English proficiency of South Koreans: More than lingua franca


South Korean students take part in an English class with their foreign teacher in Paju, north of Seoul. — AFP

HOW well do South Koreans speak English? The development of translation apps and decreased personal interaction after the pandemic may be making this question less important, but English education still occupies an important place in South Korean society.

English is a required language from elementary school through university. Scores of standardised English tests are usually required for employment and advancement in companies. English kindergartens and other types of private schools remain popular.

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