Receive free expert counselling for studying Korean in South Korea ✓Prices of Korean courses in Korea ✓Prerequisites ✓Dates ✓Levels ✓Accommodation. You will see here some of the available options at the time this page was published, but contact us and we will send you up-to-date information for your language immersion experience in South Korea.

How much does it cost to study Korean language courses in South Korea?

Prices of the Korean language schools in Seoul and Busan:

Prices are in American dollars (USD) and South Korean won (KRW.)

Prices of Korean courses in South Korea:

Prices are valid for registrations confirmed before October 31, 2024 (the course may start after this date).

Registration fee (non-refundable) of 200,000 KRW (or 200 USD) and training materials (10,000 KRW or 10 USD per week) are included in the prices.

Long-term program “Korean Language + Culture” in Seoul (D-4 student visa):

• 20 weeks = 6,900,000 KRW (or 6,900 USD)
• 30 weeks = 11,250,000 KRW (or 11,250 USD)
• 40 weeks = 13,600,000 KRW (or 13,600 USD)
• 50 weeks = 16,950,000 KRW (or 16,950 USD)
• 60 weeks = 20,300,000 KRW (or 20,300 USD)

Short-term semi-intensive Korean course (15 hours per week, Monday to Friday from 9am to 12:15pm):

• 1 week = 470,000 KRW (or 470 USD)
• 2 weeks = 740,000 KRW (or 740 USD)
• 3 weeks = 1,010,000 KRW (or 1,010 USD)
• 4 weeks = 1,280,000 KRW (or 1,280 USD)
• 6 weeks = 1,820,000 KRW (or 1,820 USD)
• 8 weeks = 2,360,000 KRW (or 2,360 USD)
• 10 weeks = 2,800,000 KRW (or 2,800 USD)
• 12 weeks = 3,320,000 KRW (or 3,320 USD)

Short-term intensive Korean course (25 hours per week, Monday to Friday from 9am to 3:30pm):

• 1 week = 550,000 KRW (or 550 USD)
• 2 weeks = 900,000 KRW (or 900 USD)
• 3 weeks = 1,250,000 KRW (or 1,250 USD)
• 4 weeks = 1,600,000 KRW (or 1,600 USD)
• 6 weeks = 2,300,000 KRW (or 2,300 USD)
• 8 weeks = 3,000,000 KRW (or 3,000 USD)
• 10 weeks = 3,600,000 KRW (or 3,600 USD)
• 12 weeks = 4,280,000 KRW (o 4,280 USD)

Korean lessons on weekends (Sunday from 9am to 12:15pm):

• 4 weeks = 500,000 KRW (or 500 USD)
• 8 weeks = 800,000 KRW (or 800 USD)
• 12 weeks = 1,100,000 KRW (or 1,100 USD)

Private Korean lessons:

• Registration fee = 200,000 KRW (or 200 USD)
• Materials: 10,000 KRW (or 10 USD) per 10 hours
• 1-10 hours: 70,000 KRW (or 70 USD) per hour
• 11-30 hours: 60,000 KRW (or 60 USD) per hour
• 31+ hours: 50,000 KRW (or 50 USD) per hour

Prices for accommodation while you study Korean in South Korea (optional):

• Placement fee (non-refundable) = 200,000 KRW (or 200 USD)

Host family accommodation (homestay):

• Single room, including breakfast = 294,000 KRW (or 294 USD) per week
• Single room, including breakfasts and dinners = 378,000 KRW (or 378 USD) per week

Student residence:

• Single room in Seoul = 75,000 KRW (or 75 USD) per night
• Double room in Seoul = 45,000 KRW (or 45 USD) per night per person
• Quadruple room in Seoul = 32,000 KRW (or 32 USD) per night per person
• Single room in Busan = 58,000 KRW (or 58 USD) per night
• Double room in Busan = 38,000 KRW (or 38 USD) per night per person
• Quadruple room in Busan = 28,000 KRW (or 28 USD) per night per person
• 200,000 KRW (or 200 USD) security deposit required. Cleaning fee = 80,000 KRW (or 80 USD)

Mini studio:

• Mini studio in Seoul = 182,000 KRW (or 182 USD) per week
• Mini studio in Busan = 154,000 KRW (or 154 USD) per week
• Cleaning fee = 80,000 KRW (or 80 USD)

Furnished apartment:

• Double room in a furnished apartment in Seoul (including breakfast) = 120,000 KRW (or 120 USD) per night
• Double room in a furnished apartment in Busan (including breakfast) = 90,000 KRW (or 90 USD) per night

