Korean Language Program

Established in 1962, the Korean Language Program (KLP) has provided students with comprehensive instruction in Korean language and culture. The program contributes to Columbia University’s commitment to academic excellence, global engagement, and intercultural understanding by fostering students’ critical understanding of Korea and the Korean-speaking world.

The curriculum spans five years of study, from First-Year Korean through Fifth-Year Korean, and includes specialized courses such as Business Korean and Advanced Korean in Mixed Script. Aligned with the ACTFL World-Readiness Standards for Foreign Language Learning and ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines, the curriculum is designed to develop students’ communication skills in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.

Through sustained language study, students learn to communicate effectively in Korean, engage with Korean-language texts and communities, and deepen their understanding of Korean history, culture, and contemporary society. The program regularly reviews and updates its curriculum, instructional practices, and learning materials to meet the evolving needs of students while maintaining a focus on proficiency development, intercultural competence, and meaningful communication.