Chungbuk National University (CBNU): Fostering Global Talent with Holistic Learning Methods

Chang Seop Koh

President

Korean Studies and Language Colleges play a pivotal role in promoting the understanding of Korean culture, language, and society. These institutions offer a structured approach to learning the Korean language, often with immersive experiences, and provide academic opportunities for students to explore Korea's rich history, literature, politics, and contemporary issues. They cater not only to foreign students seeking to master Korean but also to those interested in gaining a deeper insight into Korea's global impact. These colleges serve as bridges that connect international students with Korea’s educational, cultural, and professional landscapes.

Chungbuk National University (CBNU), located in South Korea, stands as one of the foremost universities with a commitment to academic excellence and fostering well-rounded individuals. Established over 70 years ago, CBNU has evolved into a creative knowledge community that emphasizes both intellectual growth and the cultivation of strong character. The university has consistently contributed to advancing humanity by nurturing students capable of making meaningful academic and societal contributions.

CBNU’s Korean Language Program, introduced in 2000, is a notable feature of the university's offerings. The one-year program is specifically designed for international students and overseas Koreans who seek to enhance their Korean language skills for educational or professional purposes in Korea. The program is divided into four semesters annually, catering to students at various proficiency levels, namely beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Each class is limited to a maximum of 20 students, ensuring personalized attention. Currently, around 380 students from diverse countries such as China, Vietnam, Japan, Turkey, and Mongolia are enrolled in the program, where they not only learn the Korean language but also gain insights into Korean culture and society. Through this program, CBNU continues to build bridges between Korea and the world, empowering students with the language skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their studies and future careers.

Blending Traditional and Modern Learning

CBNU offers a distinguished Korean Language Program designed for international students, aiming to provide a comprehensive language education. Established to support non-Korean speakers, the program is divided into four semesters each year, with classes available at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Each class is capped at 20 students to ensure personalized attention and effective language acquisition. The program emphasizes integrated education in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, with the goal of equipping students with the language skills necessary for further academic studies at Korean universities or graduate schools.

Since its inception, CBNU’s Korean Language Program has successfully helped over 2,600 international students develop proficiency in Korean, many of whom have gone on to pursue advanced degrees at CBNU and other prestigious universities in Korea. This success is attributed to the well-rounded curriculum that not only focuses on language acquisition but also includes cultural education to deepen students’ understanding of Korean society.

The program integrates cultural education into its curriculum by offering lectures on traditional and modern aspects of Korean culture, social norms, and etiquette. This allows students to better understand the cultural context of the language, enhancing their learning experience. Additionally, practical conversation exercise is an essential component of the program, where students are trained in everyday expressions and conversation skills, which are then applied to real-life situations. This ensures that students are not only able to understand Korean but also confidently communicate in various social settings.

Furthermore, CBNU provides students with cultural experience activities designed to enrich their understanding of Korean society. These activities include traditional Korean dance, music, crafts, and cooking, offering students hands-on experiences of Korean culture. Through these immersive activities, students gain valuable insights into life in Korea, which is essential for adapting to the country’s lifestyle and educational environment.

Through its Korean Language Program, CBNU continues to provide an inclusive, thorough, and culturally immersive language education experience. This program prepares international students for academic success in Korea, helping them bridge cultural gaps and excel in their studies and professional careers.

“At CBNU, our Korean Language Program offers a dedicated TOPIK preparation class in addition to the regular curriculum, specifically designed to support students who are aiming for university admission. A good TOPIK score is often a requirement for university entry, so this class provides invaluable assistance for those working toward that goal. Students at Level 4 or above are eligible to enroll in this class. To help students improve their test-taking abilities, we conduct midterm and final exams for the TOPIK preparation class as mock TOPIK tests.

This approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the actual exam by giving them a chance to familiarize themselves with the test format and practice under real test conditions. Given the unique makeup of our Korean Language Program, where more than 90 percent of students are from Asian countries, this program is especially beneficial for those aspiring to enter universities in Korea, helping them navigate the language requirements of higher education in the country”, says Chang Seop Koh, President, CBNU.

A Path to Academic and Professional Success

CBNU offers a Korean Language Program designed to equip international students with the necessary skills to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies in Korea. Students who complete the program can gain admission to Korean universities and continue their studies in their chosen fields. Many alumni have successfully transitioned into professional roles, including becoming professors, researchers, and senior public officials, both in Korea and their home countries.

In addition to academic opportunities, the program also prepares students for careers in various business sectors. Those who complete the program without entering a domestic university often find opportunities to work for Korean companies or in trade industries in their home countries. The program’s success is evident in the diverse career paths its alumni follow, demonstrating the program's ability to provide students with the skills to succeed in both academic and professional environments.

CBNU’s Korean Language Program is committed to providing high-quality education. The program has a dedicated team of 44 instructors, all of whom hold Korean language teaching certificates. Impressively, 98 percent of the instructors possess a master's degree or higher, with 23 percent holding doctoral degrees. This exceptional team of educators ensures that students receive top-tier instruction and support. The instructors are not only committed to deliver quality education but also engage in continuous research and curriculum development to enhance the learning experience for all students. Through this rigorous and well-rounded approach, CBNU prepares international students for success in both academic and professional fields, fostering opportunities for them to make significant contributions to Korea and beyond.

Driven to Enhance Education and Student Experience

A key focus of CBNU’s internationalization strategy is improving the quality of its Korean Language Program. The university strives to provide diverse cultural experiences that support students in fully immersing themselves in Korean society. To better accommodate international students, CBNU is expanding its facilities, including the opening of a dedicated dormitory for international students in March 2025. Additionally, specialized courses are offered to help students prepare for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), alongside practical support for those aiming to pursue undergraduate studies.

CBNU is dedicated to ensuring that students have a deep cultural experience by fostering connections with the local community. The university collaborates with regional companies and institutions, offering students meaningful opportunities and exposure to Korean culture in real-world contexts.

CBNU is committed to cultivating global talent and strengthening its international presence through various strategic initiatives. As part of these efforts, CBNU has been selected as a Glocal 30 university, a distinction that provides significant government support. With an allocation of 100 billion KRW (20 billion KRW per year for five years), CBNU is set to accelerate its internationalization initiatives to further, enhance its educational offerings and campus experiences.

Advice for prospective Asian students considering a Korean language training program in Korea:

Set clear goals. Define your purpose for studying Korean, whether it’s for academics, employment, or cultural exploration.

Prepare for study and daily life. Learn basic Korean before coming, research Korean culture and lifestyle, and prepare clothing appropriate for the weather. These steps will make your transition smoother.

Choose the right program for you. Review the curriculum and support services of the language training institution.

Lastly, approach this experience with an open mind!