The newest KAAN newsletter had two interesting articles today about how important the English language is to Korea. I found it interesting.

The first article, “How Close Are We to Using English as Official Language?”, is from The Korean Times.

Under the plan, elementary schools expanded regular English classes to the lower grades starting in the second half of this year on a pilot project. The pilot project will continue until the end of next year.

I understand how important the United States is to the economy of the world. We seem to be involved in every corner and our well-being is a concern for everyone. I’m also awed by the fact that in almost every other “developed” country, it is standard to know more than one language. This is not the case here in the United States. Most of us muddle through the English language and make attempts at some conversational Spanish, French, etc… I took six years of French and I’d be lucky if I could make myself understood.

Under the program, students in the regions will take regular school subjects such as math and science in English, which will help them pick up English more naturally.

The second article, “Classes to be conducted in English from 2015”, from Korea.net is much the same.

“Koreans are less competent in practical communication skills of speaking, listening, and writing, compared to their ability for translation and reading comprehension. Hence, we will reinforce school English education focused on speaking and listening skills,” said Kim. “From next year until 2015, 10,000 English teachers across the nation will receive intensive English courses so that every English teacher will be able to carry out classes in English.”

I really wish that I could speak another language right now. At my work, there have been several times now that I wished I spoke Spanish. Instead, I had to scramble to find someone in our offices who did speak Spanish. Unfortunately, I don’t seem to be very proficient in languages. After six years of studying, I can still read French very well. However, I can’t speak it and I can’t understand it when it’s spoken to me. Perhaps, if I had started earlier in life, I’d understand it better. There’s no way to know now.