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Kyungpook National University

Address: 80 Daehak-ro, Buk-gu, Daegu 41566, South Korea
Phone: +82 53 950 5114
Email: office@knu.ac.kr
Website: www.knu.ac.kr


About Kyungpook National University

Kyungpook National University is committed to becoming a leading, global university based on its proud and lasting traditions of truth, pride, and service. Since its establishment in 1946 as a comprehensive national university representing the region of Daegu and Gyeongbuk Province, KNU has been striving to lead Korea’s national and international development by fostering talented graduates who can serve as global community leaders. 

KNU is transformed through innovation, communication, and its impression on the world. It began as a regional education hub founded with the support of residents, and quickly gained a strong reputation as the best university south of Seoul. KNU became known for producing the top Korean intellectuals of the age, representing the Republic of Korea with pride. Our goal is to reaffirm the status long-held by KNU, bringing change and the spirit of innovation to the world. We will become a university that inspires people the world over with our achievements. We are a globally-oriented, knowledge-driven university. We are now a global competitor; as such, we have to foster research capabilities that can compete with global standards and cultivate talent that will lead the world. KNU will be a university that not only creates knowledge but also leads the stream of intelligence as it takes a step ahead.

As a university with one of the nation’s largest campuses and operating infrastructures, we strive to impress the region, the nation, and the world. We put investment in human resources above all else. One of our greatest assets is the people we educate. KNU will give first priority to concentrated investment in human resources development, producing talented individuals with the wisdom of cultural insight and scientific technology; passionate professionals who enjoy a challenge; people who will lead the world with creativity and innovation. In addition, we will create an educational and professional environment in which all people-students, professors, and staff of the university-trust and cooperate with each other.

As of October 2019, the University has 17 colleges, 2 independent departments and 12 graduate schools with 30,719 students enrolled in undergraduate programs, 6,603 on graduate programs, plus 3,230 professors and 463 administrative staff. To foster an educational and research environment, the University also supports 50 auxiliary educational facilities and 128 research institutes.

Why Kyungpook National University

Kyungpook National University (KNU) is well-regarded for several reasons that contribute to its reputation in South Korea and internationally. Here are the key factors that make KNU famous:

1. Historical Significance

  • Founded in 1946, KNU is one of the oldest national universities in South Korea. It has a long history of contributing to the country's educational and cultural development.

2. Academic Excellence

  • KNU is consistently ranked among the top universities in South Korea and has a strong reputation in various academic fields, especially in engineering, natural sciences, and agriculture.
  • The university has a rigorous curriculum and is known for its high academic standards, producing graduates who are well-prepared for the job market.

3. Research Contributions

  • KNU is recognized for its significant contributions to research and innovation. The university has numerous research institutes and centers focusing on various fields, including engineering, medicine, and environmental science.
  • The university has been involved in several high-impact research projects and collaborations, both nationally and internationally, which enhance its reputation in the academic community.

4. Strong Industry Links

  • KNU has established strong partnerships with various industries, leading to collaborative research, internships, and job placement opportunities for students.
  • The university's emphasis on practical and applied education ensures that students gain relevant skills and experiences that are highly valued by employers.

5. Global Engagement

  • KNU actively participates in international exchange programs and collaborations with universities around the world. This has helped the university attract a diverse student body and faculty, fostering a multicultural learning environment.
  • The university offers various programs in English, making it accessible to international students and enhancing its global reputation.

6. Notable Alumni

  • KNU has produced a number of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, business, academia, and technology. The success of its graduates enhances the university's prestige.

7. Campus and Facilities

  • The KNU campus is known for its beautiful scenery and modern facilities, providing a conducive environment for learning and research. The university has invested in upgrading its infrastructure and resources to support student development.

8. Cultural and Community Contributions

  • KNU engages in various cultural and community initiatives, promoting social responsibility and community service among its students. The university hosts cultural events, seminars, and workshops that enrich the local community.

9. Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

  • The university encourages entrepreneurship and innovation through programs that support startups and new business ventures, contributing to the economic development of the region and the country.

Kyungpook National University (KNU) has specific language requirements for international students applying to its various programs, which can vary depending on whether the program is taught in Korean or English. Here’s an overview of the language requirements:

1. Programs Taught in English

KNU offers several programs in English, particularly at the graduate level. International applicants to these programs typically need to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests. Common requirements include:

  • TOEFL (iBT): Minimum score of 80 or higher.
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0 or higher.
  • TOEIC: A minimum score of 700 may also be accepted for certain programs.

Specific departments may have their own requirements, so it's essential to check with the relevant faculty or program for any higher score criteria.

2. Programs Taught in Korean

For programs taught in Korean, international students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the Korean language, generally through the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK). The typical requirements are:

  • TOPIK Level 3 or higher for undergraduate programs.
  • TOPIK Level 4 or higher for graduate programs.

Students who do not meet the required TOPIK level may be conditionally admitted and required to take Korean language courses at KNU until they achieve the necessary proficiency.

3. Exemptions from Language Requirements

Students may be exempt from submitting English or Korean language test scores under certain conditions, such as:

  • Having completed their previous education (high school or undergraduate) in an English-speaking country or in a program where English was the medium of instruction.
  • Holding a degree from a university in South Korea where Korean was the language of instruction.

4. Language Support

KNU provides various language support services, including:

  • Korean language programs for international students who need to improve their Korean language skills before or during their studies.
  • English language support services for students enrolled in English-taught programs, including tutoring and writing assistance.

