Korean Language Learning Market Trends

Korean Language Learning Market Trends

The global fascination with Korean culture, driven by K-pop, K-dramas, and cuisine (often referred to as Hallyu/Korean Wave), continues to fuel interest in learning the language. According to the Korea Foundation Report, the number of active Hallyu fans around the world reached 178 million in 2022. This cultural appeal has opened new market segments, attracting learners who are fans of Korean entertainment and culture. Language institutes are increasingly incorporating cultural experiences and exchange programs into their curricula. For instance, in September 2023, the Korean Language Institute, in Seoul conducted a language exchange program to improve the linguistic skills of 240 Korean Yonsei University students and foreign students at KLI. Under the program, students meet at least once a week to improve their language skills and engage in various activities such as watching movies, experiencing Korean culture, and sharing hobbies. These programs offer learners hands-on exposure to Korean traditions, cuisine, and arts, further enriching the learning experience.
 

The growing adoption of Korean language learning courses in schools globally is contributing to the korean language learning market growth. For instance, as of December 2021, 1,806 schools across 42 countries were offering Korean instruction as an elective for elementary or middle school students. Japan has by far the highest number of schools offering Korean language classes with over 550, followed by Thailand and the U.S. Meanwhile, Korean is now a required subject for university entrance exams in eight non-Korean countries including Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Thailand, Japan, France, Australia, and New Zealand. Starting in 2025, the national university entrance examination in Hong Kong will include Korean as one of the foreign languages. The results of the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) will be accepted for the second foreign language category in the city government.