Following is Part I in a two-part series on studying Korean. Part II will take a look at private academies. - Ed. 

language="JavaScript"src="/khjs/banner/article_340.js">University language programs

Most major universities in Seoul and other large cities offer Korean language programs. Each has its own unique traits, curriculum and reputation, but all of the programs are geared specifically to people who are interested in intensive Korean language study. Their full-time programs typically run for 10 weeks and classes are usually Monday to Friday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., with 20 hours a week of classroom time. If you do the math, that`s 200 hours for one term and each semester costs between 900,000 won (Hongik) - 1.5 million won (Sogang and Yonsei). The universities also offer part-time and short-term intensive programs but are best known for their full-time programs. When you`re searching for the right program, looking online will garner a bevy of information, but it can be confusing and frustrating to figure out what the differences are between certain programs. Below is a short synopsis of four of the most well-known and comprehensive university programs. Yonsei University

Established in 1959, Yonsei University is the country`s first officially accredited Korean language program in the country. By supporters and critics alike, Yonsei is often recognized as the most grammar-heavy program of all of the programs. If your goal is to study in a Korean university or graduate program (not a Graduate School of International Studies program where classes are primarily given in English), then it`s generally accepted that Yonsei is the best. The teachers are admittedly strict, the coursework is rigorous, and the tests are daunting - during mid-term and finals week, you`ll find packs of students cramming and near their breaking points, for fear of failing. But in the end it`s all worth it, according to former Yonsei student Kelsey March, who graduated from the program last December. March, who had previous experience studying at Sogang`s KLEC before entering Yonsei`s program at Level 2, had only positives to describe the program. "The quantity of and speed at which you cover grammar and vocabulary can sometimes be overwhelming and the tests are challenging; however, particularly for those who are interested in utilizing Korean in academia or enhancing their depth and range of vocabulary, it`s a very helpful program. If I had to do it again, I would still choose Yonsei," said March, who is from the United States. But Yonsei isn`t all work and no play. The program also hosts speaking, singing, drama, and oratorical competitions for its students each term and in higher levels, students engage in formal debates with their classmates. Starting in Level 5, students get to choose a specialized elective, among the options - history, politics, hanja (Chinese characters), news, literature and essay writing. Although the program is highly esteemed, it`s not suitable for those who are working full-time or cannot make a large commitment to study outside the classroom. However, for students who are seeking a high-level program with a well-regarded and established curriculum, Yonsei is a great choice. Yonsei University is located near Sinchon station. Sogang University

Best known as the program that focuses primarily on verbal communication, Sogang University`s major selling point is its active classroom learning environment. Students at Sogang report that the classes and curriculum are highly interactive, the teachers are extremely energetic, and that there are a variety of in-classroom activities to facilitate lots of speaking time for students. Former American student Sara Ochs, who completed Levels 1-2 at Sogang, said that it was this reputation that brought her to the program. "I loved that Sogang got me speaking really fast, and that they teach everyday spoken grammar before the formal stuff that isn`t used very often." While the curriculum isn`t as grammar or vocabulary heavy as Yonsei`s, each semester still covers hundreds of vocabulary words and between two-five grammar points per lesson. And while midterm and finals weeks will still produce an air of panic among its students, most are mainly concerned about the interview portion of the tests, the sticking point where many students may fail the level if they are unable to impress the interviewer with their natural use of the grammar learned throughout the term, or if they have obvious issues with pronunciation. Johan Ander, a lecturer at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, studied for four terms at Sogang and one at Yonsei, and emphasized considering your goals before choosing a program. "I would recommend the program at Sogang because it is more fun, and having fun while learning does make the process easier. But if you don`t have the self-control to study the grammar on your own, you might want to consider Yonsei or another program for the higher levels." Ander is from Sweden. One unique feature of Sogang`s program is their optional, "Do-oomi" program, where students in Levels 3-6 are paired with a Sogang student who help you study Korean and learn about Korean culture after class. Sogang also offers optional extracurricular classes, for various topics such as, norae (songs), hanja, news and Business Korean and have movie days for students to watch Korean movies together. Students are also encouraged to join regular university clubs in order to interact with Korean students. Sogang University is located in Sinchon, between Daeheung and Sinchon stations. Ewha Womans University

Ewha Womans University is often chosen as the middle ground between the two heavy-hitters, Yonsei and Sogang. Ewha classes tend to be more grammar driven than Sogang, but provide more time for conversation practice than Yonsei. The weak point of the program, however, may be their curriculum and teaching materials. Students who have studied at multiple programs frequently comment that curriculum is not as well-developed as other programs. One student, who studied four terms at Ewha before going to Yonsei where she will graduate this semester, explained some of Ewha`s weak and strong points when comparing her experiences. "The books are set up in a way that students are not able to study at home, since explanations of the grammar are often insufficient. On the other hand, the classroom environment is freer and more conducive to free speaking." Ewha also offers a pronunciation class, where students are divided once a week to tailor to students` pronunciation difficulties from certain countries. In addition, Ewha has after-class clubs for different interests, such as movies and photography, for students to interact with one another. Ewha Womans University is located near the Ewha Womans University subway station stop. Kyung Hee University

Kyung Hee University may be lesser-known than the above three programs, but students who`ve gone through the program report positive experiences. Former student Muriel Bossard, who studied at Kyung Hee for five semesters, reported the enthusiastic teachers as one of the best aspects. "I generally had good teachers, concerned about students and able to explain things that Korean people usually can`t (about the Korean language). "I also learned a lot about Korean culture and habits, and a bit about cultures of other students` countries," said Bossard. She also called the program "well-structured" and said she would recommend the program to others "because you learn very fast in good conditions." Kyung Hee University is located near Hoegi Station. For more information about the programs in this article or for other information about living, working, and studying in Seoul, visit the Seoul Global Center revamped website http://globalseoul.go.kr or unofficial blog www.seoulcityblog.com To comment on this story, e-mail mattlamers@heraldcorp.com; to reach the author, e-mail shannon.sgc@gmail.com - Ed.