Other costs:

• Transfer from Incheon Airport to Seoul (optional) = 130,000 KRW (or 130 USD) each way
• Transfer from Incheon Airport to Busan (optional) = 480,000 KRW (or 480 USD) each way
• Transfer from Gimhae Airport to Busan (optional) = 90,000 KRW (or 90 USD) each way
• Bank fees (for bank transfer payments) = 30,000 KRW (or 30 USD)
• Fee for credit card payments = 2.5%

Other costs in South Korea:

There will be other costs during your language stay in South Korea. But these will obviously depend on your spending habits and standard of living. Therefore, we recommend that you check the prices of daily life in South Korea.

Korean Language and Cultural Program in Seoul (D-4 Student Visa)

This special long-term program (20, 30, 40, 50 or 60 weeks) combines Korean courses that take place at Sejong University, and Korean cultural lessons with excursions organized by the Korean language school in Seoul. It takes 10 weeks per level of Korean (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2).

The program is designed for any foreigner (or Korean residing abroad) who has completed high school. All levels are accepted, from beginner to advanced, but a minimum of 8 students enrolled for each level is required. If there are not enough students enrolled in a level, the course will be postponed to the next start date.

The next scheduled start dates are March 11th 2024, June 10th 2024, September 9th 2024, December 9th 2024. The deadline to register is 7 weeks before the start date, and the language institute must receive the full payment no later than 6 weeks before the start date.

The daily schedule is from 9am to 1pm, with Korean language lessons from Monday to Thursday (organized by Sejong University) and cultural lessons and excursions on Fridays.

If you register for this program you will be able to apply for a D-4 student visa. Nationals of most countries are eligible and will thus be able to enter South Korea even during the current Covid situation.

Korean Language Courses in Korea (Seoul and Busan)

The language academy offers short-term Korean courses for adults in South Korea in two different locations: Seoul and Busan.

In each city the language school offers a range of Korean courses that adapt to all levels and to different learning objectives. Indeed, some people are only looking for a quick introduction to the Korean language and its culture. While others wish to prepare for the TOPIK exam or enter university. In any case, the Korean language schools in South Korea, in Seoul and in Busan, offer a high-quality curriculum. And its dedicated employees are always available to counsel students and help them achieve their goals.

Thanks to small classes (6 students on average per class and 12 maximum) and personalized attention from teachers, it is guaranteed that your Korean language skills will increase rapidly.

Foreign students can choose between various general or academic Korean course options:

• Intensive course with 25 Korean lessons per week from 9am to 3:30pm (full time)
• Semi-intensive course with 15 Korean lessons per week from 9am to 12:15pm (part-time)
• TOPIK Exam Preparation
• Korean for academic purposes
• Private lessons

Schedule of intensive Korean courses in South Korea:

Korean lessons in Seoul and Busan take place from Monday to Friday at the following times:

• 9:00am to 10:30am: Common curriculum
• 10:30am to 10:45am: Break
• 10:45am to 12:15pm: Common Curriculum
• 12:15pm to 13:15pm: Lunch
• 13:15pm to 14:15pm: Specific Skills*
• 14:15pm to 14:30pm: Pause
• 14:30pm to 15:30pm: Specific skills* (except Fridays as there is an activity or an excursion)

*Lessons focused on specific skills can only be taken with the full-time course of 25 lessons per week. These are optional lessons designed to allow you to focus on specific learning objectives. However, the availability of each option depends on the number of students who wish to enrol and on their levels.

The most popular options are:

• Pronunciation
• Korean through drama
• Korean through K-POP
• Latest news dictation
• Korean culture
• Business Korean language
• Intensive writing
• Conversation and discussion

It is possible to join the Korean language classes in South Korea every Monday. In addition, the language schools organize cultural activities that create opportunities for language exchange with local students.

Dates and prices

Intensive Korean Language Course for Adults

By taking this course you will gain confidence for the daily use of Korean. And you will also improve your listening and conversation skills. In addition, you will expand your knowledge of grammatical structures, enrich your vocabulary, and improve your pronunciation. And finally, you will learn a functional Korean of everyday life in an atmosphere of international study.

Beginner Program A & B (초급 A & B)

• Entry level: CEFR A1
• TOPIK: Level 1 / Level 2
• Language of instruction: Korean, English

This program is suitable for absolute beginners or for beginner levels with very basic notions of the Korean language. You will be introduced to written and spoken Korean.

