Bethlehem University has officially launched the pilot phase of the King Sejong Institute Bethlehem (KSIB), offering specialized Korean language and cultural courses to university students and members of the local community.

The pilot program, running from September through December, has enrolled 74 students aged 18 and above. Classes are taught by native Korean instructors, providing students with high-quality language training alongside opportunities for cultural exchange and engagement with Korean culture.

The launch took place on Thursday, 1 October 2026, at the KSIB Office in Bethlehem Hall at Bethlehem University, bringing together representatives of the Representative Office of the Republic of Korea to Palestine, Bethlehem University, and KSIB students.

The establishment of KSIB follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Bethlehem University and the Representative Office of the Republic of Korea to Palestine. Under the agreement, the Head of Mission of the Republic of Korea serves as the Institute’s director, while Mr. George Bael serves as its coordinator at Bethlehem University.

The Korean Representative Office oversees the Institute’s administrative, financial, and teaching operations, while Bethlehem University provides the facilities and integrates the Institute into campus life as it prepares for its full official launch.

The launch was attended by Mr. Young K. Koh, Representative of the Republic of Korea, and Korean language instructor Mr. Jihwan Hwang. Representing Bethlehem University were Br. Hernán Santos, FSC, President; Br. Jack Curran, FSC, Vice President for Advancement; and Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President; alongside KSIB students.

The pilot phase marks an important step in expanding opportunities for language learning and cultural exchange at Bethlehem University, while building a new bridge between the University community and Korean culture.