Seoul International School vs Yongsan International School of Seoul

	S Seoul International School Seoul, South Korea	Y Yongsan International School of Seoul Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩31,991,809 - 39,374,690	Fees / year ₩29,685,516 - 34,785,516
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 802	Pupils 975
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1973	Opened 2006
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location The school is located at 15, Seongnam-daero 1518 beon-gil, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea 13113. The campus is situated just outside Seoul in Seongnam-si, on the southeastern border of Seoul and about 25 minutes south of Lotte World. It comprises three buildings with facilities including a swimming pool, three gyms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an atrium, music and band rooms, fully equipped science labs, and modern classrooms.	Location The school is located at 285 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04347, South Korea. It sits in the heart of Seoul's international community, with convenient access to public transport via a nearby subway stop and bus routes. The campus is in the Itaewon/Hannam-dong area, close to landmarks such as Grand Hyatt Seoul and Namsan Tower.
Stages	Stages SIS serves PK3 through 12th grade, including JK and SK, with grade groupings that include PK3, JK, SK, 1–5, 6–8, and 9–12. The school is organized into three divisions: Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.	Stages YISS offers a K-12 program, organized into Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.
School type	School type SIS is a private international school. It functions as a private school and operates a day program (boarding is not listed as part of its offerings).	School type YISS is a private, co-educational day international school with a Christian identity. It is affiliated with the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Elementary School provides after-school tutoring and social-emotional support. Middle School offers after-school tutoring and social-emotional support. High School provides academic and social-emotional support, including tutoring, college counseling, and related services.	Additional learning support The School Learning Support (SLS) program provides specialized assistance for students with learning differences and for English language learners. Services include collaborative instruction, targeted academic support, and small-group instruction.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation There is no country-specific affiliation; SIS operates as a secular private international school in South Korea.	Country affiliation South Korea. YISS is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea, Ministry of Education.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation SIS has no religious affiliation; it is a secular school.	Religious affiliation Christian. YISS is part of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
School day structure	School day structure High School Day: the schedule runs on an A-B rotation with periods from 8:00 to 9:20 (Period 1), 9:20–9:50 (Office Hours), 9:50–11:10 (Period 2), 11:10–11:20 (Break), 11:20–12:40 (Period 3), 12:40–1:40 (Lunch/Activity), 1:40–3:00 (Period 4), and 3:00–5:00 (Sports/Activities). Middle School Day uses an A-B schedule with Period 1 from 8:00–9:20, advisory 9:25–9:50, Period 2 9:55–11:10, Lunch/Recess 11:15–12:10, Period 3 12:20–1:35/1:40, Period 4 1:40–3:00, and Activities 3:00–5:00. Elementary School operates on a rotating A-F schedule with specific lunch and recess time blocks, including PK3–PK4 recess 10:10–10:30 and PK3–2 lunch 10:30–11:00, and other recess/lunch blocks for older grades.	School day structure The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Bus service details	Bus service details SIS owns and operates a fleet of 21 full-size buses serving the greater Seoul metropolitan area, with routes reaching southern Seoul and even further to Bundang. The buses are fully insured, equipped with two-way radios, and staffed with bus monitors for safety. Routes and schedules are updated at the start of each school year, and the Transportation Office can provide the latest information on routes and seat availability.	Bus service details Bus transportation is available. The fleet includes about 20 buses servicing a wide region of Seoul; routes are revised annually to reflect changes in student populations. Students spend about 25–30 minutes on the bus on average. For route information, contact transportation@yisseoul.org.