Korean (“Hangugeo” in South Korea and “Joseonmal” in North Korea) is the official language on the Korean peninsula. As the 13th most spoken language in the world, Korean boasts over 80 million speakers worldwide.
Korean is renowned for its easy phonetic script, Hangeul, which consists of 24 letters (14 consonants and 10 vowels) written in syllabic units. Hangeul is relatively easy to grasp, and Korean has become one of the most studied languages in the world.
In recent years, interest in learning Korean has rapidly increased, along with the spread of Korean music, movies, TV dramas, food, and even cosmetics.
Overview
South Korea is recognised as one of the world’s most innovative countries, as well as a major trading partner and key ally of Australia. Learning Korean gives students the opportunity to explore a dynamic culture and prepare for an increasingly connected world.
Korean at ANU balances practical communication in speaking and writing with opportunities to engage with the country’s rich literature, film, history and society. As their proficiency develops, students gain deeper insight into the historical and sociocultural issues shaping Korea and its place in the world.
Korean language skills can also strengthen career opportunities, support meaningful intercultural connections and help graduates confidently engage in a global workplace.
Study options
Korean at ANU can be studied as a major or minor. The Korean Language Major consists of eight consecutive courses that guide students from beginner to advanced levels, while the minor requires four courses.
The School of Culture, History and Language also offers an Advanced Korean Language Minor for heritage speakers and students with advanced intermediate proficiency. Its four upper-level courses develop sophisticated language skills, including the ability to critically discuss current affairs relating to North and South Korea.
Students can also strengthen their language skills through overseas study. Options range from the flagship Year in Asia and semester-long exchanges to short courses at leading universities in Seoul, including Ewha Womans University, Hongik University, Korea University, Seoul National University and Sogang University.
Undergraduate courses include Korean 1, Korean 2, Korean 3, Korean 4, Korean 5 and Korean 6, as well as two Advanced Korean (KORE3015 and KORE3018) offerings.
Visit ANU Programs and Courses for study options.
For more information on exchange programs and in-country language opportunities, visit the ANU global programs or enquire cap.student@anu.edu.au.
ANU Students:
- Major (48 units)
- Minor (24 units)
- Advanced Minor (24 units)
- Learn on Campus
- Can be incorporated into Bachelors and/or Masters programs as electives
- Study Abroad Opportunities: Year In Asia, Study Tours & In-Country Leaning Opportunities
Non-ANU Students:
- Learn on Campus as a Non Award Student