Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Captain Corea]

I've been here nearly 8 years now, and I have to say, I'm finding more and more people (Koreans) speaking English nowadays. When I first came here years ago, very few could speak English in the service sector, and fewer still in other environments. Now though, I'm running into kids on the playground that are near fluent, and just this morning a good chunk of my gym was carrying on a conversation in English.

So, for those that have been here awhile - are you also noticing an improvement?

[T-J]

Compared to when I first came in 91, I would agree with your observation. Much improvement.

[redaxe]

Slowly and steadily, and with every generation. I know a lot of 20- and 30-somethings that speak zero English, but it seems like basically every Korean teenager speaks at least passable basic English these days, and I mean "English" not "Englishee." Especially in the wealthier parts of Seoul.

[Moldy Rutabaga]

It's certainly not a national second language yet, but yes, at all levels I see increased fluency since I first came here in '03. The top speakers are better, the minimal speakers are more confident, and even people who know no English at all at least know things like "thank you" and "ok."

There are still horrible English renderings on some signs and ads, but sometimes I'm surprised. I went to a church service with simultaneous translation over headsets and whoever was doing it was near fluent.

Ken:>

[SHANE02]

Speaking has improved I feel. Writing on the other hand has not.

[blue.sky]

[Captain Corea]

^^ I thought the same - until I went to ap layground in namyoung-ju a few weeks back and had a couple of ten years olds speaking fluent English to me.

[Unposter]

I have noticed a most definite improvement in English by Koreans since I have been here. I think it is across the country, though certainly there are certain areas of the country such as wealthier parts of Seoul where it is definitely better.

I see it in my students, too. Every year the freshman get better and better. And they are much more internationally sophisticated as well.

An ability to speak English used to be seen as an advantage in the job market. It has become a necessity just to get your foot in the door because almost everyone can do it. It is no longer considered special anymore.

I wonder to what extent native speaking teachers were part of this change. Obviously, it was to some extent but I wonder how much of an extent...overseas education has played a big role but you still need to have some skills before you can make the most of going abroad.

[fermentation]

I was pretty impressed by the English level of many of the Korean students at Yonsei.