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Tuition — School Year 2025/2026 - Tuition is charged in two parts: a Korean Won portion (KRW) and a U.S. Dollar portion (US$). Full-year tuition amounts by grade are: - PK3: KRW 17,530,000 plus US$ 6,720. - JK and SK: KRW 21,000,000 plus US$ 8,040. - Grades 1–5: KRW 21,240,000 plus US$ 8,140. - Grades 6–8: KRW 23,070,000 plus US$ 8,840. - Grades 9–12: KRW 25,840,000 plus US$ 9,900. Application and Enrollment Fees - Application Fee (new applicants): KRW 500,000 — payable upon initial submission, non-refundable. - Initial Registration Fee (newly enrolling students): KRW 4,000,000 — due within 7 days of acceptance, non-refundable. This serves as a deposit to secure a place for the school year. - Re-enrollment Fee (returning students): KRW 3,000,000 — due March 4, 2025; non-refundable in nature but credited toward total tuition for the year. Exceptions may apply only in cases of involuntary family relocation with documentation. Fees Applicable to All Students - Bus Fee (optional): KRW 3,000,000. Bus fees follow the same withdrawal/refund schedule as tuition (see Refund section). - Senior Fee (Grade 12): KRW 300,000 — non-refundable as of the first day of school. - Book Deposit (refundable at year end if no damage or outstanding charges): - Elementary: KRW 150,000. - Middle School: KRW 200,000. - High School: KRW 250,000. - AP Fees: charged where applicable and may vary by subject/test. Payment Plans, Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - The school offers three payment plans. Once a payment plan is selected and the first payment made, the plan is fixed; changes after the first payment incur an Installment Change Fee of KRW 200,000. - Option 1 — Standard Plan (No Installment Fee): - Re-enrollment Fee (returning students) due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Full KRW tuition due May 27, 2025: 100% of the KRW portion listed above. - Full US$ tuition due May 27, 2025: 100% of the US$ portion listed above. - Option 2 — Three Payments Plan (Installment Fee KRW 500,000): - Re-enrollment Fee due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Installment Fee due May 27, 2025: KRW 500,000. - 1st payment (May 27, 2025): 100% of the US$ tuition portion. - 2nd payment (July 26, 2025): 50% of the KRW tuition portion. - 3rd payment (September 24, 2025): 50% of the KRW tuition portion. - Option 3 — Five Payments Plan (Not available for Grade 12; Installment Fee KRW 750,000): - Re-enrollment Fee due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Installment Fee due May 27, 2025: KRW 750,000. - 1st payment (May 27, 2025): 100% of the US$ tuition portion. - 2nd payment (July 26, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 3rd payment (September 24, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 4th payment (November 23, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 5th payment (January 22, 2026): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - Examples of KRW installment amounts by plan (KRW portion only): - PK3 (KRW 17,530,000): 50% = KRW 8,765,000; 25% = KRW 4,382,500. - JK/SK (KRW 21,000,000): 50% = KRW 10,500,000; 25% = KRW 5,250,000. - Grades 1–5 (KRW 21,240,000): 50% = KRW 10,620,000; 25% = KRW 5,310,000. - Grades 6–8 (KRW 23,070,000): 50% = KRW 11,535,000; 25% = KRW 5,767,500. - Grades 9–12 (KRW 25,840,000): 50% = KRW 12,920,000; 25% = KRW 6,460,000. Late Entry Discounts and Early Withdrawal Refund Schedule - Late entry discount (applies to students admitted mid-year) and early withdrawal refund percentages follow these date bands (applies to tuition and bus fees): - March 4 – August 11, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 100% (less non-refundable fees); Late entry discount = N/A. - August 12 – October 17, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 75%; Late entry discount = N/A. - October 18 – December 31, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 50%; Late entry discount = 20%. - January 1 – March 31, 2026: Early withdrawal refund = 25%; Late entry discount = 45%. - April 1 – June 11, 2026: No refund; Late entry discount = 70%. - The Late Entry Discount and Early Withdrawal Refund schedule applies to all withdrawals and to bus changes during the school year. Refunds and Non-Refundable Fees - Refunds are issued in the currency originally used for payment and are returned by wire transfer to the parent or authorized representative. - Refunds are not provided for withdrawals caused by Force Majeure (examples include war, civil unrest, major natural disasters, declared contagious disease outbreaks, or similar unforeseeable events). In such cases, no portion of tuition already paid will be refunded and unpaid fees remain due. - Non-refundable fees include (but may not be limited to): - Application Processing Fee (KRW 500,000). - Re-enrollment Fee (KRW 3,000,000). - Initial Registration Fee (KRW 4,000,000). - Installment Fee and Installment Change Fee. - Overdue Fees (late fees). - Senior Fee (non-refundable after the first day of school). - No tuition refunds for early graduating seniors. - Bus Fees are not refunded in the event of distance learning caused by Force Majeure. Payment Methods and Instructions - Two separate virtual bank account numbers (가상계좌) are provided per enrolled student: one for US$ payments and one for KRW payments. Invoices include these individualized account numbers. - When making a bank transfer, confirm the beneficiary name matches the student's name on the invoice. - Cash payments are not accepted. A temporary virtual account number will be provided for application fee payments for new applicants. - Refunds are wired back to parents/authorized representatives in the currency used for payment. Payment Delinquency - Overdue amounts incur an overdue fee of 5% per annum on the unpaid tuition total until settled; overdue fees must be paid in the currency specified on the invoice. - Non-payment or prolonged delinquency may result in restrictions such as withholding class attendance, withholding report cards, and refusing re-enrollment for the following semester. Other services (for example bus service) may be suspended until payment is settled. Other Notes on Fees - The Initial Registration Fee may be waived for students who re-enroll within two school years following withdrawal from the school. - Installment fees apply to Options 2 and 3; senior students are not eligible for the five-payment plan (Option 3). - Additional course-specific fees (for example AP exam fees or extracurricular charges) may be billed separately and vary by course or activity. For any accounting or payment queries, contact the school's Accounting and Finance Department at +82(0)31-750-1342 or accounting@siskorea.org.	