MBBS in South Korea in 2025

Latest update: Korea University increased international undergraduate tuition by 9% for 2025, outpacing the 5% increase for domestic students.

MBBS in South Korea is gaining popularity among Indian students due to its affordable tuition fees, cutting-edge medical infrastructure, and internationally recognized degree. With over 10,000+ international students enrolling in medical programs annually, South Korea is becoming a hub for quality education in Asia.

For Indian students, pursuing MBBS in South Korea typically spans 6 years and includes both pre-clinical and clinical training. The average tuition fee ranges from USD 5,000 to 15,000 (INR 4 lakh to INR 12 lakh) per year annually, depending on the university. Public universities offer lower fees, while private ones are more expensive.

Wondering about the MBBS in South Korea for Indian students or the requirements for international applicants? This blog has you covered. Read on to learn everything about MBBS in Korea, from eligibility and admission steps to total costs and living expenses.

Explore top universities, scholarships, and career prospects—Study in South Korea with upGrad and start your global journey today!

MBBS in South Korea - Overview

Pursuing an MBBS in South Korea offers a high standard of medical education, globally recognized degrees, and exposure to modern medical technologies. 

The country’s medical universities maintain rigorous academic standards, and international students benefit from innovative teaching methods, research opportunities, and scholarships. 

Additionally, South Korea’s affordable living costs and well-developed healthcare system make it an attractive choice for Indian students.

Key Highlights of Studying MBBS in South Korea:

• Modern Infrastructure: Medical universities boast advanced labs, simulation centers, and cutting-edge equipment for hands-on training
• Global Research Exposure: Ample opportunities to join high-impact medical research and contribute to innovations.
• Affordable & Quality Living: Lower cost of living than Western countries, with access to world-class healthcare.
• Diverse Student Community: Experience a rich cultural exchange and build a global network.
• High Career Potential: Rising demand for doctors ensures strong job prospects and attractive salaries post-graduation.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in South Korea

South Korea has specific eligibility requirements for international students, particularly Indian students, aspiring to pursue MBBS. The criteria ensure that students are academically prepared and meet language proficiency standards.

Academic Requirements:

• Completion of 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) as compulsory subjects.
• A minimum aggregate score of 60-70% in 12th grade (varies by university).
• Some universities may have higher cutoffs, especially for competitive programs.

Language Proficiency:

• If the course is in English, students must provide scores for:
  • IELTS (minimum 6.0-6.5) or
  • TOEFL (minimum 80+).
• If the course is in Korean, students must pass the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) Level 3 or higher. Higher levels may be required for better classroom understanding.

Entrance Exams & Other Requirements:

• Certain universities conduct their own entrance exams for MBBS admissions.
• Some institutions may require an interview to evaluate a student’s motivation and medical knowledge.
• A valid D-2 Student Visa is mandatory.
• Students must provide a medical fitness certificate, ensuring they meet health standards for the program.

Since eligibility varies across universities, it is advisable to check specific requirements on the university’s official website before applying.

Admission Process for MBBS in South Korea

The admission process for MBBS in South Korea is highly competitive, requiring students to meet academic, language, and documentation standards. Since medical seats are limited, early application and thorough preparation are crucial. 

Below is a step-by-step guide for Indian students:

Step 1: Research and Shortlist Universities

• Identify medical universities in South Korea that accept international students.
• Check university rankings, tuition fees, scholarships, and MBBS course structures.
• Review specific eligibility criteria, including required entrance exams and language proficiency.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Application

Applications are typically submitted online through the university’s official website. Required documents generally include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates (10th & 12th mark sheets).
• Passport copy (with at least six months of validity).
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) outlining reasons for choosing MBBS in South Korea.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers or school authorities.
• Proof of English proficiency: IELTS (6.0-6.5) / TOEFL (80+) (if applicable).
• Proof of Korean proficiency: TOPIK Level 3 or higher (if applicable).
• Application fee payment proof (varies by university).

Step 3: Appear for Entrance Exam/Interview (If Required)

• Some universities conduct their own entrance tests covering biology, chemistry, and logical reasoning.
• Universities may conduct interviews (online or in-person) to assess a student’s motivation and basic medical knowledge.
• Certain institutions may require additional tests like the CSAT (College Scholastic Ability Test), but exemptions may apply for international students.

