Why Koreans Are Obsessed with Collecting Certificates (자격증) — Top 5 Free Websites to Earn a Certificate

In South Korea, earning certificates (자격증) is more than just a way to improve your resume — it’s a lifestyle.

Why Koreans Are Obsessed with Collecting Certificates

Many Koreans proudly show off their “certificate collections,” which can include everything from computer skills and cooking to real estate, accounting, bartending, or even pet care. In a highly competitive job market where lifelong learning is a cultural norm, constantly upgrading your skills through certifications has become a part of everyday life.

Whether you're living in Korea or simply want to gain qualifications for personal or professional growth, there are free learning platforms you shouldn't miss.

Below are 5 top websites offering free online courses that can help you study effectively and save on test preparation costs.

1. 꿈날개 (Dream Wings) — https://www.dream.go.kr

  • Operated by: Ministry of Employment and Labor & Local Governments
  • Best for: Job seekers, certificate preparation, language learning, entrepreneurship
  • Highlights: Completely free, wide range of career-focused courses
  • Popular courses include:
    • Office computer skills
    • Career counseling
    • Social work
    • Resume writing & interview techniques


2. GSEEK — https://www.gseek.kr

  • Operated by: Gyeonggi Provincial Government
  • Best for: Anyone in Korea (not limited to Gyeonggi residents)
  • Highlights: Diverse topics, from job training to psychology and family education
  • Popular courses include:
    • Korean history
    • Electrical engineering
    • Real estate licensing
    • Parenting & applied psychology

3. K-MOOC — https://www.kmooc.kr

  • Operated by: Ministry of Education
  • Best for: University-level courses, general education, and professional certifications
  • Highlights: Korea’s national open course platform, taught by top professors from leading universities
  • Popular courses include:
    • Real estate brokerage
    • Information technology
    • Business administration & accounting
    • Core university subjects

4. 에듀윌 (Eduwill) — https://www.eduwill.net

  • Operated by: Private education company Eduwill
  • Best for: Certificate exam preparation (mostly paid, but some free content)
  • Highlights: Known for helping students pass national license exams
  • Free sample lessons include:
    • Real estate brokerage
    • Computer literacy (office programs)
    • Korean history


5. 해커스 자격증 (Hackers Pass) — https://pass.hackers.com

  • Operated by: Hackers Education Group
  • Best for: Sample lectures and real past exam questions
  • Highlights: Offers resources for a wide variety of certificates and competitive exams
  • Free offerings include:
    • Korean history
    • TOEIC preparation
    • Civil service exam prep (공무원 시험)

In Korea, collecting certificates isn’t just about employment — it’s about self-improvement, adaptability, and social competitiveness. Whether you're aiming to work in real estate, IT, public service, or education, acquiring the right 자격증 can give you an edge.

References: TTHQ


Keywords

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