Korean Language Learning Market

Korean Language Learning Market Size

The global Korean language learning market size was valued at USD 7.2 billion in 2024 to reach USD 67 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 25.1% from 2025 to 2034, driven by rising interest in Korean culture, economic opportunities, and internationalization. Educational institutions, online platforms, language schools, and technology providers are expanding their offerings to meet increasing demand.

The worldwide focus on Korea's culture and entertainment has resulted in a substantial increase in the number of people learning the Korean language. The popularity of K-pop and its global superstars like BTS and BLACKPINK, as well as the band members' forays into international entertainment, has further fuelled this interest. For instance, in March 2025, BLACKPINK’s Lisa is starring in a new HBO series “The White Lotus”, which is evidence of the expanding South Korean entertainment industry. In addition, K-Dramas are getting more popular globally with availability on Netflix, and series like Squid Game have more than 10 million international viewers, which in turn inspires many to learn the language.

In addition to entertainment, the strength of South Korea’s economy in technology, automotive, and beauty industries has created an opportunity for learners to acquire Korean language skills. Specialists looking to work in international companies like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG find knowledge of Korea an asset. The growing academic and professional collaboration between South Korea and the United States, China, and Vietnam has also led to an increase in the number of people learning Korean globally.

The use of technology in teaching Korean as a foreign language has significantly advanced AI-integrated educational tools, gamification, and immersive frameworks. These innovations prompt students to actively participate in the language rather than passively learning. For instance, Memrise added AI language partners, which allow learners to have conversations at their own pace. This enhances their confidence and fluency further. Similarly, Lingopie provides a video-on-demand service that teaches Korean using interactive subtitles and gamified activities in K-dramas and variety shows.

Korean Language Learning Market Trends

• One of the key trends significantly impacting the Korean language learning industry is the improvement of the teaching and conducting of foreign languages, and cultural activities which are included in the language institute’s programs. This is also the aim of the new teaching exchange program started in September 2023 at KLI, Seoul, for 240 students (both international and local) from Yonsei University was an initiative. Students arranged a wide range of interdisciplinary appreciation meetings, film-watching sessions for movies taught in class, and culture-oriented activities to deepen their understanding of language and culture.
  
• By December 2021, the number of schools offering Korean as a foreign language to elementary and junior high school students had reached 1806 in 42 countries. Japan, as follows Thailand and the USA, has more than 550 schools where Korean is taught as a foreign language. This indicates that the attitude of Koreans within institutions is changing and is slowly being integrated into the standard framework within educational systems.
  
• South Korea’s national language has recently become part of the university entrance examination curriculum for eight countries such as Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, France, Australia, and New Zealand. Starting in 2025, Hong Kong will add Korean to the language subjects in its national university entrance examination, accepting TOPIK scores for the second foreign language position.
  

Korean Language Learning Market Analysis

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Based on component, the market is segmented into product and services. The product is expected to grow significantly due to the rising adoption of high-bandwidth applications, including ultra-high-definition video streaming, immersive gaming, and augmented/virtual reality experiences.

• The product segment is valued at 4.7 billion in 2024. This product segment of the Korean language market covers various learning resources, both physical and digital, including textbooks, e-books, flashcards, and learning apps. There is greater technological advancement including the use of AI-powered applications, VR immersive learning tools, and gamified learning platforms like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone that are gaining popularity.
  
• The services segment held around 34.2% share of the Korean language learning market in 2024. The services segment includes language training programs, tutoring services, and preparation services for the Korean proficiency language test. There is a high demand for one-on-one tutoring, both online and offline, and learners are provided with a seamless experience by Preply and iTalki who offer access to native speakers.
  

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Based on Learning Mode, the market is segmented into online learning, offline learning and hybrid learning.

• The online learning market is expected to reach over USD 16.4 billion by 2034. Growth in the use of digital mobile devices and applications is a key driver of online learning in Korean language programs. Self-paced courses with AI tutoring and interactive features are available on platforms such as Duolingo, Coursera, and Talk To Me In Korean. Online learning is enjoyed by students, K-culture fans, and professionals around the world due to its flexibility and affordability.
  
• The hybrid learning market is valued at over USD 289.7 million in 2024. This hybrid segment utilizes online digital resources and tools in conjunction with direct teaching to provide a more rounded approach to language education. This model is popular in universities and language training centres, as well as in corporate training programs which have organized classes backed by online resources.
  

