한국체육대학교Korea National Sport University

About University

Korea National Sport University is the only national university in South Korea specialized in the field of sports, located in the pleasant environment of Songpa-gu, Seoul. Since its establishment in 1976, it has established itself as the center of domestic sports education and elite athlete training, and has led the development of Korean sports under the educational philosophy of “Truth, Service, and Creativity.” Going beyond simply nurturing sports professionals, it has a firm identity as the “heart of Korean sports,” producing global leaders and exerting social influence through sports, as well as serving as a cradle for talents who will perform on international stages such as the Olympics. The most distinctive feature of Korea National Sport University is its unique status as a “national sports-specialized university.” It is the only national institution among sports-related universities nationwide, and offers a wide and systematic range of undergraduate and graduate programs encompassing sports and health, culture, and the arts, including Sports Science, Coaching, Social Sports, Sports Industry, Exercise and Health Management, Senior Sports Welfare, Special Physical Education, Sports Youth Leadership, Performing Arts, and Taekwondo. In particular, the university boasts advanced training infrastructure and a national team-level faculty for nurturing elite athletes and coaches, as well as field-oriented practical education. In fact, many medalists from international competitions such as the Olympics and Asian Games are alumni of the university. All students in sports-related departments are provided with the exceptional benefits of on-campus dormitory living and full tuition exemption, creating an environment where they can focus on their studies and training. Future-oriented new majors such as Sports Science, Sports Medicine, and Sports Industry/Management are also actively operated, and the university has a wide range of career paths after graduation through industry-academic cooperation with various domestic and international sports industries and research institutes. The prestige of Korea National Sport University is proven by its many renowned alumni. Not only has it produced world-class sports stars such as Olympic gold medalists Sim Kwon-ho (wrestling), Shim Suk-hee (short track), and Yang Hak-seon (gymnastics), but also outstanding talents in the arts and media such as actor So Ji-sub and voice actor Son Su-ho. Since relocating to its current site in 1985, the university has led the advancement of Korean sports on the international stage and has greatly contributed to the development of sports education and the sports industry. Alumni from the university are active in various fields including sports sites and education both domestically and internationally, public institutions, and the media, enhancing the qualitative growth and global competitiveness of Korean sports. Korea National Sport University also spares no effort in supporting international students. In 2023, it obtained the Ministry of Education’s IEQAS (International Education Quality Assurance System) certification, ensuring a systematic and safe support system for international students. Both undergraduate and graduate programs recruit students from various countries through special admissions for foreigners. Applicants who meet language requirements—such as TOPIK level 4 or higher, or a TOEFL iBT score of 80–100 or higher—are eligible for document and interview screening, with opportunities for scholarships (up to full exemption of tuition and dormitory fees). While enrolled, students who maintain excellent grades can also receive 50–100% tuition and dormitory support. The dormitories offer various options including single, double, and quadruple rooms for male students, double rooms for female students, and an international wing. Each room is fully equipped with a desk, bed, wardrobe, air conditioning and heating, washing machine, and a shared kitchen for convenience. The campus is also well-equipped with shared facilities such as a fitness center, seminar rooms, café, convenience store, and table tennis room to help international students adapt to life in Korea. The campus is adjacent to Olympic Park, offering a pleasant natural environment as well as excellent accessibility to downtown Seoul. Public transportation such as subways and buses is convenient, and a variety of cultural and sports facilities are nearby, allowing students to enjoy both leisure and self-development. With a long tradition and a spirit of innovation, Korea National Sport University will be the best choice for international students seeking to realize their dreams through sports and expand their global network.