The history of the Catholic University of Korea is closely intertwined with the introduction of Catholicism to Korea, a period when Confucian ideology was the dominant value in the Joseon Dynasty. In the late 18th century, Joseon scholars began to academically study Catholicism, then known as Western Learning (Seohak). They formed faith communities and dedicated themselves to recruiting and educating leaders and priests.

Despite ongoing persecution of Catholics, in 1836, three young boys, including Choi Yang-up, Choi Bang-geo, and now Saint Andrew Kim Taegon, were sent to study in Macao; Kim Taegon was ordained in Shanghai in 1845 and returned home, only to be martyred soon after.

In response to continued persecution, in 1854, three more boys were sent to study in Penang, Malay Peninsula, while efforts to train clergy and start Western-style education were initiated in various locations.

Finally, in 1855, Father Maistre founded a seminary in Baeron, Jecheon, Chungcheongbuk-do, dedicated to Saint Joseph. This institution, offering courses in Chinese, Latin, philosophy, and theology, became the first Western-style educational establishment dedicated to modern humanities in Korea. It laid the foundation for what is now the Catholic University of Korea, originally known as St. Joseph's Seminary.