About Konkuk University First Year Abroad Program Program
Experience your first year of university in one of Asia's most dynamic capitals. The Konkuk University First Year Abroad Program places you on the Seoul campus of this prestigious, research-focused private university—centrally located on the Han River with world-class facilities. You'll take English-taught courses in STEM, humanities, and business alongside local and international students, choosing from introductory offerings in economics, engineering, chemistry, physics, Korean language, film, literature, and cultural studies. All courses are specifically designed for first-year students and many fulfill general education requirements.
Your living experience centers on on-campus housing integrated with the broader student community. The residence halls give you access to cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, and all the amenities you'd expect at a modern Korean university. You'll be paired with a local student mentor to help you navigate university life and Seoul's neighborhoods, and you'll receive weekly academic advising for your first six weeks to support your transition to a new learning environment.
Beyond the classroom, you'll immerse yourself in Seoul's unique blend of ancient culture and high-tech modernity through curated cultural activities and excursions. Your local team arranges tree planting events, visits to palaces in traditional Hanbok dress, Han River cruises, viewings from Korea's tallest building, indie concerts, mountain hikes, and even conversations with North Korean defectors—all designed to deepen your understanding of contemporary Korean society.
Konkuk's world-class programs in music education, engineering, and other specializations ensure you receive the academic support needed to achieve your degree goals. The university's AACSB accreditation and research emphasis mean you're studying at an institution recognized for quality and innovation.
The program fee covers tuition, your official transcript, on-campus housing with internet, cultural activities, airport reception, in-country orientation, international insurance, 24/7 emergency assistance, mental health support, and career resources. You'll be responsible for flights, meals, textbooks, personal expenses, and international phone plans—but WorldStrides provides a budgeting worksheet to help you plan. This is your chance to spend a formative year in a world-leading city while earning credits that count toward your degree.