Korean Language and Culture

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

Less than a quarter of the world speaks English, meaning that learning another language unlocks new opportunities for communication, cultural understanding, and personal growth. Korean is a fascinating and rapidly growing global language, with a unique and logical writing system (Hangul) that makes it one of the easiest to learn. Whether you are interested in Korean pop culture, history, business, or global communication, learning Korean will allow you to engage more deeply with one of the world’s most influential cultures.

This Beginner-Level Trinity Elective introduces you to the foundations of spoken and written Korean while also exploring a key cultural topic in its linguistic context. Along the way, you’ll develop transferable skills in critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and communication that will benefit both your academic and professional future.

Beginner Level: Korean Language and Culture

This module is designed for students with no prior knowledge of Korean. It provides a foundation in basic communication skills, while also introducing the fundamentals of Hangul, Korea’s writing system. You will also engage with a key cultural topic to deepen your understanding of Korean society.

What will I learn?

• Communicate effectively at a beginner’s level (CEFR A1).
• Develop new linguistic and intercultural skills through interactive learning.
• Learn about a contemporary cultural issue within a Korean-speaking context.
• Gain confidence in reading and writing Hangul, the Korean script.

What will I do?

• Attend 9 x 2-hour face-to-face language classes, focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
• Participate in weekly online quizzes and activities to reinforce learning.
• Work in teams to complete collaborative, interactive tasks in class.
• Prepare and deliver a Pecha Kucha-style presentation on a cultural topic.

How will this be delivered?

• 18 contact hours of face-to-face classes.
• 82 hours of self-directed activities, including online tasks, reading, and assessment preparation.

How will this be assessed?

• 30% Five language quizzes assessing vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension.
• 30% Participation in online discussions on cultural and linguistic themes.
• 10% Reflective learning journal documenting your language-learning progress.
• 30% Pre-recorded Pecha Kucha presentation and written script analyzing a cultural issue.

Who can take this Trinity Elective?

This elective is open to any eligible student who meets the following requirements:

• Beginner Level (A1): Suitable only for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Korean.
• This elective is not open to native speakers of Korean.

PLEASE NOTE:

• This elective is not a traditional language module—it places significant focus on Korean culture and society.
• Visiting students should confirm with their home university whether this module fulfills language credit requirements before enrolling.
• Applications will be screened after enrollment. Students who enroll in a module that does not match their proficiency level will be reassigned to another elective with available places.

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.