Seoul National University (College of Law)

Seoul National University School of Law stands as Korea’s leading legal institution, originating in 1895 and evolving into a modern graduate law school rooted in rigorous academic traditions. Its location on the Gwanak campus situates students within a major national research hub, supported by distinguished faculty and a comprehensive legal curriculum shaped by global perspectives.

The school’s mission emphasizes advancing scholarship, promoting justice, and preparing future legal leaders. A robust academic ecosystem, extensive research facilities, and a renowned law library with more than 155,000 volumes reinforce SNU Law’s reputation as a cornerstone of Korean legal education.

SNU Law maintains an unmatched alumni presence across Korea’s judiciary, government, and corporate sectors, offering graduates strong pathways into judicial training, major law firms, and public-sector leadership. This network strengthens career mobility and enhances access to high-impact legal roles.

Collaborations with specialized research centers and industry partners enable students to gain practical experience through internships, joint research, and policy-oriented projects. International connections further expand opportunities, supporting graduates seeking careers in global law, academia, and multinational organizations.

Applicants choose SNU Law for its historic prestige, rigorous selectivity, and reputation for producing leaders who shape national legal and policy landscapes. Small program size ensures close faculty interaction and a deeply engaged academic culture.

The school’s commitment to global readiness, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research innovation offers students unparalleled preparation for careers across the Asia-Pacific region. Extensive facilities, influential publications, and strong practical training position graduates for long-term success in competitive legal environments.

SNU Law drives legal advancement through research institutions dedicated to issues such as financial regulation, climate policy, competition law, and technology ethics. These centers support collaborations among scholars, industry leaders, and policymakers, producing research that informs national and regional legal developments.

Initiatives in sustainability, digital transformation, and comparative Asia-Pacific law further amplify the school’s influence. Programs involving international scholars and summer study opportunities broaden global engagement, reinforcing SNU Law’s role as a catalyst for legal innovation and societal progress.

Can international students apply to the J.D. program? They must follow the same Korean-language admissions process as local applicants, with no separate international track.

Are English-taught courses available? Yes, 10–20% of courses—mostly in specialized fields—are conducted in English and are open to exchange and graduate students.

What research opportunities exist? Students join projects through major institutes and centers, participate in publications, and engage with visiting scholar programs that support advanced legal research.

Admissions for the J.D. program occur annually in late summer and require competitive evaluations, including tests, essays, and interviews. International applicants must demonstrate Korean proficiency. Graduate programs offer separate tracks for foreign students, emphasizing research proposals and academic achievements.

Students can access on-campus housing, visa support, and essential university services. Practical arrangements such as registration assistance, scholarship inquiries, and language programs help ensure a smooth transition for both domestic and international applicants.