Kangwon National University Logo Kangwon National University

Address: 192, 1-gil, Hwangdeung-myeon, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do 24341, South Korea
Phone: +82 33 250 6114
Email: office@kangwon.ac.kr
Website: www.kangwon.ac.kr


Kangwon National University (KNU) has specific language requirements for international students depending on whether they are applying to undergraduate or graduate programs, as well as the language of instruction for their chosen program (Korean or English). Below are the typical language requirements:

1. Korean Language Requirements (for Korean-taught Programs)

Most undergraduate and graduate programs at KNU are taught in Korean, and international students are generally required to demonstrate proficiency in the Korean language.

  • TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean):
    • For most programs, a minimum TOPIK Level 3 is required for admission to undergraduate programs.
    • For some programs, such as those in humanities, education, or social sciences, a TOPIK Level 4 or higher may be required.
    • For graduate programs, the required level is typically TOPIK Level 4, but more demanding programs like medicine, pharmacy, or engineering may require TOPIK Level 5 or 6.
  • Korean Language Program:
    • Students who do not meet the required TOPIK level may be admitted conditionally and required to take Korean language courses at KNU’s Language Education Center until they meet the language requirements.
    • This option allows students to strengthen their Korean language skills before starting their academic program.

2. English Language Requirements (for English-taught Programs)

KNU offers several programs that are taught in English, especially at the graduate level in fields like engineering, business administration, and international studies.

For English-taught programs, international students must demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following standardized tests:

  • TOEFL:

    • A minimum iBT score of 80 is generally required for undergraduate and graduate programs taught in English.
  • IELTS:

    • A minimum overall band score of 6.0 is typically required.
  • TEPS (Test of English Proficiency developed by Seoul National University):

    • A minimum score of 550 is often accepted.

3. Language Proficiency Exemptions

International students may be exempted from providing language proficiency test scores if they meet certain conditions:

  • Students who have completed their prior education (high school or university) in a country where Korean or English is the official language may be exempt from submitting TOPIK or English language test scores.
  • Native speakers of Korean (for Korean-taught programs) or English (for English-taught programs) are often exempt from submitting language proficiency scores, although proof of education in an English-speaking or Korean-speaking country may be required.

4. Preparatory Language Courses

For students who do not meet the required language proficiency levels, KNU offers language preparatory programs. These programs help students improve their Korean or English language skills before they begin their degree programs.

5. Graduate Programs

Language requirements for graduate programs may vary based on the specific department and the language of instruction. In general, Korean-taught graduate programs will require TOPIK Level 4 or 5, while English-taught graduate programs will require TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0.

6. Dual Language Programs

Some graduate programs at KNU offer dual-language instruction, where certain courses are taught in both Korean and English. For these programs, students might need proficiency in both languages depending on the courses they choose.

Kangwon National University (KNU), located in South Korea, is one of the leading national universities and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is particularly well-regarded for its contributions to agriculture, forestry, veterinary medicine, and engineering.

Key Course Specialties at Kangwon National University:

1. Agriculture and Life Sciences

  • Agronomy
  • Horticulture
  • Food Science and Biotechnology
  • Agricultural Economics
  • Animal Science
  • Plant Protection

KNU is highly respected for its agricultural programs, offering advanced research in sustainable agriculture, plant breeding, and agro-environmental science. The university’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is known for its cutting-edge research in food biotechnology and environmentally friendly farming practices.

2. Veterinary Medicine

  • Veterinary Science
  • Animal Welfare and Health
  • Veterinary Public Health

The College of Veterinary Medicine at KNU is one of the top programs in South Korea, offering state-of-the-art education and research facilities. The program is well-recognized for its contributions to animal health, clinical veterinary science, and veterinary pathology.

3. Forestry and Environmental Science

  • Forest Resources
  • Environmental Conservation
  • Wildlife Management
  • Forest Engineering

KNU is known for its programs in forestry and environmental sciences. The university's location in Gangwon Province, an area rich in natural forests and biodiversity, makes it an ideal place for research in sustainable forest management, conservation, and climate change impacts.

4. Engineering and Technology

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Computer Science and Engineering
  • Industrial and Systems Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering

The College of Engineering at KNU is strong in fields like robotics, automotive engineering, renewable energy technologies, and smart manufacturing. The university collaborates with industry partners to offer hands-on training and research in emerging technologies.