Kyungpook National University (KNU) is a prominent university located in Daegu, South Korea, known for its comprehensive academic offerings and research initiatives. Here are the key course specializations offered at KNU:

1. College of Natural Sciences

  • Specialties:
    • Mathematics
    • Physics
    • Chemistry
    • Biology
    • Earth Science
  • Research Areas: Emphasis on fundamental sciences with applications in technology and medicine.

2. College of Engineering

  • Specialties:
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Civil Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Computer Engineering
  • Research Areas: Focus on innovative engineering solutions, sustainable development, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

3. College of Medicine

  • Specialties:
    • Medicine
    • Nursing
    • Pharmacy
    • Public Health
  • Research Areas: Involves clinical research, healthcare practices, and public health initiatives.

4. College of Business Administration

  • Specialties:
    • Business Administration
    • Accounting
    • Finance
    • Marketing
    • International Business
  • Research Areas: Focuses on entrepreneurship, organizational behavior, and international trade.

5. College of Humanities

  • Specialties:
    • Korean Language and Literature
    • English Language and Literature
    • History
    • Philosophy
    • Cultural Studies
  • Research Areas: Emphasizes literary analysis, cultural studies, and historical research.

6. College of Social Sciences

  • Specialties:
    • Sociology
    • Psychology
    • Political Science
    • Public Administration
  • Research Areas: Focus on social issues, human behavior, and governance.

7. College of Education

  • Specialties:
    • Curriculum and Instruction
    • Educational Administration
    • Special Education
  • Research Areas: Emphasizes educational theories, pedagogy, and teacher training.

8. College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

  • Specialties:
    • Agricultural Science
    • Food Science and Technology
    • Forestry
    • Environmental Science
  • Research Areas: Focuses on sustainable agriculture, food safety, and environmental conservation.

9. Graduate School of International Studies

  • Specialties:
    • International Relations
    • Development Studies
    • Global Business
  • Research Areas: Engages in studies related to global issues, diplomacy, and international cooperation.

10. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • KNU also offers interdisciplinary programs that combine multiple fields of study, allowing students to engage in research and studies that address complex societal issues.

Kyungpook National University (KNU) has several distinguished professors who are recognized for their contributions to research, education, and their respective fields. Here are some of the top professors at KNU:

1. Professor Kim Young-ho

  • Department: Mechanical Engineering
  • Specialty: Fluid Mechanics and Energy Systems
  • Achievements: Renowned for his research in energy efficiency and renewable energy systems, Professor Kim has published extensively and received multiple awards for his contributions to engineering.

2. Professor Park Eun-hee

  • Department: Biotechnology
  • Specialty: Microbial Genetics and Industrial Biotechnology
  • Achievements: Professor Park's research focuses on microbial systems and their applications in biotechnology. She is involved in various national and international research projects and has numerous publications in top-tier journals.

3. Professor Lee Jae-ho

  • Department: Computer Science
  • Specialty: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Achievements: A leading figure in AI research, Professor Lee's work involves developing algorithms for data analysis and machine learning applications. He has received significant grants and recognition in the field.

4. Professor Shin Dong-kyu

  • Department: Economics
  • Specialty: Development Economics and International Trade
  • Achievements: Professor Shin is recognized for his research on economic development policies and trade relations. He has published several influential papers and contributes to various economic forums.

5. Professor Choi Hyun-sook

  • Department: Pharmacy
  • Specialty: Pharmacology and Drug Development
  • Achievements: An expert in drug research and development, Professor Choi's work has implications for pharmaceutical sciences. She has received awards for her contributions to medical research.

6. Professor Lee Sang-min

  • Department: Environmental Engineering
  • Specialty: Water Quality Management and Environmental Sustainability
  • Achievements: Professor Lee is known for his research on water treatment technologies and environmental protection. He is active in various environmental initiatives and has numerous publications in environmental science.

7. Professor Lim Hye-jin

  • Department: Nursing
  • Specialty: Clinical Nursing and Health Promotion
  • Achievements: Professor Lim's research focuses on clinical practices in nursing and health promotion strategies. She has contributed significantly to nursing education and patient care.

8. Professor Jang Seung-ho

  • Department: Architecture
  • Specialty: Sustainable Architecture and Urban Design
  • Achievements: A prominent architect and researcher, Professor Jang focuses on sustainable building practices and urban planning. His work has received recognition in architectural competitions and journals.

9. Professor Yoon Ji-soo

  • Department: Psychology
  • Specialty: Cognitive Psychology and Behavioral Research
  • Achievements: Professor Yoon's research on cognitive processes and behavior has significant implications for understanding human psychology. She is an active member of various psychological associations.

10. Professor Han Seok-kyu

  • Department: History
  • Specialty: Korean History and Cultural Studies
  • Achievements: An expert in Korean history, Professor Han’s research encompasses cultural and historical analyses. He has published several books and articles on Korean history.

Kyungpook National University (KNU) has not produced any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni as of now. However, the university is known for its strong academic programs, research contributions, and emphasis on innovation and excellence in various fields.

While KNU may not have Nobel winners, it has a significant impact in areas such as engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences, and its faculty and students are involved in meaningful research that contributes to knowledge and societal development. The university continues to promote research initiatives that could potentially lead to future recognitions in the academic community.