medical education in korea

South Korea: Healthcare Workforce Education and Training

Medical Graduates Per 100,000 Population (2019): 7.4 Nursing Graduates Per 100,000 Population (2019): 100.2

Source: OECD (2021), Health at a Glance 2021: OECD Indicators , OECD Publishing, Paris, https://doi.org/10.1787/ae3016b9-en.

Tuition Fee Per Semester in USD for a Graduate Degree in Medicines: $2,510-$10,960.

Source: Tuition Fees in Korea. Study In Korea, Run By Korean Government. From the web at https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/overseas_info/allnew_tuitionFees.do , last accessed Sept. 14, 2022.

Graduate Tuition Fee Per Semester, Professional Graduate School of Medicine, Seoul National University (2015): 5,340,000 Korean Won ($3,828.81 USD at rate of 0.0007 RKW per USD accessed Sept. 14, 2022 ).

Source: Seoul National University. Academic Resources: Registration . Last accessed Sept. 14, 2022.

“There are 40 medical colleges or schools in the Republic of Korea. Medical students have to fulfill four years of medical education on top of either a two-year premedical course or a four-year bachelor’s degree. The quality of medical education is assured by the Korean Institute of Medical Education and Evaluation (KIMEE). After obtaining a license to practice as a doctor, almost all new doctors start further training to be a medical specialist. To apply for the qualification test for medical specialists, a one-year internship and four-year residency in a specialty (three years for family doctors) are required. “The hospitals or institutes for further medical training are designated by the Minister of Health and Welfare. Following recent advancements in medical knowledge, many associations of specialist doctors offer certifications of subspecialties to qualified specialists. The certification of subspecialty is valid for five years and subject to revalidation to ensure medical competency.”

Source: World Health Organization. Regional Office for the Western Pacific. (‎2015)‎. Republic of Korea health system review . Manila: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific.

“To become a nurse, nursing students have to fulfill either three or four yours of nursing education. Recently, some nursing departments that once provided three-year nursing education have upgraded themselves to provide four-year nursing education. The quality of nursing education is assessed by the Korean Accreditation Board of Nursing Education (KABONE). “KABONE also designates and evaluates educational institutes for nursing specialists and manages their qualification test. Nurses who have practice experience of at least three years and who have completed a designated education programme for nursing specialists are eligible for the test. The nursing specialist system was first introduced in 2002 with specialties in anaesthetic, public health, home health-care and mental health nursing. Seven specialties including infection control, hospice, and oncology nursing were added to the first batch of nursing specializations in 2006. As of 2012, about 12,800 nurses were qualified as nursing specialists in 13 specialties.”

South Korean Health System Overview Health System Rankings Health System Outcomes Coverage and Costs for Consumers Health System Financing and Expenditures Preventive Healthcare

Healthcare Workers Health System Resources and Utilization Long-Term Care Healthcare Workforce Education and Training Health Information and Communications Technologies Pharmaceuticals

Political System Economic System Population Demographics People With Disabilities Aging Social Determinants and Health Equity History, Reforms, and Challenges

World Health Systems Facts is a project of the  Real Reporting Foundation . We provide reliable statistics and other data from authoritative sources regarding health systems and policies in the US and sixteen other nations.

Page last updated May 28, 2024 by Doug McVay, Editor.

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How to Become a Medical Doctor in Korea (Step by Step)

• by Paschal Uchechukwu
• April 25, 2022

Being a medical doctor in Korea will be a great experience, with exposure to equipment that enhances medical care.

If you want to study medicine in Korea or attend any of the medical schools in Korea, then this article is for you.

Being a doctor in Korea is a great opportunity for most people.

While the income is decent, the added benefits are even better. To become a doctor many foreigners aspire to study in Korea.

Korea is one of Asia’s most rapidly developing countries. South Korea is well-known for its culture but has much more to offer visitors.

Moving to Korea and earning a medical degree there has several benefits.

Degrees in medicine are particularly popular in South Korea, which offers a diverse selection.

Thus, this article will explain the tips for becoming a doctor in Korea and help you learn about studying medicine in Korea.

Table of Contents

Studying Medicine in Korea:

Studying and teaching in a foreign country is both difficult and rewarding at the same time.

Korean colleges teach medicine in their original language so that future doctors can fully comprehend and comprehend their teachings.

Various medical schools in Korea accept students from outside the country.

Even on their official websites, international offices for students who plan to study medicine are listed.

Pursuing a medical degree in Korea can be challenging for international students.

Only a few candidates are accepted into Korean medical schools, and the admissions exam is exceedingly rigorous compared to other programs.

On the other hand, only approximately 5% of students graduate from Korean medical schools each year, but those who finish the six-year program are much rarer.

Studying medicine in Korea is a challenge, but not out of reach.

Requirements for becoming a Medical Doctor in Korea:

1. language requirements:.

In studying medicine in Korea, you must know how to speak Korean.

However, learning Korean can be challenging but not impossible if you don’t already speak Chinese or Japanese.

Basic Korean can be learned in three months by beginners, but fluency takes two years of dedicated study.

Moreover, learning the Korean alphabet, or hanja, is the first step in the process.

There are certain differences between Latin and Chinese, yet it is easier to learn than Chinese. It is required that you learn Korean to practice medicine in Korea.

2. Academic Requirements:

It takes at least six years to complete a medical degree and then specialize in a particular field in Korea.

As an international or foreign student, you must meet all the prerequisites before beginning your undergraduate degree.

The documents for academics include:

• Your high school report card
• Previous educational history
• Passport and university application paperwork
• A Korean language proficiency test and a student visa are all included in these documents.
• If you attended a non-English school, you may be required to take an IELTS or a TOEFL to demonstrate your ability in English.

Curriculum Requirements:

There is no difference in the medical curriculum between Korea and other countries.

However, the time of study is slightly longer. There is no field specialization required to receive a medical degree in Korea.

Pre-medical training will take up the program’s first two or four years.

Pre-clinical basic science, including hospital visits and patient interaction, will be the sole focus of the next two years.

Finally, clinical rotations are similar to internships but aren’t the same as internships. Students will work in shifts with the help of professionals.

Read more: China Student Visa (Applications, Requirements, Steps, Benefits)

How to Become a Medical Doctor in Korea:

Regarding East Asian countries and the world at large, South Korea is among the best-developed nations.

More than 25 million people live in the greater Seoul area, making it the world’s fifth-largest city.

Here are the tips on how to become a medical doctor in Korea:

1. Learn to Speak Korean:

The first stage in learning Korean is to master the Hangul alphabet, which is very different from Latin and can be quite a struggle, but it is also a lot easier than Chinese.

If you study 7 to 10 hours a week, you should be able to hold a three-minute conversation in Korean in roughly three months or 90 days. Furthermore, if you keep up this pace for a year, you can converse fluently in Korean.

2. Study Medicine in Korea:

Students who plan to become doctors in Korea can begin by studying medicine in the country, which will help them immerse themselves in the language and culture and prepare them for their future careers.

It is estimated that graduation takes 6 years. The first two years are devoted solely to general education, while the next two are devoted to the study of medical science.

Students in their final two years of schooling must complete practical/clinical training.

3. Take Assessments:

Korean-approved medical degrees must be obtained before you can sit for the final exam that will award your authorization to practice medicine in the country.

An internationally renowned university or one in Korea can award this diploma.

If you are not a graduate of a recognized university, you may need to spend a few more semesters at a Korean university or take a qualifying exam before you can appear for the final exam.

Read more: Top 10 Jobs For Doctors Without USMLE

4. Medical License/ KMLE:

KMLE (Korean Medical Licensing Examination) is an important exam you need to become a doctor in Korea.

Korean medical licensing examination is designed to determine if candidates have the knowledge and abilities necessary to practice primary care medicine and a professional demeanor.

The number of non-Koreans passing this exam can be as low as zero in some years.

But, if you’re not fluent in Korean, you may want to focus on that before preparing for the exam, which takes about a year to complete and is conducted entirely in Korean.

Moreover, most Korean doctors pass this exam, while only a small percentage of those with non-Korean medical degrees do.

Like the Preliminary Exam, this exam has both written and practical components.

5. Get a Work Permit:

The E-5 (Special Occupation) visa is the type of visa you’ll require if you’re a doctor.

You will, nevertheless, need to take and pass the KMLE exam to practice medicine in Korea, with very few exceptions, even if you have a foreign degree.

Read more: Why do People become doctors? (Best answers)

How to be a Medical Doctor in Korea as a foreigner:

Foreign doctors seeking certification in Korea face a lengthy and demanding process.

The applicant must hold a doctor’s license and a medical degree from their home country.

They can now sit for the KMLE certification exam.

Candidates must also pass a qualification exam, which can take up to two years to study for if their medical degree is not recognized by the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW).

Most MOHW-recognized universities are in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, Russia, and other nations.

Only a handful of foreign doctors pass the KMLE exam, which is administered in Korean and requires a high level of fluency in the language.

• Top 10 Medical Schools in Korea
• Seoul National University (SNU) College of Medicine
• Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) School of Medicine
• Yonsei University College of Medicine
• University of Ulsan College of Medicine
• Korea University College of Medicine
• College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea
• Kyungpook National University (KNU) School of Medicine
• Pusan National University (PNU) School of Medicine
• Inje University College of Medicine
• Hanyang University College of Medicine

1. Seoul National University (SNU) College of Medicine:

The SNU College of Medicine was established in 1889 and is considered one of the best medical schools in Korea.

Medical schools place a premium on developing Kindhearted Leaders who Value Principles. Graduate school allows aspiring physicians to concentrate in one of three areas: medicine, clinical medicine, or biomedical sciences.

Visit School

2. University of Ulsan College of Medicine:

University of Ulsan College of Medicine is one of the best medical schools in Korea.

The University of Ulsan frequently appears on lists of the world’s top universities compiled by recognized survey organizations such as QS, THE, and CWUR.

In medical and life sciences, we are ranked among the top ten universities in Korea; biology, chemistry, and material science are among the top twenty.

Consider the school to be one of the best private institutions in Korea.

Their exceptional accomplishment is due to our unwavering commitment to practical education and research, founded on the bedrock of daring and adventure that underpins Korea’s brilliant success today.

3. Pusan National University (PNU) School of Medicine:

The School of Medicine at Pusan National University (PNU) is ranked second among Korea’s public universities.

Apart from producing great physicians, this Korean medical school takes pleasure in grooming future world leaders in medicine. Additionally, it emphasizes worldwide and interdisciplinary research.

To be a medical doctor in Korea, especially at PNU, you must be ready for exotic research.

4. Hanyang University College of Medicine:

Hanyang University College of Medicine is one of Korea’s most prestigious medical schools.

While the College of Medicine was envisioned in 1965, it was not until 1968 that the school began accepting its first class of 80 students.

Students at Hanyang can complete their clinical rotations at the prestigious Hanyang University Medical Center. Hanyang University Guri Hospital,

as well as the renowned Hanyang University International Hospital, are included in this system.

