduate School of International Studies (KU GSIS):

The Graduate School of International Studies, also known as KU GSIS, offers a range of Master's degree programs with a specific focus on international studies. Similar to the College of International Studies, KU GSIS provides specializations such as International Commerce, International Development & Cooperation, International Peace & Security, Area Studies, and Korean Studies. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a strong foundation in their chosen field, enabling them to pursue academic and policy questions that align with their interests. KU GSIS also offers a Thesis Track and a Non-Thesis Track for students seeking to obtain a Master's degree, providing flexibility to accommodate different educational goals and interests.

Both the College of International Studies and the Graduate School of International Studies at Korea University present international students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a global learning environment, enhancing their academic and cultural experiences. By offering English-taught degree programs, these institutions contribute to the growing internationalization of South Korean higher education.

International students can apply for other degree programs through the Office of International Affairs, but the language of instruction is usually Korean

Korea University is one of the top educational institutions in South Korea, a country that is among Asia's top study-abroad destinations. The university offers dynamic and in-demand degree programs in health, business, technology, and management. International students can apply to Korea University through the Office of International Affairs, which opens admissions twice a year: spring admissions start around April, and fall admissions start around October.

While Korea University offers various degree programs, the language of instruction is usually Korean. International students proficient in Korean can apply for these programs, which cover a wide range of disciplines. These programs provide an opportunity for international students to immerse themselves in Korean culture and language while pursuing their academic goals. Additionally, international students can benefit from scholarships offered by the university and the South Korean government, such as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program.

It is important to note that the number of international students in South Korea has been steadily increasing. As of June 2023, there were over 200,000 international students in the country, with the South Korean government aiming to attract 300,000 foreign students by 2027. This initiative includes plans to lift the Korean language requirement for college admission, expand internship and employment opportunities, and establish a quick visa system.

Korea University offers mental health counselling in English

Korea University is one of over 200 universities in South Korea, a country that welcomed around 180,000 international students in 2023. The Korean government has expressed its ambition to attract 300,000 foreign students by 2027, aiming to become one of the top 10 destinations for studying abroad.

With a large and growing international student population, mental health services in English are essential. Korea University ensures that international students have access to mental health support by offering counselling in English.

The Seoul Counseling Center, located near Sinsa Station in Seoul, is a leading clinic with a team of English-speaking therapists, counsellors, and psychologists. They provide high-quality, confidential mental health services, treating issues such as anxiety, depression, marriage problems, ADHD, autism, trauma, and work stress. The clinic is directed by Dr. Chad, a US-licensed psychologist and university professor of psychology in Seoul. The centre also has a location in Pyeongtaek, near Camp Humphreys, and accepts major international insurance providers.

You&Me Psychological and Counseling Services (YPCS) is another option for English-speaking students seeking mental health support. YPCS provides comprehensive and holistic mental health services, including individual, couple, family, and group therapy. They offer advocacy, facilitate problem-solving, enhance coping skills, promote personal growth, and support academic and professional success. In addition to English, YPCS also offers services in French, Chinese, and Japanese.

Other English-speaking mental health resources in Seoul include The Mind Care Institute of Korea (MCI), Adaptable Human Solutions (AHS), Couchology, and Therapy in Korea. These services cater to the diverse needs of the international community, addressing various mental health concerns and life stressors.

The university is located in Seoul, which has a population of over 20 million

Korea University is located in Seoul, South Korea, which has a population of over 20 million people in its metropolitan area. Seoul is the capital and largest city in South Korea, and it is known for its high population density. The city's population has gradually decreased since 2014, with an estimated 9.6 million residents as of 2024. However, the broader Seoul Capital Area, which includes Gyeonggi Province and Incheon, is home to more than half of South Korea's population and has emerged as the world's sixth-largest metropolitan economy.

Seoul has a rich history that dates back to 18 BC when it was founded by the people of Baekje, one of the Three Kingdoms of Korea. During the Joseon dynasty, Seoul was officially designated as the capital and was surrounded by the Fortress Wall of Seoul. The city has undergone significant reconstruction and rapid urbanization, especially after the Korean War, which left it mostly in ruins. Today, Seoul is a bustling metropolis and a global hub for business and finance, as well as culture and education.

The city boasts a modern and technologically advanced infrastructure, with a comprehensive transportation network that includes a subway system, bus system, and international airports. Seoul is also a centre for higher education, with numerous prestigious universities, including Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Korea University itself. The city has a large number of international students, contributing to its diverse and vibrant culture.

Seoul is known for its mix of traditional and modern architecture, with iconic landmarks such as the N Seoul Tower, the Lotte World Tower, and the Dongdaemun Design Plaza. It is also a cultural hub, with museums, art galleries, and historical sites such as the Five Grand Palaces built during the Joseon dynasty. Seoul's vibrant street life, culinary scene, and entertainment industry, including the global popularity of K-pop, have propelled the city to international prominence.

With its combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and modern developments, Seoul is a dynamic and captivating city that draws people from all over the world, making it a truly global metropolis.

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