Based on medium, the Korean language learning market is segmented into books and textbooks, flashcard and memory aids, mobile apps, software, online resources, audio & video resources and others.

• The books and textbooks segment held a market share of 38.6% in 2024. Korean language learning continues to center around books, particularly for academic and formal learning programs. Universities and language institutes, along with self-learners, utilize printed and digital textbooks for self-study exercises in grammar, vocabulary, and writing. "Integrated Korean" and "Korean Grammar in Use" are some of the most popular textbooks used worldwide. Traditional books offer deep learning and serve as reliable reference materials, although e-book and PDF formats are gaining popularity.
  
• The mobile apps are expected to reach over USD 12.1 billion by 2034. The segment of mobile applications is experiencing fast growth due to increased adoption of digital learning tools. Interactive and gamified Korean language courses are provided through apps such as Duolingo, LingoDeer, and Memrise, making learning fun and easy. Retention and accurate pronunciation are enhanced through the use of AI-driven chatbots, speech recognition, and spaced repetition algorithms. The flexibility and low cost of mobile apps, along with their ease of use, make them especially appealing to younger students and casual learners.
  

Based on Stage, the Korean language learning market is segmented into learning & development, study notes, exams and evaluation.

• The learning & development segment held a market share of over 50.9% in 2024. The learning & development segment emphasizes both the basic and intermediate levels of Korean with repose mastery through courses, other self-learning materials, and other forms of immersion. This covers online and classroom education, private tutoring, and corporate training. Learners are provided with a broad selection of materials such as textbooks, mobile applications, AI language tools, and interactive activities that facilitate the development of speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills.
  
• The exams and evaluation are expected to reach USD 23.1 billion by 2034. This segment includes Korean language proficiency testing and evaluation services pertaining to academic, professional, or immigration requirements. The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is the most popular examination, which is taken by learners, job hunters, and expatriates intending to study or work in Korea. Other evaluation tools include in-app progress evaluations, various certification programs, and corporate language assessments.
  

Based on End-use, the Korean language learning market is segmented into Individual, Educational institutes and Corporate.

• The Individual segment held a market share of over 60.7% in 2024. This segment includes self-learners, professionals, and enthusiasts of K-culture who want to learn Korean for personal, academic, or professional reasons. The development of the internet along with mobile learning applications and digital learning resources have enhanced the accessibility of learning Korean for many people around the world.
  
• The Educational institutes is expected to reach USD 10.4 billion by 2034. This educational institute’s segment incorporates universities, language schools, and cultural organizations that offer Korean as part of their Korean programs. These institutions provide either in-person or blended learning opportunities using uniform teaching and learning materials. Government-supported projects such as Sejong Institutes and preparatory courses for TOPIK are increasing the availability of Korean language courses around the world.
  

Based on age group, the market is segmented into age 5-17, ages 18-24, ages 25-40, ages 41 and above.

• The ages 18-24 segment held a market share of over 52.1% in 2024. The most significant and rapidly expanding segment in the Korean language learning market is aged 5-17, and it is propelled by heightened engagement with K-culture among youths as well as the worldwide adoption of Korean language classes in schools. A growing number of adolescents and children are accessing the Korean language through mobile applications, online courses, and formal education.
  

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The Korean language learning market in the U.S. is projected to reach USD 6.6 billion by 2034. The U.S. represents a significant market for Korean language learning as it is influenced by K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema. Online learning providers are witnessing a surge in enrolment. There is an expansion in the Korean programs offered by universities. This change is also being accompanied by a growing interest among young learners, primarily of the Gen Z cohort, who are resorting to mobile apps and digital courses to learn Korean as a second language.

Korean language learning market in the Germany is expected to witness a CAGR of over 26.7% till 2034. Germany is experiencing a growing interest in the Korean language primarily from cultural and academic collaborations with Korean institutions. Professional and vocational schools, in conjunction with universities, are adding Korean to their curricula, while other language teaching centers and online resources are becoming more popular with students and employed adults. The initiatives from South Korea such as the Sejong Institutes are further supporting the market growth.

The market in China is set to exceed USD 7.2 billion by 2034. Chinese population is one of the strongest consumers of Korean language education due to the historic, economic, and cultural connections between the two nations. A great number of students take Korean studies to be able to get South Korean employment opportunities after getting their degrees. Offline language schools are the most preferred, but there is an increasing use of digital learning platforms, particularly among youth.

