Korean language learning has gained strong global momentum, driven by the rising popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean films. Learners worldwide, from students to professionals, are seeking to acquire Korean to enhance cultural understanding, academic opportunities, and career prospects. Universities, language institutes, and online platforms are expanding their offerings with structured courses, digital resources, and proficiency tests like TOPIK. Mobile apps, AI-powered tools, and gamified platforms make learning accessible and engaging, especially for younger generations. Governments and cultural institutions, through initiatives such as Sejong Institutes, are further supporting this growth, making Korean an increasingly important global language of culture and business.

Drivers: The global market for learning Korean is expanding due to a number of factors.  The increasing global attractiveness of Korean culture, growing economic prospects, and the trend of internationalisation are driving the spike in demand for studying Korean.  As K-pop, dramas, and movies become more well-known around the world, people are inspired to study Korean in order to better understand the culture.  At the same time, professionals and students looking to advance their careers have been drawn to South Korea by its economic growth in technology, trade, and innovation.  Through official programs, governments and educational institutions are also encouraging the study of Korean.

Challenges: The global Korean language learning market faces certain restraints despite its rapid growth. High course fees, particularly for advanced programs and international certifications, make access difficult for students from lower-income groups. Limited availability of qualified Korean language instructors outside major cities restricts widespread adoption. Regional disparities in digital infrastructure also affect the reach of online platforms, especially in developing nations. Additionally, learners often struggle with the complexity of Korean grammar and writing systems, leading to high dropout rates. Competition from other popular global languages such as English, Mandarin, and Spanish also reduces the priority given to Korean learning in some regions.

Market Trends: A major trend shaping the Korean language learning industry is the growing integration of cultural activities into language programs. For example, Yonsei University’s KLI launched an exchange program in September 2023, combining classes with film sessions and cultural appreciation activities to enhance understanding. By 2021, schools across many countries began offering Korean, with Japan, Thailand, and the U.S. leading adoption. Korean is also gaining academic recognition, becoming part of university entrance exams in countries like Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Japan, and France, with Hong Kong set to include it in 2025, reflecting its rising global importance in education and culture.

Duolingo, Ewha Womans University Language Education Institute, Hanyang University, Kyung Hee University Institute of International Education, Pusan National University Language Education Institute, Rosetta Stone LLC, SNU Language Education Institute (Seoul National University), Sogang University Korean Language Education Center, Visang Education Inc, Yonsei University Korean Language Institute are just a few of the major market players that are thoroughly examined in this market study along with revenue analysis, market segments, and competitive landscape data.

By Component: Based on the Component, Global Korean Language Learning Market is segmented as; Product, Services.

By Learning Mode: Based on the Learning Mode, Global Korean Language Learning Market is segmented as; Online Learning, Offline learning, Hybrid learning.

By Medium: Based on the Medium, Global Korean Language Learning Market is segmented as; Books and Textbooks, Flashcards and memory aids, Mobile apps, Software, Online resources, Audio & video resources, Others.

By Stage: Based on the Stage, Global Korean Language Learning Market is segmented as; Learning & development, Study notes, Exams and evaluation.

By End Use: Based on the End-Use, Global Korean Language Learning Market is segmented as; Individual, Educational institutes, Schools and universities, Language institutes, Corporate.

By Region: This research also includes data for North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa.This study also encompasses various drivers and restraining factors of this market for the forecast period. Various growth opportunities are also discussed in the report.