5. Natural Sciences

  • Biotechnology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Biological Sciences

KNU’s College of Natural Sciences focuses on interdisciplinary research and innovative approaches in areas like biotechnology, nanotechnology, and environmental science. These programs emphasize both theoretical and applied sciences.

6. Business Administration and Economics

  • Business Administration
  • International Trade
  • Economics
  • Tourism Management

KNU’s School of Business is known for its programs in entrepreneurship, financial management, and global business strategies. The university is also expanding its focus on tourism management, benefiting from its proximity to popular tourist regions like the Gangwon Province.

7. Humanities and Social Sciences

  • Korean Language and Literature
  • English Language and Literature
  • History
  • Sociology
  • Political Science and International Relations
  • Education

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at KNU offers a broad range of courses with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and global perspectives. Programs like Korean Language and Literature are particularly popular among students looking to explore Korean culture and language.

8. Pharmacy

  • Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Pharmacy Practice
  • Drug Development

KNU's College of Pharmacy is well-known for its research in drug development and pharmaceutical sciences. It collaborates with biotech companies and research institutes to advance drug discovery and healthcare solutions.

9. Law and Public Administration

  • Law
  • Public Administration
  • Social Welfare

The School of Law and the School of Public Administration at KNU are strong in legal studies, focusing on public service, governance, and social justice. These programs prepare students for careers in government, legal institutions, and public policy.

10. Education

  • Elementary Education
  • Physical Education
  • Special Education

KNU has a respected College of Education, offering training in various educational fields. The university’s Physical Education and Special Education programs are particularly well-known, preparing future educators with hands-on experience and modern teaching methodologies.

11. Fine Arts and Design

  • Fine Arts
  • Visual Design
  • Industrial Design

KNU’s College of Fine Arts and Design is known for its creative and interdisciplinary approach to art and design. Students are encouraged to experiment with different forms of media, including traditional and digital art, contributing to Korea’s vibrant art scene.

12. Medical and Health Sciences

  • Nursing
  • Public Health
  • Biomedicine

The College of Medicine and Health Sciences at KNU offers comprehensive training in public health, nursing, and biomedical sciences, with a focus on preparing healthcare professionals who are equipped to address contemporary health challenges.

13. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

  • Information Security
  • Data Science
  • Network Engineering

With the rapid growth in ICT, KNU’s School of Information and Communication Technology focuses on data science, cybersecurity, and communication networks, making it a leading institution for research and development in this area.

14. Sports Science

  • Sports Coaching
  • Exercise Physiology
  • Rehabilitation Science

KNU’s programs in sports science are well-regarded, especially for their emphasis on the scientific study of physical activity, sports performance, and rehabilitation.


Unique Programs:

  • Mountain Science: KNU offers a unique program in Mountain Science, focusing on the sustainable management of mountain ecosystems and the development of mountain tourism, given its location in the mountainous Gangwon Province.
  • Smart Agriculture: KNU is also pioneering in smart agriculture, integrating IoT and AI technologies to improve farming efficiency and sustainability.

Kangwon National University (KNU) is home to many distinguished professors across various disciplines. Here are some of the top professors known for their significant contributions in research, teaching, and international recognition:

1. Dr. Kim Jae-ho (김재호)

  • Field: Veterinary Medicine
  • Expertise: A leading scholar in veterinary science, Dr. Kim is known for his research on infectious diseases in animals and veterinary immunology.
  • Notable Contributions: His work has contributed to advancements in the treatment and prevention of diseases in livestock, particularly focusing on viral infections and vaccine development for farm animals.

2. Dr. Lee Sang-hyun (이상현)

  • Field: Agriculture and Plant Sciences
  • Expertise: Specializing in plant breeding and genetic engineering, Dr. Lee has conducted groundbreaking research on developing climate-resistant crops.
  • Notable Contributions: His work on genetic modification of plants to enhance drought resistance and improve agricultural productivity is highly regarded internationally.

