List of best South Korean Interior Design Schools

As interior design development continues to evolve around the world, South Korea has demonstrated its position as a leader of inspiration and innovation in this hot-topic trade.

Aspiring interior design students are lucky to have plenty of schools to choose from as they embark on their course. Based across the South Korean peninsula, from the busy metropolis of Seoul with its stylish shopping districts and modern buildings, to the open city of Busan on the coast celebrated for its beautiful nature, South Korean interior design schools have found their stride.

Why Study Interior Design in South Korea?

South Korea’s emergence as a global leader in design and technology has had a remarkable effect on every facet of Korean culture. And yes, that applies to the world of interior design as well. If breaking into the field is on your mind, you would do well to pursue your studies in South Korea for a few very unique reasons:

1. Immerse Yourself in Design-oriented Culture: The country has a deep appreciation for design aesthetics and functionality. This results in a thriving design community with renowned architects furniture designers and interior professionals pushing boundaries and shaping the industry’s future. Studying in this environment allows you to:

• Give exposure to cutting-edge trends and practices.
• network with industry professionals and learn from their experience. Develop a deeper understanding of the cultural context of design.

2. Enjoy a World-Class Education system: South Korea is home to several universities offering prestigious and rigorous programs in interior design. These programs are combined :

• You’ll learn design principles ergonomics and color theory
• Professional skills development Gain proficiency in AutoCAD Revit and 3D modeling tools. Many programs integrate projects internships and workshops which allow you to apply knowledge to real-world situations.

3. Tap into the growing Design industry: The South Korean design industry is experiencing rapid growth across diverse sectors including residential commercial hospitality and healthcare. This is equivalent to :

• an increase in demand for interior designers.
• arrival in employment after graduation.
• a chance to be involved in exciting and innovative design projects.

4. Develop a Global perspective :

• Studying in South Korea exposes you to a diverse cultural environment and gives you :
• Learn from international faculty and students. Provide a better understanding of global design trends. Develop interpersonal skills and cooperation skills. In the increasingly globalized job market increase your employability.

List of Interior Designing Colleges

Below is a list of famous interior design universities in Korea.

College Name	Brief	Courses Offered	Average Annual Fee (USD)	Average Annual Fee (INR)	City Name	Website
Hongik University	Located in Seoul, Hongik University is known for its Faculty of Architecture and Design, which offers a comprehensive interior design program that emphasizes creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.	Interior Design	$7,000 – $10,000	₹5,18,000 – ₹7,40,000	Seoul	Hongik University
Seoul University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech)	The Department of Interior Architecture and Design at Seoul Institute of Technology offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for careers in various areas of the design industry. Prepare yourself.	Interior Architecture and Design	$6,000 – $8,000	₹4,44,000 – ₹5,92,000	Seoul	Seoul University of Science and Technology
Kyung Hee University	With campuses in Seoul and Suwon, Kyung Hee University offers a variety of design programs, including interior design, focused on sustainability, human-centered design principles, and global perspectives.	Interior Design	$8,000 – $12,000	₹5,92,000 – ₹8,88,000	Seoul/Suwon	Kyung Hee University
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)	SKKU’s College of Art and Design offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, with an emphasis on critical thinking, research-based design processes, and practical experiences in the studio.	Interior Design	$5,000 – $7,000	₹3,70,000 – ₹5,18,000	Seoul	SKKU
Korea University	Korea University’s College of Fine Arts offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in architecture and interior design, emphasizing a holistic approach to design education that integrates theory, history, and practice.	Interior Architecture and Design	$9,000 – $13,000	₹6,66,000 – ₹9,62,000	Seoul	Korea University
Inha University:	Inha University’s Department of Interior Architecture and Design in Incheon provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers architectural principles, spatial design, and environmental sustainability, preparing students for careers in interior design and related fields.	Interior Architecture and Design	$6,500 – $9,000	₹4,81,000 – ₹6,66,000	Incheon	Inha University
Kookmin University	Located in Seoul, the Department of Design at Kookmin University offers an interior design program that emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, sustainable design practices, and a global design perspective.	Interior Design	$8,500 – $12,000	₹6,29,000 – ₹8,88,000	Seoul	Kookmin University
Dankook University	Dankook University’s Department of Architecture and Interior Design in Yongin offers programs that emphasize design innovation, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative problem-solving skills, preparing students for careers in various areas of the construction industry	Interior Architecture and Design	$6,000 – $9,000	₹4,44,000 – ₹6,66,000	Yongin	Dankook University
Chung-Ang University	Chung-Ang University’s College of Arts offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in architecture and interior design, providing students with a comprehensive education that integrates theory, practice, and research.	Interior Architecture and Design	$7,000 – $10,000	₹5,18,000 – ₹7,40,000	Seoul	Chung-Ang University