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application Processing Fee: KRW 500,000 (non-refundable). - Registration Fee: KRW 1,000,000 (non-refundable). Capital Development and Technology Fees - Capital Development Fee (new students): KRW 4,500,000 (one-time, non-refundable). - Capital Development Fee (returning or alternative rate shown): KRW 1,000,000. - Technology Fee: Elementary KRW 300,000; Middle/High KRW 600,000 (non-refundable). Tuition — annual and per-term (2025–2026 academic year) Note: Tuition is split into a Korean-won portion and a U.S. dollar portion; both currency portions must be paid in their respective currencies. Quarterly (term) amounts below reflect the KRW portion divided into four equal installments as shown in the fee schedule. - Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 5): - KRW tuition (annual): KRW 23,650,000. KRW tuition (quarterly): KRW 6,210,000 per term. - USD tuition (annual): USD 4,200. - Middle School & High School (Grades 6–12): - KRW tuition (annual): KRW 28,450,000. KRW tuition (quarterly): KRW 7,470,000 per term. - USD tuition (annual): USD 4,200. - Representative full-year totals (combined KRW + USD converted to KRW as published by a school-fees aggregator) for the 2025/2026 year (useful for quick per-grade comparisons): - Kindergarten 3 / Grade K3 and Grades 1–5: approx. KRW 31,070,406 per year. - Grades 6–12: approx. KRW 36,170,406 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual/quarterly due dates shown in the published schedule for the 2025–2026 year: registration fee due Feb 21, 2025; 1st quarter tuition due May 10, 2025; 2nd quarter due Oct 10, 2025; 3rd quarter due Dec 10, 2025; 4th quarter due Mar 10, 2026. Both KRW and USD portions follow the published timetable. - Both the KRW and USD portions must be paid in their respective currencies. The school's published instruction shows KRW payments by wire transfer to Industrial Bank of Korea and provides separate account numbers for KRW and USD collections. (KRW account listed: 855-004352-04-184; USD account listed: 855-004352-56-00711; account name: Yongsan International School of Seoul; bank: Industrial Bank of Korea). The business office email for payment correspondence is business.office@yisseoul.org. Cash is not accepted in the business office for KRW tuition payments. For USD payments the published schedule indicates options that include personal US check or US dollar cash in the USD column of the payment instructions. - Late-payment fees: a percentage surcharge is applied based on days overdue — 1–10 business days: 5%; 11–15 business days: 10%; 16–20 business days: 15%; 21–25 business days: 20%; 26+ business days: 25%. Late fees are assessed when the business office has not been contacted in writing requesting an extension. Boarding fees - Yongsan International School of Seoul does not provide boarding facilities. There are no boarding fees. Other fees and additional charges - Transportation (school bus): KRW 3,300,000 per year (optional; listed as an annual fee). - Student Learning Services (SLS) fee (where applicable): KRW 2,500,000. - ELL and SLS services (alternative periodic amount shown): KRW 867,000 (quarterly) where applicable. - Senior fee (Grade 12): KRW 300,000 (non-refundable). - Uniforms and school clothing: a school uniform is required (polo shirts and uniform-style bottoms). Uniform purchases and incidental uniform costs are the responsibility of families; the school community runs used-uniform sales at low prices. Meal plans and incidental costs (books, supplies, extracurricular activity fees) are additional and billed or paid separately when applicable. Non-refundable items - The published fee schedule identifies the following as non-refundable: Application Processing Fee, Registration Fee, Capital Development Fee, Technology Fee, Senior Fee, and amounts paid for quarterly tuition and fees that are listed as non-refundable. Refunds and early withdrawal - Refunds for annually paid tuition (both KRW and USD portions), transportation, ELL fees, and SLS fees follow the published early-withdrawal schedule and require proper written notice submitted at least ten (10) days in advance to the Business Office. The published refund schedule for the 2025–2026 year is: 100% refund prior to August 4, 2025; 75% refund prior to October 17, 2025; 50% refund prior to December 19, 2025; 25% refund prior to March 13, 2026; no refund available after March 13, 2026. If an event such as war, civil strife, labor unrest, or extreme weather necessitates closure and evacuation of staff, no portion of tuition or fees will be refunded. Fee payment options (summary) - KRW tuition: wire transfer to the Industrial Bank of Korea KRW account provided by the school (wire-transfer payment is the published method; cash is not accepted for KRW tuition at the business office). - USD tuition: the published instructions show a USD