Issued by the Catholic Center for Studies and Media - Jordan. Editor-in-chief Fr. Rif'at Bader - موقع أبونا abouna.org

Published on Thursday, 29 January 2026
Strengthening global ties: Bethlehem University, the Republic of Korea launch King Sejong Institute Partnership
bethlehem.edu :

Bethlehem University is proud to announce a new milestone in international education. The university has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Representative Office of the Republic of Korea to Palestine to establish the King Sejong Institute (KSI) on campus, beginning with a six-month pilot program in 2026.

 

The King Sejong Institute is a world-renowned program dedicated to Korean language and cultural education. Through this partnership, Bethlehem University students and the local community will gain access to specialized language courses and vibrant cultural events, including Korean calligraphy workshops and a Korean cuisine day.

 

During the ceremony, Dr. Fadi Kattan, Executive Vice President of Bethlehem University, welcomed Mr. Young Kul Koh, Head of Mission, to celebrate the agreement.

 

“Bethlehem University is open to partnerships that create better opportunities for our students and for the community at large as well,” said Dr. Kattan. “We are beginning with a six-month pilot program in July 2026, and we are confident it will grow into a lasting and mutually enriching collaboration”.

 

Mr. Young Kul Koh highlighted the mutual benefits of the exchange. “Korean is becoming increasingly popular globally and offers a precise way to express language,” said Mr. Koh. “We are excited to share this through learning and cultural exchange at Bethlehem University and to build on this partnership in the years ahead.Bethlehem University is a “perfect partner” for this initiative.”

 

The partnership also looks toward the future, with discussions involving potential student exchanges, credit transfer opportunities, and double-degree programs with Korean universities. Additionally, the Korean delegation highlighted their ongoing support for the university’s business incubator – in collaboration with the Bethlehem Municipality, focusing on accelerating entrepreneurship and economic development for Palestinian youth and society at large.