5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) School of Medicine:

Sungkyunkwan University’s (SKKU) School of Medicine was founded in 1398 under the Joseon dynasty, making it one of the best medical schools in Korea. 

The Medical Building is a nine-story structure that houses various educational and research facilities, including multimedia classrooms, problem-solving laboratories, conference rooms, and a huge auditorium for academic symposiums.

The high-speed network connects not just on-campus but also to affiliated hospitals located off-campus.

6. Korea University College of Medicine:

Korea University College of Medicine is one of the country’s most prestigious medical schools. The College of Medicine was initially established to educate female physicians in Western medicine.

Beyond producing respected female physicians, the school has made tremendous strides since then.

The college has produced several of Korea’s finest female and male physicians, guided by its ideology of developing highly ethical doctors.

Apart from imparting a sound understanding of preclinical and clinical medicine, this medical school in Korea encourages its students to participate in international exchanges and community service projects.

Read more: How to Become a Dermatologist (Steps, Duration, Skills)

7. Yonsei University College of Medicine:

Yonsei University College of Medicine is one of Korea’s best and oldest medical schools.

YUCM will aspire to be the most dependable medical institution by valuing patients and providing high-quality care through advanced technology, expertise, and collaboration with other medical institutions.

The elite few are educated via an intuitive problem-based learning method under the direction of more than 550 full-time academic members.

8. Inje University College of Medicine:

Inje University College of Medicine is one of Korea’s most prestigious medical schools.

The College of Medicine was founded to educate physicians critical for the twenty-first century. 

9. Kyungpook National University (KNU) School of Medicine:

The School of Medicine at Kyungpook National University (KNU) is one of the most distinguished in the country, with an average of 110 candidates each year.

As one of the premier medical schools in the country, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine recently played a pivotal role in developing a new medical curriculum, which began in the early 1990s and has since become the norm for medical education in Korea.

The Kyungpook National University School of Medicine has a long and glorious history.

10. College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea:

College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, was established nearly a century after the institution was founded.

The College of Medicine uses an OMNIBUS curriculum, ensuring each student receives a customized premedical education.

The curriculum includes two six-week competency development sessions that include consultations, diagnosis, minor medical procedures, and other treatment options.

The Catholic University of Korea’s College of Medicine educates professionals who may significantly contribute to human society in the spirit of Catholicism.

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Become a Medical Doctor in Korea: 

There are six years of study required to earn a medical degree. Undergraduate education takes up the first two years of residency, while the next two years focus on medical fundamentals. Practical/clinical education takes place in the final two years of schooling.

To become a doctor, you must first complete your undergraduate or graduate studies at a medical school. Medical school admission is quite competitive.

Patients in Korea have great respect for their doctors, and doctors aren’t used to answering inquiries or explaining their treatment plans to them. Some people may be insulted if a patient goes to another doctor for a second opinion.

Medical school in Korea might be particularly challenging for international students. Since only a small number of students are accepted, and the exams are particularly demanding compared to other programs, medical school entrance exams in Korea are extremely competitive.

Conclusion:

As with any other country, gaining admission to a medical school in Korea is a straightforward process.

You must show a desire to give back and work with a diverse community to meet their particular needs.

You will likely be accepted if you spend some of your spare time volunteering, exploring culture, or learning a new language.

Awesome one; I hope this article answers your question.

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If you find this article good, please share it with a friend.

• How to be a Doctor in Korea as a foreigner
• How to Become a Medical Doctor in Korea
• Requirements for becoming a Doctor in Korea
• Studying Medicine in Korea

Paschal Uchechukwu

Paschal Uchechukwu Christain is a professional and passionate SEO writer on Education, including homeschool, college tips, high school, and travel tips. He has been writing articles for over 5 years. He is the Chief Content Officer at School & Travel. Paschal Uchechukwu Christain holds a degree in Computer Science from a reputable institution. Also, he is passionate about helping people get access to online money-making opportunities.

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13 Best Medical Schools in South Korea

If you want to pursue medicine in another country, you can consider studying in South Korea . This Asian country is known for its quality practice and performance in medicine and education. The healthcare and medicine field in South Korea is advanced, and when it comes to higher education , they take pride in their innovative research and teaching.

But as an international student here, expect that you’ll have difficulties along the way. Education in Korea is only in their native language, and although some efforts to reinforce English are present, there is still no fully equipped medical program in English. So, to begin with, you have to speak fluent Korean. This language can be difficult for English speakers, but it is possible to learn it.

Korea is very affordable , thus attractive to international students, and if you dare to learn the language, this might just be a perfect opportunity for you. In this article, we listed the best medical schools in South Korea that you can consider!

Top Medical Schools in South Korea

1. seoul national university.

• Study Program | Tuition Fees | Scholarships

The Seoul National University was established in 1946, and it is the leading medical school in Korea. Since its establishment, the university has produced thousands of professionals in various fields, including doctors and other healthcare professionals. Almost all faculty members have doctorates, and the education provided here is high-quality.

The medical school offers various programs for both local and international students. They continuously provide medical education and aim to be a research-oriented educational institution.

Today, the university has more than 27,000 students, and over 200 of them are international. SNU also has research centers and cooperation with many international partners. Lastly, the university has an acceptance rate of around 17% , indicating that they are very selective. So if you’re planning to study at SNU , make sure to be more academically competent.

2. Yonsei University

Yonsei University was established in 1957, and it is considered the oldest university in Korea and one of the most popular ones. For decades, this educational institution has been highly acknowledged, as they take pride in various fields, including medicine.

Now, Yonsei University is a good choice for medical education because they’ve led the changes and development in the country’s medical field. They have a big rivalry with the Seoul National University , competing for Korea’s best medical school.

International students are welcome to apply to the university . As a medical student here, you’re expected to meet their language and academic requirements. As you study here, you’ll receive an outstanding quality education, and the location allows students to be a part of local life and learn Korean with ease, which will be useful when studying there.

3. Sungkyunkwan University

Sungkyunkwan University was founded over 600 years ago in 1398, but they are not only one of the oldest universities. They are also one of the most modern and innovative ones on our list. This university strives to incorporate new technology with traditional philosophy.

The first language used in this university is Korean, but unlike other universities, Sungkyunkwan University offers many programs in English, and this can make a world of difference for international students. This is why they have over 23,000+ students, and over 4,000 are from foreign countries.

The medical school of Sungkyunkwan University focuses on the development of skills of the students. As they share knowledge with their students, they aim to put into practice the skills acquired from the school. Medical students in the university are widely exposed to various fields such as research institutions and hospitals.

4. Korea University

The Korea University dates back to 1905 and in 1946, it got the name we know today. They are proudly standing by the innovative ideas that led them to be one of the best universities in Korea. They are also one of the hardest universities to get into, with an acceptance rate of 15% .

Korea University also has one of the biggest libraries, combined with fully equipped multimedia systems and production facilities. They are home to more than 37,000 students, and more than 1,800 are international students.

The College of Medicine of Korea University is known for its various achievements in the medical field, and today, they are internationally recognized for its expertise in medical research.

5. University of Ulsan

The University of Ulsan was established in 1969 as Ulsan Institute of Technology, and for more than five decades, this university has built its reputation in various fields. The programs in medicine and science are highly acknowledged because of their expertise. They have high rankings in the country and Asia. The university has over 15,000 students enrolled, and over 5% are international students.

The College of Medicine was founded in 1988. Today, it has amazing cooperation with well-known industries like Hyundai and affiliate hospitals. It will provide medical students with first-hand experiences and ensure that they will acquire the knowledge in rotations. Graduates from this school are always positioned high, and the employment rate goes to their benefit.

6. Pusan National University

The Pusan National University was established in 1946 and had only two faculties initially, but they have come a long way since then and now represent one of the top national schools in Korea. They are located in the metropolis of Busan, with over 3.5 million residents. This would be an amazing opportunity to get a premium education in one of the best universities while living in Korea’s lively and cultural heritage.

Like the university itself, the medical school has a long history of providing quality medical education. For the past years, they’ve made developments and progress.

7. Kyungpook National University

Kyungpook National University was founded in 1946, and they have a unique education philosophy standing on principles of truth, pride, and service. They are developing the next generation of doctors who seek the truth, proudly doing their service for the people.

Since the education is mainly in the Korean language, this top medical school in Korea offers international students additional Korean language courses that will help with accommodation and learning. This is also a good way to get introduced to Korean culture and understand how things work in this country.

8. Catholic University of Korea

With top-notch medical instruction, biological research, patient care, and volunteer work, the Catholic University of Korea has developed into one of the top medical schools in Korea. At the Catholic University of Korea, the College of Medicine has made significant contributions to the fields of medical physics, radiological physics, and biomedical engineering as well as the training of graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees. Also, this college is working to give students a thorough understanding of holistic medicine, which is embedded in the Catholic faith, and to give them the knowledge and specific skills needed by doctors in the modern world.

The College of Medicine at CUK is especially committed to developing qualified medical professionals who have a strong desire to assist others, as well as exploring the knowledge and practical skills required for the improvement of human society and national development. The students are provided with a variety of scholarships from the school and outside organizations so that they can fully focus on their academics. The CELL Program, which enables professors and students of various years and levels to provide and receive learning support as a community to lead a more happy and successful life on campus, is now being carried out by specialists together with Phase II research.

The Catholic University of Korea’s College of Medicine educates specialists who can significantly advance human society based on the Catholic faith. For competitive research performance, the college department has set up several foundations, including industry-academic cooperation studies.

9. Inje University

Since its founding in 1946, Inje University College of Medicine has attempted to continually enhance the learning environment and curriculum in order to meet its educational objective of producing competent physicians. The college has consistently engaged students with high academics since it started.

Students will gain the knowledge and skills required to comprehend live occurrences from a scientific perspective and to better apply those understandings. Additionally, it offers a wide range of humanities and social science courses to help students acquire the soft skills that competent doctors should possess in addition to their medical knowledge.

10. Chonnam National University

Since its founding in 1944, Chonnam National University Medical School (CNUMS) has attracted key employees, students, and community support. The school’s major objective is to prepare students to deliver primary healthcare by teaching them the fundamentals of medicine and giving them clinical experience. After graduation, CNUMS encourages continuous education and the pursuit of professional medical knowledge.

CNUMS trains the students to become qualified doctors who will oversee the world’s healthcare system as well as develop their problem-solving and medical research passions. The school creates and implements a variety of educational research programs through lectures in the classroom, including programs that focus on real-world talents, individual research lab courses, and an international transfer plan. Because of these, it has become one of the top medical schools in Korea.

Learn About: Becoming a Medical Doctor in Korea

11. Hanyang University

By 2030, Hanyang University College of Medicine, which was founded in 1968, hopes to rank among the top medical institutions worldwide. The Medical College is committed to promoting active self-development and the practical use of expert medical knowledge in the pursuit of medical professionals. Hanyang Medical School promotes proactive self-improvement and creative methods for applying medical research to the treatment of specific patients. Additionally, it seeks to lead medical education through a variety of medical curricula, successful clinical practice, globalization, and energetic international exchanges.

