Yonsei University: Heaven in the middle of Seoul
Yonsei University (연세대학교) is a private research university located in Seoul, South Korea. As one of Korea’s three “SKY” universities, Yonsei was established in 1885, it is one of the oldest universities in South Korea. According to wikipedia, The student body consists of 38,725 students: 26,731 undergraduate students, 11,994 graduate students, 4,518 faculty members, 6,788 staff, and 257,931 alumni. Today, Yonsei operates its main campuses in Seoul and Songdo, and a satellite campus in Wonju, Gangwon Province. All campuses have extensive programs in the Korean and English language.
In its 2014 World Reputation Rankings, the British publication Times Higher Education (THE) rated Yonsei as one of the top ninety universities in the world. By reputation, then, Yonsei is the top private university in Asia and one of the twenty best private institution worldwide. Overall, the top three universities in THE’s reputation rankings were Harvard, MIT and Stanford, followed by Cambridge and Oxford. According to QS Top Universities, Yonsei University is a center of learning based on the principles of Christian teaching, one which strives to educate leaders who will contribute to society in the spirit of truth and freedom. Yonsei people embrace the culture of the nation and of humanity and foster creative and critical thinking in the pursuit of scholarship. Yonsei people also nurture the sense and spirit of justice, work with an open mind in service to their neighbors, and contribute to the growth of humanity.
Beside of the great reputation in teaching, learning and researching, Yonsei University is also regarded to have one of the most beautiful and picturesque campus in South Korea. There presenting the abundance of trees, the ivy covered European-like buildings, and Cheongsongdae, a romantic walking path for couples, are particularly impressive. Gardening is always on the top of priority as the campus have a diversity of colorful plants, which makes Yonsei an ideal place not only for couples in love to come to enjoy the view but also for tourists from foreign countries. Immersing in Yonsei’s garden gives you the chance of losing yourself in real heaven for a moment or two.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in a poetic pink on Yonsei Campus
Who can resist such a natural beauty in the centre of Seoul – the noisiest city in the world?
Yonsei Administration Building –
artistically colored by the walls of sweet pink confetti.
Outdoor classes are extremely appreciated and preferred over indoor traditional classes by Yonsei students.
The first time I’ve been in Yonsei University, so surprised of its majestic look as well as spring warm atmosphere embracing this wonderland.
If you have chance to visit Seoul, don’t forget to drop in over at Yonsei University in Spring. The road heading to Yonsei University is very easy to find: Sinchon subway station Exit number 2 or 3 Go straight ahead until you see the main gate of this school. 