3. Dr. Park Soo-jin (박수진)

  • Field: Environmental Science and Forestry
  • Expertise: Dr. Park is a leading researcher in forest conservation and sustainable forestry. She focuses on the impact of climate change on forests and the development of strategies for sustainable forest management.
  • Notable Contributions: Her research on carbon sequestration in forests has contributed to the global understanding of how forests can mitigate climate change.

4. Dr. Choi Jae-won (최재원)

  • Field: Mechanical Engineering
  • Expertise: Dr. Choi is a prominent figure in robotics and automation engineering. His research includes robotic control systems and automation in manufacturing.
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Choi’s innovations in smart manufacturing technologies and robotics applications for industrial use have been adopted by leading companies in South Korea.

5. Dr. Yoon Ji-hye (윤지혜)

  • Field: Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Expertise: Dr. Yoon is well-known for her research in drug delivery systems and biopharmaceuticals. She focuses on the development of new therapies for chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.
  • Notable Contributions: Her pioneering work in nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems has led to more effective treatments with fewer side effects.

6. Dr. Kim Sung-kyu (김성규)

  • Field: Civil Engineering
  • Expertise: Dr. Kim specializes in sustainable infrastructure and environmental engineering, particularly focusing on water resource management and sustainable urban development.
  • Notable Contributions: His research on green infrastructure and flood mitigation strategies has been influential in improving urban resilience to climate change.

7. Dr. Lee Min-jung (이민정)

  • Field: Biotechnology
  • Expertise: Dr. Lee is an expert in biotechnology and genomics, with a focus on bioenergy production and the development of biofuels.
  • Notable Contributions: Her research in using genetically engineered microorganisms to produce bioenergy has garnered attention for its potential in sustainable energy production.

8. Dr. Han Soo-young (한수영)

  • Field: Business Administration
  • Expertise: Dr. Han is a respected scholar in entrepreneurship and innovation management. He focuses on the growth of startups and the role of technology in business innovation.
  • Notable Contributions: He has been instrumental in promoting entrepreneurship education at KNU, helping students launch successful startups.

9. Dr. Seo Hae-jin (서해진)

  • Field: Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  • Expertise: Dr. Seo is known for her work in data science, information security, and AI applications. Her research includes the development of cybersecurity technologies to protect sensitive data in digital environments.
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Seo’s work in AI-driven data analysis and cybersecurity systems has gained recognition for enhancing the safety and efficiency of online platforms.

10. Dr. Jung Eun-kyung (정은경)

  • Field: Tourism Management
  • Expertise: A prominent figure in tourism management and hospitality studies, Dr. Jung specializes in eco-tourism and sustainable tourism development.
  • Notable Contributions: Her research on sustainable tourism strategies in rural and mountainous regions has been instrumental in promoting eco-friendly tourism in South Korea, particularly in Gangwon Province.

11. Dr. Kim Hyo-jin (김효진)

  • Field: International Relations and Political Science
  • Expertise: Dr. Kim is an expert in East Asian geopolitics and Korean foreign policy. Her work focuses on regional security issues, diplomacy, and South Korea’s role in international relations.
  • Notable Contributions: Dr. Kim is often sought after for her insights on North-South Korean relations and has published extensively on security dynamics in the East Asian region.

As of now, Kangwon National University (KNU) does not have any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni. While KNU is well-regarded for its research and academic contributions, particularly in fields like agriculture, veterinary medicine, forestry, and engineering, it has yet to produce any Nobel Prize winners.

However, KNU continues to grow as a research institution and maintains active collaborations with other universities and research institutes, which could contribute to groundbreaking achievements in the future.

Kangwon National University (KNU)  is one of the 10 core national universities in the Republic of Korea. With a history spanning over 76 years, KNU has consistently made sincere efforts to adapt to the rapidly-changing global era. As a regional stronghold university, KNU has been striving to channel creative ideas and resources to local communities and the regional industries. We maintain a high level of quality in education and research while offering a comprehensive range of majors catered to the demands of students. KNU is committed to being a university of excellence.

Our dormitory capacity is among the highest in Korea, and KNU is located in the beautiful lakeside city of Chuncheon, which is only 1 hour away from Seoul, the capital city and the center of politics, economy, and culture in Korea. This proximity allows students to enjoy a wide variety of cultural activities. Prospective foreign students of Kangwon National University, we invite you to join us and make your dreams come true at KNU.