The fundamental tenet of Hanyang University College of Medicine is just to put others before oneself. The College has always aimed to cultivate medical professionals who can advance both health care and medical research in the community. The school provides learners with an opportunity to partake in clinical observation so that they can continue to serve humanity in the spirit of compassion and make a positive contribution to the neighborhood, society, and humankind. A biomedical complex, for example, that mixes strategies and foundations, clinical and biomedical sciences, and engineering is being built by the school administration as part of its effort to transform the school into a research-oriented university.

12. Ajou University

The Ajou University School of Medicine (AUSOM), which was founded in 1988, is to develop its students to become global leaders in a range of professional domains and to generate medical professionals with integrity and the capacity to bear responsibility for public health.

AUSOM offers medical students a welcoming learning atmosphere, which has the benefit of creating a strong connection between medical education and clinical internships. The Science Research Center and the Medical Research Center are just two of the top research departments of the medical school. It aims to educate and develop competent, professional physicians from medical students.

The Ajou University School of Medicine is a youthful and vibrant school that values the aspirations and goals of every individual. Through pursuing these goals, the community at Ajou University School of Medicine aspires to make a positive impact on its surroundings. The joining students have the chance to take part in medical activities in the lab, clinic, and even medical enterprises to carry out their research and communicate the results.

13. Hallym University

The Hallym University Medicine School, which was founded in 1982, is associated with five major hospitals, all of which are available to students for electives. Therefore, all the graduates of medicine school have faithfully carried out their missions as not only educators but also medical practitioners in many prestigious medical schools and general hospitals at home as well as abroad.

The school ensures facilities to develop its students into global leaders in a range of professional domains and to generate medical professionals with integrity and the capacity to bear responsibility for public health. With these in their vision, it’s no surprise that Hallym University has one of the top medical schools in Korea.

FAQS About Studying Medicine in South Korea

Can international students enroll in medical schools in korea.

Yes, according to SNU , international students can enroll in medical schools in Korea, but there are a few important things to consider before applying. Korean medical schools rarely have a separate testing phase for national and international students. This means that the admissions process for domestic and foreign nationals is the same, and all of it is in Korean language.

Getting into medical school in Korea is a very competitive business, where you have to compete with people whose first language is Korean, and not only that, they are used to the schooling and education system , while most foreigners are not.

Also, international students must pass the Korean language proficiency test as soon as they enroll because education is only available in the Korean language. On the other hand, almost every university will provide separate classes for learning the language and culture.

What is the Medical Curriculum Like in Medical Schools in Korea?

Medical education in South Korea lasts six years, but the first two years of medical school are mandatory pre-clinical. For the next two years, students are allowed in hospitals, and in the last two years, there is clinical education. Students do rotations and work in the hospital, something like an internship.

After the initial 6-year program, you would get a bachelor’s degree and the opportunity to study and specialize further. Medical schools in Korea are one of the hardest to get into but also tough to finish, so you have to be prepared for some work. Most schools offer Ph.D. and master’s programs.

Korea is putting a lot of effort into innovation and cooperation with international partners. They have excellent education and research facilities to offer, along with one of the best hospitals to learn in. The prices in Korea are more than fair, and many universities will provide international students with grants and scholarships that will cover most of the costs.

That being said, be prepared to work hard on a few things, primarily your knowledge of the Korean language. English is still not used enough in this country, so it’s up to you to learn their language and accommodate lectures. Also, it’s wise to do your research and prepare for different social norms and ways of life since Korea is one of the older and more traditional countries. If all of that doesn’t represent an obstacle for you, Korea might be a good destination to get your diploma.

We hope that this article on the best medical schools in South Korea was helpful. If you are interested in more information like this, check out the Available Programs for International Students and Study in Korea pages!

About the Author: Hyun Lee

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Why Studying Medicine in South Korea is a Game-Changer!

So, you're considering a career in medicine and want to know if studying in South Korea is a good idea? Well, buckle up, future doctor! In this article, we'll explore the benefits of pursuing a medical degree in the land of K-pop and kimchi, and why it might just be the perfect choice for you. Get ready for a thrilling ride through the medical education landscape of South Korea!

Quality Education and World-Class Institutions

When it comes to medical education, South Korea has a lot to boast about. Home to some of the top universities in Asia (and the world), the country offers high-quality education that's recognized globally. Institutions like Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Korea University rank high in international standings, making a degree from these schools an impressive addition to your resume.

South Korean universities also emphasize research and innovation, providing you with ample opportunities to dive deep into your chosen field, collaborate with renowned experts, and make groundbreaking discoveries. Plus, state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology ensure you're always ahead of the curve when it comes to medical advancements.

Affordable Education and Living Costs

Studying medicine can be expensive, but South Korea offers a more cost-effective option compared to other popular destinations like the US, UK, or Australia. Tuition fees for medical programs in South Korea are generally lower, and the cost of living won't break the bank either. With affordable housing, transport, and food (hello, delicious Korean BBQ!), you can focus on your studies without stressing about financial burdens.

Moreover, numerous scholarship opportunities are available for international students, including government-sponsored programs like the Global Korea Scholarship. So, if you're academically talented and passionate about medicine, you might just land yourself a sweet deal!

Rich Cultural Experience and Friendly Locals

South Korea is a vibrant country with a rich history, diverse culture, and friendly people. Studying here means immersing yourself in a unique environment where you can learn about traditional Korean customs, indulge in mouth-watering cuisine, and explore breathtaking sceneries. From bustling cities like Seoul and Busan to serene countryside landscapes, there's always something new to discover.

Furthermore, South Koreans are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy to build friendships and expand your network. And while learning Korean will undoubtedly enhance your experience, you'll find that many locals speak English, so communication won't be a significant barrier.

Excellent Job Prospects and Opportunities for Growth

A medical degree from a South Korean university can open doors to a world of opportunities. With its healthcare system ranked among the best globally, South Korea offers a robust job market for medical professionals. Whether you choose to work in public or private hospitals, research institutions, or even venture into the world of medical startups, the possibilities are vast.

Additionally, South Korea's strategic location in Asia allows for easy access to multiple countries, making collaborations and international exposure more accessible. Your South Korean medical degree will not only be recognized and respected, but it may also help you stand out in a competitive job market.

Language Skills and Global Mindset

Studying medicine in South Korea gives you the chance to learn Korean, which can be a significant asset in today's globalized world. Being able to communicate with patients in their native language can make a world of difference in your medical practice.

Moreover, studying abroad in general helps you develop a global mindset, making you more adaptable and culturally sensitive. These qualities are invaluable for doctors, as they often work with diverse patient populations and collaborate with colleagues from various backgrounds.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While there are numerous benefits to studying medicine in South Korea, it's essential to be aware of potential challenges as well. Adapting to a new culture, language, and education system can be overwhelming, but with the right mindset and support, you can thrive in your new environment.

To make the most of your experience, focus on building a strong support network, both with fellow international students and local friends. Don't be afraid to seek help when needed, and maintain a healthy balance between your studies and personal life.

Additionally, fully immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in various activities and events. This will not only enrich your time in South Korea but also make you a more well-rounded and empathetic doctor.

Wrapping It Up

So, should you study medicine in South Korea? If you're looking for a high-quality education in a dynamic and culturally rich environment, the answer is a resounding yes! With world-class institutions, affordable living costs, excellent job prospects, and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth, South Korea is quickly becoming a top choice for future doctors worldwide.

Embrace the adventure, future doctor. Your journey to becoming a medical professional in South Korea might just be the game-changer you've been searching for!

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Study Medicine in Korea: 7 Things to Know

Having a professional occupation is a very long and tedious process especially if you are just taking your first step – studying. Hours, months, years are spent in before someone achieve their dreams and be professional in their fields. They will need to have the dedication and a strong commitment because many have given up in the middle of this process.

One of the most sought out professions around the world is the profession of being a doctor and studying medicine. Doctors are one of the most important jobs and one of the most honorable because they save lives and people from their illnesses. However, since they are dealing with something that needs to be delicately taken care of, doctors need to diligently study to avoid mistakes that will endanger the life of their patients.

With this said, as much as possible, if you want to become a doctor, you need to get your education from a place or country that offers an international education and has advanced and modern facilities to help you become a good doctor. And you could get these qualities if you would go to Korea and pursue your medical degree there. South Korea, specifically, offers a wide variety of degrees and among those degrees, the fields of medicine are what they specialize at. So, if you are an aspiring student who wants to study medicine in Korea, here are some tips and pointers that you will be needing.

1. In what language do you study medicine in Korea?

Studying medicine in a different country is difficult but so is teaching, too. This is the reason why Korean universities teach medicine in their native language so that they can completely and clearly explain their materials that will be taught to future doctors.

The foreign students who wish to study in Korea need to take a Korean language proficiency test as soon as they got admitted to the university like what they require at Seoul National University . Moreover, if you are still struggling in the Korean language, there are supplementary language courses that are also offered in the university so take a look at them.

2. What are the requirements to study medicine in Korea?

There are several things to consider if you want to pursue a medical degree in Korea, it takes at least 6 years for a student to get their medical degrees and then pursue their specializations. If you are just starting to get an undergraduate degree , you need to process all the basic requirements as an international or foreign student.

These include your report card in high school, previous educational background, passport, application forms for the university you will be enrolling in, a Korean language proficiency test, and a student visa. Sometimes, especially if you went to a Non-English school, you are required to take an IELTS or a TOEFL to test your English Proficiency.

3. Can you study medicine in Korea as an international student?

Yes, you can study medicine in Korea as an international student especially if you have the necessary forms and requirements, also, as long as you can speak Korean. There are many medical universities in Korea that are accepting international students to their programs. In fact, on their official websites, there are international offices for students whose prospective studies lie in the field of medicine. Some of these are Seoul National University , Sungkyunkwan University , and many more.

4. What are the components of the medical curriculum in Korea?

The medical curriculum in Korea is almost the same as the usual curriculum of medical degrees globally yet it slightly differs from other universities in terms of the time of their study. To get a degree in medicine, a student must study medicine in Korea and complete a 6- or 8-year curriculum which does not include a field specialization.

The first two to four years of the curriculum will focus on the undergraduate studies of the students which are also known as the pre-medical period. This period will include examinations every semester. The next two years of the curriculum will solely be for pre-clinical basic science which includes hospital visits and other activities related to that matter.

Lastly, the last two years of their curriculum will be for clinical rotations which are, in a sense, the same as an internship but are completely different. Students will have shifts in doing tasks that are assigned to them by their professional colleagues.

5. How many medical schools are in Korea?

Currently, 36 universities in Korea offer degrees in the field of medicine. Some universities are solely offering this course and specialize in them while other universities have different schools or faculty for other branches of study. However, more medical schools are being established and more state universities are still trying to offer medical degrees so it is expected that the number of medical schools will rise in the future.

There are many prestigious medical schools in Korea. If you are interested, visit the 10 Best Medical Schools in Korea .

