Worldwide, Korean is the fastest-growing language among non-native speakers, and with the global popularity of K-pop and K-dramas, the interest in Korean culture is no surprise. In Australia, over the past decade there’s been increasing awareness of Korean studies as a language/culture-based studies area, and Korea–Australia relations are growing in economic, political and intercultural importance. As a result, there is a growing demand for graduates in Korean studies.

In this course you’ll explore Korean society, culture, history, politics and international relations and gain strong competency in the Korean language. You’ll also delve into some of the most intriguing societal and cultural issues of the Korean peninsula, ranging from South Korea–North Korea relations to the success of Hallyu, which refers to the rising wave of popularity of South Korean culture.

The course is also designed to give you a transformative learning experience so that you can work and engage comfortably in diverse cultural environments – an attribute that is increasingly vital as cultures and industries become more globally entwined. Importantly, the language learning incorporates in-class activities that have a strong focus on active learning and developing communication skills in real-world contexts.

To study this major you are not expected to have prior knowledge of the Korean language or any other Asian language.

Korean Studies is offered as part of the Bachelor of Arts. You may choose to broaden your knowledge and skills with a second major, or select elective units or a specialisation that supports your career goals. You can also study this major as part of a Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Commerce double degree.

Korean Studies Specialisation

If you are studying another major in any of Curtin’s 10 study areas, adding a specialisation (comprising four units) in Korean Studies will give you a solid foundation in understanding Korean society, language and culture to succeed in a workplace that requires strong intercultural skills. If you're considering studying science, engineering, health sciences or education, adding intercultural and linguistic competencies through a specialisation in Korean Studies will give you an advantage in global job markets.