About Yonsei International Summer School
The Yonsei International Summer School (YISS) offers a unique opportunity for international students to experience Korean culture while enhancing their Korean language skills. Established in 1985, our intensive Korean language program has welcomed thousands of students from around the world, providing them with a comprehensive educational experience in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
Yonsei University, founded in 1885, is one of Korea's oldest and most distinguished universities, known for its academic excellence and international outlook. Our summer program combines rigorous language instruction with immersive cultural activities, allowing students to develop not only their linguistic abilities but also their understanding of Korean society, traditions, and contemporary life.
Program Highlights
- Intensive Korean language classes tailored to different proficiency levels
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention
- Qualified and experienced native Korean instructors
- Cultural excursions and activities throughout the program
- Opportunities to interact with Korean students and peer mentors
- Access to Yonsei's state-of-the-art facilities
- Certificate of completion upon successful program conclusion
Korean Language Course Curriculum
Our Korean language courses are designed to help students develop all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum emphasizes practical communication abilities while also providing a solid foundation in Korean grammar and vocabulary.
Program Structure
The summer program typically runs for 6 weeks during June and July, with classes held Monday through Thursday. Each day consists of 4 hours of classroom instruction along with 1-2 hours of cultural activities or language lab practice.
Friday is reserved for cultural excursions, field trips, and special workshops that allow students to practice their language skills in authentic settings.
Teaching Methodology
Our approach combines communicative language teaching with task-based learning methods. Students actively participate in conversations, role-plays, and real-life simulations that reflect everyday situations they might encounter in Korea.
Instructors use a variety of multimedia resources, including authentic materials like Korean TV shows, news clips, and music, to make learning engaging and relevant.
Assessment
Students are evaluated through regular quizzes, midterm and final examinations, oral presentations, and participation in class activities. At the end of the program, students receive a grade report and a certificate indicating the completed level.
Those who successfully complete the program may be eligible for credit transfer to their home institutions.
Course Levels
Tuition and Accommodation
We strive to make YISS accessible to students from diverse backgrounds while maintaining the high quality of our educational offerings.
Tuition Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (KRW) | Amount (USD, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (6 weeks) | 3,500,000 | 2,800 |
| Application Fee | 100,000 | 80 |
| Computer Fee | 50,000 | 40 |
*Fees are subject to change. Exchange rates may affect USD conversions.
Accommodation Options
On-campus housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Our dormitories provide a safe and convenient living environment with opportunities to interact with both international and Korean students.
- Standard Dormitory: Double occupancy room with shared facilities - approximately 900,000 KRW for the program period
- Global Lounge Dormitory: Single or shared room with enhanced facilities - approximately 1,200,000-1,500,000 KRW
- Off-campus Options: We can provide information about nearby apartments and homestays for students who prefer independent living arrangements
Application Process
Applications are accepted from March to April preceding the summer program. Required documents include:
- Completed online application form
- Official transcript from current institution
- Personal statement
- Copy of passport
- Passport-sized photo
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent) for non-native English speakers
Admission decisions are typically sent via email within two weeks of application submission.
Student Experience
Beyond classroom learning, YISS offers numerous opportunities for students to immerse themselves in Korean culture and build lasting friendships.
"The YISS Korean language program exceeded all my expectations. The teachers were incredibly supportive, and the cultural activities helped me understand Korea in ways no textbook could. After just six weeks, I could carry on conversations with locals and navigate Seoul with confidence!"
"Living on the Yonsei campus with other international students was an unforgettable experience. We studied together, explored Seoul, and even traveled to other parts of Korea on weekends. The program gave me not just language skills but lifelong friends and a deeper appreciation for Korean culture."
"As someone with Korean heritage but little language ability, this program was transformative. I connected with my family history in a meaningful way while gaining practical language skills. The beginner program was perfectly paced, and the instructors were patient and encouraging."
Cultural Activities
Our program includes a variety of cultural experiences that complement classroom learning:
- Traditional Korean crafts workshops (pottery, calligraphy, paper art)
- K-pop dance classes and K-drama viewing sessions
- Day trips to historical sites (Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village)
- Overnight excursions to Jeonju, known for its traditional hanok village and cuisine
- Korean cooking classes featuring bibimbap, kimchi, and other popular dishes
- Temple stay programs to experience traditional Buddhist culture
- Language exchange partners from Yonsei's student body
- Orientation sessions on Korean etiquette, customs, and social norms
- Access to campus facilities including libraries, gymnasiums, and computer labs