6. How difficult is it to study medicine in Korea?

It is very difficult to study medicine in Korea especially if you are an international student. Entrance exams for medical degrees are very competitive in Korea because only a few are admitted and the exams are relatively hard compared to other programs.

Moreover, even though the dropout rate of students in medical schools in Korea is low having at most 5% dropouts every year, students who get the degree within the 6-year curriculum are also few. So, it can be said that the difficulty to study medicine in Korea is relatively high but it is not impossible.

7. What do you need to become a doctor after you study medicine in Korea?

After getting your Bachelor’s degree after studying medicine in Korea for 6 years, you will be required to get an additional 4-year medical post-graduate degree and a foreign accredited medical school certificate. These are the conditions that you are needed to meet before you are allowed to take the Korean Medical Licensing Examination (KMLE). Passing this licensure exam will grant you the title of being a doctor. This will be not a difficult pass because of the years that you have been studying are enough.

I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, visit the  Korea Scholarships Page!

Hello, do I have to apply for premed first without any test and once I finish the course, pass the entrance exam? Or do i have to pass the entrance exam first that includes both premed and medicine?

Hello, you apply to “premed” first before any test and there’s no entrance exam. Medicine in Korea is a 6-year bachelor’s degree so it includes both premed and medicine courses.

Do they offer courses in english like chemistry or biochemistry, microbiology are these courses available in english in snu

I don’t think they are completely taught in SNU. You might try places like KAIST, UNIST, and Postech where every major is 100% English.

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Best Medical Schools In South Korea [2024 Rankings]

Are you looking for a best medical schools in South Korea with advanced facilities and prestigious faculty? This article will give you information about the best medical schools in South Korea.

Table of Contents

South Korea is famous around the world for its K-pop (Korean pop music) culture. However, that’s not all it is known for. The country is also a top destination for students due to its excellent education system.

With one of the best healthcare systems in the world, South Korea’s medical schools are leaders in both medical research and education. These medical schools attract aspiring doctors due to their rigorous programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and affiliations with prestigious hospitals.

Let’s explore the best medical schools in South Korea, taking into consideration factors, such as clinical training opportunities, research output, and academic reputation.

Eligibility Requirements for Admission to Medical School in South Korea

In South Korea, admission to a medical school usually depends on meeting many requirements. However, specific requirements may vary slightly among schools. The following are general prerequisites for admission into a South Korean medical school:

1. Age Requirement

Medical schools in South Korea often have age limits for admission. The age limit varies between medical schools but is generally 25 years old.

2. Education

A high school diploma or its equivalent, which usually requires 12 years of study, must be earned.

3. Entrance Exams

The CSAT, a standardized test given by the Korean government, is usually required for candidates at South Korean medical schools. The CSAT covers several subjects, including Maths, English, and the Korean language. A strong CSAT score is required for admission to select medical schools.

4. Proficiency in Korean Language

Since most medical programs in South Korea are taught in Korean, you will need to prove that you are proficient in the language. Typically, assessments, such as the TOPIK are used to assess this. Schools and programs may have different requirements for the TOPIK level.

5. Science and Maths Courses

It is important to have a solid foundation in Science and Maths. Medical schools may require specific courses in subjects, such as Chemistry, Biology, Physics , and Maths. Some colleges may require a minimum number of science courses or a minimum grade.

6. Health and Physical Tests

Medical schools usually mandate that applicants undergo health and physical tests to ascertain their suitability for a career in medicine.

7. Interviews

To determine an applicant’s eligibility and fitness for medical studies, some medical schools may require them to participate in an interview process or further assessment. Written tests, group discussions, and personal interviews are some of the possible methods for these assessments.

List of 10 Best Medical Schools in South Korea

1. seoul national university .

Key Information 

• Type : Public research university
• Established : 1946
• Acceptance Rate : 20%
• Accredited by: AACSB
• Rank : Ranked 41st in QS World University Rankings 2024
• Undergraduate Tuition Fees: $2,000 to USD 5,000 (per semester)
• Location : Seoul, South Korea

Part of Seoul National University , the top-ranked university in South Korea, is Seoul National University College of Medicine, located on the Yeongeon campus. The college, renowned for its research and education, offers undergraduate and graduate medical degree programs, including M.D. and Ph.D. 

This is one of the best medical schools in South Korea, which serves as the primary teaching hospital for Seoul National University Hospital, giving students the opportunity to work alongside prestigious medical professionals while gaining real-world experience. The college attracts both domestic and international students seeking a top-level medical education due to its emphasis on international collaborations and student exchange programs.

2. Sungkyunkwan University

• Established : 1398
• Acceptance Rate: 23%
• Accredited by: IEQAS
• Rank: Ranked 145th in World University Rankings by Times Higher Education
• Tuition Fees: About $4,000 (per semester)
• Location: Seoul and Suwon, South Korea

Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine (SKKU) has rapidly grown to become one of the top medical schools in South Korea, as well as a leader in biomedical research and education worldwide. It provides top-tier clinical training to students through its partnership with Samsung Medical Center, one of Asia’s leading hospitals, and its world-class faculty. 

International students specializing in cancer biology and neuroscience are attracted to SKKU’s undergraduate program in biomedical sciences, which offers a problem-based learning curriculum aimed at developing creative medical scientists. 

3. Yonsei University

Key Information

• Type : Private university
• Established : 1885
• Acceptance Rate: 18%
• Accredited by : AACSB
• Rank : Ranked 73rd in QS World University Rankings 2023

The first modern medical school in Korea, Yonsei University College of Medicine was founded in 1885 and has a rich history. The best medical school in South Korea is renowned for its unique approach, which combines sociology and humanities with Western and Eastern medicine. Its interdisciplinary approach, coupled with its dedication to ethical and transparent instruction, has established it as a respected leader in medical education. 

The school aims to prepare students who are dedicated to helping others in addition to being medical professionals with advanced training. It does this by providing an innovative and visionary environment.

4. Hanyang University

• Established : 1939
• Rank : Ranked 441st in Best Global Universities. 
• Location: Seoul, South Korea

Future medical leaders are being prepared at the prestigious Hanyang University College of Medicine, located within the prestigious Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea. Established in 1939, the school’s rigorous four-year medical program prepares graduates for success in clinical practice, medical education, and research. 

The program of this medical school in South Korea emphasizes preparing skilled medical professionals who can make major contributions to the development of medicine domestically and internationally. 

With all these fundamental advantages, Hanyang University is an excellent choice for those from domestic and foreign backgrounds who choose to study in the medical field.

5. Pusan National University

• Type : Public university
• Rank : Ranked 611-620 in QS World University Rankings 2024
• Undergraduate Tuition Fees: $4,500 (per year)
• Location : Busan, Yangsan, and Miryang, South Korea

One of the best medical schools in South Korea is Pusan National University School of Medicine, which is often known for having the best teaching and research facilities in the country. The institution was founded in 1946 and offers a competitive curriculum with the goal of educating future medical professionals to serve the community. Along with its academic programs, PNU provides first-class medical treatment at its two university hospitals. 

The medical school places importance on achieving a balance between practical skills, medical knowledge, and a commitment to ongoing learning. The school has produced renowned doctors and international medical leaders. Its emphasis on specialized and global research makes the learning center a prime choice for students.

6. Inje University

• Established : 1979
• Acceptance Rate: 35%
• Rank : Ranked 551-600 in QS WUR Ranking By Subject 2023
• Undergraduate Tuition Fees: $5,000 (per semester for Korean students)

$10,000 (per semester for international students)

• Location : Gimhae, South Korea

Inje University College of Medicine, founded in 1979, aims to prepare skilled physicians who value both humanism and medical excellence. The institution’s primary goal is to prepare well-rounded physicians, which is desperately needed in the modern world. 

In addition, the program uses problem-based learning to help students become competent physician-scientists. The medical school in South Korea is proud of its constantly changing curriculum. It emphasizes practical knowledge with a solid foundation in medical ethics and patient care to prepare students for the needs of 21st-century medicine.

7. Korea University

• Established : 1905
• Acceptance Rate: 20%
• Rank : Ranked 79th QS World University Rankings
• Tuition Fees : $5,800 to USD 6,500 (per semester)
• Location : Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Korea University College of Medicine is one of the most prestigious and ancient medical schools in South Korea. The medical school in South Korea is a Seoul-based institution with a long history of producing renowned doctors and public health professionals. The prestigious Korea University Medical Center is attached to this sought-after academic institution, which is renowned for its M.D. program and is a top choice for those wishing to become doctors in South Korea.

8. Catholic University of Korea

• Established : 1855
• Acceptance Rate : 60%
• Rank : Ranked 781-790 in QS World University Rankings 2024
• Location : Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea

If you want to become a doctor, the Catholic University of Korea is one of the best schools for you. The university, which began in 1855, provides premedical education to all of its students through an all-encompassing curriculum. In addition to clinical rotations, the university offers students a humanities major that includes classes on empathy.

The College of Medicine at the Catholic University of Korea is one of the best medical schools in South Korea . Their goal is to produce skilled medical professionals who have a good background in medicine and a desire to help others. Their curriculum integrates the latest medical discoveries with their Catholic faith, which emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine.

9. University of Ulsan

• Established : 1969
• Acceptance Rate: 30%
• Accredited by : Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Korea
• Rank : Ranked 751-760 in QS World University Rankings 2024
• Location: Ulsan, South Korea

Reputed for its excellent clinical treatment, research, and teaching in medicine, the University of Ulsan College of Medicine is located in South Korea. MD, PhD, and residency training are among the comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs offered by this medical school in South Korea. Eminent authorities in various fields of medicine are part of its faculty, who have advanced healthcare domestically and globally. 

The Medical School is a leader in medical education and healthcare delivery, with state-of-the-art facilities and a dedication to academic achievement.

10. Kyung Hee University

• Established : 1949
• Acceptance Rate: 54%
• Rank : Ranked 332 in QS World University Rankings 2024
• Undergraduate Tuition Fees : $7,000 (per year)
• Location : Seoul and Suwon, South Korea

Located in Seoul, South Korea, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine is a prestigious institution renowned for its rigorous study curriculum and emphasis on research. The medical school in South Korea has a rich history of producing competent medical professionals and contributing significantly to advancements in healthcare. The school emphasizes a holistic approach to medicine, integrating traditional Eastern healing practices with modern medical science.

1. Do I need to speak Korean to attend medical school in South Korea?

Some South Korean medical schools may not require applicants to be fluent in Korean. It is often necessary to take English proficiency tests, such as the TOEFL or IELTS, which means that instruction may be in English. However, check the programs you are interested in specifically because some schools may still demand Korean language proficiency.

2. Is it difficult to get into medical school in South Korea?

There is strong competition to get into South Korean medical schools. You will need excellent science grades and exceptionally high results on the national CSAT exam, which sometimes requires multiple attempts. Getting into the top schools is more difficult than the most prestigious non-medical programs because they require a near-perfect percentage.

