Yonsei University Health System (YUHS), based in Seoul, brings together medical care, education, and history. It traces its origins to Gwanghyewon, founded in 1885 as Korea’s first Western-style hospital, and now includes Severance Hospital and facilities such as Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei Cancer Hospital, and Yongin Severance Hospital.

The Yonsei campus combines historic and modern architecture, memorials, and medical facilities. Its history and campus scenery also make it a destination for visitors interested in medical history, architecture, and Korean culture. (Severance Hospital History; Gangnam Severance Hospital; Yonsei University Campus)

History

Origins of Western medicine in Korea

YUHS traces its beginnings to 1885, when Dr. Horace N. Allen founded Gwanghyewon. During the Gapsin Coup, Allen successfully treated a member of the royal family, helping prompt wider acceptance of Western medicine at a time when traditional medicine was the norm. Gwanghyewon was soon renamed Jejungwon, reflecting its mission to provide care regardless of status. (Severance Hospital History)

Severance Hospital and medical education

In 1904, American philanthropist Louis H. Severance funded construction of a new facility, and the hospital was renamed Severance Hospital. Around the same time, Severance Medical School was established as Korea’s first Western medical school, training generations of doctors and nurses. Despite hardships during Japanese colonial rule, the institution remained a center for medical education and social change. (Severance Hospital History)

Formation and expansion of Yonsei

In 1957, Severance Medical School merged with Yonhee University to form Yonsei University. The name combines “Yonhee” and “Severance,” and the merger brought medical, liberal arts, and scientific education together. (Severance Hospital History)

YUHS continued to expand, including with the opening of Gangnam Severance Hospital in 1983. Its specialized facilities include Yonsei Cancer Hospital, Yongin Severance Hospital, and Gangnam Severance Spine Hospital. (Gangnam Severance Hospital)

Medical milestones and research

YUHS’s milestones include:

Korea’s first Western-style hospital, Gwanghyewon/Jejungwon, founded in 1885.
Korea’s first Western medical school, Severance Medical School.
Korea’s first spine surgery using chemonucleolysis in 1984.
Korea’s first lung transplant in 1996.
Korea’s first muscle cell transplant for muscular disease in 1999. (Gangnam Severance Hospital)
More than 20,000 robotic surgeries performed by 2018.
Severance Hospital was the first in Korea to receive Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, in 2007.

In 2020, YUHS was recognized by “Nature” as Korea’s top cancer research hospital. Yonsei Cancer Hospital specializes in advanced treatments such as robotic and endoscopic surgery. (Severance Hospital History; Gangnam Severance Hospital)

What to See

Yonsei University campus

Campus highlights include the historic Underwood Hall, Stimson Hall, and Appenzeller Hall; Severance Hospital; statues and memorials; and the Yonsei University Museum. The campus also has forested areas, gardens, and scenic grounds. Cherry blossoms appear in spring, while autumn brings foliage.

The campus includes memorials to poet Yun Dong-ju and student activist Han Yeol. Its blend of historic and modern architecture has made it a filming location for K-dramas. (Yonsei University Campus; KoreaToDo Yonsei University)

Photo spots include Underwood Hall, Severance Hospital’s façade, and areas around Sinchon.

Chejungwon Monument

The Chejungwon Monument commemorates the Western-style hospital founded by Dr. H. N. Allen in 1885, which later became Severance Hospital. It is at 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, within walking distance of YUHS. Plaques and displays describe the hospital’s transformation from Gwanghyewon to Severance Hospital.

Yonsei University Museum

The museum is on campus and is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Visiting Information

Hours and admission

Severance Hospital and Yonsei University campus Listed as open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
General campus access Also listed as open 24/7 for visitors.
Admission Free; no tickets are required for public areas or campus grounds.

Tours and events

Guided tours are available by appointment and may include Underwood Hall, Stimson Hall, and historic hospital buildings. Contact the Yonsei University visitor center or check the official website for tour availability.

Historical tours cover the roots of modern medicine, while architectural walks include the Gothic-style buildings and gardens. Yonsei Student Ambassadors also offer guided campus tours, primarily for prospective students but open to visitors.

Medical exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events take place throughout the year. Check official websites and YUHS social media for schedules. Tours of the Chejungwon Monument are available on weekends and by request.

Accessibility and facilities

Ramps and elevators are available throughout campus and hospital buildings. Most of the campus is accessible, though some areas are hilly. Visitor center staff can provide assistance on request.

Campus facilities include cafeterias, restrooms, shaded seating, and campus maps. The Chejungwon Monument is wheelchair accessible and offers multilingual information.

Medical tourism

The International Health Care Center offers multilingual and VIP services for medical tourists, with discounts for students. It is open weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Getting there

Subway Sinchon Station on Line 2 is about a 20-minute walk from campus. From Exit 2, the walk is also about 20 minutes.
Bus Several routes stop at the main entrance, and local buses serve the area.
Taxi or rideshare Readily available throughout Seoul.

Tips

Spring brings cherry blossoms; autumn offers fall foliage and golden ginkgo leaves.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Public transit can help avoid parking difficulties.
Visit the Chejungwon Monument early to avoid crowds.
The Audiala mobile app is listed as a resource for tours and updates.

Nearby Places

Ewha Womans University Known for its campus and shopping streets.
Sinchon District Adjacent to Yonsei, with nightlife, restaurants, and entertainment.
Hongdae Known for arts, live music, and youth culture.
Deoksugung Palace A royal heritage site in central Seoul that blends traditional Korean and Western architecture. Its grounds include historic buildings, museums, and the celebrated stone-wall road. It is open daily 9:00 AM–9:00 PM, with last admission at 8:00 PM, and is closed Mondays. Admission is 1,000 KRW for adults, with discounts for eligible groups; tickets are available on-site or online. The palace is wheelchair accessible, offers multilingual guides, and hosts regular cultural events. The Changing of the Royal Guard ceremony takes place at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Photography is permitted, but flash and drones are not. Cafes and restaurants are nearby. Spring and autumn are suggested for visiting. For more information, see the official Deoksugung Palace page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are there entrance fees to visit YUHS or the campus?
A1: No. The campus and hospital grounds are free to enter.

Q2: How do I book a guided tour?
A2: Contact the Yonsei University visitor center or check the official website for tour availability.

Q3: Is YUHS accessible by public transportation?
A3: Yes. Sinchon Station on Line 2 is nearby, and buses and taxis are also available.

Q4: Are there facilities for disabled visitors?
A4: Yes. The campus has ramps and elevators.

Q5: When is the best time to visit?
A5: Spring, for cherry blossoms, and autumn, for golden ginkgo leaves, offer scenic views.