Any references to costs, fees, financial evidence and visa information are for general guidance purposes only and is subject to change at any point.
Please ensure you refer to information provided by host universities and respective government/embassy webpages for the latest updates.
Pusan National University (PNU) is the top Korean flagship national university and Asia’s premier comprehensive institution of higher education and a leader in research and teaching. PNU has been the No. 1 national university in research and educational competency, and its tradition and ability are estimated highly. PNU is located in the south east of the country in the city of Busan, the largest city in South Korea. Summers can be hot and humid but are often cooler due to ocean breezes. The city may also experience typhoons and winters are cold with an average of 5 days of snow a year.
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
Swansea has a ‘university-wide’ partnership with this university which means that it is open to all subject areas except for History, Classics, Media, Education, Early Childhood Studies, Criminology, Sociology, Social Policy, Economics, Politics & IR, Philosophy, Accounting, Business, Marketing, Tourism, Law, Chemistry, Sports & Exercise Science, Maths, Geography, and Physics.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs from September to June.
COSTS: The average of cost of living in Busan will vary depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan you select. Further information about cost of living can be found here.
VISA: You will need to apply for an exchange student visa (D-2-6) before you arrive in Korea. Once you are admitted to PNU, you will be sent a copy of your Certificate of Admissions and Business Registration; you will need this document to apply for your visa. You must allow enough time to complete the visa application and for your visa to be processed and sent to you in time for the start of term at PNU. There can be delays so please do not leave this until the last minute.
ACCOMMODATION: On-campus accommodation is available and includes full board. Information on PNU dormitory accommodation can be found here. Students require a Tuberculosis test result to enter the dormitory in Korea.
HEALTH INSURANCE: PNU requires students to secure travel and medical insurance prior to arrival in Korea. All exchange students are required to register for the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) and private insurance (PNU Group insurance or alternatively sourced insurance).
USEFUL LINKS:
- PNU Homepage
- PNU Exchange Student page
- PNU Accommodation
- PNU Course Catalogue
- PNU Student Support Services*
*Provisions for Dyslexia are down to the individual lecturer
Laura's Experience
Laura spent a year in Busan as part of her Biosciences degree at Swansea.
"I’ve visited Seoul several times, and one of my most memorable experiences was visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace. We rented a hanbok (traditional Korean dress) for the day and walking through the palace grounds in traditional clothing made the visit feel even more special. I have also had the chance to study Korean culture and language, and a K-POP music class that I took alongside my regular studies. I have learnt to navigate unfamiliar situations, adapt to new customs and have become a much more confident person thanks to my time abroad."
Nicole's Experience
Nicole spent a year studying in Busan as part of her English Language degree at Swansea:
"Studying abroad in South Korea has been an enriching experience, both academically and personally. These experiences have deepened my understanding of Korean history and provided unique perspectives that have influenced my academic work in ways I wouldn’t have gained back home. I’ve formed lasting bonds with students from places like Japan, Germany, and Morocco, and we’ve supported each other through the challenges of adjusting to life in a country where we don’t speak the language. This cultural immersion has not only enriched my studies but also equipped me with the skills to approach my work from a broader global viewpoint, which will be invaluable in my future career."