서울대학교 정치외교학부

Introducing Major

The Department of International Relations aims to foster expert individuals who can comprehend holistically the reality of international relations, and in the process, explore the paths that Korea can pursue.

The history of the Korean peninsula has overwhelmingly revolved around international politics. In an attempt to academically and practically resolve the problems that we come across in our international political life, the Department of International Relations is preparing for a new era. The Department of International Relations aims to foster expert individuals who can comprehend holistically the reality of international relations, and in the process, explore the paths that Korea can pursue. In addition, considering the nature of the field, it is important to nurture not only professional research scientists or functional intellectuals, but also well-rounded individuals capable of both theory and practice. Accordingly, through the comprehensive knowledge of social sciences, the department emphasizes on the students’ ability to recognize and apply the properties of people, societies, states, and international relations. Further, students are encouraged to analyze and diagnose the complex social phenomena in specific fields of international relations through a thorough understanding of the problems.

We are looking into the future of the 21st century, and this century is expected to be one marked by creativity and challenge. To keep in pace with the rapidly changing times, Department of International Relations of Seoul National University aims to cultivate individuals to lead this dynamic century by providing them with the necessary knowledge, skillset, and networks to become such leading actors.