3. What are the costs of attending medical school in South Korea?

The cost of attending medical school in South Korea varies depending on the type of university. Private schools can cost up to $30,000 annually, while public schools typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000. Also, add living expenses to your annual tuition, which can range from $1600 to $2000.

Are there scholarships available for international students to study at medical schools in South Korea?

Yes, South Korea offers scholarships to international medical students. The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) is a great option, paying for living expenses, tuition, and travel. Specific universities also offer merit-based scholarships. 

Conclusion 

Medical schools in South Korea are vital to the development of the country’s healthcare system and medical research. They ensure a qualified workforce to meet the healthcare demands of the population by training up-and-coming physicians, nurses, and other healthcare personnel. 

Through research projects, medical schools also aid in the creation of cutting-edge treatments and technological advancements. Additionally, they address common health problems in the country by promoting disease prevention techniques and public health education.

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Medical Courses in South Korea

Check and Apply for the Medical Courses in South Korea ....

Standyou Team

Dec 18, 2023 09:15:39

Top Medical Courses in South Korea for International Students

1. medical degree programs (md).

Language Barrier: The biggest challenge for international students is the language requirement. Most MD programs are taught in Korean, and proficiency in Korean (often TOPIK level 4 or higher) is essential.

Top Medical Schools: Prestigious institutions like Seoul National University (SNU), Yonsei University, and Korea University offer renowned medical programs.

Admission Requirements: These include high school diploma, undergraduate degree in a relevant field (for graduate entry), language proficiency, and passing the Medical Education Eligibility Test (similar to the MCAT).

2. Biomedical Sciences

English-Taught Programs: For those interested in the medical field but facing language barriers, biomedical science programs are a viable alternative. These programs are more likely to be offered in English.

Research and Development Focus: These programs often focus on research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and other healthcare-related areas.

Universities: Institutions like KAIST , POSTECH , and Sungkyunkwan University offer well-respected programs in these areas.

3. Public Health and Healthcare Management

Programs Available: Master’s and PhD programs in public health, healthcare management, and related fields are often available in English.

Scope: These programs focus on the broader aspects of healthcare, including policy, management, epidemiology, and global health.

Universities: Seoul National University , Yonsei University , and Korea University are among those offering these programs.

4. Nursing and Allied Health Programs

English-Taught Programs: Some universities offer nursing and allied health courses in English, though they are less common.

Scope: These include degrees in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other allied health professions.

Application Process for International Students

Undergraduate Programs: High school diploma, language proficiency, entrance exams, and sometimes interviews or additional tests.

Graduate Programs: Bachelor’s degree, language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught programs, TOPIK for Korean-taught programs), letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and sometimes GRE or GMAT scores.

Scholarships and Funding

Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP): Offers full scholarships for international students, including tuition, living expenses, and language courses.

University Scholarships: Many universities offer their scholarships for international students.

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Medical Universities in South Korea for International Students

Top medical universities in south korea.

Seoul National University (SNU) College of Medicine

Programs: Known for its excellent medical program, but primarily taught in Korean.

Opportunities for International Students: Research, exchange programs, and postgraduate courses in related fields might be available in English.

Yonsei University College of Medicine

Programs: Offers one of the leading medical programs in South Korea.

International Opportunities: Yonsei has various programs for international students, though direct medical study might require Korean proficiency.

Korea University College of Medicine

Programs: Known for its strong emphasis on research and clinical skills.

International Student Accessibility: They offer some programs in English, primarily at the graduate level.

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) School of Medicine

Programs: Renowned for its medical education and research facilities.

English-Taught Programs: Offers programs in biomedical fields and may have some courses in English.

Kyungpook National University School of Medicine

Programs: Offers comprehensive medical education, with a strong research focus.

International Student Options: Mainly in research and related medical fields.

Hanyang University College of Medicine

Programs: Known for its innovation in medical education and research.

Opportunities for Non-Korean Speakers: Includes courses and programs in English in related fields.

Other Considerations for International Students

Language Proficiency: For programs taught in Korean, proficiency in the language (TOPIK Level 4 or higher) is often required. Some universities offer intensive Korean language courses for international students.

Graduate Studies and Research: Opportunities are more abundant at the graduate level, with various programs offering courses in English, especially in fields like public health, biomedical sciences, and healthcare management.

Entrance Requirements: These vary but generally include a strong academic record, language proficiency, and for medical programs, an undergraduate degree in a related field.

Scholarships: Options like the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) are available for international students, covering tuition and living expenses.

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Best Medical Universities in South Korea

1. Seoul National University (SNU) College of Medicine : SNU is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in South Korea, and its College of Medicine is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum, research opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities.

2. Yonsei University College of Medicine : Known for its comprehensive medical program and innovative research, Yonsei is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in South Korea. It has a strong focus on global health and offers international collaborations.

3. Korea University College of Medicine : This institution is recognized for its high-quality education and research in medical fields. Korea University also emphasizes practical skills and clinical experience, providing students with hands-on training in their affiliated hospitals.

4. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) School of Medicine : SKKU, especially known for its partnership with Samsung Medical Center, offers excellent medical education and research opportunities. It is particularly renowned for advancements in medical technology and biomedical research.

5. Kyung Hee University College of Medicine : This university is well-known for its strong programs in both Western and traditional Korean medicine. Kyung Hee University is also recognized for its research contributions and modern medical facilities.

6. Hanyang University College of Medicine : Hanyang is known for its innovative approach to medical education and research, with strong emphasis on practical skills and clinical experience.

7. Pusan National University School of Medicine : Located in Busan, this university is notable for its research output and comprehensive medical education, with a strong focus on community health.

8. Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine : This institution is well-regarded for its medical education, research, and healthcare services, with a focus on holistic care and ethical considerations in medicine.

9. Ajou University School of Medicine : Ajou University is known for its strong international collaborations and research-focused medical education, particularly in areas like biomedical sciences.

10. Ewha Womans University School of Medicine : As one of the leading women's universities globally, Ewha offers a unique perspective in medical education and research, with a commitment to women's health and gender-specific medicine.

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Scholarship to Study Medical in South Korea

1. korean government scholarship program (kgsp) / global korea scholarship (gks).

Offered By: The Korean Government

Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, airfare, language courses, and more.

Eligibility: International students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees in South Korea. Specific eligibility criteria may vary.

Application: Typically through the Korean embassy in your country or directly to the participating Korean university.

2. University Specific Scholarships

Many South Korean universities offer their scholarships for international students. These can vary significantly in terms of coverage and eligibility. Some notable universities with medical programs offering scholarships include:

Seoul National University (SNU)

Yonsei University

Korea University

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

Hanyang University

3. Private and Corporate Scholarships

Several private organizations and corporations in South Korea offer scholarships, some of which are open to students pursuing medical studies. These scholarships might have specific eligibility criteria, such as field of study, nationality, or academic excellence.

4. Research Scholarships

For those interested in medical research, there are scholarships available specifically for research programs, including PhD and research-oriented master’s degrees. These are often provided by the universities themselves or by research institutions.

5. Scholarships for Language and Cultural Studies

If you need to improve your Korean language skills before commencing medical studies, there are scholarships available for language and cultural programs, which can serve as a stepping stone to a medical degree in Korea.

Application Tips

Research Thoroughly: Each scholarship has its own application process and eligibility criteria. Make sure to research each option thoroughly.

Early Application: Start the application process early, as gathering documents and meeting requirements can take time.

Language Proficiency: Proficiency in Korean might be necessary for medical programs, so consider scholarships that include language courses.

Contact Universities: Reach out to the international students office of the universities you are interested in for detailed information about available scholarships and financial aid.

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Bachelor in Medical Courses in South Korea

Structure of medical education in south korea.

1. Undergraduate-Postgraduate System: Unlike some countries where medical education starts right after high school, in South Korea, it usually follows an undergraduate-postgraduate model. Students first complete a Bachelor’s degree (usually a 4-year course) and then proceed to a 4-year medical program (equivalent to a Doctor of Medicine, MD).

2. Bachelor’s Degree: The initial undergraduate phase can be in a field related to medicine, like Biomedical Science, Biology, or even non-science fields.

3. Medical School Admission: Admission to the medical program (MD) is highly competitive and requires excellent grades in the undergraduate course, high scores on the Medical Education Eligibility Test (MEET), and proficiency in the Korean language.

Bachelor Programs Related to Medicine

For international students, directly enrolling in a Bachelor’s program in medicine might not be feasible due to language and system differences. However, you can consider related undergraduate programs:

Biomedical Sciences

Public Health

Life Sciences

These programs are more likely to be available in English and can be a stepping stone towards a medical career or postgraduate medical studies.

Top Universities Offering Related Programs

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

Language Requirements

Korean Proficiency: For programs taught in Korean, proficiency in the language is crucial. This is especially true for clinical and medical programs.

English-Taught Programs: Some universities offer science-related courses in English, which might be more accessible for international students.

Admission Requirements

High School Diploma: With good grades, particularly in science subjects.

Language Proficiency: TOPIK for Korean-taught programs; TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs.

Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT scores might be required.

Additional Requirements: Essays, letters of recommendation, interviews, and extracurricular achievements can also be important.

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Master in Medical Courses in South Korea

Types of master's programs available.

1. Biomedical Sciences: Focused on research in biological and medical sciences, including areas like molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry.

2. Public Health: Covering aspects like epidemiology, health policy, global health, and healthcare management.

3. Healthcare Management/Administration: Concentrating on the management and administration aspects of healthcare systems.

4. Medical Engineering or Biotechnology: Bridging the gap between engineering, technology, and medicine.

5. Nursing and Healthcare Informatics: Advanced studies in nursing or the application of informatics in healthcare settings.

Top Universities Offering English-Taught Programs

1. Seoul National University (SNU): Offers various graduate programs in public health, biomedical sciences, and healthcare management.

2. Yonsei University: Known for its strong programs in public health, nursing, and biomedical sciences.

3. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST): Offers specialized programs in medical science and engineering, focusing on research and innovation.

4. Korea University: Provides various graduate options in health sciences and biomedical fields.

5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU): Known for its advanced research in biomedical and health sciences.

6. Hanyang University: Offers programs in biomedical engineering and healthcare management.

General Admission Requirements

1. Bachelor’s Degree: In a relevant field from an accredited institution.

2. Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, TOEFL or IELTS scores are usually required. For Korean-taught programs, proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is necessary.

3. Academic Records: Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

4. Research Proposal: Especially for research-focused programs, a well-developed research proposal may be required.

5. Work Experience: Beneficial for certain programs, particularly in healthcare management or administration.

Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP): Provides tuition, living expenses, and language courses.

University Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships for international students, which may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both.

DBA (Doctor of Business Administration)  in South Korea BPharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy)  in South Korea BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)  in South Korea

PhD in Medical Courses in South Korea

Types of phd programs.

1. Biomedical Sciences: Involving in-depth research in areas like molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology.

