Dongguk University Los Angeles

Dongguk University Los Angeles is a private, nonprofit institution located in Los Angeles, California. It serves as the U.S. campus of Dongguk University in South Korea and focuses primarily on acupuncture, Oriental medicine, and integrative health programs. The university traces its origins to the Royal University of America and later became formally affiliated with Dongguk University. Its academic offerings are centered on graduate-level education in traditional Korean and East Asian medicine, attracting students interested in acupuncture, herbal medicine, and holistic healthcare practices. The campus operates as part of a broader international university system while maintaining a distinct presence in the Los Angeles area.

Dongguk University Los Angeles was founded in 1976 as the Royal University of America in Los Angeles, California. Established by Dr. Hongo, the institution began with a focus on acupuncture and traditional East Asian medicine, serving a small cohort of students and faculty. In January 1997, Dongguk University in South Korea formed an affiliation with the Royal University of America, strengthening academic ties and expanding institutional support. On March 5, 2009, the Royal University of America was formally merged into Dongguk University and renamed Dongguk University Los Angeles. Following the merger, Dongguk University Los Angeles developed as the U.S. campus of the Korean parent institution, emphasizing graduate education in Oriental medicine and integrative health. Over time, Dongguk University Los Angeles has continued to operate in Los Angeles as a specialized institution within the broader Dongguk University system.