We are designed to propose a sustainable and competency-based model of general education that supports both academic adaptation and social settlement for international students. This study explores the design direction of a customized general education curriculum for international students in Korean universities. In operating general education programs, Korean universities have primarily focused on Korean language acquisition and the cultivation of basic academic skills. This reflects the reality that many international students enter universities without sufficient Korean proficiency to successfully engage in their major studies. In contrast, overseas universities often require a certain level of language proficiency at the admission stage or institutionalize preparatory language programs for international students. As a result, they are able to link foundation courses with general education and integrate key competencies such as global citizenship and digital literacy. Based on a comparative analysis of 12 universities in Korea and abroad, this study examines a four-stage structure consisting of Bridge (preparatory), Basic General Education, Universal General Education, and Elective Tracks. Importantly, Korean universities need to move beyond viewing international students as temporary sojourners and instead recognize them as learners who may continue their studies and potentially settle in Korean society. Thus, general education should not remain confined to Korean language acquisition and basic academic training but should also incorporate a broader set of competencies necessary for settlement and social adaptation. Areas such as AI literacy, financial literacy, and sports and well-being exemplify how general education can respond to the diverse learning purposes and life contexts of today’s international students. This discussion provides strategic implications for strengthening both the long-term integration of international students and the global competitiveness of Korean universities.