account and indicate USD payment options (USD account, and USD payment methods such as personal US check or US dollar cash are shown in the USD column of the payment instructions). Both KRW and USD portions must be paid in their respective currencies. Notes about applicability - Several fees (transportation, ELL, SLS, senior fee) apply only if those services are used or if the student's program requires them. The capital development fee is charged on admission as noted above; recurring capital charges differ for new versus returning students in the published schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements YISS does not offer boarding facilities. The school cannot arrange homestays or study-abroad accommodations for international students. Students who attend YISS commute to and from campus using the school's transportation options. The bus fleet serves a wide region of Seoul with routes revised annually.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are not required for regular classes, from Pre-K-12. However, middle school and high school students are required to buy and wear SIS athletic uniforms for P.E. classes.	Uniform requirement Uniform is required. The YISS uniform consists of polo shirts with uniform-style bottoms. Dress codes are provided for elementary and middle/high school divisions.
Food options	Food options The cafeteria serves a hot meal to elementary students daily. The cafeteria also offers Western and Korean menus to middle and high school students. Students may bring a packed lunch from home.	Food options The cafeteria offers two hot meal options daily, prepared by J&J Catering, with halal options available. A deli on site sells snacks, lunch options, beverages, and desserts.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a School Board established in 2019. The board has nine voting members: five current parents, the Head of School, the Business Manager, and two members appointed by the Founder; there is one non-voting auditor. The founder of the school is Edward B. Adams.	Governance and ownership YISS is governed by two boards: the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) and the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS). The KFSF is a non-profit entity that owns the YISS facilities and approves financial operations, with annual independent audits. NICS provides local oversight of operations and policies, with the Headmaster reporting to designated officers and the NICS Board of Directors.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Seoul International School provides three levels: Elementary (PK3–Grade 5), Middle School (Grade 6–8), and High School (Grade 9–12). The Elementary Curriculum is inquiry‑based and designed by the faculty; starting in 2019, the Eureka Math program is used for K–5 in alignment with the Common Core standards. Grade 1 Chinese is part of the Elementary program. Middle School emphasizes a caring environment with teacher‑led electives and advisory classes and integrates the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the TIGERS Values. The High School offers a university‑bound program with more than 45 courses and 24 AP courses, including the AP Capstone program; classes run four eighty‑minute periods daily with six of eight periods devoted to core requirements. The Science curriculum follows the Next Generation Science Standards and AP science courses; CPM is used in Mathematics. World Languages include Chinese and Spanish, with AP Chinese and AP Spanish and Chinese I–IV/Spanish I–IV; Graduation requirements include Regular Diploma (25 credits) and Honors Diploma (29 credits), including a 2‑credit World Language requirement.	Curriculum details YISS offers an English-language, American-based K–12 curriculum with dual accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and recognition by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE). In Elementary School (Kindergarten through 5th grade), core subjects are Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Bible/Character education, with Mandarin and Korean offered as Specials. In Middle School, core classes include Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Bible or Philosophy, with required Arts, Physical Education, Technology, and World Languages, plus Exploratory options in STEM, Art, Music, etc. In High School, students follow a college-preparatory program centered on Advanced Placement (AP) courses; in 2025, 459 AP exams were taken with 87% scoring 3 or higher, the average AP score was 3.9, and the average SAT was 1380. Spiritual and character education are integrated through the NICS program, alongside chapel, service-learning, and biblical instruction as part of the ESLR framework.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results The school offers 24 AP courses including the AP Capstone program. AP Capstone Diploma requirements include completing AP Seminar (Grade 11) and AP Research (Grade 12) and earning a score of 3 or higher on four additional AP exams to receive the diploma.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression Graduates are represented in top colleges and universities across North America and worldwide. The school publishes annual highlights and reports that include college acceptances.	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented AP Capstone and a broad AP program provide advanced study opportunities for high‑achieving students.	