Step 4: Receive Admission Offer

• If selected, students receive a Letter of Admission (LOA) via email.
• Some universities require a confirmation deposit to secure admission.

Step 5: Apply for Student Visa (D-2 Visa)

After receiving the admission letter, students must apply for a D-2 Student Visa through the Korean Embassy or Consulate. Required documents include:

• University admission letter.
• Valid passport.
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements showing KRW 18M - 20M or INR 12L - 13L).
• Health insurance certificate.
• Visa application form and application fee.

Step 6: Travel to South Korea and Begin Studies

• Plan travel arrangements and book flights.
• Register for the Alien Registration Card (ARC) at the Korean Immigration Office within 90 days of arrival.
• Attend the university orientation program to understand academic policies, campus life, and student services.

Important Note: South Korean universities have strict deadlines, and applications often start 6-12 months before the academic year begins. Early preparation is highly recommended.

Application Deadlines & Intakes

Universities in South Korea offer two types of intakes for MBBS programs: Spring Intake and Fall Intake. Each intake's opening and closing dates may vary from university to university. 

1. Fall Semester: March to April 
2. Spring Semester: July to September

Students should check the specific intake dates of their preferred universities to ensure they submit their applications on time.

Key Points About MBBS Application Deadlines:

• Spring Intake (March): Most universities open applications between July and November of the previous year. This intake is popular among international students, as it aligns well with the Indian academic calendar.
• Fall Intake (September): Applications are accepted between March and April, and classes commence in September. This intake is less common for MBBS but still available at selected universities.
• Rolling Admissions: Some universities offer rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. However, this depends on seat availability.
• Early Deadlines for Scholarships: Students applying for government or university scholarships may have earlier deadlines, sometimes 3-6 months before the regular admission deadline.

Top MBBS Universities in South Korea

South Korea is home to some of the most prestigious medical universities, known for their cutting-edge research, advanced medical technology, and globally recognized faculty. 

These universities provide MBBS programs with a strong emphasis on practical training, clinical exposure, and interdisciplinary learning.

For Indian students, studying MBBS in South Korea offers multiple advantages:

• Affordable tuition fees compared to Western countries.
• State-of-the-art medical infrastructure with hands-on clinical experience.
• High global rankings and strong industry connections.
• Opportunities for research and specialization in various medical fields.

Below is a list of the top 10 medical universities in South Korea, along with their QS World Rankings and estimated tuition fees for MBBS:

Top 10 MBBS Universities in South Korea

University	QS World Ranking 2025	Approx. Tuition Fees (KRW & INR) (per year)
Seoul National University	#31	6,500,000 - 7,500,000 KRW (INR 4.2L - 4.9L)
Yonsei University	#56	8,000,000 - 9,000,000 KRW (INR 5.2L - 5.8L)
Korea University	#67	7,200,000 - 8,200,000 KRW (INR 4.7L - 5.3L)
Sungkyunkwan University	#123	7,000,000 - 7,800,000 KRW (INR 4.5L - 5.1L)
Hanyang University	#162	6,800,000 - 7,500,000 KRW (INR 4.4L - 4.9L)
Kyung Hee University	#328	6,200,000 - 7,000,000 KRW (INR 4.0L - 4.5L)
Pusan National University	#524	5,800,000 - 6,500,000 KRW (INR 3.8L - 4.2L)
Ewha Womans University	#511	5,900,000 - 6,500,000 KRW (INR 3.9L - 4.2L)
Catholic University of Korea	#801-850	5,200,000 - 6,000,000 KRW (INR 3.4L - 3.9L)
Chonnam National University	#851-900	5,500,000 - 6,200,000 KRW (INR 3.6L - 4.0L)

Note: The tuition fees mentioned above vary based on program structure, university policies, and additional laboratory costs. It is recommended to check university websites for exact fees before applying.

MBBS Specializations in South Korea

South Korea offers a diverse range of MBBS specializations, allowing students to pursue advanced medical training after completing their MBBS (equivalent to an MD in Korea). 

Specializing in South Korea provides access to cutting-edge technology, strong research opportunities, and globally recognized training programs.

Why Specialize in South Korea?

• World-Class Training: South Korea is known for its high standards of medical education and research.
• Advanced Medical Technology: Hospitals are equipped with robotic surgery, AI-driven diagnostics, and minimally invasive treatments.
• Strong Career Prospects: Specialists are in high demand in South Korea and globally.
• International Recognition: Graduates can apply for medical licensing in countries like the US, UK, and Canada after fulfilling specific requirements.

