MBBS (Medical Studies) Universities in South Korea for International Students
MBBS (medical studies) is considered very good in South Korea, because the hospitals and teaching methods there are very modern. But it is very difficult for international students to get admission in medical there. The main reason is that most medical programs are taught in Korean, and the competition is also very tough. Still, if you try hard and prepare, it can be possible. Here are some of the best MBBS universities in South Korea and information about them.
Best MBBS Universities in South Korea for International Students
South Korea is very advanced in the field of medicine. The hospitals here use new technology and there is a lot of emphasis on research. But it is not easy for international students to study to become a doctor (MBBS/MD) here, because most universities teach in Korean.
Important: Medical education in South Korea usually lasts 6 years: first 2 years of pre-medical (foundations of medicine) and then 4 years of actual medical program (clinical training).
Also Check: How to do MBBS and Become a MBBS Doctor in South Korea
Here are some universities that are very famous in the medical field and have a name internationally:
1. Seoul National University (SNU)
What is it? It is considered the number 1 university in South Korea,
just like Harvard in the US. Its medical education is also famous worldwide.
Highlights:
- Higher education and research: This University is at the forefront of both education and research. Here you get the opportunity to work with great doctors and gain experience.
- Modern hospital: It is affiliated with Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH), which is the largest and most modern hospital in Korea.
- Difficulty of admission: It is very difficult for international students to get admission here. Generally, you should have a very good command of Korean (TOPIK level 5 or 6) and excellent grades in your previous studies.
- Programs:
MBBS/MD, Masters, and PhD programs are also available.
Why it’s important to you: If you really want the best education and you can master the Korean language, this might be the best choice for you.
2. Yonsei University
What is it? Yonsei University is also one of Korea’s “SKY” universities
(along with SNU and Korea University). It is also a very old and
well-established university.
Highlights:
- World-class: Yonsei’s medical faculty (faculty) and curriculum are very good and world-class.
- Rigorous practical training: It is affiliated with Severance Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in Korea and where students get a lot of practical training.
- Diversity and Global Collaboration: Students from many countries study here, and the university continues to collaborate in the field of medicine on a global scale.
- Difficulty of Admission: Admission is also very difficult here, and good Korean
language skills are essential.
Why it's important to you: This is also a great choice, especially if you want to have a rich university life and gain experience in world-class medical education.
3. Korea University
What is it? This is also part of the "SKY" universities. It
is known for its research and excellent training in medical education.
Highlights:
- Old and experienced: Korea University College of Medicine (KUCM) is one of the oldest and most famous medical schools in Korea.
- Practical training: Students here receive practical training at the Korea University Medical Center (KUMC), which includes several major hospitals.
- Emphasis on research:
It places a strong emphasis on new medical research and technology.
Difficulty of Admission: Admission is also very difficult here, and proficiency in Korean is very important.
Why it's important to you: If you want to study in a place where both research and practical training are given importance, this is a great choice.
4. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)
What is it? This is another big and good university, especially in the
field of medicine. It is affiliated with Samsung Medical Center.
Highlights:
- State-of-the-art education: It provides medical education with modern technology and research. They are especially known for their biomedical and cancer research.
- Samsung affiliation: Being affiliated with Samsung Medical Center, students get very good practical training and modern facilities.
- Research opportunity:
Here you can get very good research opportunities.
Why it's important to you: If you are interested in modern medical technology and research, this can be a great choice.
5. University of Ulsan
What is it? This is also a prominent name in the medical field. It is
affiliated with Asan Medical Center, one of the largest hospitals in Korea.
Highlights:
- World-class: Due to Asan Medical Center, medical education and practical training here are of very high quality.
- Research: There is also a strong emphasis on research here.
- Admissions:
Competition is also fierce here.
Why it is important for you: If you want practical training in a large and well-known hospital, this is a good option.
Also Check: GKS Undergraduate Program Scholarship 2026
Other Good Universities for MBBS in South Korea
These universities may also have MBBS programs:
- Catholic University of Korea: This is also a good medical university that emphasizes ethics and patient care.
- Pusan National University: It is located in Busan and is also well-known in the medical field.
- Kyung Hee University: It is also famous for its medical education.
Important MBBS Admission Requirements for International Students
1. Korean Language Proficiency
This is the most important requirement! Most medical programs are conducted in Korean. You will need to score at least level 5 or 6 in TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean). If your Korean is not good, you may have a hard time.
2. Excellent Academic Record
Your previous studies (high school, intermediate, or bachelors, whatever you did) should have very good grades. Especially in science subjects (biology, chemistry, physics).
3. Age Limit
Some universities have an age limit, especially for undergraduate programs (e.g. under 25 years old).
4. Interview
Most universities have an interview for admission, which looks at your personality, thinking ability, and determination to become a doctor.
5. Entrance Test
Some universities may also conduct their own entrance tests.
Also Check: Global Korea Scholarship Graduate Program 2026
Required Documents for MBBS Admissions
- Copy of passport.
- Transcript of all previous academic qualifications and grades.
- Personal Statement: In which you explain why you want to become a doctor, and what you have prepared for it.
- Recommendation Letters: From your teachers or principal.
- Proof of Korean or English language proficiency (TOPIK, IELTS, TOEFL scores).
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statement, etc.).
- Proof of non-Korean family.
Some Important Points to Remember
1. Competition
Medical seats in South Korea are very few and competition is very fierce, especially for international students.
2. Programs in English
Very few medical programs are taught entirely in English. Even if a university teaches in English, knowledge of Korean is still essential for communicating with locals and patients.
3. Costs of Studying MBBS in South Korea
Studying medicine in Korea can be expensive (annual fees can range from 40,000 to 70,000 USD or more), but scholarships (especially GKS) can be very helpful.
4. Licensing Requirements for Doctors in South Korea
After earning a medical degree in Korea, you will need to pass their licensing exams to work as a doctor in Korea, which are conducted in Korean.
Conclusion: How to Succeed in MBBS Admission in South Korea
If you plan to do your MBBS in Korea, first improve your Korean language skills and then be sure to check the latest admission requirements and deadlines for international students by visiting the official websites of these universities. The information may change every year.