Admission Requirements and Eligibility Criteria for Studying

College Name	Admission Requirements	Eligibility Criteria
Hongik University	High school diploma or equivalent Portfolio showcasing artistic and design skills Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)	Completion of high school education Language proficiency requirements as per university guidelines
Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech)	High school diploma or equivalent Entrance examination Portfolio (for some programs)	Completion of high school education Successful performance in the entrance examination
Kyung Hee University	High school diploma or equivalent Portfolio demonstrating creative abilities Entrance examination (for some programs)	Completion of high school education Successful performance in entrance exams (if applicable)
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)	High school diploma or equivalent Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)	Completion of high school education Language proficiency requirements as per university guidelines
Korea University	High school diploma or equivalent Entrance examination Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)	Completion of high school education Successful performance in the entrance examination
Inha University	High school diploma or equivalent Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)	Completion of high school education Language proficiency requirements as per university guidelines
Kookmin University	High school diploma or equivalent Entrance examination Portfolio (for some programs)	Completion of high school education Successful performance in the entrance examination
Chung-Ang University	High school diploma or equivalent Entrance examination Portfolio (for some programs)	Completion of high school education Successful performance in the entrance examination
Dankook University	High school diploma or equivalent Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for international students)	Completion of high school education Language proficiency requirements as per university guidelines

Course Curriculum for Interior Designing in South Korea

The curriculum for interior design programs in South Korea varies slightly between universities, but generally follows a similar structure with core elements and potential specializations:

Core Courses:

• Fundamentals of Design: This foundation lays the foundation and introduces you to important design principles such as space planning, color theory, ergonomics, and user experience (UX) design.
• History and Theory of Interior Design: Delve into the history of interior design and discover the styles, movements, and influential figures from different eras.
• Drawing and Visualization: Develop your creative skills and learn a variety of techniques for drawing, sketching, and rendering interior spaces, including hand drawing and digital methods.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Become proficient in software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, essential tools for creating 2D and 3D models of interior spaces.
• Materials and Construction: Learn about different building materials, their properties, and applications in interior design. This includes understanding construction methods and technical considerations.
• Lighting design: Discover the principles and techniques of lighting design, taking into account factors such as functionality, atmosphere, and creating atmosphere.
• Furniture Design and Selection: Learn about furniture styles, functions, and selection criteria based on space requirements and user needs.

Advanced Courses:

• Sustainable Interior Design: Gain knowledge about sustainable design principles and practices, including material selection, energy efficiency, and responsible resource utilization.
• Universal Design: Learn to design inclusive spaces accessible to people with diverse abilities and needs.
• Commercial Interior Design: Focus on the specific considerations and design approaches for commercial spaces like offices, retail stores, restaurants, and hospitality environments.
• Residential Interior Design: Deepen your understanding of designing residential spaces, considering user needs, functionality, and aesthetics for various living spaces.
• Interior Branding and Storytelling: Explore how to design interiors that reflect brand identity and communicate a specific narrative or message.

Documents Required to Study Interior Designing in South Korea

To study interior design in South Korea, international students usually need to submit various documents to the universities they are applying to. Specific requirements may vary from office to office, but the list of most commonly required documents is as follows:

1. Application: An application completed by the University or via the online application portal.

2. Transcripts: Official transcripts or transcripts from schools previously attended, including high school transcripts and, if available, college transcripts.

3. Educational Certification: High school diploma or equivalent proof of high school graduation.

4. Language test results: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (usually English or Korean). This may include results from standardized tests such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for English proficiency, or the Korean Proficiency Test (TOPIK) for learning Korean.

