Rhee Seok-chae, director of Yonsei University's Korean Language Institute, which currently has 2,400 students, said that while general language instruction serves many international students, those pursuing careers in fields like medicine or engineering need targeted training aligned with the technical language of their professions.
"Such an approach could better equip foreign students to meet the linguistic demands of Korea's varied industries, bridging the gap between foundational skills and professional fluency," the English literature professor said in an interview with AJP.
He emphasized the importance of integrating international students into Korea's job market.
This initiative aims to attract international talent and address Korea's skilled labor shortage stemming from its low birth rate. The government is tightening visa regulations and student tracking to ensure the effective management of foreign students.
"This specialized education also addresses our declining birth rate," Rhee said.
Korea's fertility rate dropped to 0.72 children per couple in 2023. The Bank of Korea has warned that without significant government intervention, there's a 90 percent chance the country's population could decline from 51 million today to below 40 million by 2070.
As of January 2023, Korean was the seventh most-studied language globally on the language app Duolingo, he noted.
“Through hybrid and online programs, the institute plans to reach a broader international audience, offering specialized learning materials and training programs tailored to fields such as engineering, medical science, and technology," he said.
"When we talk about multicultural families, whether it's from the mother's or father's side, there are significant challenges in educating the next generation," he said.
With parents often busy working, children from these families face additional language barriers.
"There's a critical period for language input," he said, referring to research suggesting a "sensitive period" for language acquisition between ages 2 and 12.
The institute also offers various cultural programs, including Korean cooking classes and calligraphy, to help international students adapt to life in Korea. "Many students hope to find a job in Korea, and such cultural experiences are essential for connecting with locals," he said.
Rhee also highlighted YouTube content created by students, featuring role-play scenarios in Korean and showcasing their dormitories, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and experiences in Korea.
The institute also trains Korean language teachers to meet the growing global demand for quality Korean education.
This commitment ensures that foreign students studying in Korea not only learn the language but also integrate effectively into Korean industries, helping address the country’s demographic and economic challenges, he said.
This tailored approach to Korean language education is part of a larger strategic vision to attract international students and workers, ultimately boosting South Korea's global competitiveness while addressing critical domestic issues, such as labor shortages and low birth rates.
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