Jeonbuk National University tops student satisfaction index among local colleges

Korea Standards Association head Moon Dong-min, right, poses with Jeonbuk National University Vice President Lee Dong-heon during an award ceremony for the 2025 Service Quality Index evaluation, Wednesday. Courtesy of Jeonbuk National University

Jeonbuk National University (JBNU) earned the top ranking among provincial national universities in the 2025 Service Quality Index evaluation conducted by the Korea Standards Association. This marks the eighth consecutive year the university has claimed first place among its peers and the 10th time in total since 2012.

The evaluation surveyed enrolled students — excluding freshmen — and measured performance in four major areas: service outcome quality, service interaction quality, service environment quality and social value, using eight detailed indicators via one-on-one interviews and online panel methods. JBNU achieved scores of 80 or more points across all subcategories.

University officials said the sustained level of student satisfaction reflects the institution’s success in leveraging the Glocal University 30 initiative and deploying both artificial intelligence (AI)-based education innovations and student-centered support policies.

JBNU has received more than 800 billion won in government funding over the past two years, expanding its infrastructure significantly.

It was also selected in the first year of the Glocal University 30 project, a Ministry of Education initiative to foster innovation in regional universities through government funding. As a result, JBNU restructured major academic units from 106 departments into 46 admission units for the 2025 academic year and introduced module majors, a major-choice system and digital competency certification.

JBNU also began a so-called “Physical AI” core technology demonstration project, establishing a 3,300-square-meter demonstration space and planning an 18-hectare (180,000-square-meter) dedicated campus in collaboration with industry partners including Hyundai Motor and Naver.

An AI tutor, next-generation integrated information system and “AI Space” immersive education environment are also in place, according to the university.

“In an era where constant change and innovation are required to guarantee the future, the center of any university must always be the students. The fact that JBNU has achieved first place in the Service Quality Index for seven straight years is the result of the efforts of our entire community and the trust and support of our students,” JBNU President Yang O-bong said in a press release.

“We will continue to improve our student welfare and learning environment, ease the burden of tuition, expand scholarships and strengthen real-world student services. Today, we move boldly on the path of change and innovation to educate leaders for our nation and region and to help students fulfill their dreams.” (Advertorial)