5. Letters of Recommendation: One or more letters of recommendation from a teacher, professor, or other teacher or professional who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities, attitude, and ability to succeed.

6. Portfolio: A document demonstrating the applicant’s artistic and design skills, including work samples, sketches, design plans, and creative projects. Evidence is particularly important for art and design courses, such as interior design.

7. Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement: A written document that briefly describes the applicant’s educational background, career goals, reasons for selecting a specific course and school, and other information important to support the candidacy.

8. Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport or other valid identification document.

9. Financial Documents: Proof of financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other education-related expenses. This may include bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship letters.

10. Visa Documents: Once accepted, international students must provide additional information to apply for a student visa, including the visa application form, passport size, and proof of residency, in a health-friendly manner.

Admission Process for Interior Designing in South Korea

The admission process for studying interior design in South Korea generally follows several steps:

1. College Research and Selection: Prospective students should research colleges that offer interior design programs in Korea and carefully consider the admission requirements, curriculum, faculty, facilities, and other related factors. You should consider factors such as location, cost of living, and advice.

2. Application Submission: Applicants must submit their application to the university of their choice within the given deadline. Applications are typically submitted online through the school’s admissions office or by mail, depending on the school’s policies.

3. Submission of Documents: As explained in the previous answer, applicants must prepare and submit all required documents, including transcripts, grade reports, language test transcripts, letters of recommendation, documents, educational plans, passports, financial documents, etc. Other information determined by the university

4. Entrance Examination (if applicable): Some universities may require applicants to take an entrance examination as part of the admission process. The format and content of the examination may vary depending on the university and program. Applicants should prepare accordingly and follow the instructions provided by the university.

5. Interview (if necessary): In some cases, colleges and universities may schedule interviews with applicants as part of the admissions process. Interviews may be conducted in person, by telephone, or by video conference and will focus on evaluating the candidate’s suitability for the position, education, career goals, and other important considerations.

6. Admissions Decisions: Admissions committee reviews all applications, materials, test scores, and interview results (if applicable) before deciding whether or not to accept each applicant. Successful applicants will receive an acceptance letter from the university.

7. Acceptance and Registration: Successful applicants must confirm acceptance by the deadline and complete the additional registration process required by the University. This will include paying the registration fee, submitting additional documents, and applying for a student visa (if you are an international student).

8. Orientation and Registration: After registration, students will complete training provided by the school to become familiar with school facilities, academic policies, student services, and other important information. You will also register for classes and receive class schedules for the next semester.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pursuing an interior design education in Korea is a gateway to a dynamic and innovative field enriched by Korea’s rich cultural heritage and advanced design culture. By providing comprehensive programs and hands-on experience opportunities at a respected institution, students can embark on a journey of creativity and professional growth that prepares them for a successful career in the ever-evolving world of interior design.

FAQs Best South Korean Interior Design Schools

Q1: What are the typical job prospects for interior design graduates in South Korea?

Ans: Interior design graduates in South Korea can pursue various career paths, including working in design firms, architectural offices, and real estate companies, or setting up their design consultancy. They may specialize in residential, commercial, hospitality, or healthcare design, depending on their interests and expertise.

Q2: Are scholarships available for international students studying interior design in South Korea?

Ans: Many universities in South Korea offer scholarships and financial aid options for international students, including merit-based scholarships, need-based scholarships, and government-sponsored scholarships. Prospective students should check with individual universities and external scholarship organizations for eligibility criteria and application procedures.

Q3: Can international students work part-time while studying interior design in South Korea?

Ans: International students studying in South Korea are generally allowed to work part-time during the academic semester and full-time during vacation periods, subject to certain restrictions and regulations. However, students should check the specific visa regulations and employment guidelines set by the Korean government and their respective universities.

Q4: How does South Korea’s interior design education compare to other countries?

Ans: South Korea’s interior design education is highly regarded globally for its rigorous curriculum, innovative approaches, and emphasis on practical skills and industry connections. With a strong focus on creativity, technology, and sustainability, South Korean interior design programs offer students a competitive edge in the international design market.