Microwave extraction system equipped with closed vessels was applied to confirm its capability of extracting ginseng solubles including saponin, which was monitored to optimize extraction con ditions by response surface methodology. Total yield increased with the decrease in particles size and more extraction steps. Soluble components were completely extracted by operating the system within 6 min per one step, which should be repeated by 3 or 4 times. Optimized conditions for maxi mum extraction of response variables(total yield, crude saponin) were 40~50% of ethanol concentration, about 140oC of extraction temperature, and within 6 min of the extraction time. The extraction effi ciency of total yield was dependent on the decrease of ethanol concentration, while crude saponin content was favored on the higher degree of ethanol concentration. According to the temperature guideline, below 90oC of extraction temperature, the optimal ranges of extraction conditions were predicted as 30~50% of ethanol concentration and 2.5~6.5 min of extraction time. Estimated values of total yield and crude saponin were in good agreement with experimental values.