Seoul National University Language Education Institute

School Overview

Seoul National University Language Education Institute (SNU LEI) is widely recognized as one of the premier Korean language education centers globally. Established at Korea's top-tier national university, SNU LEI provides a highly academic, rigorous, and systematic approach to learning the Korean language.

Every year, thousands of students from over 70 countries enroll at SNU LEI to prepare for undergraduate or graduate admission at SNU and other elite universities, or to advance their careers in Korean-related fields.

Curriculum & Programs

1. Regular Program (10-Week Semester)

This is the flagship program designed for comprehensive acquisition of the Korean language.
* Structure: 10 weeks per semester, 5 days a week (Monday to Friday), 4 hours per day (total 200 hours).
* Levels: Level 1 (Beginner) to Level 6 (Advanced).
* Tracks:
* Morning Class (09:00 - 13:00): Ideal for academic-focused students desiring optimal learning times. Tuition is approximately 1,800,000 KRW per semester.
* Afternoon Class (13:30 - 17:30): Offers a slightly discounted rate (approximately 1,620,000 KRW) with the exact same curriculum and quality of instruction.

2. 3-Week Intensive Program

Perfect for short-term visitors, exchange students, or working professionals who want to rapidly boost their communicative Korean proficiency during school breaks.
* Structure: 15 days, 4 hours per day (total 60 hours).
* Content: Focused primarily on practical speaking and everyday conversation skills.

Campus Life & Facilities

Students at the Language Education Institute are granted temporary SNU student IDs, giving them access to various state-of-the-art facilities across the massive Gwanak Campus:
* SNU Central Library: One of the largest academic libraries in South Korea.
* Student Dining & Cafeterias: Dozens of budget-friendly cafeterias, coffee shops, and convenience stores on campus.
* Sports Center: Access to gymnasiums, swimming pools, and running tracks (separate membership fees may apply).
* Cultural Activities: The LEI regularly organizes cultural excursions, including traditional pottery making, K-Pop dance classes, and historical field trips around Seoul.
* Korean Partner Program: International students can match with SNU undergraduate volunteers to practice Korean, make local friends, and adjust to life in Korea quickly.

Housing & Accommodation

• On-Campus Dormitories (Gwanak-sa): SNU LEI students are eligible to apply for on-campus dormitories, though spots are extremely competitive and typically prioritized for long-term degree-seeking students.
• Off-Campus Housing: Most language students reside in nearby neighborhoods such as Nakseongdae, Sillim, or Seoul National University Entrance Station. These areas are filled with studio apartments (One-rooms), Goshiwons, and sharehouses tailored specifically for university students.