"Isn't it better to attend universities in Seoul?"

It’s a question many international students, myself included, ask when considering studying in Korea. Seoul is home to a lot of Korea's prestigious university, which seems like the obvious choice for most people. But what if the best-kept secret for your academic and cultural growth lies outside the capital city?

I am a Malaysian Global Korea Scholarship scholar, currently in my third year at Kangwon National University or also known as KNU. International students here get more than just a degree, we experience true Korean life in its most authentic form. Away from the hustle and bustle of Seoul, KNU offers the perfect blend of great education and real-life cultural immersion. It’s time to rethink what a truly life-changing study experience in Korea could look like.

How I Discovered KNU: The Search for Something Different

When I first started researching universities in Korea, I, like many others, found myself drawn to the big names in Seoul. They are the universities everyone talks about, and I thought they were the only options for international students seeking a high-quality education in Korea.

So, before finding KNU, I first learned about the GKS University Track during my research into scholarships and university programs in Korea. Unlike the GKS Embassy Track, which involves the Korean Embassy’s selection, the University Track allows students to apply directly through the university of their choice. I was excited to find that the University Track had a list of eligible universities, including KNU.

That time, I also found out how Korea’s universities can generally be divided into private universities and government universities. Private universities are often more expensive and can be more competitive when it comes to admissions due to its rankings, government universities offer affordable education while still providing plenty of opportunities and continuous support from the government ! So, that time I was interested in Kangwon National University ! Why? This will be the place where I truly grew both academically and culturally ! The discovery was even more rewarding because of the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) University Track, which helped make my dream a reality.

My first introduction to Kangwon National University (KNU) came in the most unexpected (and fun) way. I found a rap video from KNU's rap team, giving an energetic and fun introduction to the school. Honestly, I didn’t know what to expect, but after watching it, I could tell that the university wasn’t just about books and exams, it had a cool, lively spirit that made me feel like it could be the perfect fit for me! If you want to see what I mean, here’s the video.

So, I first discovered KNU through the GKS scholarship, but it was a YouTube video that truly introduced me to the university! It was such an unexpected way, don’t you think?

Why I Chose KNU: Seeking Academic and Cultural Growth

I found the process of applying through the GKS University Track to be more personalized and direct, as it gave me the chance to write personal statements and essays that were deeply connected to my choice of university. After going through the list of universities, I chose KNU because of its unique location. During the weekdays, I can focus on my studies in the peaceful nature environment of Chuncheon, free from distractions. While KNU is nestled in the mountains, it's just an hour and a half away from Seoul, so I can easily enjoy the capital's attractions when I need a break from my academic routine.

Chuncheon, which has a smaller number of non-Korean students compared to larger cities like Seoul. This environment helps in immersing myself in Korean culture and language more deeply. With fewer international students around, I found myself using Korean more often, which has significantly improved my language skills. It's also easier to make Korean friends, as the local students are welcoming. This immersion has been a key factor in my personal and academic growth in Korea.

Another big advantage is the lower cost of living. Studying abroad is an incredible opportunity and while great education is essential, the quality of living plays a bigger role than you might think. Having a comfortable living space is crucial, as it directly affects your well-being and focus on studies. The affordability of living expenses is just as important, and this was one of the reasons I chose KNU. Everything is much more affordable, allowing me to focus on my academics without the financial stress. Although I’ve only lived in the dormitory for one semester, I’ve already realized how great it is. The dorms are in excellent condition and very affordable, costing around 700,000 KRW per semester. Each room is similar to a one-room apartment, but shared by two people.

In every room, it comes with a huge fridge, a kitchen, large windows, and a designated drying area, making it a comfortable and practical living space.