Popular MBBS Specializations in South Korea

Specialization	Key Focus Areas	Career Opportunities
General Medicine	Disease diagnosis, primary healthcare	General Practitioner, Family Medicine Doctor
Surgery	General surgery, emergency surgeries	Surgeon, Trauma Specialist
Pediatrics	Child healthcare, neonatal medicine	Pediatrician, Neonatal Specialist
Dermatology	Skin diseases, aesthetic medicine	Dermatologist, Cosmetic Specialist
Cardiology	Heart diseases, cardiac surgeries	Cardiologist, Interventional Specialist
Neurology	Brain & nervous system disorders	Neurologist, Neurosurgeon
Radiology	X-rays, MRI, CT scans, nuclear medicine	Radiologist, Imaging Specialist
Psychiatry	Mental health, neuropsychiatry	Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychologist
Orthopedics	Bone, joint, and spine care	Orthopedic Surgeon, Sports Medicine Expert
Gynecology & Obstetrics	Women’s reproductive health, maternity care	Gynecologist, Obstetrician

Other In-Demand MBBS Specializations in South Korea

• Ophthalmology – Eye disorders, LASIK surgery, vision correction.
• Anesthesiology – Surgical anesthesia, pain management.
• Pathology – Disease diagnosis through laboratory tests.
• Oncology – Cancer treatment, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.
• Endocrinology – Hormonal disorders, diabetes, metabolic diseases.

Note: Specializing in South Korea requires residency training, licensing exams, and sometimes TOPIK Level 4 or higher for patient interactions.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for MBBS in South Korea

Pursuing an MBBS degree in South Korea can be financially demanding, but several scholarships and financial aid programs are available to support international students, including Indian students. 

These scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes even travel costs, making medical education more accessible.

Top Scholarships for MBBS in South Korea

Scholarship Name	Offered By	Benefits
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)	South Korean Government	Full tuition, airfare, monthly stipend (KRW 1M), medical insurance
Yonsei University Global Scholarship	Yonsei University	Partial to full tuition fee waiver, living expenses
Seoul National University International Scholarship	Seoul National University	Tuition fee support, living cost assistance
Korea University International Student Scholarship	Korea University	Tuition reduction (varies based on academic performance)
Ewha Global Partnership Program	Ewha Womans University	Fully funded scholarship (tuition + living expenses) for female students
Hanyang University International Excellence Scholarship	Hanyang University	Partial tuition fee reduction for high-achieving students
Sogang Global Scholarship	Sogang University	Covers tuition and provides a living stipend for international students
Kyung Hee University Special Scholarship	Kyung Hee University	Tuition discounts for international students based on merit
Pusan National University Merit Scholarship	Pusan National University	Tuition fee exemption for top-performing international students
Chonnam National University International Scholarship	Chonnam National University	Financial aid for outstanding international students

Cost of Studying MBBS in South Korea

Pursuing an MBBS degree in South Korea is a great investment due to the high-quality education, advanced medical facilities, and globally recognized degrees. 

However, the cost can vary significantly depending on whether you study at a public or private university, as well as your lifestyle and location.

1. Tuition Fees for MBBS in South Korea

University Type	Annual Tuition Fees (KRW)	Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
Public Universities	5,500,000 - 7,000,000 KRW	INR 3.6L - 4.5L
Private Universities	7,000,000 - 9,000,000 KRW	INR 4.5L - 6L

Key Differences:

• Public universities are generally more affordable, but admission is highly competitive.
• Private universities have higher tuition fees, but they often offer more scholarships and better research facilities.

2. Additional Expenses for MBBS Students in South Korea

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (KRW/month)	Estimated Cost (INR/month)
Accommodation (Dormitory or Rental)	300,000 - 600,000	INR 21K - 42K
Food & Groceries	200,000 - 400,000	INR 14K - 28K
Transportation	50,000 - 100,000	INR 3.5K - 7K
Health Insurance	70,000 - 150,000	INR 5K - 10K
Miscellaneous (Books, Internet, Leisure, etc.)	100,000 - 200,000	INR 7K - 14K

Total Living Expenses: KRW 700,000 - 1,000,000 per month (INR 50K - 70K)

3. Hidden Costs to Consider

• Student Visa Fees (D-2 Visa): KRW 100,000 - 150,000 (INR 7K - 10K)
• Medical Checkups & Vaccinations: KRW 150,000 - 300,000 (INR 10K - 20K)
• Study Materials & Lab Fees: KRW 500,000 - 1,000,000 (INR 35K - 70K) per semester
• TOPIK Exam Fees (If Required): KRW 80,000 (INR 5.5K)

Pro Tip: Living in cities like Seoul and Busan may be more expensive, so students can opt for affordable cities like Daejeon, Gwangju, or Daegu to lower their expenses.

