Korean language education in Western Australia: Development and challenges

Abstract

Korean has been one of the fastest-growing languages in terms of learner population both in Australia and in many other Western countries. Among the factors contributing to this growth, one that is probably the most frequently mentioned is the contemporary worldwide popularity of Korean pop culture. Nevertheless, this element alone is not sufficient to boost growth in language learner numbers at different levels. This chapter focuses on the case of Western Australia, presenting the background and the current state of Korean language education, and highlighting issues embedded in the Western Australian and Australian context that hinder further growth. It shows how the growth in Korean language education is sustained not only by intrinsically motivated learners, but also by the synergic collaboration of elements such as local educational policies, nationwide language policies, institutional long-term vision and commitment, inter-governmental support and commercial interests.