(LEAD) Conference opens to improve Korean teaching to foreigners

(ATTN: UPDATES with details in paras 2, 4, 7; ADDS photos)

SEOUL, July 26 (Yonhap) -- Dozens of Korean language teachers from around the world gathered in Seoul Tuesday to discuss ways to improve their teaching amid heightened interest in the Asian language.

The 14th International Conference of Korean Educators Abroad brought together more than 70 teachers and professors from around the world, some 20 foreign education officials and more than 50 South Korean education officials for a weeklong workshop consisting of seminars, group discussions and field trips.

The education ministry and its affiliate, the National Institute for International Education, are hosting the program under the theme, "Century of culture: Opening the future of Korean language education."

"As an increasing number of educators are teaching Korean to foreigners nowadays, it's time we make a blueprint for Korean language education in line with this trend," said Lim Young-dam, the chief director of the Educational Foundation for Koreans Abroad, in his opening remarks. The foundation is the organizer of the event.

"Hallyu," which refers to the growing popularity of Korean pop culture worldwide, has been credited with Korea's growing international image.

Tuesday's program included the official opening ceremony and a keynote speech by renowned South Korean poet Ko Un on the future of Korean literature and the Korean language.

On Wednesday, participants will give presentations and hold group discussions on themes such as teaching Korean through Korean literature, the Korean language as a major in universities at home and abroad, and teaching Korean pronunciation and vocabulary.

During their stay, participants will also go on field trips around Seoul and Gongju, 160 kilometers south of the capital, to experience Korean culture.

hague@yna.co.kr
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