KAIST, originally The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (한국과학기술원), is located in Daejon, South Koreas. KAIST was founded in 1971 by the government of Korea to serve as the nation's first engineering and science research facility. The emphasis is in applied research, theory and development.
KAIST is comprised of 21 departments, ten interdisciplinary programs, six colleges, six graduate schools, three divisions, and two schools. KAIST has a flexible and autonomous academic system, unlike other South Korean institutions that are compelled to observe government-controlled curriculum and admission requirements.
Based on the QS World University Ranking of 2023, KAIST - Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology is positioned as the #42 top university in the world, which makes it the #2 top university in South Korea. The university's global rank decreased by 1 point from last year.