Program for Intermediate Levels A & B (중급 A & B)

• Entry level: CEFR A2/B1
• TOPIK: Level 2 / Level 3
• Language of instruction: Korean, English

This program is suitable for students who have already completed the beginner level, or who wish to extend their Korean studies. You will gain fluency with Hangul writing and you will be introduced to Hanja.

Program for Advanced Levels A & B (고급 A & B)

• Entry level: CEFR B2
• TOPIK: Level 4
• Language of instruction: Korean

This program is suitable for students who have already completed the intermediate level, or who have significant previous experience of the Korean language. You will gain great oral fluency through a variety of conversation themes. During classes you will also focus on writing high-quality texts on various topics.

Dates and prices

Academic Korean language course (TOPIK preparation)

• Entry Level: CEFR C1
• TOPIK: Level 5 and above
• Language of instruction: Korean

This program is more suitable for students who have completed the advanced level and who wish to undertake higher education studies in Korean. You will focus on the language spoken at the academic level and you will focus on improving the quality of writing academic content.

The TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is a written exam designed for those whose mother language is not Korean, to assess their expression and comprehension skills. There are two versions of TOPIK: the standard TOPIK and the TOPIK for business.

It is therefore the ideal course to prepare to live, work or do graduate studies in an environment where the Korean language is spoken. By following these lessons you will:

• Be followed by a dedicated and experienced teacher in the preparation of the TOPIK.
• Improve your reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, conversation and comprehension skills.
• Conduct mock exams using past tests, with explanations for each answer and advice from the teacher.
• Perfect your level while preparing for an internationally recognized degree.

Private Korean lessons in Korea (Seoul or Busan)

It is possible to take private lessons by themselves or in addition to regular group lessons. A teacher will be assigned to you based on your personal interests and needs. You will be able to study any subject or combination of subjects. Lessons usually last an hour or two, but it is always possible to make other arrangements upon request.

Dates and prices

Korean levels

The language academy offers 6 levels of Korean. At the end of the program you will receive a certificate attesting to the level you have reached and the number of hours studied.

• Beginner (5 weeks): Absolute beginners learn the Korean alphabetic system, pronunciation, and basic conversation such as how to introduce yourself to other people or how to shop. The grammar at this level includes particles, the use of verbs, conjugations and the proper use of numbers.
• Elementary (8 weeks): You will be able to build longer sentences by learning more complex particles, tenses, endings and propositions. You will also be able to express personal experiences and projects on themes such as seasons or travel.
• Pre-intermediate (12 weeks): At this level you will have a basic knowledge of the language and you will learn to express yourself in more complex and varied situations. You will study the grammar of passive, causal and indirect expression with the objective of forming longer and more complex sentences.
• Intermediate (12 weeks): You will be able to discuss more elaborate subjects than everyday situations and you will learn to express your opinions on various topics. You will develop your knowledge of Korean culture and its customs, and you will also learn proverbs and informal expressions.
• Upper-intermediate (12 weeks): At this higher level, learning can be done through newspapers, radio or television programs and movies. You will be able to discuss specific topics and assimilate the nuances of different grammatical patterns and Korean expressions.
• Advanced (12 weeks): You will be able to answer by yourself questions about the Korean language and understand literary and specialized articles.

Description of the Korean language school in South Korea

The language academies where you can study Korean in South Korea welcome foreign students from all over the world. Those who enrol come from a wide variety of backgrounds, and they all have diverse reasons for studying Korean. Many arrive in Korea for the first time after being introduced to Korean culture through the K-Pop phenomenon. While others have already lived in Korea for several years and want to improve their language proficiency for professional reasons, to prepare for TOPIK or because they want to pursue higher education in South Korea.

Your learning experience will not be limited to the classroom. For example, “meet ups” provide a unique opportunity to get in touch with local conversation partners. You will be able to make friends with whom you will be able to explore the many attractions that make these two cities so special. The Korean language schools also offer a wide variety of activities during the week and on weekends so you can make the most of your time in South Korea.

The schools know that each person undertakes studies with their own plans, aspirations and dreams. That’s why they encourage students to maximize their learning through their “360-degree feedback” program. From your first day you will meet regularly with the academic director, the employees of the student services, and your teachers. This will ensure that you receive all possible support both in your studies and in your daily life in South Korea.