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school emphasizes an inquiry-based, collaborative learning culture across all divisions, with explicit focus on developing independent thinkers and global citizens through a community of learners and a supportive, nurturing environment.	Social & emotional learning YISS provides a comprehensive school counseling program that supports students across all grade levels in academic, social-emotional, career, and spiritual development. The counseling team serves as advocates and guides, delivering a program that includes classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling, individual counseling, and check-ins. The program is organized around four main areas: Transition Assistance, Academic Advising, College and Career Planning, and Social and Emotional Counseling. Social and Emotional Counseling promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and positive relationships through individual and group sessions, classroom lessons, and schoolwide initiatives. This counseling framework is designed to meet the developmental needs of students from elementary through high school.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning supports are described within the Middle School section as part of the program structure, including targeted support for diverse learners within the school's academic pathways.	Special educational needs (SEN) YISS describes its SEN provision through a Student Learning Support (SLS) program, which provides specialized assistance for students with learning differences and for those acquiring English as an additional language. The SLS team comprises qualified educators and paraprofessionals who partner with classroom teachers, families, and students to promote success across academics and social-emotional development. SLS offers Collaborative Instruction within the mainstream classroom, Targeted Support via structured academic labs and study-skills, and Small Group Instruction to reinforce core skills and language acquisition. SLS aims to ensure belonging, access, and growth for all learners. The program is presented as the school's approach to learning support rather than a separate specialist SEN institution.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The High School Academics page lists English coursework from grades 9–12 and AP offerings (e.g., AP Language & Composition, AP Literature & Composition), indicating a strong English-focused program at the upper school.	English as an additional language YISS provides English language learner (ELL) support through an instructional program for non-native English speakers. The program helps students attain proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing and is offered to a limited number of students each year. Students' English language abilities are assessed during the admissions process. Learning Support services include English language development and are delivered in collaboration with EAL teachers within the SLS program. These EAL provisions are part of YISS's inclusive approach to supporting diverse learners.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The elementary philosophy emphasizes a positive, nurturing environment and open communication with parents to support students' social and emotional development.	Mental wellbeing YISS places mental wellbeing at the core of its counseling program. The counseling team serves as advocates and guides for students across all grade levels, delivering services that include classroom guidance, small group counseling, individual counseling, and regular check-ins. Social and Emotional Counseling promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and positive relationships through these services. Counselors work across divisions to support students' social-emotional development as part of the four areas of the counseling program: Transition Assistance, Academic Advising, College and Career Planning, and Social and Emotional Counseling. These offerings are designed to support students' mental wellbeing and coping strategies.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Safeguarding policies are part of the school's broader institutional framework, with clear channels for student support and a focus on safety and well-being across divisions.	Safeguarding YISS maintains a Child Safeguarding policy to protect and nurture every child. The school aims to create a safe, positive, and nurturing environment and to safeguard children to the highest standards. All staff involved with children receive training in child safety and protection. YISS complies with host-country legal requirements for training and reporting as necessary. The Child Safety Team received training from the Child Safety & Protection Network (CSPN), and the policies and procedures align with CSPN best-practice standards. Safeguarding is a daily practice across the school community.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The campus comprises three buildings south of the Han River. It includes a swimming pool, three gyms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an atrium, music and band rooms, fully equipped science laboratories, and modern classrooms. Classrooms are modern. Elementary and secondary libraries and a makerspace are available on campus, along with a cafeteria.	