Busan's foreign student population reaches record high of 24,328
The foreign student population in Korea's second-largest city has climbed to a record 24,328 this year, a 30 percent increase from 2025, as Busan expands programs aimed at helping students study, work and settle in Korea. The figure, released Aug. 27 in national basic education statistics, compares with 18,630 foreign students in the southern port city in 2025 and 14,961 in 2024, according to…
Busan, South Korea's second-largest city, has seen a record number of foreign students this year, reaching 24,328. This marks a 30% increase compared to the previous year. The city's push to expand programs supporting these students has paid off, with the number of foreign students in Busan growing from 18,630 in 2025 to 24,328 in the present year. Additionally, the figure rose to 14,961 in 2024.
In its efforts to attract foreign students, Busan has partnered with local universities since 2024, aiming to bring in 30,000 foreign students by 2028. The city has also established the Study Busan Hub, a one-stop support center opened in February, linking universities and government agencies to various services. These services include daily life assistance, healthcare, finance, visa information, Korean language education, and employment opportunities.
The hub also facilitates group fingerprint registration for new foreign students, in collaboration with the Busan Immigration and Foreigners Office. Furthermore, students are connected with three designated hospitals in Busan: Daedong Hospital, Dong-Eui Medical Center, and Good Gang-An Hospital.
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- Busan's foreign student population reaches record high of 24,328 koreatimes.co.kr
