Overview
Department Introduction
The Department of Korean Language Education was established in 1978 based on the philosophy of Korea University, which is, “National Salvation Through Education,” and the philosophy of the College of Education that aims to foster and train teachers. In our nearly 40-year history, we have greatly contributed to the education sector by producing over 1,700 professionals. Our department also plays an important role in academic, press, advertising, publishing, and public administration sectors.
Approximately 200 students are currently studying in the Department of Korean Language Education under the guidance of eight full-time professors who are highly renowned in the fields of Korean language education, Korean linguistics, modern Korean literature, and classical Korean literature. The Department is home to various academic associations and club activities for students, including the Associations of Prospective Teachers for the Practice of Genuine Education, Education Literature, Korean Language Studies, Modern Literature, Classical Literature, and a club activity Aurrm (Korean traditional percussion band). The Department of Korean Language Education holds an academic seminar every November and publishes the proceedings from that event. Our students accumulate theoretical knowledge and field experience through academic field trips and teaching practice in their sophomore and senior years, respectively.
Several of our graduates become teachers after passing the teacher employment examination each year, while others enter the Graduate School to become professors. Our graduates also work for press/broadcasting/publishing companies or governmental organizations or are engaged in literary creation and criticism.
The Department of Korean Language Education aims to nurture desirable teachers who will lead the information- and knowledge-based society of the 21st century and to train progressive experts who will contribute to the development of creative culture. The specific educational goals of our department are as follows:
First, cultivating excellent teachers equipped with the capabilities and qualities needed for effective Korean language education in middle and high schools. Second, nurturing professionals in the implementation of policies regarding Korean language education and experts who can practice creative communication skills in the media, advertising, and cultural sectors. Third, fostering specialists who can conduct systematic research on Korean language and literature and seek theoretical Korean language education taking into account the actual school environment.
In order to produce these outstanding professionals, our department offers diverse and in-depth education courses in the fields of Korean language education, Korean linguistics, modern Korean literature, and classical Korean literature. With a cosmopolitan outlook, we strive to maximize the spread and realization of Korean language education in this globalized information- and knowledge-based society.