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Learn Korean in Korea: Discover schools, prices, and best seasons
The must-have guide if you want to learn Korean in South Korea along with an overview of expenses, scholarships, schools and agencies.
South Korea offers a variety of educational opportunities for international students interested in learning Korean. If your goal is to study the language while experiencing the culture firsthand, we’ve put together some useful information to help you make it happen and get the most out of your language learning journey.
In this article, we’ll cover the key things you need to plan your Korean language study trip—like costs, available scholarships, and housing options. Keep reading to find out how you can turn your dream of studying in South Korea into a reality.
How much does it cost to learn Korean in South Korea?
When planning your studies in South Korea, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the potential expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs you can expect:
| Concept | Price range (KRW) | Price range (USD) |
| Tuition (10-week course) | 1,180,000 – 1,800,000 | 1,000 – 1,530 |
| Accommodation (monthly) | 300,000 – 800,000 | 255 – 680 |
| Food (monthly) | 300,000 – 500,000 | 255 – 425 |
| Transportation (monthly pass) | 62,000 | 53 |
| Other expenses (monthly) | 200,000 – 400,000 | 170 – 340 |
Note: Values in USD are approximate and may vary according to the exchange rate.
Breakdown of expenses
- Tuition: Korean language program costs can vary depending on the institution. For instance, Seoul National University offers 10-week courses for around 1,180,000 KRW ($860), while Hanyang University’s programs start at approximately 2,718,000 KRW ($1,980).
- Accommodation: Housing options include university dorms, goshiwons (small single rooms), and shared apartments. Dorms are usually the most budget-friendly, typically ranging from 402,000 to 501,000 KRW ($293-365) per semester.
- Food: Eating at budget-friendly restaurants costs around 10,000 KRW ($7) per meal, but cooking at home can help you save a lot on food expenses.
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass costs approximately 62,000 KRW ($40), which makes it easy to get around the city.
- Other expenses: This includes utilities, a mobile phone plan, study materials, and entertainment. Depending on your lifestyle, these expenses can add up to between 200,000 and 400,000 KRW ($145-291) per month.
Connectivity during your stay in South Korea
Staying connected is more important than ever—whether it’s for studying, working, keeping in touch with family, or discovering new experiences around the city. If you want reliable connectivity while you’re in South Korea, Holafly has you covered. With their eSIMs, you can enjoy unlimited data without worrying about expensive roaming charges. Plus, setup is quick and easy, and you can keep your WhatsApp number too.
If you are going to work, we recommend Holafly Plans that allows you to share your connection with other devices and include unlimited data.
Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 170 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍
Where to get scholarships to learn Korean in South Korea?
If you are looking for funding to study Korean in South Korea, learn about some scholarship options that could help you reach your goal:
- National Institute for International Education (NIIED) Scholarship: This government organization offers the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), which includes Korean language courses. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, and health insurance.
- Scholarships from Korean universities: Many universities, including Yonsei University and Korea University, offer scholarships specifically for international students looking to study Korean. These scholarships can cover tuition either partially or in full, and some even provide additional support for living expenses.
- Private foundations: Organizations like the Korea Foundation offer scholarships for Korean language and cultural studies, covering tuition and sometimes even providing a monthly stipend.
Best schools to study Korean in South Korea
Here are some of the best schools to learn Korean in South Korea, with details about their programs and accommodation options:
Rolling Korea Language & Culture School – With accommodation
Located in the heart of Seoul, Rolling Korea is known for its dynamic, modern approach to teaching Korean. It offers intensive, semi-intensive, and specialized programs that combine Korean language learning with K-POP, catering to all skill levels. Courses are flexible, ranging from 1 to 21 weeks, with prices between $1,063 and $1,955 depending on the program and duration. Rolling Korea also provides housing in nearby student residences, making it easy for international students to enjoy a comfortable and immersive experience.
