- New state-funded scholarship track launched exclusively for refugee students in South Korea
- Program provides access to higher education, Korean language training, and skills for career readiness
- First cohort of selected refugee students to begin university studies in September
South Korea has launched a new state-funded scholarship program exclusively for refugee students, strengthening its commitment to inclusive education and global responsibility. The initiative was formalized on January 15 through a memorandum of understanding signed by the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Justice, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Education will introduce a dedicated refugee track within the Global Korea Scholarship program. Starting this year, five refugee students recommended by UNHCR will be selected annually to pursue graduate studies at South Korean universities.
Applications will be reviewed jointly by the students’ chosen universities and the National Institute for International Education. The Ministry of Justice will oversee refugee status verification, immigration, and residency matters to ensure a smooth transition for selected students. The Education Ministry plans to issue an official notice in February, with the first cohort expected to begin studies in the September semester.
The scholarship offers full support, including tuition coverage, Korean language training, airfare, and a monthly living stipend. These benefits aim to remove financial barriers and help students build academic and professional skills that improve long-term employment prospects.
Choi Eun-ok, Vice Education Minister said South Korea has offered government-funded scholarships to international students since 1967 as part of its global engagement through education. She noted that the new refugee-focused track reflects the country’s goal of growing together with the global community by investing in talented students facing displacement.
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UNHCR Korea head Kim Sae-ryo emphasized that access to higher education helps refugees achieve self-reliance, develop skills, and integrate into society. She described the initiative as a strong example of international cooperation and shared responsibility.
The program follows South Korea’s pledge at the 2023 UNHCR Global Refugee Forum and positions education as a pathway to jobs, skills, and stability for refugee youth.
