숭실대학교Soongsil University

About University

Soongsil University, which has led the history of modern higher education in Korea by practicing the values of “Truth and Service,” is the nation’s first modern university, established in 1897, and a prestigious private comprehensive university located in Dongjak-gu, central Seoul. With a tradition spanning over 120 years, Soongsil University has upheld the core values of nurturing talent and innovation based on Christian spirit, as well as social responsibility. True to its motto, “Opening the Future with History,” Soongsil serves as a cradle of education connecting the past, present, and future, offering a warm welcome and opportunities for challenge to international students as well. Soongsil University’s greatest distinguishing feature is its unrivaled competitiveness in the fields of IT and software. Continuing its tradition as the first in Korea to establish a Department of Computer Science (in 1970), the university now has nine undergraduate colleges and eight graduate schools encompassing IT, engineering, business, humanities, and the arts, centered around cutting-edge departments such as Smart System Software, which are tailored to the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Industry-academic cooperation tracks directly linked with major companies like Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics, as well as practical and innovative curricula such as the 5-Star Smart Program, maximize students’ employment and entrepreneurship capabilities. In fact, Soongsil graduates are active in a wide range of fields, including global IT companies like Google and Apple, domestic conglomerates, and national research institutes. Recently, the university has focused on campus modernization and the establishment of future-oriented educational infrastructure, with state-of-the-art facilities such as the Jo Man-sik Memorial Hall, Westminster Hall, and the Hall of Truth now fully equipped. Practical and trendy majors such as Film Arts and Venture Start-up are also gaining attention, making the university’s education environment a strong point for practical future competitiveness. Soongsil University has produced influential talents in all sectors of society throughout its long history. Alumni who are a source of pride for Soongsil include family members of presidents, renowned producers, startup founders, the founder of parkour, celebrities, and sports stars. Notable examples include the daughter of former President Moon Jae-in, KBS producer Lim Jong-yoon, YouTuber Sunba (Kim Sun-woo), first-generation parkour athlete Kim Ji-ho, and actor Jung Suk-yong. As a university at the center of Korea’s modern and contemporary history and the Christian national movement, Soongsil has established itself as a “living witness of Korean education,” having started in Pyongyang and experienced turbulent times such as division, closure, and reconstruction in Seoul. The university’s alumni network exerts powerful influence across society, culture, and industry both domestically and internationally. For international students, Soongsil University provides an optimal platform for growth. Selected by Korea’s Ministry of Education as an IEQAS (International Education Quality Assurance System) certified university, Soongsil offers preferential benefits in visa issuance and scholarships. The global scholarship system supports up to 100% of tuition fees based on TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) levels 4–6 and academic performance, with scholarship criteria managed systematically and transparently. Numerous courses are offered in English, and dedicated support programs for international students—such as international exchange, Korean language education, and mentoring—help lower language and cultural barriers. Dormitories are equipped with modern facilities and are located on campus or within walking distance, ensuring a safe and convenient living environment. In particular, practice-oriented departments in IT, business, and the arts, as well as industry-academic cooperation opportunities with major companies, provide international students preparing for global employment or further study with practical competitiveness. Located in the heart of Dongjak-gu, Seoul, Soongsil University boasts excellent access to public transportation such as subways and buses, making it easy to travel anywhere in Seoul. The campus harmoniously blends clean green spaces with modern buildings and offers a variety of living and learning spaces, including the student union, gymnasium, library, and global lounge. With a wide range of clubs, sports activities, and festivals, international students can fully experience Korean university culture. Soongsil University will be a strong stepping stone for you to pursue your dreams on the stage of Korea and the world.