# South Korean international students turn away from China

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/china/137479-south-korean-international-students-turn-away-from-china
- Published: 2024-04-26T08:08:00+07:00
- Author: East Asia Forum

**South Korean international student numbers in China dropped by 78%, with tensions
over THAAD and COVID-19 contributing to negative perceptions.**

## Decrease in South Korean Students in China

China has experienced a significant decline in the number of international students
from South Korea, with a 78% drop between 2017 and 2023. Factors such as China’s
zero-COVID policy, tensions over THAAD, and South Korean business retreat from China
have contributed to this decline.

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## Perceptions of China

South Korean students are wary of China due to strict lockdowns during the pandemic
and negative experiences. Despite efforts to attract students back, China’s image
as a higher education destination has been tarnished.

## Geopolitical Tensions

The geopolitical rivalry between China and the US, particularly regarding THAAD,
has strained relations with South Korea. This has resulted in a decline in Chinese
tourists and students in South Korea.

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## Broader Trends and Future Outlook

Overall, the decrease in South Korean students studying abroad aligns with a larger
trend of declining outbound students from South Korea. The shift towards countries
like Japan is expected to continue, impacting South Korea-China relations in the
near future.

**Read original article here :** : [South Korean international students turn away from China](https://eastasiaforum.org/2024/04/22/south-korean-international-students-turn-away-from-china/?rand=86372)