2. Clinical Research: Focused on the study of clinical trials, drug development, and patient-centered research.

3. Public Health: Covering epidemiology, health policy, global health issues, and preventive medicine.

4. Medical Engineering/Biotechnology: Bridging advanced engineering and technology with medical applications.

5. Healthcare Management and Policy: For those interested in the administrative, policy-making, and management aspects of healthcare.

Top Universities for PhD Programs

1. Seoul National University (SNU): Known for its rigorous research programs in various medical and health science fields.

2. Yonsei University: Offers a wide range of research opportunities, particularly in biomedical sciences and public health.

3. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST): Renowned for its innovative research in medical engineering and biotechnology.

4. Korea University: Strong in clinical research and public health studies.

5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU): Notable for research in biomedical sciences and partnerships with leading medical institutions.

6. Hanyang University: Offers robust programs in medical engineering and healthcare management.

1. Master’s Degree: Usually in a relevant field, although some programs may accept outstanding candidates directly from a bachelor’s degree.

2. Research Proposal: A comprehensive proposal outlining your intended research area.

3. Academic Transcripts and Recommendations: From previous university studies.

4. Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, a TOEFL or IELTS score is required. Korean proficiency (TOPIK) is necessary for Korean-taught programs.

5. Interviews: Some programs may require interviews, either in person or online.

Funding and Scholarships

Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP): Provides comprehensive support including tuition fees, living expenses, and language courses.

University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships and research grants for PhD students.

Research Assistantships: Often available, providing hands-on experience while supporting studies.

Contact Potential Supervisors: It’s crucial to establish contact with potential supervisors before applying.

Customize Your Application: Tailor your application to highlight how your research interests align with the university’s expertise.

Plan for Language Requirements: Consider taking language courses if your program requires proficiency in Korean.

Top Universitys in South Korea

Eligibility Criteria for Medical Course Program in South Korea

For undergraduate medical programs (pre-medical courses).

High School Graduation: Completion of high school or equivalent secondary education.

Academic Performance: Strong academic record, especially in science subjects.

Language Proficiency:

For Korean-taught programs: High level of Korean proficiency, usually demonstrated by a TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) score.

For English-taught programs: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent test scores.

Entrance Exams: Some universities require SAT, ACT, or equivalent exams.

Interviews: May be part of the selection process.

For Professional Medical Programs (MD)

Bachelor’s Degree: Typically, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a science-related field.

Pre-Medical Coursework: Completion of pre-medical requirements, which may include courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

Entrance Exams: Korean Medical Education Eligibility Test (MEE) or equivalent.

Language Proficiency: High level of Korean proficiency is essential for programs taught in Korean.

Academic Performance: Strong undergraduate GPA and a good score on the relevant entrance exam.

Interviews and Additional Assessments: Personal interviews, essays, and other assessments may be required.

For Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD)

Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree: A relevant undergraduate degree for Master’s programs, and a Master's degree for PhD programs.

Research Proposal: Particularly for PhD applicants, a well-formulated research proposal aligned with the university’s research areas.

Academic Performance: Strong academic record in previous university-level studies.

For Korean-taught programs: TOPIK score.

For English-taught programs: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.

Letters of Recommendation: Usually required from academic referees.

Work Experience: May be considered, especially for programs like healthcare management.

Intakes & Application Deadlines for Medical Courses in South Korea

General intake periods.

Spring Intake

Application Period: Typically occurs around September to November in the year preceding the start of the program.

Start of Semester: Usually begins in March.

Fall Intake

Application Period: Commonly runs from May to June in the same year the semester begins.

Start of Semester: Generally starts in Septembe.

Specifics for Medical Courses

1. Undergraduate Pre-Medical or Biomedical Programs: Follow the general university intake periods. However, exact dates can vary, and it’s essential to check each university’s schedule.

2. Professional Medical Programs (MD): These programs can have more specific and sometimes more restrictive application periods. Admissions for MD programs are highly competitive and may require additional entrance examinations or assessments.

3. Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD): While generally aligning with the university’s intake periods, some graduate programs, especially research-focused ones, might have more flexible application dates.

1. Research and Preparation: Start by researching universities and specific programs to understand their requirements and deadlines.

2. Documentation: Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

3. Entrance Exams and Language Tests: Schedule and prepare for any required exams (e.g., TOPIK for Korean language proficiency, GRE, GMAT, or specific medical school entrance tests).

4. Application Submission: Apply either directly to the university or through their designated application platforms before the deadline.

5. Follow-up: Some programs might require interviews or additional assessments.

Tips for International Students

1. Early Preparation: Start the application process well in advance. This is especially important for gathering documents and meeting language requirements.

2. Scholarships and Funding: If you’re applying for scholarships, be aware that their application deadlines may differ from the program application deadlines.

3. Visa Application: Leave ample time for the student visa application process once you receive an admission offer.

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery)  in South Korea MDS (Master of Dental Surgery)  in South Korea MPharm (Master of Pharmacy)  in South Korea

Fees for Medical Courses in South Korea

Undergraduate programs (pre-medical or biomedical sciences).

Public Universities: Tuition fees at public universities are generally more affordable, ranging from about 3,000 to 5,000 USD per year.

Private Universities: Fees at private institutions can be higher, averaging around 6,000 to 12,000 USD per year.

Professional Medical Programs (MD)

Public Universities: Tuition for the MD program in public universities can range from approximately 4,000 to 7,000 USD per year.

Private Universities: These programs can be more expensive in private universities, with fees potentially ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 USD per year or more.

Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD)

Public Universities: Graduate program fees in public universities usually range from 3,000 to 6,000 USD per year.

Private Universities: The fees can range from 5,000 to 15,000 USD per year, depending on the program and university.

Additional Expenses

Living Costs: Living expenses in South Korea can vary widely depending on lifestyle and location. On average, an international student might need about 700 to 1,500 USD per month for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.

Insurance, Books, and Supplies: These can add to the overall cost. Health insurance is mandatory for international students in South Korea.

Language Courses: If you need to take Korean language courses, this will be an additional cost to consider.

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Is accreditation in medical education in Korea an opportunity or a burden?

Department of Medical Education, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea

Woo Taek Jeon

Associated data.

The accreditation process is both an opportunity and a burden for medical schools in Korea. The line that separates the two is based on how medical schools recognize and utilize the accreditation process. In other words, accreditation is a burden for medical schools if they view the accreditation process as merely a formal procedure or a means to maintain accreditation status for medical education. However, if medical schools acknowledge the positive value of the accreditation process, accreditation can be both an opportunity and a tool for developing medical education. The accreditation process has educational value by catalyzing improvements in the quality, equity, and efficiency of medical education and by increasing the available options. For the accreditation process to contribute to medical education development, accrediting agencies and medical schools must first be recognized as partners of an educational alliance working together towards common goals. Secondly, clear guidelines on accreditation standards should be periodically reviewed and shared. Finally, a formative self-evaluation process must be introduced for institutions to utilize the accreditation process as an opportunity to develop medical education. This evaluation system could be developed through collaboration among medical schools, academic societies for medical education, and the accrediting authority.

Introduction

Background/rationale.

The administrative burden faced by medical schools in Korea has increased as evaluations of medical schools have evolved into an accreditation process. Simultaneously, however, accreditation is an excellent opportunity since it serves as a “gold standard” for improving the quality of medical education [ 1 ]. Many studies have cited accreditation as an opportunity to reform the curriculum and strengthen educational programs [ 2 - 9 ].

The Flexner report, the current prototype of medical education accreditation, was done by Abraham Flexner in the early 20th century to record and evaluate medical schools in North America [ 10 ]. Flexner [ 10 ] regarded the educational model of Johns Hopkins School of Medicine as the standard model for evaluating medical schools and other related institutions. The report catalyzed major improvements in medical education [ 11 ]. After the report, underqualified medical schools quickly began to close or merge. As a result, between 1910 and 1922, the number of medical schools in the United States decreased from 131 to 81 [ 12 ]. Flexner [ 10 ] proposed the “2 plus 2” medical education model, involving 2 years of preclinical basic science education and 2 years of clinical training, and placed a greater emphasis on the curriculum and the admission process. In this way, the Flexner report became a significant turning point in medical education, not just in the United States and Canada, but also globally [ 13 ].

Medical school evaluation, which traces its roots to the 20th-century United States, is consistent with the current process of medical education accreditation. It is essential to provide external feedback to improve performance because relying only on self-evaluation may be inaccurate [ 14 ]. However, feedback through medical education accreditation is meaningful only when the accreditation body and medical schools trust each other. Medical schools (as medical education providers) and accreditation agencies (as evaluators and feedback providers) form an “educational alliance.” This concept originated from psychotherapy, where patients and therapists form a therapeutic alliance [ 15 ]. In such an alliance, it is not sufficient that the therapist merely provides feedback; instead, the feedback must be given within a relationship of trust with the patient. Likewise, the feedback from the accreditation body must be in the context of trust. Medical schools need to listen to the feedback and view it as an opportunity to improve. Likewise, the accreditation body should also listen to medical schools’ feedback, creating a mutually beneficial interaction [ 15 ].

Due to a lack of sufficient human resources to prepare for accreditation, medical school administrators may face various difficulties. Regular visits for accreditation may be regarded as burdens, rather than opportunities. Furthermore, medical educators may experience accreditation fatigue or accreditation burnout and may perceive accreditation negatively [ 2 ]. Moreover, the accreditation of medical education has become mandatory worldwide, including in Korea; as such, it has become a “must-have” option, not just a desirable option, even if it is not burdensome [ 3 - 5 , 7 , 9 , 13 , 16 ]. Medical schools can make more real changes if they think of accreditation as an opportunity to implement innovations or as a tool for reorganizing the curriculum.

This review aims to help medical schools to take full advantage of the accreditation process as an educational development opportunity. First, the meaning and goals of accreditation are explained. Second, we introduce accreditation standards and elements, and present a comparison between Korea’s model of the accreditation process and the models of other countries. Third, we discuss how the pedagogical value of education has been realized in the medical education field. Lastly, based on these discussions, we propose directions for the accreditation body and medical schools to improve medical education quality.

Meaning and goals of medical school accreditation

Medical education accreditation is divided into evaluation, which applies to the entire medical education program, and accreditation, which involves an assessment of medical schools’ educational qualifications [ 17 ]. Many countries use accreditation as a regulatory mechanism to improve medical education [ 7 ]. However, policymakers have generally not used the corresponding evidence when attempting to make reforms, or have made incremental changes based on ideas that selectively cited the relevant evidence [ 18 ]. The results of accreditation can contribute to making medical school-related policy decisions through a rational process. In this respect, accreditation can be a powerful driving force and catalyst for medical education reform [ 6 , 19 ].

