Hankuk University Of Foreign Studies

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS) Visiting Guide – Seoul, South Korea: Tickets, Hours, and Essential Tips

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: The Legacy of HUFS

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS), located in the bustling Dongdaemun district of Seoul, is celebrated as South Korea’s premier institution for foreign language education and global cultural exchange. Founded in 1954 to promote international communication in the wake of the Korean War, HUFS initially offered programs in six major world languages: English, French, Chinese, German, Spanish, and Russian (Edarabia; Liquisearch). Over the decades, it has grown into a diverse academic community, now offering instruction in 45 languages and housing over 50 departments (TopUniversities).

HUFS’s Seoul campus is open and welcoming, blending historical significance with a vibrant, modern atmosphere. Its accessible location, free admission, and dynamic student life make it a rewarding destination for prospective students, tourists, and culture enthusiasts alike (Edarabia; HUFS Campus Tour).

Room 250 of the Department of Scandinavian Languages at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

Contents Overview

History and Significance of HUFS
Campus Evolution and Academic Expansion
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Tours
Getting There and Accessibility
Campus Layout and Facilities
Visitor Experience: Attractions and Activities
Practical Travel Tips
Accommodation, Health, and Safety
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Recommendations
Useful References

1. History and Significance

Founded during South Korea’s post-war recovery, HUFS was established with the mission to bridge cultures and promote peace through language proficiency and international understanding (Liquisearch). Achieving university status in 1980 and launching a second campus in Yongin, HUFS has continually expanded its academic and international reach (Edarabia).

HUFS’s pioneering approach to foreign language study and its commitment to fostering global leaders have solidified its place as a cornerstone of Korean higher education.

2. Visiting HUFS: Hours, Tickets, and Tours

Opening Hours:

Campus grounds: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Administrative Offices: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday)
Library: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Monday to Friday; some reading rooms open 24 hours)

Admission:

Free entry to all visitors.
No tickets required for general campus access or museum visits.
Some events or guided tours may require advance registration (HUFS Campus Tour).

Tours and Events:

Occasional guided tours (check the HUFS events calendar)
Annual cultural festivals, public lectures, and international conferences are open to the public.

3. Getting There and Accessibility

Location:
107 Imun-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

By Subway:

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Station (Line 1) – closest campus entrance
Dongdaemun Station (Lines 1 and 4) – nearby access

By Bus:
Multiple city bus routes serve the Dongdaemun district and stop near the campus.

Accessibility:

Wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms in all major buildings
Information desks provide support for visitors with disabilities

4. Campus Layout and Key Facilities

HUFS Seoul Campus is mid-sized and pedestrian-friendly, with clear bilingual signage. Notable buildings include:

Main Building: Administrative offices, classrooms, and computer labs
Humanities and Social Sciences Buildings: Cafeterias, print/copy shops, student amenities
Law School: Specialized library and computer labs
Library: Five floors of reading rooms, study spaces, and group meeting areas (HUFS Campus Tour)
Globee Dorm & Student Building: International Student Support Center, dormitory, fitness center, health clinic, and convenience store
Minerva Complex: Fitness center, seminar rooms, study lounges, and cafés
Cyber Building: Career center, digital library, main auditorium

Dining and Shopping:

Multiple cafeterias and cafés (e.g., Café Bene, NesCafe)
Woori Bank branch (currency exchange available)
University bookstore and souvenir shop

5. Visitor Experience: What to See and Do

Historical Museum and Archives:

Explore the university’s history at the HUFS Historical Museum (Building 16, Room #302) and the Historical Archives (Building 14).

Cultural Events:

Attend international festivals, language exchange gatherings, and lectures throughout the year (HUFS Korean Language Center).

Fitness and Recreation:

Fitness centers and outdoor spaces are available, though visitor access may require registration.

Self-Guided Tours:

Maps are available at the main entrance.
Virtual campus tour accessible online (Virtual Reality Tour, requires Adobe Flash).

6. Practical Travel Tips

Plan ahead: Review the HUFS campus map and visitor info before arrival.
Engage with students: Participate in language exchange or cultural activities.
Sample local cuisine: Affordable meals available in student cafeterias.
Use public transport: Subway and bus provide the most convenient access.
Visit during festivals: Experience the campus at its liveliest during cultural events.

7. Accommodation, Health, and Safety

Accommodation:

On-campus dormitories are for enrolled students only.
Numerous hotels and guesthouses are available in the Dongdaemun area (StandYou).

Health Services:

Basic medical care at the health clinic (Globee Dorm, 2nd floor, Room #201, 09:00–17:00).
Emergency number: 119

Safety:

Campus is monitored by security and CCTV.
Emergency contacts and procedures are posted in main buildings.

Payments and Wi-Fi:

Credit/debit cards and Korean won accepted.
Free campus-wide Wi-Fi for visitors (registration may be required at information desks).

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need tickets to visit HUFS or its museum?
No, campus and museum admission are free.

Is the campus accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, all major facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Are guided tours offered?
Guided tours are available during special events or by request; self-guided and virtual tours are always available.

What are the best hours to visit?
Weekdays between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM for optimal access to services and facilities.

Can visitors use campus fitness centers?
Primarily for students; limited visitor access may be available with registration and a fee.

9. Summary and Visitor Recommendations

A visit to Hankuk University of Foreign Studies offers a unique experience at the intersection of Korean history, global education, and vibrant student life. With its historic legacy, diverse language programs, and open campus policy, HUFS is an essential stop for travelers interested in Seoul’s cultural scene. The university’s central location, accessibility, and multilingual environment make it easy for all visitors to explore and engage. To maximize your visit, check for current events, utilize campus resources, and explore nearby cultural sites.