Pusan National University Korean Language Program

School Overview

Established as one of South Korea's premier national universities, Pusan National University (PNU) hosts a highly respected Language Education Center (LEC) that has provided top-tier Korean language education to thousands of international students since its inception. Located in Busan, South Korea's vibrant second-largest city, the PNU Korean Language Program offers a perfect blend of high-quality academic training and a dynamic maritime lifestyle.

As a flagship national university, PNU is known for its academic rigor, affordable tuition rates, and state-of-the-art campus facilities. The program is carefully structured to guide students from absolute beginners to advanced levels, enabling them to successfully transition into undergraduate or graduate studies in Korea, or to utilize Korean professionally.

Key Highlights of PNU LEC

• Academic Reputation: Learn from highly qualified, native-speaking faculty members specializing in Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language (KFL).
• Affordable Living and Tuition: Compared to major universities in Seoul, PNU offers significantly lower tuition fees and Busan boasts a much lower cost of living, without compromising on academic quality.
• Integrated Support Programs: Students can participate in the Korean Buddy Program, pairing international students with PNU domestic students to fast-track conversational practice and cultural adjustment.
• Comprehensive Campus Access: Language students enjoy full access to PNU's amenities, including libraries, sports facilities, cafeterias, and health centers.

Curriculum & Academic Structure

The Regular Program consists of 4 semesters per year (Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter). Each semester runs for 10 weeks (totaling 200 hours of instruction, 4 hours a day, 5 days a week).

Level Breakdown

• Levels 1-2 (Beginner): Focuses on Hangul, basic pronunciation, survival Korean, sentence structure, and daily life expressions (shopping, ordering food, using public transit).
• Levels 3-4 (Intermediate): Transitions into formal/informal language dynamics, basic academic reading/writing, and discussing social, environmental, and cultural topics.
• Levels 5-6 (Advanced): Focuses on specialized and academic Korean, news comprehension, professional report writing, and preparing students directly for university admission and corporate employment.

Accommodation

PNU provides on-campus dormitory accommodation for language students, which is highly competitive yet highly recommended for safe and convenient living.

• Dormitory Name: Woongbi-gwan / Jinmin-gwan
• Room Type: Double occupancy (shared room with roommates)
• Amenities: Bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, internet access, private or shared bathroom, and coin laundry services within the building.
• Meal Plans: Optional meal plans are available at the student cafeteria, offering highly nutritious Korean and global meals at a low cost.

Admission & Application Process

To apply, international students must submit the following documents:
1. Completed Application Form.
2. Copy of Passport.
3. Graduation Certificate & Transcript of last school attended (Apostilled or Consular Verified).
4. Bank Statement showing a minimum balance (usually $10,000 USD or equivalent, depending on visa guidelines).
5. Application Fee (Non-refundable, approximately 60,000 KRW).

Once accepted, students receive a Certificate of Admission (CoA), which is required to apply for a D-4 (General Trainee) Visa at the Korean Embassy or Consulate in their home country.