A Study on Foreigners’ Korean Language Learning Experiences through Design Thinking Analysis

The international status of the Korean language has been elevated as the demand for studying the language among foreign students has grown sharply over the past few years. Unfortunately, foreign students face difficulties in learning the language, conflicts are also deepening between Korean and foreign students. Using Erin Sander’s design research spiral, this paper investigates foreigners’ Korean language learning experiences, identify the main cognitive and affective factors influencing their learning process. Research findings collected with the design analysis revealed needs and insights that offer opportunities relevant specifically for the conception, design and development of new products and services related to Korean language learning.