14 Best Universities In Busan For International Students 2026

Busan is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in South Korea. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 14 universities and colleges in Busan, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 14 universities in Busan, Pusan National University and Pukyong National University are the top-performing schools in Busan. This list covers both public and private institutions in Busan.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Busan. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Busan.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Busan?

Applying to the universities in Busan involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Busan to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Busan?

Tuition fees at Busan’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 3,406,000 KRW to 11,932,500 KRW , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 4,140,000 KRW to 15,618,300 KRW. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Busan!

As we cover the best universities in Busan for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Busan for International Students

Pusan National University (PNU), also known as Busan National University, is a prominent educational institution in Busan, South Korea. The university’s mission is to pursue excellence in education and research while promoting regional development and global cooperation. Moreover, PNU aims to cultivate talented individuals who possess a sense of social responsibility and contribute to advancing knowledge. It stands out for its diverse array of academic programs, dedicated emphasis on STEM disciplines, a prominent position as a leading research institution in South Korea, and unwavering dedication to community engagement and making a positive social impact.

Pukyong National University (PKNU), also known as Pukyong or PKNU, is a prestigious national university in Busan, South Korea. Since its inception, PKNU has been driven by a strong mission to cultivate talented individuals with knowledge, skills, and ethical values to contribute to society. The university excels in marine and maritime studies, boasting state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborations with industry partners. Moreover, it takes pride in its commitment to fostering innovation and global engagement, making it a premier institution for higher education in South Korea.

Dong-A University, located in the bustling port city of Busan, is one of the top universities in the country. It offers a range of programs on its three campuses in Seunghak, Gudeok, and Bumin, which are organized by academic disciplines. The Gudeok campus is the university’s original campus, the Seunghak campus houses the university administration, and the Bumin campus is the modest recent addition, equipped with the latest facilities and housing the university museum.

Dongseo University, also known as DSU, is a leading institution of higher education located in Busan, South Korea. DSU’s mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that nurtures global leaders with practical skills and a global perspective. With multiple campuses across Busan, including the Centum and Saha campuses, DSU offers a dynamic learning environment enriched with modern facilities and cutting-edge resources. The university fosters industry partnerships and provides ample opportunities for students to engage in practical learning experiences through internships and collaborative projects.

Kyungsung University is a private university established in 1955 by a pastor named Kim Gilchang. Kyungsung University has the most frequent relocation among universities in Busan, and it is a school with many twists and turns, with the student movement in Busan taking the lead in 1986. Gyeongseong, the school name, is not related to Gyeongseong, one of the several names of the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

Dong-Eui University is one of the outstanding private institutions in Busan City. It focuses on the employability of its graduates, hoping to produce skilled graduates in high-demand sectors. As a testament to its resolve to ensure its students are well-prepared for a successful career, the university operates a systematic job search support system. It also keeps in touch with numerous industries to monitor shifts in job requirements and provide its students with future-proof education.

Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU), also known as Mokpo National Maritime University, is a leading institution dedicated to maritime and ocean studies in South Korea. With its commitment to maritime education and its significant contributions to the industry, it has gained popularity as an institution that prepares students for successful careers in the maritime field. It aims to foster global leaders in maritime industries through specialized education, research, and training.

Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), or Pukyong National University, is a leading institution specializing in foreign language education in South Korea. Established in 1981, BUFS aims to cultivate global citizens with proficient language skills and a deep understanding of international cultures. The university’s vision is to be a global hub for education and research, fostering global competence and intercultural communication. With a diverse student body and internationally acclaimed faculty, BUFS offers many programs and opportunities for students to thrive in the globalized world.

Tongmyong University, or TMU, is a private university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1977 and has since become a prominent institution of higher education in the region. The university aims to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for their chosen professions and promotes personal and intellectual growth. The campus of Tongmyong University offers modern facilities and resources to support student learning and campus life. These include libraries, research centers, computer labs, sports facilities, student clubs, and dormitories.

Silla University, known as SU, is a reputable institution of higher education in South Korea. Guided by its mission to cultivate competent individuals and contribute to society, SU envisions itself as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. The university strongly emphasizes research and collaboration, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects. Moreover, with its commitment to excellence and holistic development, SU is the first choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience.

Busan National University of Education (BNUE) is a state-owned institution in Busan City, South Korea, responsible for producing some of the country’s most talented teachers and educators. It is among the top ten national universities dedicated to teacher training. BNUE should not be confused with Pusan or Busan National University, another public university in the same city. The two institutions are distinct but share similar names due to their national origins and similar locations.

Catholic University of Pusan is a private Catholic university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1964 by the Catholic Church and remains affiliated with the Catholic Diocese of Busan. As a Catholic institution, the Catholic University of Busan strongly emphasizes fostering spiritual development, moral values, and service to the community. The university encourages students to actively participate in religious activities, community service, and volunteer work.

Busan Women’s College, commonly known as BWC, is a respected institution dedicated to empowering women through education and fostering their leadership skills in South Korea. BWC’s mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive learning environment that equips women with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in their chosen fields. The college offers various programs across disciplines, focusing on nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to tackle societal challenges. BWC takes pride in its supportive faculty, modern facilities, and commitment to women’s education and advancement.

Kosin University, also known as Kosin University Medical School, is a prestigious educational institution in Busan, South Korea. Established in 1946, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering various academic programs across multiple disciplines. It is renowned for its medical school, which is one of the leading medical institutions in South Korea. Moreover, the university places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It collaborates with other academic institutions, industry partners, and research organizations to foster research collaborations and contribute to scientific advancements.