Interior Design Colleges in South Korea

Best Interior Design Courses and Universities in South Korea....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Dec 19, 2023 01:03:09

Best Interior Design Universities in South Korea

1. Hongik University

  • Location: Seoul

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Interior Design

  • Fees: 3,000 to 5,000 USD per semester

  • Intake: Spring (March) and Fall (September)

  • Ranking: Known for its prestigious art and design programs, often ranked highly in Korea.

2. Seoul National University (SNU)

  • Location: Seoul

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Design (with courses in Interior Design), Master’s in Interior Design

  • Fees: Around 2,000 to 4,500 USD per semester

  • Intake: Spring and Fall

  • Ranking: As the top university in South Korea, it has a strong design department.

3. Ewha Womans University

  • Location: Seoul

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Interior Design

  • Fees: 3,000 to 5,000 USD per semester

  • Intake: Spring and Fall

  • Ranking: Known for its comprehensive design programs and being one of the top women's universities in the world.

4. Kookmin University

  • Location: Seoul

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Interior Design

  • Fees: About 3,000 to 4,500 USD per semester

  • Intake: Spring and Fall

  • Ranking: Recognized for its strong design and arts programs.

5. Hanyang University

  • Location: Seoul

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s in Interior Architecture and Design, Master’s in Interior Design

  • Fees: 3,000 to 4,500 USD per semester

  • Intake: Spring and Fall

  • Ranking: Well-regarded for its engineering and design faculties.

Courses in Suoth Korea

B.Des (Bachelor of Design) in South Korea

BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) in South Korea


Interior Design Courses in South Korea

Diploma and Certificate Programs

  • Duration: Typically 1-2 years

  • Focus: Practical skills, basic design principles, software proficiency

  • Suitable for: Individuals seeking vocational skills or a foundation before pursuing higher education

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

  • Duration: Usually 4 years

  • Curriculum: Includes foundational design principles, spatial design, color theory, furniture design, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, and often a capstone project or internship

  • Suitable for: Students aiming for a comprehensive education in interior design

Master’s Degree Programs

  • Duration: Generally 2 years

  • Curriculum: Advanced design concepts, research methodologies, sustainable design, project management, often with a thesis component

  • Suitable for: Professionals seeking advanced knowledge or specialization, and those interested in research or academic careers

PhD Programs

  • Duration: typically 3-4 years

  • Focus: Research in specific areas of interior design, such as sustainable design, cultural aspects of design, or technological integration

  • Suitable for: Those interested in academic research or high-level consultancy roles

Notable South Korean Universities Offering Interior Design Courses

  • Hongik University: Known for its strong arts and design programs.

  • Seoul National University (SNU): Offers comprehensive design programs with a focus on innovation.

  • Ewha Womans University: Provides in-depth design courses, including interior design.

  • Kookmin University: Renowned for its design faculty.

  • Hanyang University: Offers courses that combine practical skills with design theory.

Language of Instruction

  • While many programs are offered in Korean, there's an increasing number of courses taught in English, especially at the graduate level.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Programs: High school diploma, portfolio, language proficiency (TOPIK or TOEFL/IELTS).

  • Master’s and PhD Programs: Relevant undergraduate degree, portfolio, research proposal (for PhD), language proficiency.

M.Des (Master of Design) in South Korea

MIM (Master of Management) in South Korea

Scholarship to Study in South Korea


Bachelors of Interior Design in South Korea

Key Features of Bachelor’s Programs in Interior Design

1. Duration: Typically 4 years.

2. Curriculum: Includes foundational courses in design principles, spatial design, color theory, furniture design, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, lighting design, and material studies. Programs often incorporate practical projects, workshops, and internships.

3. Focus: Balancing aesthetic, functional, and ergonomic aspects of interior space planning.

Notable Universities Offering Interior Design Programs

1. Hongik University: Known for its strong arts and design faculties, Hongik University offers comprehensive education in interior design.

2. Ewha Womans University: Offers a well-rounded interior design program with both practical and theoretical components.

3. Seoul National University (SNU): Although more known for its general design courses, SNU provides valuable courses relevant to interior design.

4. Kookmin University: Renowned for its design school, offering courses that blend traditional and modern design concepts.

5. Hanyang University: Provides a practical-oriented interior design program with industry relevance.

Language of Instruction

  • While many programs are taught in Korean, there is a growing number of courses and programs offered in English, especially in universities that are actively attracting international students.

Admission Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Academic transcripts from high school.

  • Language Proficiency: Korean (TOPIK) for Korean-taught programs, or English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs.

  • Portfolio: A compilation of artwork or designs to demonstrate your creativity and skill level.

  • Additional Requirements: May include personal statements, letters of recommendation, and interviews.

Tuition Fees

  • Fees vary between institutions but generally range from approximately 3,000 to 7,000 USD per semester. Public universities tend to be less expensive than private ones.

Cheap and Affordable Universities in South Korea

Cost of Studying in South Korea for Indian Students

How to Apply for Study in South Korea


Masters of Interior Design in South Korea

Key Characteristics of Master’s Programs in Interior Design

1. Duration: Typically 2 years.

2. Curriculum: Advanced studies in space planning, sustainable design, material and lighting design, advanced CAD and 3D visualization techniques, design theory, and research methods. Many programs include a thesis or final project.

3. Focus Areas: May include residential, commercial, sustainable, or cultural space design, among others.

Notable Universities Offering Master's in Interior Design

1. Hongik University: Known for its strong arts and design faculties, offering a comprehensive Master’s program in Interior Design.