Facilities overview YISS sits on a single campus in the Itaewon area of Seoul that serves the elementary, middle, and high school programs. The campus includes an Athletic Building and an indoor aquatics facility (natatorium), which underwent extensive renovations in 2019, featuring new tiling, balcony seating, a revised record board, a 14‑speaker sound system, a 20‑meter mural, and 11 pool lanes. An auditorium provides a venue for performances and assemblies, and the cafeteria supports on-site dining. Elementary facilities include a dedicated Library as part of the Specials program, while technology resources and STEM offerings are integrated across the curriculum, with AP courses available at the high school level. The campus supports arts, athletics, and clubs across divisions, with more than 60 clubs and activities reported.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The school has three gymnasiums and a swimming pool. The athletics program operates for elementary, middle, and high school levels and competes in KAIAC and AISA. There are fitness centers and dedicated coaches to support training. High school teams participate in multiple sports with travel for tournaments.	Sports facilities The school operates an on-site athletic facility and hosts 28 athletic teams across elementary, middle, and high school, reflecting a broad competitive program. The Aquatics Facility is a natatorium with a multi-lane pool, including 11 lanes, a viewing balcony, a renovated record board, and a high‑quality sound system to support swimming programs. The athletic spaces on campus include the Athletic Building, which houses indoor sports facilities to support basketball, volleyball, and other activities. Sports offered across divisions include basketball, soccer, swimming, cross country, tennis, volleyball, cheer, and track & field.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Classrooms are modern and the campus includes a fully equipped science laboratory and a makerspace. The secondary library offers more than 10,000 books, 1,600 e-books, and access to over 7,000 newspapers and magazines, with online databases. There is an elementary library. The campus features a large auditorium and music rooms for performance and arts programs. The 2013 building houses the middle and elementary schools with 30 classrooms and two gymnasiums.	Academic facilities Elementary School includes a Library as part of its Specials program, and Technology is listed among Elementary Specials, indicating available on-site resources for learning. Middle School offers Technology and STEM as core or exploratory subjects, with ongoing program emphasis across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The High School program includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams, reflecting a college‑preparatory focus.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Clubs include chess, forensics, tennis, soccer, basketball, swimming, Global Issues Network, MUN, and coding. Music and choral programs are available. The campus offers a variety of clubs and teams aligned with student interests.	Extra curricular facilities Arts and music are integral to student life, with Art and Music listed among Elementary Specials and similar offerings in middle school; the school also hosts drama and year‑round arts activities. The school supports a large clubs and activities program, with 60+ clubs and activities available across divisions. Recent student life coverage highlights activities such as the Elementary Christmas music performance, middle school academic and drama projects, and a variety of extracurricular competitions (including robotics-inspired programs in the broader activities ecosystem).
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History SIS is the oldest secular private school in South Korea. The school began in 1973 with founder Edward B. Adams; it received the first Letter of Authorization from the Korean government on June 5, 1973. In 1981 the present eight-acre campus site was selected and the move to the campus occurred in May 1985. The school was first accredited in 1979 by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), with subsequent accreditations in 1985, 1991, 1997, 2003, 2009, 2015, and 2021. A seven-story building was completed in 2013 to house the middle and elementary schools, and in 2019 upgrades updated the secondary library, atrium, and network infrastructure.	History In 2004, the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) was created with approval from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Energy to establish, manage, and administer Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS). In 2006, YISS was established on a campus whose land was leased from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, with financial contributions from the national government and businesses. The operator selected by KFSF was the International Christian School of Seoul (ICS), which NICS/Oasis had operated in Korea since 1990; ICS-Seoul moved to the new campus and renamed YISS. Since relocating in 2006, YISS has doubled in size and expanded programs, offering an Oasis character-based track and a Christian program aligned with NICS. Governance is shared by two boards, the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) and the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS), with KFSF owning the facilities and approving finances and NICS providing local oversight and policy.
