Glancing around, one might wonder what makes Seoul International School so special. It’s more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a legacy.
Seoul International School opened in 1973. It was the first foreign school fully recognized after Korea’s liberation. Edward B. Adams envisioned a school free from political and religious ties. His vision became a reality.
Initially, Seoul International School was on Konkuk University’s campus. A new classroom building was finished in 1976. In 1978, the first high school senior class graduated. The school expanded. It needed more space.
In 1981, the current 8-acre site was chosen. The buildings were designed with Korean architectural motifs. Construction finished in May 1985. The school moved to its present location in Seongnam. It is near Bokjeong station on Seoul Subway Line 8.
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges accredited Seoul International School in 1979. Reaccreditation followed in later years. Students must have non-Korean permanent residency or citizenship to attend.
Seoul International School boasts modern facilities. WiFi covers the entire campus. There are two libraries and several science labs. Students in grades 4 to 12 use a one-to-one learning network. The school employs an Apple technician and technology learning staff.
Athletic facilities include three gyms. There is an indoor swimming pool. A soccer field has artificial turf. Weight and gymnastics rooms are also available. A new elementary building was completed in 2013. It features classrooms and gymnasiums.
The school auditorium seats 350 people. It hosts assemblies and fine arts productions. Music students have access to band and choir rooms. Soundproof practice rooms are available.
Class sizes are small. There are about 20 students per homeroom in elementary and middle school. High school classes have about 12 to 20 students. Almost all graduates attend colleges and universities. Most go to the United States.
Seoul International School students have an average GPA of 3.8. The school offers twenty-two Advanced Placement courses. Non-academic courses include art, drama, and music. The AP Capstone program is also available.
Students can study Chinese and Spanish. There are five levels for language courses. English courses are required until senior year. Many students teach Korean to foreigners after school.
Seoul International School is a member of the Korean-American Interscholastic Activities Conference. The school fields teams in various sports. These include tennis, cross country, and swimming.
Middle school students can participate in six sports. These include soccer and basketball. The Middle School Student Council organizes events. An annual carnival takes place at the end of the school year.
The high school faculty consists of over 50 teachers. The school offers over 22 AP classes. Various student clubs are available. These include UNICEF and Habitat for Humanity.
Seoul International School: A place where tradition meets innovation. A place where students become global citizens. A place that prepares students for success.