"Such experts serve as bridges"
The first Korean language course at ELTE GTK has just come to an end. How was the course structured, and what could students expect?
Hong Jeong: The first Korean group at GTK was an introductory course for those with no prior experience of studying Korean. Classes were held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6:15pm to 7:45pm, for a total of 15 sessions. Students spent a total of 30 hours learning the basics of the language. The first group started with nine students, which created an ideal language-learning environment.
What teaching materials did you use? To what extent did you have to adapt them to the needs or prior knowledge of GTK students?
H. J.: The GTK beginner's course used the Sejong Korean 1A textbook and workbook as the main teaching materials. These are also used by the ELTE Sejong Institute. The first five sessions focused on learning Hangeul, the Korean alphabet. During sessions 6–13, students gradually acquired basic communication skills through lessons 1–4 of the Sejong Korean 1A book.
They covered topics such as greetings, introductions, exchanging phone numbers, naming objects, expressing location and using basic verbs, which are useful for everyday communication. To conclude the course, the group visited a Korean restaurant, where they were able to sample Korean cuisine. Despite being complete beginners, the GTK Korean group students attended the lessons with great enthusiasm and commitment, and their language skills improved remarkably in a short period of time.
Why do you think it is important for young people, especially those studying economics and business, to learn about the Korean language and culture?
Jin Kyoung Ae: From the second half of the 20th century to the beginning of the 21st century, Korea became one of the world's fastest-growing economies, particularly in the international business sector. It might be an exaggeration to call Korea a global power, however, no one can deny that it has undergone an extraordinary economic transformation and had a significant impact on the 21st century global economy. This is especially remarkable given that Korea is neither large nor rich in natural resources, and is a divided country located in a geopolitically sensitive region that is not entirely independent of the interests of major powers. These difficulties make Korea a particularly interesting case study for other countries.
However, to truly understand this unique development path in depth, a certain level of linguistic and cultural knowledge is essential. By studying the Korean language and culture, young economics and business students can learn about the underlying social, cultural and intellectual patterns essential for a deeper understanding and effective international cooperation, as well as the superficial factors behind the country's success.
Which characteristics and values of Korean culture can help Hungarian students succeed in the international workforce?
J. K.A.: Korean culture is extremely unique and rich, and is deeply rooted in fundamental values such as harmony, peace, and respect for human coexistence. The ideal of 'hongik ingan', meaning 'to serve humanity' and appearing in the founding myth of Korea, clearly shows that, throughout history, the Korean people have sought to spread knowledge, goodwill and cooperation rather than conquest. Interestingly, the Korean word 'uri' (우리, meaning 'we' or 'community') is used more frequently than 'I'. This 'uri' does not signify collectivism in the Western sense, nor a community that suppresses individual freedom. Rather, it represents a cultural mindset in which community members complement and support each other, and where nature, people, and nations coexist in a spirit of peaceful mutual giving and learning.
The global challenges of the 21st century, such as social inequalities, the gap between rich and poor countries, and increasing individual isolation, make it particularly important to understand and communicate cultural values based on this perspective. Studying Korean culture and language enables students to reconsider the relationship between the individual and the community, and to learn about values that can especially important in international cooperation, intercultural dialogue, and fostering sustainable relationships.
What is your view on the current state of Hungarian-Korean business relations, and what role can cultural and linguistic competence play in this context?
J.K.A.: Economic relations between Hungary and Korea are currently closer than ever before. Several South Korean companies have chosen Hungary as their European production hub, partly due to the country's favourable geopolitical location and well-developed infrastructure, and partly due to its highly skilled workforce. Hungary is extremely open to Asian cultures, with considerable interest in Chinese and Japanese language and culture, not only at an academic level, but also among broader sections of society.
However, it is important to emphasise that the languages and cultures of East Asian countries, such as China, Korea and Japan, differ significantly. Korean companies have not yet had much time to gain a deeper understanding of Hungary's cultural characteristics, which may differ from those of other European countries. In this context, cultural and linguistic competence is crucial. Knowledge of Korean and Hungarian languages and cultures promotes mutual understanding and can contribute to long-term economic cooperation. Professionals with these skills can create closer business relations and help the development of sustainable partnerships by serving as a bridge between the two countries.
You have a personal connection to the Korean language. What motivated you to start learning it, and what was the most difficult thing at the beginning?
Ágnes Vámosi: I studied Korean at ELTE BTK, where I began learning the language. I wish I could say that I had some special reason for starting the course, but I'd be lying. The reality is that, even many years ago, it was clear that knowledge of Korean would be highly valued in business and make it easier to find a job after graduating. Time has proven this, and there is still a high demand for professionals with Korean language skills. The difficulties were more related to the university environment than to learning the language itself.
What advice would you give to those who are just starting to learn Korean? What steps should they take first, and which resources would you recommend?
Á. V.: It’s simple: Go for it! These days there are so many different options out there, you’re bound to find something that suits you. Traditional language courses are offered each semester by the ELTE Sejong Institute and are open to everyone, and the Korean Cultural Center also provides in person lessons. For those who prefer remote learning, the Sejong Foundation offers English-language online self-paced courses. Thanks to the growing popularity of Korean, social media platforms can also be very helpful: YouTube channels, Patreon courses, and for the more creative learners, even ChatGPT can support personalized study. Just don’t forget: like with any learning process, you need to put in the energy and effort, there’s no progress without it.
What would you say to students who are interested in Korean but haven’t yet taken the first step?
J.K.A.: Hangeul is not only famous for its logical structure and simplicity, but it also reflects the depth of Asian philosophy. So, if you’re curious about Korea, learning to read and write in Korean gives you a double benefit. We’re organizing a summer camp from June 18 to 20, 2025, and registration is open from May 26 to June 8, 2025. Everyone is warmly welcome!
Á. V.: What’s holding you back? You’ve got nothing to lose, and maybe you’ve already heard the saying: “A language is the only thing worth knowing even poorly.” That’s no less true in this case.