Yonsei University is one of South Korea's oldest, most prestigious, and internationally recognized private research universities. Founded in 1885, it was established by Protestant Christian missionaries and has grown into one of the country's leading institutions of higher education. As a member of South Korea's elite SKY Universities (Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University), it is known for academic excellence, research innovation, and global engagement.
| Motto / Slogan | Cognoscetis Veritatem et Veritas Liberabit Vos |
| Colour | Royal Blue |
| Mascot | Eagle |
| Founded | 1885 |
| Location | Seodaemun, Seoul, South Korea |
| Address | Yonsei University 50 Yonsei-ro Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea |
Yonsei University serves as the “alma mater” of all arts and sciences, nurturing leaders who will contribute to the Korean and international society in the ecumenical spirit of Christian teaching epitomized in its motto of “truth and freedom.” Yonseians will inherit humanity’s cultural legacy and lead academic development through creativity and critical thinking. We will also serve others with an open heart, and contribute to the prosperity of humankind. With these missions, we Yonseians will demonstrate our leadership to bring the Yonsei spirit to the global stage.
Yonsei University is dedicated to educating future leaders of our society in the spirit of Christianity, fostering a strong and lasting commitment to the principles of truth and freedom.“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples, then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” [John 8:31-32]
Pursuing Truth and Freedom, Unlocking Human Potential
Education:
Establish a learning environmentoriented towards the pursuit oftruth through self-directed learningand challenging experiences.
Research:
Create future knowledgeand value to solve the challengeshumanity and the Earth face.
Partnership:
Build a collaborative ecosystemwith local communities andindustries to propel our societyforward
Global:
Strengthen globalcapabilities and impact.
Devotion:
Contribute to society throughthe practice of Christian valuesand Yonsei spirit.
Governance:
Grow Yonsei spirit throughconfidence in its community.
Home to numerous research institutes and innovation centers. Students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research alongside distinguished faculty. Collaborates with leading universities and industries worldwide.
The university provides:
Ranked among the top universities in South Korea and consistently placed within the top 100–150 universities worldwide in major global rankings. Degrees from Yonsei are highly respected by employers and universities around the world.
Students can enjoy: Hundreds of clubs and societies, Cultural festivals, Sports competitions, Volunteer activities, Leadership programs, Networking events with local and international students.
Admission requirements vary by program. View the specific requirements on the program page.
Admission requirements vary by program. View the specific requirements on the program page.
Applications must be submitted online through the Yonsei Portal Service; however, students in their final semester (8 Master's, 14 Ph.D., 16 Integrated), those with changes in academic status within the same semester (taking a leave of absence again after returning to school), medical leave, or start-up leave must apply offline.
After clicking Yonsei Portal Service - Academic Information System - Academic Management - Student Records - [Leave of Absence & Return to School], selecting the type of leave of absence, and submitting the application yourself, you must contact the department office to request approval.
Email: [email protected],[email protected]
Phone : 02)2123-4109
2026.05 Honorary Doctor of Medicine, Keio University
2024.02 - Present 20th President, Yonsei University
2020.08 - 2024.02 President & CEO, Yonsei University Health System
2022.05 - 2024.05 President, Korean Hospital Association.https://www.yonsei.ac.kr/en_sc/1755/subview.do
April 10, 1885
Gwanghyewon, Korea’s first western hospital,is established as a royal medical institution.
April, 1899
Chejungwon, the first formal medical school,with Dr. Oliver R. Avison as its first head.
September 3, 1904
Severance Hospital was reconstructed througha donation from Mr. L.H Severance.
March 5, 1915
Chosen Christian College was established in Y.M.C.Awith Won Do Woo as its first principal,and Avison as the vice-principal.
June, 1942
Severance Medical School was forced to changeits name to "Asahi Medical School."
August 17, 1942
The Japanese designated Yonhi College of being an"enemy property" and appointed the first Japaneseprincipal after overtaking it.
April, 1944
Yonhi College forced to change its name to"Gyeong Seong College of Administration."
August, 1946
Yonhi College was officially recognized as a university,with four colleges and 11 departments.
March 23, 1955
Yonhi College and Severance Medical School merged.