Lexis Korea – For adults
With campuses in both Seoul and Busan, Lexis Korea is well-regarded for its high-quality Korean language programs for adult learners. They offer full-time and part-time intensive courses lasting anywhere from 1 to 52 weeks. Designed for students aged 16 and up, tuition starts at $397 per week. While housing isn’t provided directly by the school, they do offer support in finding accommodations that match each student’s needs and preferences.
When choosing a school, think about factors like location, course type, housing options, and your budget to find the program that best fits your needs and learning goals.
Green Korean Language School – No accommodation
Also located in central Seoul, Green Korean Language School is known for its communicative approach to teaching Korean. While it doesn’t provide housing directly, the school helps students find accommodation that suits their needs. It offers intensive and conversation-focused courses for all levels, with flexible durations. Prices vary depending on the type and length of the course.
How to learn Korean in South Korea and work at the same time?
If you’re an international student looking to study Korean in South Korea while working, it’s important to meet certain requirements set by the South Korean government.
- Adequate visa: Students must hold either a D-2 visa (for university studies) or a D-4 visa (for language programs). Before starting any kind of job, it’s mandatory to get prior approval from the Global Services Center (GSC) and the immigration office.
- Academic and language requirements: Students are required to have completed at least six months of study in Korea and typically need a minimum level of Korean proficiency—usually TOPIK Level 2.
- Limits on working hours: You are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during vacations.
- Types of jobs allowed: Students often find part-time work in areas like language tutoring, food and beverage service, retail, and administrative roles.
It is essential to comply with these regulations to avoid penalties or possible visa revocation.
Best seasons to study Korean in South Korea
South Korea experiences four distinct seasons, each with unique characteristics.
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and cherry blossoms, creating a colorful environment to study.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid weather, coupled with the rainy season.
- Autumn (September to November): Cool weather and clear skies, with landscapes embellished by brightly colored leaves.
- Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures, often below freezing, with snowfall in several regions.
The spring and autumn seasons are generally the most recommended for studying, due to their mild climate and comfortable conditions.
Popular agencies for studying Korean in South Korea
Go! Go! Hanguk
Go! Go! Hanguk is a free, full-service agency that helps international students who want to study Korean in South Korea. They assist with everything from choosing the right school and securing a visa to finding accommodation. They also offer insights into life in Korea and organize cultural events to help students immerse themselves in the local experience.
CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange)
CIEE offers study abroad programs in South Korea, giving students the opportunity to take courses in a range of subjects, including Korean language and culture. Their services include enrollment at Korean universities, pre-departure orientation, on-site support, and cultural activities.
ESL – Idiomas
ESL – Idiomas is an international agency that offers language programs around the world, including in South Korea. They partner with top-rated schools in cities like Seoul and Busan, helping students fully immerse themselves in Korean language and culture.
Services offered:
- School selection: Personalized advice to choose the institution that best suits your goals and needs.
- Accommodation: Options that include host families and student residences.
- Cultural activities: Organization of events and excursions to enrich your experience in South Korea.
Study Over Borders
Study Over Borders is an agency that specializes in study abroad programs, offering free guidance for those interested in learning Korean in South Korea. They provide detailed information on costs, requirements, accommodation options, course dates, and available levels.
Services offered:
- Personalized counseling: Guiding you in selecting the program and school that best fit your needs.
- Complete information: Details on course costs, admission requirements, housing options and start dates.
Frequently asked questions about studying Korean in South Korea
It is not mandatory, but having basic knowledge can make it easier to adapt and live in the country on a daily basis.
For language programs, a D-4 visa is usually required. It’s a good idea to check with the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, it’s possible, but there are specific regulations—such as limits on working hours and language proficiency requirements. It’s crucial to get the proper authorization before starting any job.
Seoul, Busan and Daegu are popular cities that are home to renowned educational institutions and offer a rich cultural experience.
Many schools help students find housing, whether it’s in dormitories, shared apartments, or goshiwons. There are also agencies and online platforms that can assist with your search.
