Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Gangneung

Gangneung, a coastal city in South Korea, is known for its beautiful beaches and scenic views rather than a large expatriate community. As such, the city does not have a wide array of international or bilingual schools like you might find in larger metropolitan areas such as Seoul or Busan. However, there are a few options for expat families living in or near Gangneung. Among the most popular are the Wonju Foreign Language High School and the Daegu International School, which are within a reasonable driving distance and offer international curricula.

Wonju Foreign Language High School

Grades: High School
Location(s): Wonju, approximately 1 hour from Gangneung

Wonju Foreign Language High School, while not an international school per se, offers a specialized curriculum with a focus on foreign languages, which might be beneficial for expat students. The school provides an immersive environment for students to learn languages such as English, Chinese, and Japanese. While it follows the Korean national curriculum, the emphasis on language learning can make it a suitable option for expat children who are proficient in Korean or looking to become bilingual.

Daegu International School

Grades: Pre-K through Grade 12
Location(s): Daegu, within a 40-minute drive from Gangneung
Website: www.dis.sc.kr

Daegu International School offers an American-style curriculum with English as the medium of instruction. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and offers the Advanced Placement (AP) program for high school students. The school boasts modern facilities, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body. It is a viable option for expat families seeking an international education for their children close to Gangneung.

While these schools provide some options for expat families, it's important to note that the choices are limited compared to larger cities. Parents may also consider international schooling options in Seoul, which, although further away, offer a broader range of curricula and facilities tailored to expat children. Additionally, some families opt for online international schools or homeschooling to meet their educational needs.