Nurturing competent non-native Korean language teachers: Insights from a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural teacher education program

Sang-Seok Yoon; Soo Lee; Lee Dong-Eun

doi:10.1075/kl.25002.yoo

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Nurturing competent non-native Korean language teachers: Insights from a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural teacher education program

Journal article

Open access

Peer reviewed

Nurturing competent non-native Korean language teachers: Insights from a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural teacher education program

Sang-Seok Yoon, Soo Lee and Lee Dong-Eun

Korean linguistics, Vol.21(2), pp.109-134

07/01/2025

DOI: 10.1075/kl.25002.yoo

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Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates the linguistic, cultural, and pedagogical challenges faced by non-native Korean as a Foreign language (NN-KFL) educators and evaluates a three-year retraining program designed to enhance their instructional competence and professional identity. Based on surveys and qualitative data from consultations and live sessions, the study identifies both common and language-specific difficulties among educators from 29 countries. Findings highlight challenges in explaining grammar, pragmatics, and culture, as well as gaps in Korean proficiency and metalinguistic awareness. The results suggest the need for retraining that addresses both general and L1-specific issues. The study proposes a two-tiered model: foundational content delivered online and targeted one-on-one mentoring. It emphasizes the importance of fostering crosslinguistic insight and intercultural sensitivity to build confidence and pedagogical capacity. By offering a flexible and scalable framework, this research contributes to the professional development of NN-KFL educators and responds to the growing global demand for qualified Korean language educators.

Professional Development

Teacher Education

Capacity building approach

Competence

Cultural competence

Intercultural sensitivity

Korean language

Metalinguistic awareness

Pedagogy

Pragmatics

Professional identity

Professional training

Retraining

Second language teachers

Teachers

Teaching

Details

Title: Subtitle: Nurturing competent non-native Korean language teachers: Insights from a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural teacher education program
Creators: Sang-Seok Yoon - University of Iowa
Soo Lee - Kookmin University
Lee Dong-Eun - Kookmin University
Resource Type: Journal article
Publication Details: Korean linguistics, Vol.21(2), pp.109-134
DOI: 10.1075/kl.25002.yoo
ISSN: 0257-3784
eISSN: 2212-9731
Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Company
Language: English
Date published: 07/01/2025
Academic Unit: Languages, Linguistics, Literatures, and Cultures
Record Identifier: 9985141921102771

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