Since its founding in 1997, the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS) at Seoul National University has grown into a premier academic and professional institution in South Korea, dedicated to educating and shaping the global leaders of the 21st century. With a diverse student body of 270 master’s and doctoral students from all around the world, we are committed to preparing our graduates to assume critical roles in government, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, multinational corporations, the media, as well as in think tanks and academia in Korea and beyond.

Our curriculum is founded on a multidisciplinary approach that integrates theory with practice, ensuring that our students are equipped with the analytical tools and practical skills necessary to confront the complex global challenges of our time—whether it be geopolitical rivalry, economic security, sustainable development, climate change, or the ongoing transformations with new technologies like AI.

As South Korea emerges as a middle power on the global stage with growing economic, technological, military, and cultural influence, GSIS is positioned at the heart of this dynamic environment, providing unparalleled opportunities for students to engage with these trends both academically and professionally.

GSIS is home to some of Korea’s most distinguished faculty members, specializing in international commerce, international cooperation, international area studies, international development, and Korean studies. Their expertise and dedication create an exceptional research and educational environment where innovative ideas thrive, and intellectual inquiry flourishes. Our faculty’s strength ensures that GSIS remains a hub of knowledge, mutual understanding, and the exchange of ideas on the most critical issues facing the Indo-Pacific and the world.

At GSIS, we are driven by a clear mission: to prepare our students to be global citizens capable of addressing the multifaceted challenges that define the 21st century. We aim not only to deepen our students’ understanding of global affairs but also to provide them with the practical experiences and insights necessary to lead effectively in an increasingly interconnected world. 

As dean, I am excited for what lies ahead as we continue to build on GSIS’s proud tradition of academic excellence and global impact. Together, we will ensure that our institution remains at the forefront of international education and academic research for years to come.