Initiatives for Change in Korean Higher Education: Quest for Excellence of World-Class Universities

Abstract

The establishment of World-Class Universities (WCUs) is noted as a paramount development in the realm of international higher education. The integration of higher education into a more international scheme has enabled for higher education institutions (HEIs) to have a broader impact on the states and their respective citizens. This study examines the current environment of the higher education system, as well as the important factors that have contributed to placing WCUs at the center of international higher education policies. In particular, this study will analyze the policies and practices of the Republic of Korea that have been created to establish globally competitive HEIs. The Brain Korea 21 Projects, the WCU Project, and global rankings have contributed to the nation's ongoing quest for excellence in tertiary education. As HEIs in Korea continuously enhance their international status in the field of higher education, it becomes increasingly important to review and provide insights on globally competitive institutions as well as higher education reforms that have been applied to Korean universities.

What are universities pursuing? A review of the Quacquarelli Symonds world university rankings of Taiwanese universities (2021–2023)

“…The establishment of World-Class Universities (WCUs) is noted as a paramount development in the realm of international higher education (Kang, 2015). National Taiwan University and Taipei Medical University are among the top-performing national and private universities in Taiwan's universities in the QS World University Rankings.…”

Strategies for Partnership With World-Class Partners to Achieve Pioneers of Educational Excellence

“…Internationalization of higher education is defined as a process in higher education that integrates international components into the goals, functions, and directions of education to be achieved (De Wit, et al, 2015). The internationalization of higher education primarily aims to enhance academic clusters, propelling them toward World Class University (WCU) status (Kang, 2015). This objective is pursued through various initiatives, including curriculum development and innovation, exchange programs for lecturers and students, expansion of academic offerings, integration of information technology in education, provision for international students, and cultural training (Knight, 2005).…”

The Sociocultural Function Of Universities In The Republic Of Kore

“…Some researchers claim a crisis of university in the Western world and the destruction of traditional ideas that have existed for several centuries. However, it is worth noting the trend of universities to be the centre of national culture in those countries that continue the historical tradition aimed at meeting the needs of society and humanity (Kang, 2015). The university's involvement in the social and cultural life of society is still significant; the university is still an impetus for further national development, it contributes to the formation of social responsibility among students and puts cultural exchanges in priority.…”

“…On the other hand, education in these countries has deeply rooted cultural traditions and does not develop in isolation from them. These countries of Southeast Asia are world-class universities (Kang, 2015). According to statistics, the third part of all global R&D https: //doi.org/10.15405/epsbs.2020.03.02.53 Corresponding Author: Elena Zakharova Selection and peer-review under institutions is carried out at the expense of state support (Lee, 2002).…”