# 1001-1200QS World University Rankings
174Undergrad & Postgrad Programmes
23 % International students
About Kookmin University
From independence to innovation, Kookmin University (KMU) has always been built for what comes next.
Kookmin University was founded in Seoul in 1946 by Haegong Shin Ik-hee and fellow leaders of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, with the mission of educating a generation capable of building an independent and democratic nation. In 1959, Sungkok Kim Sung-kon assumed leadership of the Kookmin Foundation, strengthening the university's enduring tradition of entrepreneurship, practicality, and service to society.
Today, Kookmin University is a comprehensive private university with more than 18,000 students, including over 2,500 international students. It operates 15 undergraduate colleges alongside an extensive range of general, professional, and specialized graduate programs, supported by a global network of more than 400 exchange partners. The university is especially recognized for its strengths in automotive engineering and future mobility, art and design, software and artificial intelligence, and information security, cryptography, and mathematics — with an educational model built around practical learning, capstone and project-based education, interdisciplinary collaboration, entrepreneurship, and close industry ties.
Under KMU Vision 2035: EDGE, the university is advancing four strategic priorities — Entrepreneurship, Digital Transformation, Global Engagement, and ESG — guided by its institutional spirit, "Make the Rule, Break the Rule": an invitation to challenge convention, solve real-world problems, and create new value. Located in Seoul, Kookmin University offers students the academic breadth of a comprehensive university together with access to one of Asia's most dynamic cultural, technological, and business environments.
About Kookmin University
From independence to innovation, Kookmin University (KMU) has always been built for what comes next.
Kookmin University was founded in Seoul in 1946 by Haegong Shin Ik-hee and fellow leaders of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea, with the mission of educating a generation capable of building an independent and democratic nation. In 1959, Sungkok Kim Sung-kon assumed leadership of the Kookmin Foundation, strengthening the university's enduring tradition of entrepreneurship, practicality, and service to society.
Today, Kookmin University is a comprehensive private university with more than 18,000 students, including over 2,500 international students. It operates 15 undergraduate colleges alongside an extensive range of general, professional, and specialized graduate programs, supported by a global network of more than 400 exchange partners. The university is especially recognized for its strengths in automotive engineering and future mobility, art and design, software and artificial intelligence, and information security, cryptography, and mathematics — with an educational model built around practical learning, capstone and project-based education, interdisciplinary collaboration, entrepreneurship, and close industry ties.
Under KMU Vision 2035: EDGE, the university is advancing four strategic priorities — Entrepreneurship, Digital Transformation, Global Engagement, and ESG — guided by its institutional spirit, "Make the Rule, Break the Rule": an invitation to challenge convention, solve real-world problems, and create new value. Located in Seoul, Kookmin University offers students the academic breadth of a comprehensive university together with access to one of Asia's most dynamic cultural, technological, and business environments.
Available programmes
University information
Kookmin University welcomes applications from qualified Korean and international students for undergraduate and graduate study.
International admissions are conducted separately for undergraduate freshmen, undergraduate transfer, and graduate applicants, with application periods and available programs varying by semester and admission category. Applicants generally complete an online application and submit required official documents by the stated deadline; evaluation may include academic records, language proficiency, personal statements or study plans, document review, and an interview, while applicants to certain art, design, music, or performance-related programs may also need to submit a portfolio or complete a practical assessment.
Eligibility, language requirements, and required documentation differ according to educational background, program, and language of instruction. Graduate applicants may also need to demonstrate that their research interests align with the relevant department or a prospective supervisor.
Because program availability, application schedules, required documents, and scholarship conditions may change with each intake, applicants should always consult the latest official admission guidelines. Admission does not automatically guarantee dormitory placement, scholarship support, or visa issuance, and successful international applicants must satisfy the applicable immigration requirements.
Kookmin University provides academic, research, creative, and student-support facilities across its Seoul campus.
The campus includes dedicated buildings and learning spaces for engineering, science, art and design, business, computer science, architecture, automotive and mobility, and the humanities and social sciences, as well as the Global Center, Student Union, gymnasium, museum, and Innovation and Partnership Building. Sungkok Library offers subject-based collections, reading rooms, multimedia and audiovisual facilities, individual and group study spaces, open learning areas, and the Haedong K*reator's Library, complemented by maker-oriented spaces such as the Making Hub, which support creative projects and hands-on learning.
Specialized teaching and research environments support fields including autonomous mobility, software, artificial intelligence, design, digital manufacturing, and large-scale 3D printing, alongside industry-linked education and research facilities developed through partnerships with companies and organizations in mobility, engineering, software, and design.
On-campus and nearby dormitory facilities are available, together with cafeterias, exercise facilities, student activity spaces, and other services supporting daily campus life. Access to individual laboratories, studios, and specialist equipment may depend on a student's program and department.
Student life
Student life at Kookmin University combines a welcoming campus community with the cultural and professional opportunities of Seoul.
Students can participate in academic societies, cultural and performing arts groups, sports clubs, volunteering, entrepreneurship activities, competitions, and student-led projects, with facilities such as the Student Union, Sungkok Library, creative learning spaces, cafeterias, and sports facilities providing places to study, collaborate, and connect.
International students can build connections with Korean and international peers through the Global Peers Program, which matches newly arrived exchange students with Kookmin students and offers opportunities to experience Korean culture, explore Seoul, and take part in social and cultural activities — while also assisting with practical matters such as course registration and student identification procedures.
With more than 2,500 international students and exchange relationships spanning over 400 institutions, Kookmin University offers a diverse environment for developing intercultural communication skills and building international networks. The Office of International Affairs provides information and support related to admissions, exchange programs, and international student life, and students are encouraged to engage actively with campus programs to make the most of their academic and social experience.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Seoul varies considerably depending on accommodation type, lifestyle, and personal spending habits.
