Study in Korea Without Knowing Korean
Can you really study in Korea if you don't speak Korean? For a degree, the honest answer is often yes — through English-taught degree programs at a number of universities. But these programs are limited to certain schools and majors, and everyday life still leans on Korean. This guide explains what's realistic, where to look, and the limits to plan around.
The short answer
Yes — you can pursue a degree in Korea without Korean by enrolling in an English-taught (English-track) program. For admission you submit English proof such as TOEFL or IELTS instead of a TOPIK score. The catch: only some universities and some majors offer full English tracks, so availability — not your ability — is usually the real constraint.
What to know before you apply
- English-track programs are limited. A subset of universities offer them, and within those, only some departments do. Confirm your major is English-taught.
- You submit English proof, not TOPIK. Programs commonly accept TOEFL, IELTS, or a similar test; thresholds vary by university.
- Some courses may still be in Korean. "English-taught" can mean most, not 100%, of courses. Ask what share is genuinely in English.
- Graduation may have a Korean requirement. A few universities ask for a basic Korean level to graduate even on English tracks — verify.
- Daily life expects Korean. Banking, healthcare, and housing contracts are often in Korean; basic Korean makes life much smoother.
- Part-time work can depend on TOPIK. Some part-time work hour allowances are tied to your TOPIK level, so zero Korean can limit your options.
Universities commonly cited for English-taught programs
Several universities are frequently mentioned as offering substantial English-track options — for example Korea University, Yonsei University (through its Underwood International College), and KAIST, where a large share of instruction can be in English. This is a starting point for your own research, not a ranking or guarantee. See our universities guide for more, and always confirm English-track availability for your specific major on each university's official page.
How to verify a program is genuinely English-taught
- Open the university's official international admissions page.
- Find the specific department or program you want.
- Look for an "English Track," "International College," or "medium of instruction: English" note.
- Check the language-proof requirement (English test accepted vs TOPIK required).
- Read any graduation-stage Korean requirement.
- Email the international office to confirm the share of courses in English.
Even on an English track, a little Korean goes a long way. You can book a 1-on-1 tutor to learn the basics before you arrive on italki.
Learn basic Korean with a tutor on italkiFrequently asked questions
Can I study in Korea without any Korean?
Yes, through English-taught degree programs where you apply with English proof instead of TOPIK. Availability is limited to certain universities and majors, so confirm your program is English-taught.
Which universities teach in English?
Universities commonly cited include Korea University, Yonsei (Underwood International College), and KAIST, where a large share of courses can be in English. Available majors and the English share vary — verify on each official page.
Do I still need TOPIK?
Usually not for admission to a fully English-taught program. Some universities ask for a basic Korean level for graduation or daily life. Confirm the exact requirement on the official program page.
Is it hard to live without Korean?
Daily life is easier on international campuses and in big cities, but banking, healthcare, and housing often expect Korean. Most students learn basic Korean anyway.
Should I learn Korean before arriving?
It is strongly recommended even for English-track students — it helps with housing, part-time work eligibility, and daily life. Learning early reduces stress.
Last reviewed June 2026.