Korean language and studies are rapidly gaining prominence in Vietnamese universities. With high employment rates, the expansion of Korean companies in the region, and opportunities for studying abroad and exchange programs, Korean has become a viable major for students seeking career paths.
According to a survey conducted by the South Korean Embassy in Vietnam and the Korea Foundation on October 5, 2026, over 26,000 students are currently majoring in Korean studies and language at 54 universities and colleges across Vietnam. The country is recognized as a significant hub for education in Korean language and culture in the region.
Korean language education in Vietnam began in earnest in 1993, when Hanoi National University and Ho Chi Minh City National University first incorporated Korean into their curricula. Over the past 30 years, the number of educational institutions and learners has grown rapidly, along with a diversification of related programs.
This expansion of Korean language education was highlighted during the '2026 Hangeul Day event' held on October 3. The South Korean Embassy in Vietnam and the Korea Foundation collaborated with the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Hanoi National University to share insights on the current state of Korean language education in the country.
Seo Won-sam, the Consul General at the South Korean Embassy in Vietnam, noted that the number of young people learning Korean continues to rise. He stated, "Learning a new language like Korean signifies a constant effort to understand the culture, history, and thoughts of the Korean people."
Seo emphasized that as understanding of the Korean language and culture deepens, the relationship between the two countries can also strengthen. He expressed the commitment of the South Korean government and embassy to continue supporting Vietnamese youth in their exposure to Korean language and culture.
Korean Studies Graduates Enjoy 98% Employment Rate Amid Rising Demand
The popularity of Korean studies is also reflected in university admissions. Nguyen Thi Tu Huong, deputy head of the Department of Oriental Studies at Hanoi National University, explained that in recent years, the cutoff scores for Korean studies programs at some universities have reached their highest levels.
The high competition for admission is partly due to limited enrollment quotas amid strong student demand. Additionally, job opportunities linked to Korean companies operating in Vietnam, as well as prospects for studying in Korea, exchange programs, and working in international environments, influence students' choice of major.
Employment rates for graduates are notably high. A survey conducted annually by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Hanoi National University found that the employment rate for Korean studies graduates one year after graduation is approximately 98%. Salaries for graduates vary based on individual capabilities and job responsibilities, with monthly earnings reported to start at around 1.5 to 1.6 million VND (approximately $63 to $67). Those with skills and experience can earn even higher incomes.
As the number of South Korean companies operating in Vietnam increases, the demand for local talent is also evolving. Nguyen noted that companies are looking for individuals who not only speak Korean but also understand the economy, culture, and work environment of Korean businesses.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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