BIS HCMC Celebrates University Offers from South Korea’s Elite Universities

For JeeMin, choosing Yonsei University was more than an academic decision, it was a meaningful step towards reconnecting with her SouthKorean heritage. Although she has never lived in South Korea, she holds South Korean nationality and sees this next chapter as an exciting opportunity to return to her roots.

JeeMin received offers from an impressive five universities: Yonsei University, Korea University, Hanyang University, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) — one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious institutions — and Chung-Ang University. Ultimately, she chose Yonsei, where she will study Mathematics.

“I’ve always had a passion for Maths,” she shared. “And going to South Korea felt like the right move — familiar, yet new.”

JeeMin credits her teachers at BIS HCMC, especially Ms McCosker, her Biology teacher, for helping her build essential time management skills and navigate the application process with confidence.

Yule Un’s academic journey led to a wealth of options, including offers from Korea University, Yonsei University, and several top UK universities. While he ultimately chose to study Biology at Imperial College London, the South Korean offers were a significant part of his journey.

“I’ve been to London before and wanted to go back as an adult,” Yule Un shared. “But I was proud to be recognised by two of South Korea’s best universities.” He spoke highly of the BIS HCMC Biology programme, calling it “eye-catching” and deeply engaging, and credited former teacher Ms Stanley with inspiring his path.

“BIS really sets you up for international applications,” he said, and his strong results show just how global that preparation truly is.

Jun Yeong, known to many as Nickson, was offered a place at Seoul National University, widely considered South Korea’s most prestigious institution, alongside offers from the UK and Hong Kong. He ultimately accepted a fully merit-based scholarship to study International Business at The University of Hong Kong (HKU).

“Business has no limits,” Nickson said. “It opens doors rather than confining you.” While he chose to study elsewhere, the SNU offer was a highlight, and a testament to his academic strength and international outlook.

“BIS gave me the luxury to choose,” he reflected. “Our teachers have so much international experience, and they shared knowledge that really helped with my decision-making.” His story exemplifies the global readiness BIS nurtures in every student.

Judy received an outstanding set of university offers — including a place at KAIST, South Korea’s leading science and technology university. While she ultimately chose to study Engineering at the University of Cambridge, she reflected on the honour of being accepted by KAIST and what it meant to her.

“Engineering brings together creativity and logic,that’s what I enjoy most,” she said. Her love for problem-solving was developed in Maths and Physics classes at BIS, where her teachers helped make those subjects fun, inspiring, and accessible.

Judy is also grateful to Mr Rispin and Ms Moon for their guidance through the application process, including support with mock interviews and university selection. “That made a big difference,” she said.

Another two students also received incredible offers. Biwoong with offers from Seoul National University and Yonsei University and JaeYeon with an offer from KAIST.

Ms Hannah Moon, our College and University Guidance Counsellor, newly specialising in supporting applications to South Korean universities, shared how thrilled she was at these fantastic offers this year: 

"Gaining admission to one of South Korea’s top universities is no easy feat — but receiving multiple offers from these prestigious institutions is nothing short of remarkable. South Korean universities reserve only a limited number of places each year for SouthKorean overseas students through a highly competitive special admissions process. That’s what makes this year’s success even more extraordinary: our BIS HCMC students have received 12 offers from the top universities in South Korea — with four of those institutions ranked among the top 70 globally. This achievement is a testament to the exceptional academic calibre and global readiness of our students.

I'm extremely proud of every one of you for your hard work, commitment, and determination both in your academic studies and your extracurricular activities beyond the classroom that enabled you to gain these fantastic offers". 

Thank you, Ms Moon, for the wonderful support and guidance you have given our South Korean students and their families throughout the year.

Proud of Their Pathways

Whether they’re bound for Seoul or embarking on new adventures across the world, these students have shown far more than academic excellence. Their journeys have been defined by resilience, determination, and a deep sense of purpose — qualities that will serve them well wherever they go.

We couldn’t be prouder of Biwoong, JaeYeon, JeeMin, Judy, Nickson, and Yule Un, not just for the prestigious offers they’ve received, but for the courage, commitment, and character they’ve displayed throughout their time at BIS HCMC. Each of them has carved out a unique path, leaving a legacy of inspiration for those who follow.

With the next round of South Korean university applications already underway for March 2026, we look forward to celebrating even more stories of success in the months to come.