Another aspect of accreditation is that it serves as a safeguard between education providers and consumers, “Thus, it is expected that accreditation standards will foster the medical programs that prepare graduates to deal with new knowledge and become lifelong learners (World Health Organization, 2005)” [ 13 ]. Being accredited to provide a medical education program reflects a guarantee that the program competently manages education and training [ 17 ]. In light of the demand for medical education, accreditation can also help protect society from the impact of poor-quality medical education programs; furthermore, social trust in medical schools and physicians can be secured by confirming physicians’ essential competency [ 13 , 17 ]. Therefore, medical school accreditation can serve as a tool to increase medical expertise and to promote communication and interactions with society. Medical education accreditation has the ultimate goal of improving the health of the community [ 6 , 13 , 20 ]. The following objectives can be pursued to achieve the ultimate goal of accreditation [ 2 , 13 ]:

• - To ensure the quality of educational programs
• - To encourage reforms in medical school
• - To enhance the public’s and stakeholders’ trust in medical schools
• - To promote the international recognition of medical schools
• - To provide evidence for correlations between programs and the graduates’ competency

Components of accreditation

The key elements of accreditation are legislative establishment of the accreditation body, precise setting and presentation of accreditation standards, and effective certification procedures.

Legislative establishment of certification bodies

The accreditation body must be legislated as a public organization considering the impact of accreditation on medical education and public health. The types of publicly recognized accreditation bodies vary by country. In many countries, government agencies such as the Ministry of Health and Welfare and the Ministry of Education can accredit educational institutions [ 1 ]. There are also cases where the government approves independent institutions as accreditation bodies, such as the General Medical Council (GMC) in the United Kingdom, the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) in the United States, and the Korean Institute for Medical Education and Evaluation (KIMEE) in Korea. In such cases, the authority of the certification body is determined by government-approved laws [ 1 , 21 ]. The World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) conducts a recognition program for each country’s accreditation body ( Fig. 1 ). The WFME’s recognition of accreditation bodies in various countries means that the quality of the medical education programs accredited by each accreditation body can be guaranteed externally [ 22 ]. As of December 2019, a total of 20 accreditation agencies were recognized by the WFME. The KIMEE was the 1st such agency recognized by the WFME in Asia and the 4th in the world. Its recognition period is 10 years, lasting from 2016 to 2026.

The relationship between the WFME, accrediting agencies, and medical schools. WFME, World Federation for Medical Education.

Clear establishment and presentation of accreditation standards

Since accreditation standards are influenced by the relationship between medical education and the medical delivery system, and have a direct impact on medical education quality, accreditation standards should be clearly established ( Fig. 2 ). As physicians’ movement between countries increased, and the globalization of medicine occurred, interest in international accreditation standards for medical education has grown [ 23 ]. The WFME first published a report on international standards of medical education in 1998 [ 24 ]. In 2005, it released guidelines for basic medical education standards, including medical education curriculum, competency building, and evaluation at the regional and national levels [ 17 ]. The WFME considered the following factors in the process of developing international accreditation standards [ 25 ].

Standards for accreditation in medical education.

• - The standards should be the driving force to review and change medical education through self-assessment by institutions.
• - The standards should consider differences in medical education among countries because countries differ in culture, traditions, socio-economic potential, health, disease scope, and health care delivery system.
• - The standards should not dictate education content, degrade the quality of education, ban certain educational methodologies, rank schools, or be used politically.
• - The standards should emphasize the universality of the scientific foundation of medicine. Medical education aims to nurture physicians who can care for healthy, sick, disabled, or injured citizens.
• - The standards can serve to build national or international medical education programs.

Establishing an international accreditation standard can improve the quality of medical education and is necessary for evaluating medical education at the national level. However, international accreditation standards may potentially harm medical schools’ autonomy through strict regulations, make medical schools focus on only the bare minimum requirements, and lead schools to merely adhere to the accreditation standards instead of attempting reforms. As international standards come with both advantages and disadvantages, it is essential to create a reliable tool to ensure medical education quality while balancing these 2 sides [ 23 ]. Furthermore, it is necessary to construct accreditation standards according to national and regional cultural factors, socioeconomic factors, and medical delivery systems [ 13 ].

Establishing effective accreditation procedures

The accreditation procedure differs depending on the accreditation body, but the process can be generally classified into 3 steps [ 3 , 13 ]. The first step is a self-evaluation, the next step is a site visit, and the final step is an accreditation decision by the accreditation body ( Fig. 3 ). At the self-evaluation step, each medical school analyzes its own situation according to a predetermined accreditation standard. The result of this step is of vital importance because it is the basis of the accreditation process [ 3 , 13 ]. A group of external reviewers then visits the school and checks the content described in the self-evaluation report on site, which is the second step of the site visit. According to the results of the site visit, the accreditation body decides and announces the medical school's accreditation level as the final accreditation step. The specific results may vary depending on the accreditation body, but are generally classified into full, conditional, or no accreditation. The accreditation period is typically between 4 and 10 years.

A typical medical education accreditation process.

However, there have been recent changes in the accreditation process ( Fig. 4 ). In the United Kingdom, the GMC is planning to apply a new quality assurance process starting in 2020 to ensure quality medical education [ 26 ]. The revised procedure includes a 4-year cycle declaration, a 1-year cycle self-assessment, triangulation, gap analysis, quality education, and regulatory assessment. Every 4 years, medical schools must meet the GMC’s standards or declare that they are working towards them. As the declaration entails signing a simple form, the GMC expects this change to lessen medical schools’ burden. However, if a school does not meet the criteria, the school’s declaration may be postponed. The US LCME certification cycle is 8 years. Every 8 years, accreditation is conducted via self-evaluation, visit evaluation, and an accreditation decision. Interim reviews are conducted annually by a questionnaire [ 27 ]. In Korea, the KIMEE grants certification periods of 2, 4, and 6 years according to the accreditation results. The KIMEE’s process consists of self-evaluation, visit evaluation, and an accreditation decision step for each cycle, similar to that in the United States. The interim evaluation consists of submitting an “interim evaluation research report” every 2 years, and visits for evaluation are not conducted.

Quality assurance process of GMC, LCME, and KIMEE. Adopted from General Medical Council. Overview of proposed QA process [Internet]. London: General Medical Council [cited 2020 Oct 19]. Available from: https://www.gmc-uk.org/education/standards-guidance-and-curricula/projects/review-of-our-quality-assurance-process/overview-of-proposed-qa-process [ 28 ]. GMC, General Medical Council; LCME, Liaison Committee on Medical Education; KIMEE, Korean Institute of Medical Education and Evaluation.

Accreditation procedures are all composed of an interim evaluation and summative evaluation that determines accreditation, but the accreditation cycle, method, and procedure differ from country to country. In particular, the method of interim evaluation as a formative evaluation varies by country. The LCME and GMC monitor changes in medical schools with a questionnaire that is completed annually by medical schools, provide feedback on problems, and even visit medical schools directly if necessary [ 28 ]. In contrast, the KIMEE’s mid-term evaluation is based on medical schools’ reports regarding the accreditation criteria. There is no visit procedure, so the feedback process needs to be strengthened.

The pedagogical value of medical school accreditation

Medical school accreditation is a part of education policy. Education policy is “the basic policy that the state and local governments publicly offer regarding education, which is an intentional and rational choice of the best alternatives for the purpose, means, and methods of education activities, and means to realize the purpose of education. At the same time, it refers to the education system and its operation” [ 29 ]. According to Wirt et al. [ 30 ], values are an essential factor in determining directions of educational policy. All policies, including education policies, go through a series of political processes to seek strategies for realizing specific values. Different values may conflict or complement each other, with some taking priority [ 31 ]. A policy may pursue a single value, but multiple values are usually combined. It is imperative to consider values because the nature and direction of policy may change depending on which value is given more importance [ 31 ]. Wirt et al. [ 30 ] presented 4 values to be pursued in educational policy: quality, efficiency, equity, and freedom of choice. Of note, equity means using public resources to reduce gaps between social classes and to distribute resources equally according to social norms [ 32 ]. Those 4 value concepts can serve as a useful framework for interpreting the educational value of medical school accreditation.

Quality and equity

Accreditation can serve as a strong driving force to develop educational programs, including the curriculum. University officials who have experienced accreditation said that the actual necessity to reorganize the curriculum was due to accreditation, and the curriculum was reorganized according to the accreditation criteria [ 2 ]. This means that accreditation criteria are developing in a desirable direction to improve the quality of medical education by serving as useful and reliable tools, which is consistent with the achievement of the goals of accreditation.

However, accreditation may inhibit innovation in medical education. If genuine attempts to innovate education are judged not to meet accreditation standards, medical schools may be reluctant to innovate at all out of fear of undesirable accreditation results [ 2 , 20 ]. Ultimately, medical schools may be less active in providing excellent and innovative educational strategies, and their curricular reforms may be conservative if they aim only to meet accreditation standards. Therefore, it is highly likely that educational excellence, presented as a unique aspect of individual medical schools, will be reduced. This implies that accreditation standards can hinder the creative and innovative development of excellence in medical education [ 33 ]. Therefore, it is necessary to consider how the quality of medical education can be effectively improved while considering equity and excellence in medical school accreditation.

The accreditation process can be a good opportunity for medical schools to restructure the curriculum, establish regulations, and monitor their educational systems [ 2 ]. It can enhance efficiency because accreditation mandates regulations and procedures for managing, supervising, and controlling educational activities. Nonetheless, economic efficiency may deteriorate because the medical school has to spend time and money every cycle as it undergoes accreditation [ 1 ]. If faculty members are required to work harder to meet the newly revised accreditation standards, they may experience “exhaustion of accreditation” [ 2 ]. The following is a complaint from a medical education officer who experienced difficulty communicating with the accreditation body during the accreditation process [ 34 ]:

Efficiency can be improved by revising and formalizing procedures.

The value of choice in medical school accreditation is multi-faceted. From the student’s perspective, accreditation provides information about schools that they may apply to. For physicians, if their medical school meets international accreditation standards, it may broaden their career options [ 33 ]. From a national perspective, accreditation makes it easier to recruit doctors from other countries. However, international standards should not be regarded as promoting the brain-drain.

Nonetheless, the results of accreditation may harm schools’ reputation. Negative results can impact the quality of prospective students, which will eventually lead to a negative impact on university finances [ 2 ]. Accreditation can also potentially limit a medical school’s choices; schools often reform their curricula only based on accreditation standards, rather than making a variety of attempts to try different initiatives. In some countries, including China, there is a national curriculum, limiting each medical school’s choice of curriculum [ 35 ].

Suggestions for actualizing the educational value of accreditation

Efforts between the accreditation body and medical schools.

Mutual trust must exist between the accreditation body and medical schools to increase the efficiency of the medical school accreditation process [ 3 ]. The necessary components to form an educational alliance between the 2 sides are as follows [ 15 ]:

• - Mutual understanding of the purpose or goal of accreditation
• - Shared views on the purpose of accreditation or the process of task accomplishment
• - Beliefs based on mutual preference, trust, and respect

Medical schools trusting the accreditation body under a credible educational alliance will actively accept feedback from accreditation. A medical school’s attitude toward accreditation is largely influenced by a medical school’s culture and its members who transmit that culture. Therefore, each medical school’s “cultural construct” is an essential factor in determining changes related to accreditation. Culture is “a system of behaviors or lifestyles learned, shared, and transmitted by members of a specific group” and is “not behavior or an accident itself, but a standard or rule that gives meaning to it” [ 36 ].

