As South Korea's first national university, SNU acts as a model for public higher education in the country. It features an expansive library system and houses a student population of over 38,000. The university is globally recognized for its rigorous curriculum, prominent alumni, and location across three main campuses (Gwanak, Daehangno, and Pyeongchang).
| Acronym | SNU |
| Motto / Slogan | ‘Veritas Lux Mea,’ Latin for ‘Truth is My Light.’ |
| Colour | Blue, Beige, Gray, Gold, Silver |
| Mascot | Crane and Zelkova Tree |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Location | Gwanak, Seoul, South Korea |
| Address | Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea |
Cultivating Innovative Leaders across Disciplines for a Better Tomorrow
Shaping Visionary Leaders with Interdisciplinary Excellence
At the heart of our mission is the commitment to develop forward-thinking leaders who transcend traditional academic boundaries. Our curriculum is meticulously designed to equip students with a blend of foundational competencies and specialized expertise, ensuring they are prepared for the dynamic challenges of tomorrow's world. By maintaining a steadfast focus on core academic principles while embracing the forefront of innovation, we not only meet but anticipate the evolving demands of society and lead the way in scientific and technological advancements.
Fostering Leaders with Community Engagement and Global Insights
Seoul National University is at the forefront of pioneering an integrative residential college experience, seamlessly blending 'Living and Learning.' This innovative approach is designed to nurture not only academically talented individuals but also those with a profound sense of community through rich exchanges and dialogue. Our students are encouraged to engage in deep discussions about diverse values and pressing global challenges, cultivating a generation of global citizens who possess a deep understanding of and respect for different cultures and perspectives.
Addressing Humanity's Challenges and Advancing Scientific Discovery for Societal Impact
Advancing Global Problem-Solving Through Expanded Transdisciplinary and International Research Collaborations
Seoul National University is dedicated to confronting the complex challenges facing humanity by fostering extensive global collaborations across industries, academia, and research institutions. We are committed to orchestrating strategic research partnerships, laying the groundwork for a transdisciplinary research ecosystem that spans from initial incubation to the establishment of enduring global research networks. Our aim is to catalyze solutions to global issues through innovative, collaborative research endeavors.
Facilitating Knowledge Exchange and Policy Innovation
We are committed to leveraging our academic capital to facilitate a robust exchange of ideas, research findings, and knowledge across all sectors of society, including government and the public. Through our Institute for Future Strategy, we engage in transdisciplinary research to envision the future and offer policy recommendations, positioning ourselves as a pivotal national think tank for shaping long-term strategic directions.
Revolutionizing University Operations for Enhanced Autonomy
Seoul National University is at the vanguard of innovating university operations, championing the drive towards greater institutional autonomy. Our initiatives are aimed at fostering an agile, responsive, and empowered academic environment, setting new standards for excellence in higher education.
Championing Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
In alignment with the global imperative for carbon neutrality, we have established the ESG Committee to spearhead our environmental policy initiatives. Our commitment to ESG principles extends to encouraging student-led environmental projects, with the goal of cultivating a sustainable, green campus culture that reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
Since its founding, Seoul National University (SNU) has been a leader in liberal education and academic excellence. It admits Korea's top-performing students, with freshmen ranking among the top 2.5% in the national entrance exam. 95.6% of its faculty hold doctoral degrees from prestigious universities worldwide. SNU's outstanding teaching, research, and global outlook contribute to the nation's highest graduate satisfaction and career success.
Seoul National University (SNU) is globally recognized for its cutting-edge research, particularly in Engineering and Natural Sciences. Many of its departments rank among the world's top 20 for Scientific Citation Index (SCI) publications and citations. Based on research impact and citation performance, SNU's research capacity is comparable to that of the top 10–30 universities in the United States, reflecting its strong global academic reputation.
Seoul National University (SNU) offers a rich academic and cultural environment with daily public lectures, international guest speakers, and two nationally acclaimed museums. Students benefit from modern facilities, including a medical center, counseling services, sports and recreation centers, and a high-tech campus featuring campus-wide wireless internet and a high-speed gigabit network, ensuring an excellent learning and living experience.
Since its foundation in 1946, Seoul National University has been the undisputed leader of higher education in Korean and has established a global reputation. Its graduates have long served as leaders in Korean society and in the international community.
Admission requirements vary by program. View the admission requirements on the program page.
Admission requirements vary by program. View the admission requirements on the program page.
Apply through the Online Application. View the application guide.
Email: [email protected],[email protected]
Phone : +82-2-880-6971, +82-2-880-6977
2017.6 ~ 2018.6 President, Korean Society for Political Thought
2016.9 ~ 2018.8 Chair, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Seoul National University
2013.3 ~ 2015.2 University Archivist, Seoul National University
2012.8 ~ 2015.7 Editor-in-Chief, Daehakshinmoon [SNU newspaper... read more
2016.01. ~ 2017.12. Chairman of the Education Commit... read more
September 2013 – August 2015 Deputy Director of the Seoul National University Admissions Office
2006.01. ~ 2007.12. Editor-in-Chief of the *Korean Journal of Archaeology*
Feb. 2004 – Present Professor, Department of Archaeology and Art History, College of Humanities, Seoul National University
Korean Emperor Gojong establishes a modern higher education system to promote the nation’s independence.
Achieving Democracy
After a long struggle for democracy, the university becomes normalized, leading to a great increase in the number of students and faculty members.
Becoming a world-class research university
SNU implements a long-term plan to further strengthen its undergraduate education and to become a research-oriented university.
Becoming a Leading University through Corporatization
Transitioning from a government institution to an autonomous corporation, SNU begins its journey to become a world-leading university.
2025 -50th Anniversary of SNU Integration
SNU, integrated into the Gwanak campus in 1975, is marking its 50th anniversary of integration in 2025, breaking down the disciplinary boundaries to emerge as a global academic community.