The increasing number of English-taught programs at Korean universities is driving record international student numbers, making the country an increasingly attractive study destination. With its Study Korea 300K strategy, South Korea aims to become a top 10 global education hub by 2027.
According to data from the South Korean Ministry of Education, there are now more than 1,000 departments across 73 universities that teach in English, a 16% increase from the 882 departments recorded in 2022. This growth reflects the significant shift in the South Korean education system towards welcoming international students and providing a globalized learning environment.
Furthermore, the number of international students studying in South Korea surpassed 250,000 for the first time in April 2025, a 21.3% increase in just one year. This represents a significant step towards the goal of attracting 300,000 international students by 2027 as part of the Study Korea 300K international education initiative.
The government has implemented a series of support measures such as simplifying admission procedures, shortening visa processing times, improving the education information system, and enhancing the quality of life for international students. An official from the Ministry of Education affirmed that, at the current pace, reaching the 300,000 student mark "will not be difficult."
One of the key highlights of this strategy is innovation in curriculum design. Increasingly, universities are not only expanding the number of courses taught in English, but are also designing specialized programs for international students.
Yonsei University currently offers over 960 courses taught in English, including graduate programs such as the Global MBA. With students from 99 nationalities, Yonsei is considered to have the most diverse international community in South Korea.
Not limited to traditional fields, many universities are rapidly embracing contemporary cultural trends to attract students. Korea University has established a Department of Global Entertainment to capitalize on the growing appeal of Hallyu culture, from K-pop and television dramas to movies and e-sports.
The program combines content production knowledge with business management and strategy, giving students access to high-growth industries. The number of applications to this new department is considered "very high," reflecting strong demand from international students for creative professions.
Alongside the introduction of new majors, the widespread availability of courses taught in English helps international students overcome language barriers and enhances South Korea's competitiveness compared to more familiar destinations such as the United States, Australia, and Singapore.
Statistics from the Ministry of Education in September showed that despite the significant attention given to creative industries, 60% of international students in South Korea are still studying science and engineering.
Korea University established a Department of Global Entertainment to capitalize on the appeal of K-pop, movies, webtoons, and e-sports. Gachon University merged existing departments to form a new Department of International Studies with six majors dedicated to international students, while Sookmyung Women's University opened a Hallyu International College focusing on Korean culture, digital media, and AI-based international business.
Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/han-quoc-tang-toc-quoc-te-hoa-giao-duc-post759017.html
