Sophie YongYou’ll find that many of the universities in Korea aren’t just a place to pursue all things academic. They also make for surprisingly picturesque backdrops for some Insta-worthy snaps. In fact, many of their campuses feature stunning architecture and beautiful parks. Fret not if you’re not a student as most of the campuses are open to the public!
If you’re planning to visit any of these college grounds, it’s possible to spend half a day exploring the photogenic surroundings… so do pencil in some extra time in your travel itinerary!
Also read: 5 Prettiest Universities in Seoul That Will Make You Want to Study There
1. Kyung Hee University (Seoul)
Image credit: Kyung Hee University
Established in 1949, Kyung Hee University is widely regarded as one of the best private universities in Korea. It is also voted as one of the most beautiful universities in Seoul. With its Gothic-style building and well-groomed gardens, its architectural style is reminiscent of a European town.
Image credit: Kyung Hee University
The best times to visit the campus are definitely during spring and autumn, where the campus is full of cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. It’s so beautiful that you’re probably going to still want to come to campus whether you’ve got lectures or not!
Image credit: Kyung Hee University
Address: 26, Kyungheedae-ro, Donddaemun-gu, Seoul
2. Yonsei University (Seoul)
Image credit: Yonsei University Global FB Page
Yonsei University is a private research university in Seoul established in 1885. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in South Korea.
Image credit: Yonsei University Global FB Page
As reputed as it is academically, Yonsei University is also known for its postcard-perfect campus. In fact, it looks pretty all year round – whether it’s blanketed in snow during winter or decked with vividly coloured flowers in spring.
Image credit: Yonsei University Global FB Page
Address: 50 Yonsei-ro, Sinchon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
3. EwhaWoman’s University (Seoul)
Image credit: Ewha Womans University
Ewha Woman’s University was founded in 1886 by Mary F. Scranton, an American missionary under Emperor Gojong’s (the 26th king of the Joseon Dynasty) rule. It was Korea’s first educational institute for women, and also the world’s largest female educational institute.
Image credit: Ewha Womans University
Today, all its original architecture can still be seen on the campus. The name Ewha, which translates to “Pear Blossoms”, was given by the Emperor Gojong in 1887 as it was said that there was a grove of pear trees near Scranton’s home.
Filled with cherry blossoms during spring and covered by autumn foliage in autumn, the scenery of Ewha’s campus will not disappoint you!
Image credit: Ewha Womans University
Don’t miss out the popular shopping streets (read: retail heaven) around the Ewha areas where you can pick out stylish and chic clothing and accessories that won’t burn a hole in your pocket!
Address: 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Bukahyeon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Also read: 5 Must-Go Shopping Districts in Seoul For the First-Time Visitor
4. Konkuk University (Seoul)
Image credit: Konkuk University
Konkuk University is one of the leading private universities in South Korea, with its Seoul campus located near the Han River. Breathtaking all-year-round in all its seasons, and with celebrity alumni like Lee Minho, Lee Jungsuk and Choi Minho, Konkuk University will definitely inspire you to re-enrol even after graduation.
Image credit: Konkuk University
The picturesque Ilgam Lake is at the centre of the campus and lets you kayak while being surrounded by nature and tranquillity.
Image credit: Konkuk University
Address: 120 Neungdong-ro, Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
5. Korea University (Seoul)
Image credit: Korea University Instagram Page
Korea University is one of the top universities in Korea alongside Seoul University and Yonsei University. These three universities are often referred to by the locals as the the “SKY” universities.
Image credit: Korea University Instagram Page
Established back in 1905, it is one of the oldest higher education institutions, and one of the most esteemed universities in Korea.
Image credit: Korea University Instagram Page
The campus is full of castle-esque buildings, which are exceptionally beautiful when the winter snow blankets the campus.
Address: 145 Anam-ro, Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul
6. Wonkwang University (Iksan)
Image credit: Wonkwang University
Wonkwang University in Iksan was founded in 1946. It is one of the few academies affiliated with Won Buddhism.
Image credit: Wonkwang University
Located at the birthplace of Baekje Kingdom, its design and interiors reflect the rich culture it’s inherited from history. The architecture of the campus also resembles that of an ancient Chinese building.
Image credit: Wonkwang University
Address: 460 Iksan-daero, Sin-dong, Iksan, Jeollabuk-do
7. Keimyung University (Daegu)
Image credit: Keimyung University
Keimyung University in the city of Daegu was established in 1954 as a Christian university. It was built according to the architecture style of Harvard University, so it is also called the “Eastern Harvard University”.
Keimyung University Main Building | Image credit: Rushanziatdinov
Did we mention that “Boys Over Flowers” was filmed here? Many Korean dramas were filmed at Keimyung University, which is why it is also widely known as the “K-Drama University”.
Keimyung University Museum (left); Dongsan Library (right) | Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
Address: 1035 Dalgubeol-daero, Sindang-dong, Dalseo-gu, Daegu
8. Sungkyungkwan University (Seoul)
Image credit: Sungkyungkwan University
The history of Sungkyungkwan University can be traced back to 1398. It was founded in the Joseon Dynasty to nurture its nobles in Chinese Classics and Confucian canons.
Image credit: Sungkyungkwan University
Today, many old buildings still remain in the university like the Bicheondang that is already 600 years old!
Image credit: Sungkyungkwan University
The apricot trees’ delicate heart-shaped leaves fall every autumn and carpet the campus in a golden yellow field.
Address: 25-2 Sungkyunkwan-ro, Myeongnyun 3(sam)ga-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul
9. Sejong University (Seoul)
Image credit: Sejong University FB Page
Established in 1940, the university was named to honour the fourth king of the Chosun Dynasty, Sejong the Great, who had invented the Korean alphabet Hangeul. Consisting of 23 buildings, the campus is built in a distinctly traditional Korean style.
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
It’s reputed for its standing in hospitality and tourism management courses, dancing, animation and rhythmic gymnastics. In fact, its College of Arts and Physical Education and College of Hospitality and Tourism Management are top-ranked in the country.
Address: 209 Neungdong-ro, Gunja-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul
10. Chonnam National University (Gwangju)
Image credit: Chonnam University FB Page
Chonnam National University in Gwangju was founded in 1952. With plenty of greenery on the campus, you can spot the students lounging and having picnics on the grass on days when the weather is good.
Image credit: Chonnam University FB Page
As you enter its main gate, marvel at the impressive row of trees that line the avenue leading towards the campus grounds. Get this: the campus also has its own fountain statue called the Bongji Fountain.
Image credit: Chonnam University FB Page
Address: 77 Yongbong-ro, Yongbong-dong, Buk-gu, Kwangju
Also read: 8 Things to Expect When Studying in South Korea
So, which of these top universities in Korea would you choose to study in if you could have a second chance?
