The Department of Korean History at Korea University has its roots in the Department of History, which was founded on August 15, 1946, in response to the new historical phase that the nation was about to embark upon. Despite having separated from the Department of History in 1989 in order to specialize in teaching and researching Korean history, the Department of Korean History still inherits the Department of History’s tradition and accomplishments.
The Department of History and the Department of Korean History have produced a great number of excellent scholars who have made significant contributions to Korean academia in the field of history over the last fifty years. Graduates outside academia also play important roles in their own fields.
The nine renowned faculty members at the Department of Korean History study various subjects spanning from the ancient to contemporary history. The curriculum provides students with basic understandings of the major periods of Korean history so they can continue further studies in specific areas. The department also offers courses in related subjects such as archeology—with the aim of the students acquiring both comprehensive and profound knowledge of the nation’s history. The department also hosts biannual field trips to enable students to gain hands-on experiences with the historic sites and records.