아프리카의 한국학 및 한국어 교육 현황과발전 방향 모색

Abstract

This study examines the extent of the spread of Korean language and Korean studies education in Africa in accordance with the Korean government's national policy, in response to the growing expectations and interests in the Korean culture and language which is a result of the impact of the Korean Wave and the changes in perception about Korea due to the economic growth of Korea. The study further examines the future growth potential of Africa and the need to spread the Korean language. For this purpose, we explore into the countries of Africa in which Korean language and Korea studies are actively in progress by dividing them in to the five regions of Northern, Eastern, Western, Central and Southern Africa. There are many governmental affiliated universities, private institutes including NGOs and civil society organizations as well as religious patronage by which Korean language and Korean studies is being carried out in Africa. Nonetheless this study is focused on the government affiliated institutions. Even though Korea and Africa are geographically distant, interest in Korean language and Korean studies in Africa has begun to bloom, but it is the slowest continent for the start of the propagation and dissemination of Korean language and Korean studies mainly due to security issues such as civil war and political unrest. the number of African students currently enrolled at Korean universities is close to 3,000, and the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is being conducted in seven African countries. This means that there is a need for Korea to deepen exchanges and cooperation with Africa as the demand for Korean language and Korean studies is on the rise. Therefore, we would like to present a strategic plan for the propagation and dissemination of Korean language and Korean Studies in Africa through this study.