Community	Community SIS is guided by TIGERS values as the core principles of its community: Trustworthy Individuals, Independent Learners, Global Citizens, Effective Communicators, Reflective Learners, and Socially Responsible Individuals. The campus is a large, modern facility located just outside Seoul, combining contemporary design with traditional elements. Students participate in athletics and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs that often involve community improvement programs. The school maintains an active alumni network, with alumni events and opportunities to reconnect, such as Alumni Open House events.	Community YISS is a diverse, warm, inclusive community of students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni. Families and students from more than 50 countries are welcomed, creating a rich multicultural experience. Community life includes parent involvement through the PTO, which organizes events throughout the year. The Dads' Club is a distinct group within the parent community that, among other roles, mans the grills at school events and runs activities such as movie nights, the Basketball Extravaganza, the Turkey Bowl, and Father & Daughter Night.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association The YISS PTA functions as the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), a volunteer group of parents who partner with faculty to enrich education. The PTO organizes a wide range of events throughout the school year, from social gatherings to service projects and fundraising activities. Volunteer involvement is essential; the PTO relies on the time, talents, and resources of parents to create memorable events for the entire community. The Dads' Club is a distinct group within the parent community that, among other roles, mans the grills at school events and runs activities such as movie nights, the Basketball Extravaganza, the Turkey Bowl, and Father & Daughter Night. The PTO maintains committees and opportunities such as Class/Grade Parents, Mentor Program, and Grants to support school initiatives, and coordinates recurring events like the Food Fair to fund campus projects.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers extracurricular activities that support academic enrichment, including chess, forensics, and Model United Nations. Sports such as tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming are part of the program. The Global Issues Network provides a platform for students to engage with global topics and issues.	Academic & intellectual YISS provides after-school activities (ASA) for elementary through middle school that include academic enrichment options such as Junior Engineers, CAD and 3D printing, and STEM-focused projects. Students can also participate in chess and other intellectually oriented activities through ASA. In middle and high school, student clubs and honor societies provide avenues to pursue interests outside the classroom and develop leadership and collaboration skills.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Performing Arts Department offers Theatre, Band, Strings, and Choral Music, with opportunities for performances and concerts. The Visual Arts program runs from elementary through high school, including opportunities to study AP Art and participate in exhibitions. Extracurricular opportunities in the arts include the National Arts Honors Society, set design for school plays, and annual AP Art exhibitions.	Arts & creative Arts and creative activities are provided through ASA, including arts & crafts, ceramics, cross-stitching, acrylic and watercolor painting, and photography. Dance options include ballet and pop dance. Music offerings include orchestra and piano.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language —	Cultural & language World languages are offered as after-school activities through ASA, and language and cultural opportunities are available through middle- and high-school clubs. YISS operates a Model United Nations program that competes in regional conferences. The International Bazaar and other cultural events showcase global cultures on campus.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students participate in a broad range of clubs and activities, including chess, forensics, Global Issues Network, and Model United Nations. The athletics program provides tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming across grade levels. Music and choral programs are integral to student life and provide social engagement through performances and ensembles.	Social & hobbies An extensive ASA program supports social development through group activities in ES and MS, including sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, fencing, and taekwondo, as well as arts activities like arts & crafts, ceramics, painting, and photography. Dance options include ballet and pop dance and music offerings include orchestra and piano. ASA emphasizes social connection, skill-building, and fun, with opportunities to participate in clubs and shared events.