The case of Yonsei University College of Medicine (YUCM) is an example of favorable feedback from the accreditation process. In the course of the curriculum development project, YUCM used accreditation results proactively. Although YUCM received the best score of the Korea University Education Council’s accreditation in 1996, the school immediately launched a curriculum development process after receiving the accreditation feedback. YUCM was told that the educational goals and objectives should be more concrete and be connected to the educational curriculum [ 37 ]. As a result, the educational objectives and goals were revised; a discipline-based curriculum was transformed into a system-based integrated curriculum. The KIMEE then actively embraced outcome-based and competency-based medical education and revised the accreditation standards. YUCM changed its curriculum into a student-centered, outcome-based, research-oriented integrated curriculum and implemented the first criterion-based pass/non-pass assessment system in Korea [ 38 ]. This change was possible because of “the cultural construct of YUCM placed a strong emphasis on education” [ 39 ].

The case of the Stony Brook University School of Medicine reflects the cultural conviction that the accreditation process requires participation from medical school administrators, leaders of various educational programs, many faculty members, managers of related institutions, and even students and residents [ 40 ]. This conviction encouraged student and faculty participation, allowing them to influence crucial institutional changes and flexibly respond to leadership changes. When preparing for the 2011 visit by the accreditation body, a leadership team was created to prepare even when the dean’s term was over. It was operated according to a 5-step process. As a result, a systematic and successful visit evaluation was possible.

Regular review of standards and sharing of clear guidelines

While accreditation standards are the only way to unite the stakeholders of a medical school to understand the educational program’s values and the content of the curriculum [ 41 ], they also pose the risk of negatively impacting the reputation of specific medical schools that fail to meet the standards [ 33 ]. Therefore, constant review and appropriate revision of standards are essential to ensure reliability and validity. As an attempt to change according to new perspectives and reflections, an evaluation rubric can be used. A rubric offers different performance levels depending on how well the standards are met, so it is possible to keep track of universities’ progress according to the standards [ 13 ].

The WFME classifies accreditation standards at 2 different levels as an effort to improve accreditation. The first level corresponds to basic or minimum requirements, while the other level contains standards for improving quality [ 33 ]. The basic standards are expressed as “must,” indicating that all medical schools must meet these standards, while the standards for improving quality use the word “should.” Different standards are applied depending on the stage of a medical school’s development [ 13 ]. The Accreditation Standards of KIMEE 2019 (ASK 2019) are currently divided into basic and high-quality development standards. The current ASK 2019 decision guideline specifies that high-quality development standards are presented in the accreditation standards, but do not affect the accreditation results. These standards will improve the quality of medical education by simultaneously advancing the goals of equity and excellence. To improve the efficiency of medical school accreditation, a system that enables understanding and interpretation of standards to be shared between the accreditation body and the medical schools must be operated on an ongoing basis. The 2 sides should agree on accreditation standards and clear guidelines should be provided to help the medical school understand these standards accurately.

Need for formative evaluation activities

We should not recognize medical school accreditation just as means to receive accreditation once every few years, but as a chance to build a system that can make improvements and advances in medical education. Regular evaluation is required to reach this goal [ 13 ]. Specifically, each medical school should conduct formative self-evaluation activities, which are a valuable way to review and recognize each medical school's unique educational process and philosophy [ 35 ].

For example, the US LCME regularly monitors medical schools through an annual questionnaire [ 40 ]. The annual questionnaire was developed by the American Medical Association and the American Association of Medical Colleges and includes content related to LCME accreditation standards, such as medical school size, number of faculty members, tuition, and finances.

The Council of Deans in the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) decided to mandate an interim review process (IRP) in addition to the 8-year term regular accreditation [ 40 ]. The IRP is an independent form of certification that can be considered as a kind of formative evaluation activity. The AFMC has developed a checklist for each element of the Committee for Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools criteria, and each university conducts its evaluation according to the checklist.

Those intermediate evaluations may be able to minimize the exhaustion of certification. If medical schools share their evaluation experiences and the changes they make after accreditation, it will be possible to adopt the Canadian model. If the Korea Medical Education Association―a joint organization related to medical education―develops a model for formative evaluation that fits the situation in Korea, it may be helpful for the development of medical education in Korea.

Improvements in the quality of medical education require voluntary reflection and criticism by representatives of medical schools, as well as evaluation and feedback from external organizations. This means that accreditation bodies and medical schools are on the same side as an educational alliance, with the common goal of improving the community’s health through high-quality medical education. When changing accreditation standards or processes, we should pursue values that match each medical school’s conditions. There is a need to help local medical schools to consider accreditation as an opportunity to achieve the development of medical education, rather than as an inevitable burden. We propose collaborating with medical schools, academic societies, and the KAMC with the accreditation body’s consent to provide an opportunity for formative evaluation, although it is not yet concrete. Rather than creating a new organization, it is necessary to actively discuss and study programs in which related institutions and universities actively participate as members of the educational alliance. Through these steps, medical schools across the country may be able to jointly develop and share a new culture in which accreditation is a real opportunity for development and change.

Acknowledgments

Authors’ contributions

Conceptualization: WTJ. Data curation: HJ. Writing–original draft: HJ, SA. Writing–review & editing: HJ, WTJ, SA.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

Data availability

Supplementary materials

Supplement 1. The audio recording of the abstract.

'; popup_layer.setHTML(html); scroll(0,0); } */ }); 2024 May 30 Purpose: The Korean Society of Medical Education (KSME) was founded in 1983 and celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2023. This study examines the evolution of topics discussed at KSME conferences from 1971 through 2023, highlighting shifts in the focus of medical education. Meth... SPECIAL ISSUE: SHORT COMMUNICATION 2024 May 30 : using topic modeling techniques Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the research trends of the Korean Journal of Medical Education (KJME) since it became an English-language journal. Methods: A total of 274 articles published in KJME from 2016 to 2023 were analyzed. All article types were included in the ana... REVIEW ARTICLE 2024 May 30 Clinical reasoning has been characterized as being an essential aspect of being a physician. Despite this, clinical reasoning has a variety of definitions and medical error, which is often attributed to clinical reasoning, has been reported to be a leading cause of death in the ... If anyone registers his/her email address, he or she will receive the email of notification when new paper is published in the web site of . Since it is open access journal, the full text is freely available. Please . Special Issue: Letter Special Issue: Short Communication Review Article Original Research Short Communication Personal Views --> First decision Days Publication after acceptance Days Days --> Acceptance rate *Last 12 months CiteScore The Korean Society of Medical Education (204 Yenji-Dreamvile) 10 Daehak-ro, 1-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03129, Korea Tel: +82-2-2286-1180   Fax: +82-2-747-6206 E-mail :  |   |   |  An official website of the United States government The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site. The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. Publications Account settings My Bibliography Collections Citation manager Save citation to file Email citation, add to collections. Create a new collection Add to an existing collection Add to My Bibliography Your saved search, create a file for external citation management software, your rss feed. Search in PubMed Search in NLM Catalog Add to Search Implementation of problem-based learning in medical education in Korea Affiliation. 1 Department of Medical Education, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea. PMID: 29207458 PMCID: PMC5717415 DOI: 10.3946/kjme.2017.73 Purpose: This study aims to identify how problem-based learning (PBL) has been implemented in Korean medical education, and how it is evaluated by each medical school. Methods: For this study, a total of 40 medical schools in Korea were surveyed via e-mail. The survey tool was a questionnaire consisting of 22 questions which was developed independently by the researchers. Results: Of the 40 medical schools, 35 schools were implementing PBL programs in their medical curriculum, while five were found not currently to be running the program. A large number of the schools which introduced PBL (30 schools, 85.7%) used a hybrid PBL model. In over 70% of the medical schools surveyed, professors evaluated the effects of PBL as positive. Most medical schools (85.7%) stated they would maintain or expand their use of PBL. However, the lack of understanding and skeptical attitude of the faculty on PBL, the lack of self-study time and passive attitude of students, insufficiency of good PBL cases, and the perfunctory PBL introduction for school accreditation interfere with the successful PBL. Conclusion: PBL has been incorporated in Korean medical curriculum as hybrid PBL type. It is analyzed that intensive tutor training and good PBL case development are necessary for the success and effective operation of PBL. Keywords: Korea; Medical education; Problem-based learning. PubMed Disclaimer Conflict of interest statement Conflicts of interest Fig. 1.. Problem-Based Learning Evaluation and Distribution… Fig. 1.. Problem-Based Learning Evaluation and Distribution of Scores Which Are Chosen by Each University Fig. 2.. Evaluation of Problem-Based Learning Effects Similar articles Short-term outcomes of a near-full PBL curriculum in a new Taiwan medical school. 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Barriers to implementing problem-based learning at the school of medicine of Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia. Tefera AS, Melaku EE, Urgie BM, Hassen EM, Tamene TD, Gebeyaw ED. Tefera AS, et al. BMC Med Educ. 2024 May 6;24(1):501. doi: 10.1186/s12909-024-05252-1. BMC Med Educ. 2024. PMID: 38711080 Free PMC article. Implementation of Problem-Based Learning in Undergraduate Medical Education in Ethiopia: An Exploratory Qualitative Study. Mohammed AB, Zegeye RT, Dawed HA, Tessema YM. Mohammed AB, et al. Adv Med Educ Pract. 2024 Feb 19;15:105-119. doi: 10.2147/AMEP.S443384. eCollection 2024. Adv Med Educ Pract. 2024. PMID: 38404356 Free PMC article. Application of symptom-based mind mapping combined with PBL teaching method in emergency trauma standardized resident training in MDT model. Xu ZW, Liu NN, Zhang JL, Wu XS, Chen J, Chang JW, Ding BC, Wu YN, Wang JP, Chen WD, Wang XY. Xu ZW, et al. Medicine (Baltimore). 2022 Sep 23;101(38):e30822. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000030822. Medicine (Baltimore). 2022. PMID: 36197173 Free PMC article. Effects of Problem-Based Learning on the Problem-Solving Ability and Self-Efficacy of Students Majoring in Dental Hygiene. Choi JS, Bae SM, Shin SJ, Shin BM, Lee HJ. Choi JS, et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jun 18;19(12):7491. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19127491. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022. PMID: 35742736 Free PMC article. Kim YJ, Kang PS, Lee CK, Park JH. The principle and practice of PBL. Korean J Med Educ. 2000;12(1):1–14. Jeon SY, Song JK. Introduction to problem based learning. Korean J Med Educ. 1995;6(2):84–87. The Korean Society of Medical Education . Medical education report 3rd: Haeundae report. Seoul, Korea: The Korean Society of Medical Education; 2014. Yeo S, Chang BH. Students’ perceptions and satisfaction level of hybrid problem-based learning for 16 years in Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Korea. Korean J Med Educ. 2016;28(1):9–16. - PMC - PubMed Kozu T. 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