funding: Up to 70% of salary/benefits (Tenure-Track) or 50% matching endowment funds (Endowed Chair)
location: Universities outside the Republic of Korea
host: Korea Foundation (KF)
duration: 3-5 years (implementation begins 2027-2028 or 2028-2029 academic year)
source-url: https://www.globalsouthopportunities.com/2026/07/05/support-2/
apply-url: https://apply.kf.or.kr/selectNoticeAndApplicationView.nkf?anucNo=A1G0000998&pageIndex=1
The Korea Foundation's 2027 Support for Establishment of Professorship Programme is an international grant programme designed to promote Korean language, culture, history, and society by establishing permanent academic positions in higher education institutions. With funding of up to 70% of salary and benefits or 50% matching endowment funds, the programme aims to strengthen Korean studies education and research globally. The programme will support approximately 3-5 years of funding.
Overview
The Korea Foundation's 2027 Support for Establishment of Professorship Programme is designed to support universities that demonstrate the capacity and long-term commitment to developing sustainable Korean studies programmes.
- Programme aims to expand global Korean studies education and research
- Supports establishment of new professorships in Korean Studies or Korean Language
- Focus on long-term commitment and institutional support for sustainability
- Two funding models available: Tenure-Track Position and Endowed Chair Position
- Tenure-Track Position provides up to 70% of salary and employee benefits
- Endowed Chair Position provides annual endowment funding with 50% matching funds
Eligibility
Applications are open to universities located outside the Republic of Korea with the infrastructure and long-term commitment to sustain Korean studies teaching and research.
- Universities must be located outside the Republic of Korea
- Institutions must have a plan to establish new professorships in Korean Studies or Korean Language
- Must demonstrate capacity and long-term commitment to developing sustainable Korean studies programmes
Benefits
- Up to 70% of salary and employee benefits for Tenure-Track Position
- 50% matching endowment funds for Endowed Chair Position
- Support for establishment of new professorships in Korean Studies or Korean Language
- Opportunity to develop sustainable Korean studies programmes
How to Apply
Applicants must complete an online application and submit supporting documents in either English or Korean.
- Completed online application form required
- Information on the institution’s current Korean Studies programme
- Curriculum for Korean Studies or Korean Language degree programmes (where applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of funding models are available under the programme?
The Korea Foundation offers two funding models: Tenure-Track Position and Endowed Chair Position.
How long will the programme provide financial support?
The programme will provide financial support for a period of three to five years.
What is required for the Endowed Chair Position?
To qualify for the Endowed Chair Position, participating universities must contribute a 50% matching fund on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a completed online application form, information on the institution’s current Korean Studies programme, and curriculum for Korean Studies or Korean Language degree programmes (where applicable).
In which languages can the application be submitted?
The application and supporting documents can be submitted in either English or Korean.
What is the expected outcome for the universities after the grant period?
After the grant period concludes, recipient universities are expected to sustain the professorship independently or through the established endowment.