가톨릭꽃동네대학교Catholic Kkottongnae University

About University

Catholic Kkottongnae University is a specialized university in Korea that uniquely upholds “respect for life” and “the practice of love” as its core values, focusing on nurturing professionals dedicated to supporting the socially disadvantaged and marginalized. Located in the peaceful and pristine environment of Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, the university has, since its establishment in 1999, continued to provide education rooted in love, service, and human dignity, true to the meaning of “Kkottongnae.” Founded and operated directly by the Catholic Diocese of Cheongju, it boasts a distinctive identity as “Catholic Kkottongnae,” and is recognized for its unique educational philosophy among Catholic universities in Korea. The university’s greatest strength lies in its specialized curriculum in fields such as bioethics, social welfare, and counseling, particularly in the Departments of Theology and Social Welfare. The Department of Theology, in particular, serves as a Catholic priest training institution and, unlike most theology colleges nationwide, offers service-oriented education focused on community engagement. The Department of Social Welfare produces numerous social workers and counseling professionals each year through practical education and field training. The majority of students actively participate in volunteer work and community-based projects, experiencing “field-oriented education” that sets the university apart from others. Additionally, the university operates various scholarship programs, such as the “Life-Love Scholarship System,” to reduce financial burdens, and provides meticulous support for each student through small-group education. Despite its short history, Catholic Kkottongnae University enjoys high recognition in the field of social welfare in Korea. The name “Kkottongnae” has already become a nationwide symbol of service for the marginalized and disadvantaged, and graduates of the university are active as key professionals in welfare institutions, churches, and counseling centers across the country. As the university’s very foundation is rooted in the “Kkottongnae Community,” which directly cares for the socially disadvantaged, people with disabilities, the elderly, and children, it takes great pride in nurturing practitioners who contribute to real social change. As a member of the Association of Catholic Universities of Korea, the university is connected to a wide range of domestic and international social welfare networks, providing ample opportunities for employment and field training. Support for international students is also noteworthy. Catholic Kkottongnae University offers “International Student Scholarships” that partially reduce tuition fees, helping to ease the financial burden from admission through graduation. Programs to enhance global competencies, such as English special lectures and ICDL (International Computer Driving License) certification courses, are also available. Leveraging the advantages of a small-sized university, personalized counseling and life guidance are provided for each international student, and safe, comfortable living environments are ensured through on-campus dormitory facilities. The university also actively operates Korean language education and adaptation programs, as well as religious and cultural experience activities, to help international students adapt quickly and build networks. Although official IEQAS (International Education Quality Assurance System) certification status has not been publicly disclosed, the university possesses practical expertise in supporting international student visas and daily life. The campus, situated in the nature-friendly environment of Eumseong-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do, offers a quiet and safe atmosphere for learning. Accessibility to the Seoul metropolitan area is convenient, and the university boasts pleasant dormitories, various amenities, and a warm, small-community-oriented campus culture. Taking advantage of the unique characteristics of “Kkottongnae,” students can heal both body and mind in nature and experience a special university life where service and education are integrated. For international students who wish to practice “true love and service” and bring about real change in society in Korea, Catholic Kkottongnae University will be the most meaningful choice.