Kangwon National University (KNU) is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation both within South Korea and internationally:

1. Strong Focus on Agriculture and Life Sciences

  • KNU is particularly well-known for its programs in agriculture, life sciences, and forestry, which have long been central to the university’s academic offerings.
  • Located in Gangwon Province, a region rich in natural resources and agricultural activity, KNU has become a leader in sustainable farming, agricultural biotechnology, and environmental management.
  • The university's expertise in plant science, animal husbandry, and food technology positions it at the forefront of agricultural research in South Korea.

2. Excellence in Veterinary Medicine

  • The College of Veterinary Medicine at KNU is one of the top veterinary schools in South Korea, known for producing highly skilled veterinarians and researchers.
  • The program is notable for its contributions to animal health, veterinary public health, and clinical veterinary science. It has a strong research focus in areas like animal welfare, infectious diseases, and veterinary diagnostics.
  • KNU’s veterinary program is complemented by its animal hospitals, offering students practical experience while serving the local community.

3. Forestry and Environmental Science Leadership

  • Due to its location in Gangwon Province, which is rich in forested areas, KNU has established itself as a leader in forestry and environmental science.
  • The university offers unique programs in forest resources, wildlife management, and environmental conservation, which are particularly relevant to South Korea’s mountainous and forested landscape.
  • KNU’s Mountain Science program is one of the few in the country, focusing on the sustainable use and conservation of mountain ecosystems.

4. Location in Gangwon Province

  • Kangwon National University benefits from being located in Chuncheon (the main campus) and Samcheok (secondary campus), both situated in Gangwon Province, a region known for its natural beauty and proximity to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
  • The region is famous for its forests, mountains, and tourist attractions, providing KNU with unique opportunities for research in eco-tourism, mountain conservation, and environmental sustainability.
  • KNU’s location offers students access to a diverse natural laboratory for research in agriculture, forestry, and environmental science.

5. Cutting-Edge Research in Engineering and Technology

  • KNU is also well-known for its programs in engineering, particularly in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, computer science, and electrical engineering.
  • The university emphasizes smart technology and automation, with significant research in areas such as renewable energy, robotics, and smart manufacturing.
  • Collaboration with industry partners allows KNU to provide hands-on training and internships, helping students stay at the cutting edge of technology and innovation.

6. Top-Quality Education in Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences

  • The College of Pharmacy at KNU is respected for its research in drug development and pharmaceutical sciences. KNU collaborates with biotech companies and research institutions to develop new drugs and therapies.
  • The university’s focus on public health and nursing also contributes to its reputation, particularly for its training of healthcare professionals who are equipped to address current and future health challenges.

7. Mountain Science and Sustainable Development

  • One of KNU’s unique programs is Mountain Science, which focuses on the sustainable management of mountain ecosystems, given its proximity to mountainous regions. This program integrates knowledge of ecology, conservation, and tourism development.
  • This makes KNU an ideal place for research and study in sustainable development, especially concerning rural and mountainous areas.

8. Global Engagement and International Programs

  • KNU is committed to internationalization, offering numerous exchange programs and English-taught courses to attract students from around the world.
  • The university collaborates with international research institutes and universities, particularly in areas such as environmental science, agriculture, and engineering.
  • KNU’s Korean Language Program is popular among international students interested in learning the language and culture, helping foster a global academic environment.

9. Government and Industry Collaboration

  • KNU has close ties with South Korean government institutions and private companies, especially in fields like agriculture, forestry, and engineering. These partnerships provide research funding, student internships, and job opportunities for graduates.
  • The university often works with local and national governments on projects related to sustainable development, environmental conservation, and rural development.

10. Innovation in Smart Agriculture

  • KNU is at the forefront of smart agriculture, utilizing IoT, AI, and big data technologies to modernize farming practices and increase efficiency.
  • The university has been recognized for its leadership in developing innovative agricultural solutions that address the challenges of climate change and food security.

11. National University Status

  • As a national university, KNU benefits from strong government support, which enhances its research capabilities, infrastructure, and ability to offer high-quality education at relatively affordable tuition rates.
  • Its national status also gives it a mandate to contribute to regional development, which KNU fulfills through its focus on rural and environmental issues in Gangwon Province.