Overview of Yonsei University
Yonsei University, established in 1885, is a leading private research-intensive university located in Seoul, South Korea. As one of the “SKY” universities—Korea’s most prestigious academic trio—Yonsei boasts a rich heritage as the oldest private university in the country, formed through the merger of Yonhi College and Severance Medical School. It serves a diverse community of over 38,000 students across undergraduate and graduate levels, supported by approximately 5,500 faculty and staff members. The institution operates multiple campuses, including the vibrant main Sinchon campus in Seoul and the international Songdo campus in Incheon.
Yonsei University is renowned for its academic excellence across numerous disciplines, with particular strengths in medicine, business, engineering, social sciences, and the humanities. Its College of Medicine and Yonsei University Health System are highly reputed in Asia. The university employs a forward-thinking, interdisciplinary educational model, integrating global perspectives and experiential learning into its curriculum. Yonsei is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide (QS World University Rankings) and is internationally recognized for its research output and innovation, with robust citation indices and over 200 academic partnerships globally. The university participates in global joint degree programs and is a founding member of the APRU (Association of Pacific Rim Universities).
Student life at Yonsei University is vibrant and inclusive, punctuated by more than 170 student clubs, annual festivals such as the Yon-Ko Games, and an active Performing Arts Council. The campus promotes diversity and internationalization, hosting over 2,000 international students and a range of cultural exchange events. Comprehensive student support services, including counseling, career guidance, and language assistance, are available. Modern residential colleges, world-class athletic facilities, art spaces, and volunteer programs create a holistic environment that nurtures both academic and personal growth.
Yonsei University pursues a mission to nurture future leaders with creativity and a commitment to global citizenship, underpinned by values of academic excellence, ethical responsibility, and sustainable innovation. The university aspires to contribute to society by fostering equity, diversity, and transformative research.
