35 public universities in South Korea in 2026
The public universities in South Korea offer accessible education to as many students as possible, with recognised programs and a strong tradition of academic research.
35 public universities
South Korea has public institutions offering a wide range of programs, often with government-regulated fees and a strong tradition of academic research.
DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)
Public research institute in Daegu dedicated to convergence science, engineering and emerging technologies.
GIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)
Public research institute in Gwangju wholly dedicated to science and technology, with tuition fully funded.
Kumoh National Institute of Technology
Public engineering institute in Gumi, at the heart of Korea's electronics corridor, practice-focused.
KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
Leading public research institute in Daejeon, a global frontrunner in science, engineering, AI and advanced technologies.
UNIST (Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology)
Public research institute in Ulsan devoted to science, engineering and convergence technologies, highly international.
Korea Maritime and Ocean University
Public university in Busan specializing in maritime sciences, naval engineering and global shipping.
University of Seoul
Public university funded by the City of Seoul, renowned for urban planning, design and social sciences.
Mokpo National Maritime University
Public university in the port of Mokpo specializing in navigation, marine engineering and fisheries.
Korea National University of Education
South Korea's only public university entirely dedicated to teacher training and education sciences, located in Cheongju.
Korea National University of Transportation
Public university in Chungju, Korea's leading institution for transport, logistics and mobility engineering.
Andong National University
Public university in Andong, the heart of traditional Korean culture, strong in humanities and engineering.
Incheon National University
Public university in Incheon's global Songdo cluster, oriented toward global and international studies.
Pusan National University
First public university in Korea (1946), the scientific and industrial engine of the Busan metropolitan area.
Changwon National University
Public university in Changwon at the heart of South Gyeongsang's mechanical industrial cluster.
Chonnam National University
National university in Gwangju, a symbol of Korean democracy, strong in medicine and engineering.
Chungbuk National University
Public university in Cheongju, the leading research and medical institution of North Chungcheong Province.
Chungnam National University
National university in Daejeon, at the heart of Korea's science cluster, strong in engineering and health.
Gangneung-Wonju National University
Public university in Gangwon Province with campuses in Gangneung and Wonju, recognized for regional sciences.
Gyeongsang National University
Major public university in Jinju, recognized for research in engineering, agriculture and veterinary medicine.
Hanbat National University
Public university in Daejeon, recognized for applied engineering and strong ties with technology companies.
Hankyong National University
Public university in Anseong specializing in bio-industries and the convergence of technology and agriculture.
Jeju National University
Public university on Jeju Island, recognized for marine sciences, tourism and renewable energy programs.
Jeonbuk National University
National university in Jeonju, flagship of Jeollabuk-do, known for value and research strength.
Kangwon National University
Major public university in Chuncheon, a Korean pioneer in renewable energy and green industries.