2. Ewha Womans University: Provides a well-respected graduate program focusing on both practical and theoretical aspects of interior design.

3. Kookmin University: Renowned for its design school, offering innovative and industry-relevant graduate courses.

4. Seoul National University (SNU): Offers graduate-level courses that are relevant to interior design within its broader design programs.

Language of Instruction

  • Many graduate programs are available in English, catering to international students. However, some courses may still be offered in Korean.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree: In interior design or a related field.

  • Portfolio: Demonstrating design abilities and experience.

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

  • Letters of Recommendation, Resume/CV, and Statement of Purpose: Typically required.

  • Research Proposal: For research-focused programs.

Tuition Fees

  • Generally, tuition fees for Master’s programs range from 3,000 to 8,000 USD per semester, varying by university and program.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • Korean universities and various external organizations offer scholarships for international students, potentially covering tuition and living expenses.

Career Prospects

  • Graduates are equipped for careers in interior design firms, architectural studios, or can engage in academic or industry research. Opportunities in teaching and higher education also exist for those with a Master's degree.

Education System in South Korea

Post Study Job Opportunities in South Korea for Indian Students

Part Time Job Options in South Korea for Indian Students


Eligibility Criteria for Interior Design Course Program in South Korea

Bachelor’s Programs in Interior Design

  1. High School Completion: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.

  2. Academic Transcripts: Showing your academic performance in high school.

  3. Portfolio: A collection of your art or design work, showcasing your creativity and skills. This is especially important for design-related programs.

  4. Language Proficiency:

    • For Korean-taught programs: Proficiency in Korean, usually demonstrated through the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) exam.

    • For English-taught programs: English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

  5. Letters of Recommendation and Personal Statement: Some universities might require these as part of the application process.

Master’s Programs in Interior Design

1. Bachelor’s Degree: A relevant undergraduate degree (such as in interior design, architecture, or a related field).

2. Academic Transcripts: From your undergraduate studies.

3. Portfolio: More advanced and comprehensive compared to the undergraduate application, reflecting your growth and areas of interest in design.

4. Language Proficiency: Korean or English proficiency, depending on the program's medium of instruction.

5. Work Experience: While not always mandatory, some programs prefer or require relevant professional experience in design or related fields.

6. Research Proposal or Statement of Purpose: Particularly for research-focused or specialized programs.

7. Letters of Recommendation: Usually required from academic or professional references.

PhD Programs in Interior Design

1. Master’s Degree: In interior design, architecture, or a related discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: From both undergraduate and graduate studies.

3. Research Proposal: Outlining your proposed area of study or research interests.

4. Portfolio: If the focus is on practical or applied research.

5. Language Proficiency: As per the medium of instruction of the program.

6. Publications and Research Experience: Beneficial, especially for those aiming at research-centric programs.

Accommodation Facilities in South Korea for Indian Students

Life of Indian Students in South Korea

Short Courses in South Korea for International Students


Intakes & Application Deadlines for Interior Design Course in South Korea

Spring Semester Intake

  • Application Period: Generally falls around September to November of the preceding year.

  • Semester Start: Usually begins in late February or early March.

Fall Semester Intake

  • Application Period: Often runs from May to June in the same year.

  • Semester Start: Typically starts in late August or early September.

Specific Deadlines

  • Each university has its own specific deadlines, which can vary slightly. It's important to check the exact dates on the university’s official website or by contacting their admissions office directly.

  • Deadlines for international students might be set earlier to allow time for visa processing and other administrative procedures.

Application Process

  • Research Programs: Identify the universities and specific interior design programs that align with your interests and career goals.

  • Check Entry Requirements: Each university and program may have its own set of admission requirements.

  • Prepare Necessary Documents: This typically includes academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a portfolio for design courses, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.

  • Submit Application: Applications are usually submitted online through the university's admissions portal.

  • Apply for Scholarships/Financial Aid: If necessary, apply for scholarships and financial aid within the respective deadlines.

Additional Tips

  • Early Preparation: Begin preparing your application well in advance, especially focusing on building a strong portfolio.

  • Language Proficiency Tests: If the program is in English, ensure your TOEFL/IELTS scores are up to date. For programs in Korean, you might need to provide TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) scores.

  • Visa Application: International students should consider the time required for visa application processes after receiving admission confirmation.


Fees for Interior Design Courses in South Korea

1. Universities and Colleges: Offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in interior design.

2. Vocational Schools and Technical Colleges: Provide more practical, skills-based training.

3. Private Institutes and Academies: Specialized courses focusing on various aspects of interior design.

Fee Structure:

  1. Undergraduate Programs:

    • Tuition fees for a full-time undergraduate program in interior design can range from 3,000,000 to 15,000,000 KRW (South Korean Won) per semester.

    • Public universities generally have lower tuition fees compared to private universities.

  2. Graduate Programs:

    • Fees for master's programs in interior design are generally higher, possibly ranging from 4,000,000 to 20,000,000 KRW per semester.

    • As with undergraduate programs, public institutions may offer more affordable options.

  3. Short Courses and Certificate Programs: Short-term courses or certificate programs offered by private institutes can vary greatly in cost, from a few hundred thousand won to several million won, depending on the length and depth of the course.

Other Expenses:

  • Living Costs: Living in South Korea, especially in cities like Seoul, can be quite expensive. Housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses need to be considered.

  • Books and Supplies: Additional costs for books, materials, and supplies for your course.