Community & service	Community & service —	Community & service YISS runs community service activities through student organizations such as the National Honor Society (NHS) and Eco-Today; NHS members engage in activities like holiday appreciation letters. Eco-Today leads environmental stewardship activities. The PTO and Dads' Club organize service and fundraising events that involve families and the broader community.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Model United Nations and Global Issues Network are part of SIS's extracurricular offerings. Coding is listed among extracurricular activities, reflecting opportunities for technical skill-building. These programs provide avenues for student collaboration, debate, and global issue exploration.	Leadership & professional Middle and high school clubs and honor societies provide opportunities to pursue leadership roles outside the classroom. Elementary students participate in Guardian Ambassadors, a student leadership team that helps welcome new students. Model United Nations and other academic clubs provide leadership and public-speaking experiences, often competing in regional conferences.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus includes three playgrounds, three gyms, and a swimming pool to support physical activity and well-being. Athletic offerings include tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming across school levels. The campus also features a large auditorium and science labs, supporting a balanced, well-rounded student life.	Lifestyle & wellbeing YISS operates 28 athletics teams and participates in KAIAC and ACSC for competition. After-school activities include movement and mindfulness-oriented programs and fitness options such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, fencing, and taekwondo. The ASA program and athletics work together to promote physical and mental wellbeing for students.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The SIS World Languages Department offers Spanish and Chinese. Students begin formal language study in grade eight with Spanish I and Chinese I. AP Chinese and AP Spanish are available for grades 10-12. There are no placement tests for World Language classes, and language courses emphasize listening, speaking, reading, and writing through an active, conversational approach. For the Honors Diploma, 2 World Language credits are required.	Language provision Korean language classes are offered across elementary, middle, and high school divisions. Heritage Korean students (from Korean-speaking families) and other advanced Korean learners are supported within these classes. The ReadingOcean online reading program is used across divisions to provide level-appropriate Korean books, with about 200 students benefiting. An English language learner (ELL) program provides targeted support for non-native English speakers, with admissions assessments and periodic placement; learning-support services are also available for math and reading.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school teaches in English.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations WASC accreditation (Western Association of Schools and Colleges).	Accreditations The school is fully accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and it is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Education. These accreditations confirm adherence to international and host-country standards and provide external accountability for the school's programs, governance, and student outcomes.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1 – Visit Us. The main admissions season runs January through March, and the 2026-27 application opened on January 9, 2026. The best way to determine if SIS is the right fit is to visit the school; schedule a personal tour by contacting the Admissions Office. If you cannot visit, you may proceed to Step 2. Admissions inquiries are welcome Monday through Friday, 7:30 am–4:30 pm.	Admissions Step 1 — Inquire. Start by contacting the Admissions team to learn more about YISS and the programs offered. Campus visits and admissions events are available, with daily tours and Admissions Open House events scheduled periodically. An Open House example is the Admissions Open House for families with children entering Kindergarten and 1st Grade in August 2026, which provides a chance to see the campus and ask questions. Step 2 — Check Eligibility and Gather Required Documents. To be eligible, an applicant must live with a parent or legal guardian; YISS does not host exchange students, offer boarding services, or sponsor student visas. Valid eligibility documents must be updated every year during re-enrollment. Review the eligibility requirements and collect the documents specified for your child's grade level before applying. Step 3 — Online Application. When you are ready, complete the online application. The school provides an online portal to submit the application after confirming eligibility and gathering documents. Step 4 — Admissions Testing and Timeline. After submitting documents, the Admissions team will contact you if any documents are missing. Selected applicants applying for kindergarten or 1st grade may undergo an initial screening, and 2nd–12th graders may be asked to provide recent standardized test results (MAP, ISEE, TerraNova, etc.) or English proficiency assessments if needed. Decisions can be an offer or placement in a wait pool, and the wait pool is not chronological and lasts only for the applying year. Step 5 — Offer, Acceptance, and Enrollment. If an offer is made, you will receive an offer letter via OpenApply and must respond within two business days; tuition arrangements must be made within five business days. The non-refundable Application Processing Fee of ₩500,000 is charged upon acceptance, and applicants required to sit for interviews or tests may be charged this fee even if not accepted. There is a capital development fee as part of the fees, and a comprehensive list of tuition and fees is published for review.
Scholarships	Scholarships —	Scholarships Scholarships: YISS does not offer scholarships at this time. This applies across the student body and is stated in the admissions FAQ.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist Wait Pool (not a formal waitlist): When space is not available, qualified applicants are placed in a wait pool and will be considered if spaces become available. The wait pool is not in a fixed order and applies to the applying year only; applicants should update or upload new documents to keep their file current. If a student remains in the wait pool and a mid-year vacancy opens, decisions can be made quickly based on complete and current files. For subsequent years, applicants must reapply.
	View full profile →	View full profile →