Studying Korean
"I studied Korean and found it an enjoyable and easy language to get started in"
Jaya Thursfield
Graduate of Korean
Studying Korean at university can be a launching pad for a variety of amazing careers and adventures. Yet the experience of studying a foreign language like Korean can be rewarding and engaging itself.
These days Korean language teaching incorporates interactive and online resources to enhance learning and bring Korean culture to the classroom. Korean students will soon be typing (in Korean of course) their reponse to an online discussion of Korean culture on a virtual bulletin board. Or perhaps you'd prefer to join a mailing list and make direct contact with Korean students who will help you with your learning. And while you're online you could also search the net to listen to, and get the lyrics of your favourite Korean pop songs or learn about your favourite Korean actor.
"I can only say fantastic things to students considering studying Korean at a tertiary institution. The opportunities that Korea has to offer students from all disciplines are innumerable, and the personal rewards that stem from learning another language speak for themselves..."
Molly Alexander
4th year Korean student.
When meeting Korean people don't be surprised to hear them describe their alphabet, known as Hangul , as the most perfect writing system in the world. The Korean alphabet is the source of great national pride in Korea. When Japan's colonial rule over Korea ended in 1945 and a ban on hangul was lifted, Koreans proclamed October 9 Hangul Day, a holiday still celebrated today.
Hangul was implemented in the fifteenth century by King Sejong, replacing thousands of intricate Chinese characters. The result was a phonetic system incorporating only 24 characters which reflected the spoken language of Korea. Known in Korea as the "morning letter" Hangul can be learnt in a matter of hours. The unique simplicity of Hungul means that Korea has one of the highest rates of literacy in the world and you will be an expert in Hangul in no time.
"I find the opportunity to communicate with people on their level, with their own language an exceptionally rewarding experience."
Molly Alexander
4th year Korean student
If you study Korean you may like to find yourself an Korean exchange partner with whom you can practise your Korean and learn about Korean culture. There are many Koreans studying in Australia so why not track one down. Exchange partners are a great because you not only enhance your ability in Korean, but you make a friend who is in a good position to answer the questions you may have about their country.
You probably study other subjects in the library, the lecture theatre or in the computer lab. Yet you may find yourself practising your Korean vocab with your exchange partner on the University lawn, in a café, or perhaps at a Korean Karoake bar (yes, they exist in Australia). The best ways to find an exchange partner are through a Korean lecturer, through a Korean Student Club or by putting up notices at university. Koreans are generally very encouraging of people who try to speak their language, regardless of their level and are very happy to share their knowledge of Korea.