The schools accept children under 18 (the minimum age is 16), for short-term programmes only (3 months or less), but they must be accommodated in a host family (homestay) and parents must sign a parental authorization. The same school also offers summer programs for teenagers from 13 to 17 years old (from early July to mid-August) in Seoul. These are comprehensive programs (like summer camps) which include Korean language lessons, activities, and homestay accommodation.

The language school to study Korean in Seoul:

The language academy in Seoul is a short walk from Gangnam Station. It is therefore located right in the center of one of the most famous fashion and entertainment districts in Asia. There are 18 classrooms with air-conditioning, which take up the entire 11th floor of the ANY Tower, as well as part of the 12th and 14th floors. This recently built tower offers, thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows, breathtaking views of the surroundings. There are literally hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs nearby. And Seoul’s fast and very efficient subway makes this district very accessible from any part of the city.

The language school to study Korean in Busan:

The language institute in Busan is located at a 5-minute walk from Seomyeon Station. It is therefore right next to the commercial area of the city. And it has 10 classrooms equipped with with air-conditioning.

Both schools offer world-class equipment designed to ensure that students get the most out of their learning experience in a safe and comfortable environment. The teachers, qualified and experienced, will guarantee you a thrilling and intensive teaching.

MAP (My Academic Plan) Program

The MAP program will guarantee our support during your studies and even after.

Each student receives:

• An individual level test
• A personalized study plan
• An interview and an analysis during the first week
• Monthly one-on-one meetings with the academic director

This personalized plan is designed to guide your training within the Korean language academy. It is based on the results of your initial test and your first interview with the academic director. The school guarantees that your study plan will be respected, that your schedule outside the classroom will be maximized, and that your stay will bring you the best possible results.

Student services 24/7

For many people who register for studying Korean in South Korea, this is their first experience of studying in a foreign country. And for many others, their arrival at Incheon Airport is the first time in Asia. The school’s friendly and accessible team is available at all times to assist you with any problems you may encounter. You will be able to ask them questions about: accommodation, renewing your visa, extending your course, holidays, where to find a doctor, where to buy a mobile phone, public transport, booking activities, etc.

Housing Options

Homestay:

This option offers accommodation with a local family, which will allow you to experience daily Korean life and good food. There is no better way to improve your language skills and to experience the culture of this fascinating country. Like most Koreans, the families we work with are eager to share their culture with international students, and they will introduce you to hidden attractions in the city. Some families live in apartments in the city center, while others live in large houses in the suburbs. In any case you will be welcomed as a guest and you will be able to experience the hospitality for which Korean people are known.

Mini Studios:

The Korean language school works with various mini-studio options (Koshiwan), which are cheap accommodations where university students usually stay. The rooms are independent, with basic furnishings and an indoor bathroom. Kitchen and washing machines are shared, and there is always rice, fideos and kimchi available for free. You should be aware that these mini-studios are the cheapest private accommodation option in Gangnam, so the rooms are very small!

In general, the mini-studios are located at a walking distance of about fifteen minutes from the school and a few steps from an infinity of shops, restaurants and bars. They are equipped with a video surveillance system and automatic door locking, and there are security guards on site. It is therefore a very good option for women who travel alone. In addition most of the time there are floors reserved for women.

The rooms can only be occupied individually and include: a single bed, a TV / computer (internet is included), a small refrigerator, a desk with a chair, a storage room, a bathroom.

Dates and prices

Other language course options

• Korean Courses and Camps for Teenagers in South Korea

What are the prerequisites for foreigners who want to study Korean in South Korea?

Visa requirements

In order to study at the Korean language institute, you will enter South Korea either on a student visa or on a tourist visa. If you wish to obtain a student visa you must register for the long-term program (“Language + Culture”) offered by the Korean Language School in Seoul. And for short-term programs (3 months or less) you will enter South Korea as a tourist*. Nationals of most countries can stay in South Korea for up to 90 days as tourists (to be confirmed with the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country).

*Until further notice, by decision of the Korean government because of the health situation due to Covid, it is not possible for many foreigners to enter South Korea as a tourist. So for many nationalities, the only option to travel to South Korea at the moment is to enrol in the long-term Korean course in Seoul (20 weeks minimum) and apply for a student visa.

Prerequisites in terms of Korean level

There is no minimum level required in order to register since the Korean language school in South Korea accepts complete beginners. Only some specialized courses require a minimum intermediate level, such as academic preparation courses. Moreover, unlike Korean universities that offer courses on very specific dates, the Korean language academy offers great flexibility to start lessons (every Monday).

Sites of interest

• Learn more about South Korea by reading the tourist information.