Japan held a market share of over 23.2% in 2024. As a result of the proximity and cultural exchange with Korea, there exists a developed market for the Korean language in Japan. The Japanese population's interest in the Korean culture, especially in K-pop and K-dramas, has led to Korean being offered as an elective in many schools. Mobile applications, private tuition, and teaching programs on television are now popular among learners from Korea.

Korean language learning market in the South Korea is poised for significant growth, set to exceed over USD 2.6 billion by 2034. The market is more focused on overseas students, expatriates, and professionals who wish to sharpen their skills in South Korea. The government subsidizes the learning of the language through the TOPIK exam and Sejong Institutes. Private universities and language institutes provide course training, while digital services are aimed at foreigners already residing in the country.

Korean language learning Market Share

The Korean language learning industry is highly competitive Duolingo, Ewha Womans University Language Education Institute and Hanyang University are the top three companies accounting for a significant share of 36% in the market.  Players operating in the global Korean language learning market focus on implementing different growth strategies to strengthen their offerings and expand their market reach. These strategies involve new product developments & launches, partnerships & collaborations, mergers & acquisitions, and customer retention. The market players also heavily invest in research & development to introduce innovative and technologically advanced solutions.

Korean language learning Market Companies

List of prominent players operating in the Korean language learning industry include:

• Duolingo
• Ewha Womans University Language Education Institute
• Hanyang University
• Rosetta Stone LLC.
• SNU Language Education Institute (Seoul National University)
• Visang Education Inc
• Yonsei University Korean Language Institute
  

Visang Education Inc. provides innovative and technology-driven language learning solutions. The company offers a diverse range of Korean language programs through digital platforms, integrating AI-powered tools to enhance learning efficiency. Visang’s solutions cater to learners of all levels, focusing on both language proficiency and cultural immersion. For instance, in April 2024, EdTech company Visang announced that it had completed the development of ‘AI Speak 2.0,’ an advanced Korean language learning solution incorporating generative AI. The solution was launched at the end of October on the ‘Master K.’ online Korean language education platform.

Duolingo, a global language learning platform, offers a user-friendly, gamified solution that appeals to a broad demographic, from young learners to adults. It offers a mobile app and website that provide interactive Korean lessons. The curriculum is designed to cater to beginners and intermediate learners, covering a wide range of topics from basic vocabulary and grammar to more complex sentences & dialogs. For instance, in December 2024, Duolingo, announced a new partnership with Netflix’s Squid Game to promote Korean language learning through an immersive, one-of-a-kind campaign, including an update to its Korean course. Titled “Learn Korean or Else”, the campaign combines Duolingo’s humorous approach to promoting learning with the high-stakes energy of Netflix’s Squid Game to motivate fans to do their Korean lessons, just in time for the premiere of Season 2 on December 26, 2024.

Korean language learning Industry News:

• In December 2023, Duolingo collaborated with Airbnb to launch a program to transform the travel experiences in Japan and South Korea, targeting the language barrier that often impedes deeper cultural immersion. This collaboration seeks to equip travelers with essential language skills, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of local customs & traditions.
  
• In December 2023, Ewha Language Center conducted the 2023 NTU-EWHA Winter Korean Language Immersion Program in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore. The program included a four-hour morning class for NTU students. In the afternoons, they participated in classes focused on various aspects of Korean culture including experiences such as wearing traditional Korean Hanbok, making Korean cuisine, trying K-pop dance, and visiting iconic places in Seoul as well as museums. These diverse cultural activities witnessed active participation and enthusiastic responses from the students.
  

The Korean language learning market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Component

• Product
• Services

Market, By Learning Mode

• Online Learning
  • Mobile apps
  • Web-based platform
• Offline learning
  • Language schools and institutes
  • Tutoring and coaching
• Hybrid learning

Market, By Medium

• Books and Textbooks
• Flashcards and memory aids
• Mobile apps
• Software
  • Learning Management Systems (LMS)
  • Content Management Systems (CMS)
• Online resources
• Audio & video resources
• Others

Market, By Stage

• Learning & development
  • Language learning
  • Immersive language learning.
• Study notes
• Exams and evaluation

Market, By End Use

• Individual
• Educational institutes
  • Schools and universities
    • Public schools & universities
    • Private schools & universities
  • Language institutes
• Corporate

Market, By Age Group

• Age 5-17
• Ages 18-24
• Ages 25-40
• Ages 41 and above

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE