South Korea has crossed a significant milestone with over 300,000 international students enrolled, prompting the education ministry to announce a rise of 35 additional universities certified under the Internationalization Capability Certification System in just one year. This system streamlines the visa issuance process for foreign students applying to certified institutions. Meanwhile, the number of universities that are strictly banned from issuing visas has also increased by five, reflecting a growing concern about immigration management.

According to the recent joint report from the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Justice, as of December 2025, there are 30,808 international students, marking a 17.1% increase from the previous year. The certification program assesses universities based on their management of international students and, if successful, allows these institutions to simplify visa procedures for their applicants. Certified universities enjoy numerous advantages, including participation in overseas Korean study fairs and eligibility for government-funded scholarships aimed at attracting foreign students.

Among the certified universities, 39 have been designated as "Excellent Certified Universities," recognized for their exceptional internationalization efforts. Exemplary practices include selective admissions based on academic ability and interviews, as implemented by the University of Seoul. This classification not only aids in expediting visa issuance but also grants these universities preferential treatment in internationalization projects supported by the Ministry of Education. Additionally, certain universities have been classified as subject to stringent visa checks, highlighting a growing tension within the educational landscape as South Korea continues to attract international students while managing immigration policies more tightly.