Here at Seoul National University, a story of innovation unfolds. Established in 1946, Seoul National University or SNU emerged from the merging of ten higher education institutions. King Gojong of the Joseon dynasty first envisioned modernizing the country. His vision led to the establishment of several institutions that later became part of SNU.
SNU’s origins trace back to institutions like the law academy Beopkwan Yangseongso founded in 1895. Other forerunners included Hanseong Sabeomhakgyo a teacher training school and Euihakkyo a medical school. After the Korean Empire formed in 1897, Gojong sought to expand modern education. A medical school established in 1899 evolved into SNU’s College of Medicine.
During Japanese rule, Keijo Imperial University stood as one of Japan’s nine imperial universities. Post-World War II Korea renamed it Gyeongseong University shedding its imperial ties. August 27 1946 marked the official founding of SNU. It integrated institutions such as Gyeongseong University and various specialized colleges.
Harry Bidwell Ansted became SNU’s first president. Student and faculty protests challenged the merger of colleges leading to dismissals and departures. In 1950, the Korean War brought occupation by North Korea and temporary relocation to Busan.
The main campus shifted from Jongno District to Gwanak District in 1975 under President Park Chung Hee’s direction. Today, the Yeongeon Campus still houses the College of Medicine Dentistry and Nursing.
SNU’s admissions process is fiercely competitive. Top students vie for a spot in this esteemed institution. Sixteen colleges offer 83 undergraduate programs. The university also boasts a graduate school and twelve professional graduate schools.
SNU operates across three campuses Gwanak Yeongeon and Pyeongchang. The main Gwanak Campus lies south of Seoul accessible by its own subway station. The Yeongeon Campus sits in Daehangno northeast Seoul.
The Seoul National University Library anchors the Gwanak Campus. It holds over 5.2 million books and extensive digital resources. The Kyujanggak Royal Library now the Kyujanggak Institute preserves Korean historical records.
The Seoul National University Museum showcases Korean heritage. Meanwhile, the Seoul National University Museum of Art exhibits contemporary works. SNU’s gymnasium hosted Olympic events in 1988. The Gwanaksa dormitory provides housing for students.
The University Newspaper keeps the community informed since 1952. SNU consistently ranks high both nationally and internationally. Its graduates excel in various fields shaping South Korea’s landscape. Alumni include Ban Ki-moon former UN Secretary-General and Lee Jae-yong chairman of Samsung Electronics.
SNU’s influence extends into popular culture. Its campuses have appeared in dramas like Star’s Lover and series like Squid Game. This is a place where tradition meets innovation. Seoul National University continues to shape Korea’s future.