Language Programs in South Korea

The most popular places for language study in South Korea are Seoul, Busan, and Gyeongsan. If you’re interested in a dynamic city life, consider studying in Korea’s two biggest cities, Seoul and Busan. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a smaller town experience, Gyeongsan might be a better fit for you.

Seoul has the best Korean language programs in South Korea and is the number one destination for language learning. The city is filled with historic temples, palaces, and pagodas. The country is also home to major technology corporations, including Samsung and LG.

Busan contains South Korea’s largest beach and its beautiful waters make it crowded year-round. The subway system is easy to navigate, with only a handful of subway lines. While living and studying Korean in Busan is just as exciting as Seoul, you might find it to be easier to get around, meet locals, and make the city really feel like your home away from home.

Gyeongsan is a short distance from Busan, but the lifestyle moves at a completely different pace. You can visit the peaceful Gatbawi Buddha, a popular place where people pray alongside the historic statue. You’re likely to get more one-on-one attention from both professors and locals in Gyeongsan.

Of course the most popular language to study in South Korea is Korean, but you can also explore English learning here as well if you are already a Korean speaker. Either way, learning a new language is a challenging experience, so embrace the process and get comfortable with making mistakes!

Korean is the top language to learn in South Korea since you will be living, breathing, and dreaming the language language throughout your language study course in South Korea. You will have to live your everyday life within the rain of the language—at the grocery store, when you go out to eat. This immersion will be a HUGE help in your language learning journey!

English is also taught in South Korea as a foreign language. So if you are looking to improve your English skills, you can do so here in South Korea. That also means that if you teach English as a foreign language, there are also opportunities for teaching English in South Korea. So if your Korean language studies were too short lived, there are always other opportunities to extend your stay—and maybe make some money!

Korean is the choice language of study in South Korea; however Korean language programs in South Korea come in a variety of forms, including:

• University programs

• Culture centers

• Host family stays

• Language schools

Class sizes can vary depending on the class’ level. For example, a beginning level Korean class can have up to 20 language learners, while more advanced levels can have less than 10. Private lessons are always available and always provide more one-on-one attention that will suit your personal language needs. Class length will vary depending on which language school or program you choose; some intensive language programs in Korea may have classes that last for over five hours per day, while other classes may last for only a few hours each day.

If you have the chance to improve your language skill in capacities outside of the classroom, jump on it! Some of the best Korean language schools in South Korea set up cultural music or dance classes too, while other language programs might offer excursions to nearby cities.

Foreign Friendly, English Speaking Society. Though you are going to abroad with the purpose of Korean language study, it’s comforting to know that the majority of locals also speak English.

Educational Value. Korean society places a high value on education. As you take classes instructed by Korean teachers and professors, you will find that their delivery of lessons will certainly bring a quality language experience.

Experience a New Culture. No matter which city you choose for your language study in Korea, the nation’s long history and mix of religions will definitely provide you with a multitude of cultural festivals and events throughout the year.

Try finding a language exchange partner by asking your language program provider for contacts. Once you get settled into the country and confident speaking Korean, you might even want to start networking and finding volunteer or internship opportunities. The best part about language study in South Korea is that you will undoubtedly improve your Korean language skills; how much you improve will depend on the proactive steps you take while abroad.