History of the Residential College System in Korea and Around the World

The Residential College (RC) system originated in the late 19th century at Oxford and Cambridge Universities in the United Kingdom. Leading American universities such as Harvard, MIT, Yale, and Princeton adopted the system in the 1930s, and today it is implemented and operated by major universities across the United States as well as world-renowned institutions in Canada, Australia, Germany, and beyond. In Korea, Yonsei University (Wonju Campus) was the first to introduce the system in 2007, and universities such as Yonsei University, Handong Global University, and Seoul National University have since adopted the model alongside the construction of new residential facilities..

POSTECH RC

In 2008, POSTECH constructed Building 21 (the RC Building) and introduced the Residential College system for first- and second-year undergraduate students. POSTECH was the first institution in Korea to apply the RC system to all incoming students. Currently, all first-year students are required to reside in the RC, while a portion of second-year students who wish to continue may also live in the RC Building. Through the RC, POSTECH provides community life guidance, academic support, and character education programs — not only enhancing students' academic motivation and capabilities, but also helping them grow into global leaders in science and engineering with strong character and integrity, through a well-rounded, holistic education.

RC Capacity

RC Common Facilities

[Common Areas]

1st Floor: Lobby, Workroom, Community Room, RA Lounge, Cinema Room, Social Kitchen, Fitness Room, Laundry Room, Play Room, Mail Room

11th Floor: Terrace, Laundry Room

[Individual Rooms]

Floors 2–10: Male floors

Floors 11–13: Female floors

*As of 2026, Floor 13 may vary by year depending on the gender ratio of residents and other factors.

Dormitory Status

- 1 RC building, 20 general dormitory buildings (17 for male students, 3 for female students) → 21 buildings in total

- Undergraduate Year 1: All students reside in the RC

- Undergraduate Year 2: Mixed residence in RC and general dormitories (selected from applicants)

- Undergraduate Year 3 and above & Graduate students: General dormitory or off-campus residence (individual choice)

- 24 Community Center (1 building) is operated exclusively for undergraduate students

Dormitory Types