The arrangement, which was created to provide students with an international education experience as part of their three-year training course, will see 120 of the South Korean provider’s students continue their studies at either the Institute of Studies, Academics College Group or Cornell from 2019.

“For Korean students, gaining international work and study experience can put them ahead of other candidates when they’re looking for employment after their studies,” Henry Matthews, international education manager of Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development said.

The arrangement will also include two annual scholarships for New Zealand students to study at Koguryeo College

According to Matthews the arrangement quickly came together after a delegation of principals visited the city in May.

“The Korean principals were so impressed by the warm welcome they received in Auckland and the high standard of education institutes on offer, and great Kiwi lifestyle, they suggested to the college that Auckland would be the ideal study destination,” he said.

Koguryeo College professor Hyang-Sim Kim told The PIE News the provider was excited to be working with the three Auckland institutions.

“Auckland is a great study destination which we are confident that our students who come here will not only get some excellent practical skills and quality teaching but will also enjoy a fantastic student lifestyle,” he said.

As well as sending South Korean students to Auckland, the arrangement will also include two annual scholarships for New Zealand domestic and international students to study at Koguryeo College, which teaches programs including natural energy engineering, tourism and hospitality.

South Korea currently represents New Zealand’s fourth largest source market for international students, and the Koguryeo College students are expected to inject a further NZ$3.5m into Auckland’s economy.