Job Opportunities & Salary After MBBS in South Korea

Pursuing an MBBS in South Korea opens up diverse career opportunities in hospitals, research institutions, medical universities, and public healthcare organizations. 

With advanced medical infrastructure, high salaries, and strong government support, South Korea is an attractive destination for medical professionals.

However, international MBBS graduates may face challenges in securing jobs without Korean language proficiency. Most hospitals and medical institutions require TOPIK Level 5 or 6 for full licensing and employment.

1. Career Paths After MBBS in South Korea

After completing MBBS in South Korea, graduates can work in various fields, such as:

• Clinical Practice: Work as a doctor in hospitals, private clinics, or specialized healthcare centers.
• Medical Research: Contribute to cutting-edge research in pharmaceuticals, genetics, or biotechnology.
• Public Health & Policy: Join government health agencies, NGOs, or WHO-affiliated organizations.
• Medical Education: Become a medical professor or lecturer at top universities.
• Healthcare Administration: Work as a hospital administrator or healthcare consultant.
• Medical Journalism & Writing: Write for medical publications, journals, and online health platforms.

2. Top 10 Job Roles After MBBS in South Korea & Their Salaries

Job Role	Approx. Monthly Salary (KRW)	Approx. Monthly Salary (INR)
Intern/Resident Doctor	3.5M - 5M KRW	INR 2.3L - 3.3L
General Practitioner (GP)	7M - 12M KRW	INR 4.6L - 8L
Specialist Doctor (Cardiologist, Neurologist, etc.)	12M - 20M KRW	INR 8L - 13L
Medical Researcher	6M - 10M KRW	INR 4L - 6.5L
Surgeon	15M - 25M KRW	INR 10L - 16.5L
Public Health Expert	5M - 9M KRW	INR 3.3L - 6L
Medical Professor	8M - 14M KRW	INR 5.3L - 9.2L
Hospital Administrator	6M - 11M KRW	INR 4L - 7.2L
Medical Lab Director	5.5M - 9.5M KRW	INR 3.6L - 6.2L
Medical Consultant (Pharmaceuticals, Biotech)	7M - 13M KRW	INR 4.6L - 8.5L

Sourced from: Salary Expert 

Please note that these figures are approximate and can vary based on experience, location, and the employing organization.

3. Job Market & Licensing Requirements

To practice as a doctor in South Korea, international students must pass the Korean Medical Licensing Exam (KMLE).

• Language Barrier: Most medical jobs require Korean proficiency (TOPIK Level 5 or 6).
• Work Visa Requirements: Students must transition from a D-2 student visa to an E-7 or E-5 work visa.

Conclusion

Pursuing an MBBS in South Korea is an excellent opportunity for Indian students looking for high-quality medical education, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and global career prospects.

 With top-ranked universities, diverse scholarships, and affordable tuition compared to Western countries, South Korea has become a preferred destination for international medical aspirants.

However, students must meet strict eligibility criteria, navigate a competitive admission process, and adapt to the Korean language and culture. 

While career opportunities in South Korea are promising, securing a medical license and TOPIK Level 5 or 6 proficiency is essential for working as a doctor.

If you’re ready to embark on this journey, start by shortlisting universities, preparing your applications, and exploring financial aid options to make your dream of becoming a doctor a reality!

Explore MBBS Opportunities Abroad!

Looking to pursue MBBS in an international destination? Check out these detailed guides:

🔹 MBBS in New Zealand
🔹 MBBS in Poland
🔹 MBBS in Italy
🔹 MBBS in Bulgaria
🔹 MBBS in Japan
🔹 MBBS in Belgium
🔹 MBBS in Spain
🔹 MBBS in Sweden
🔹 MBBS Abroad Without NEET

Click on any country to explore eligibility, fees, top universities, and career opportunities!