Kookmin University provides both on-campus and off-campus dormitory options, with rooms available in different locations and occupancy types. Facilities generally include a private shower and toilet, along with access to study, dining, and exercise spaces; availability and fees may change by semester, so students should consult the latest accommodation notice before applying.
Beyond housing, students should budget for meals, public transportation, mobile communications, health insurance, books and course materials, and personal expenses. Those renting private accommodation should also factor in security deposits, utilities, and management fees. Seoul's extensive public transportation network, combined with university dining facilities and dormitory or shared housing, gives students practical ways to manage costs.
Because exchange rates, prices, and dormitory charges change over time, applicants are advised to consult the university's current accommodation information and official Seoul living-cost resources when preparing their financial plans.
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Kookmin University offers a range of scholarships to support qualified international undergraduate and graduate students.
For newly admitted international undergraduate students, scholarships may cover part or all of tuition depending on Korean or English language proficiency, admission category, and other applicable criteria; continuing students may also qualify for tuition support based on academic performance and Korean-language proficiency. International graduate students may be considered for entrance scholarships based on Korean-language proficiency, academic field, and admission status, while continuing graduate scholarships may be awarded according to academic performance and language qualifications. Additional support may be available through individual graduate schools, academic departments, faculty research projects, or external scholarship programs.
Eligible applicants may also apply for the Korean government's Global Korea Scholarship under the conditions announced for each annual selection cycle.
Because scholarship availability, award amounts, eligibility requirements, and renewal conditions are subject to change, applicants should consult the scholarship information in the latest admission guidelines and confirm whether a separate application is required. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, students should prepare a financial plan that does not depend entirely on receiving a scholarship.
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
Employability
Kookmin University supports students throughout the career-development process, from early exploration to preparation for employment and entrepreneurship.
The university's Career Development Support Office provides career roadmaps, individual counselling, aptitude and career assessments, alumni mentoring, employment information, recruitment sessions, and job fairs, along with practical support for résumés, cover letters, interviews, and job-search strategies. Career education spans both curricular and extracurricular programs, including career-planning courses, professional skills training, industry and occupation seminars, company visits, employment preparation programs, and support for students pursuing careers with Korean, international, and overseas employers.
The university's emphasis on capstone projects, interdisciplinary education, entrepreneurship, and academia–industry collaboration helps students build practical skills and portfolios relevant to professional work, with academic departments and industry partners providing further opportunities to engage with real organizational and technological challenges.
Career opportunities and recruitment conditions vary by academic discipline, language proficiency, and immigration status. International students seeking employment in Korea are encouraged to develop Korean-language proficiency and confirm relevant employment and visa regulations well in advance.
Kookmin University offers a variety of field-based learning, internship, and work-experience opportunities through academic departments, the Career Development Support Office, and the Field Practice Support Center.
Available opportunities may include credit-bearing field practice, long-term placements, corporate-linked internships, ICT credit-linked programs, employment-connected internships, overseas internships, and project-based work experience, alongside industry-sponsored capstone projects, company visits, professional mentoring, and entrepreneurship programs. The university's close engagement with industry is particularly relevant to automotive and future mobility, engineering, software and information technology, art and design, business, and interdisciplinary innovation, with partnerships supporting practical training, research collaboration, and exposure to real workplace challenges.
Internship availability is not guaranteed and varies by academic department, company demand, and semester, with eligibility, selection procedures, duration, academic credit, and compensation depending on the individual program.
International students should confirm whether an opportunity is compatible with their visa status, language proficiency, and academic schedule before applying, and are encouraged to consult their academic department and the Field Practice Support Center early in their studies.
Rankings & Ratings
Kookmin University is one of the top Private for Profit universities in Seongbuk-gu, South Korea. It is ranked #1001-1200 in QS World University Rankings 2026.
QS World University Rankings
- 2022#1001-1200
- 2023#1001-1200
- 2024#1001-1200
- 2025#1201-1400
- 2026#1001-1200
QS World University Rankings
- 2022#1001-1200
- 2023#1001-1200
- 2024#1001-1200
- 2025#1201-1400
- 2026#1001-1200
Campus locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
Most degree programs at Kookmin University are taught primarily in Korean. At the undergraduate level, two majors — International Business and Mechatronics Engineering — are offered entirely in English. In other programs, selected individual courses may be delivered in English, though availability varies by department and semester. Applicants should review the latest admission guidelines and program information to confirm the language of instruction, Korean or English proficiency requirements, and graduation requirements for their intended major.
Kookmin University offers scholarships for qualified international undergraduate and graduate students. Awards may cover part or all of tuition and can be based on admission results, academic performance, Korean or English language proficiency, department criteria, or research participation. Eligible applicants may also apply for external programs such as the Global Korea Scholarship. Because scholarship amounts, eligibility, and renewal conditions vary by admission cycle, applicants should review the latest official guidelines and should not assume that admission automatically guarantees funding.
Kookmin University provides both on-campus and off-campus dormitory options. Room type, location, fee, and availability vary, and accommodation is not automatically guaranteed with admission. Dormitory facilities generally include a private shower and toilet, along with access to study, dining, and exercise spaces. Students who prefer private housing should also budget for a security deposit, utilities, and management fees, and all applicants should check the latest housing notice and application schedule before each semester.
Kookmin University is particularly known for automotive engineering and future mobility, art and design, software and artificial intelligence, and information security, cryptography, and mathematics. These strengths are reinforced by interdisciplinary education, project-based learning, and close industry collaboration, giving students opportunities to connect technology with design, business, and the humanities through capstone projects, research, entrepreneurship, and convergence programs addressing real-world challenges.
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