[Article translation] 93% of BTS Fans Study Korean, but Systematic Support Remains a Challenge

Original article: Newswhoplus

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A survey has found that more than nine out of ten overseas fans of BTS have experience learning Korean language. The findings suggest that moments of suggest that moments of singing along to music have led to voluntary language learning, demonstrating that the influence of K-pop fandom is expanding beyond cultural consumption into the field of education. 

According to A Basic Study on Developing Online Korean Language Education Programs for Fandom Communities, released by the Multicultural Convergence Research Institute, 93.4% of the 381 fans from 69 countries surveyed said they had learned Korean. The most common motivation for learning was "interest in K-pop and artists," cited by 70.6% of respondents. In other words, fan activities have become a direct driving force for learning. 

However, learning methods were largely disconnected from systematic education. Only 7.8% had taken in-person classes, while most relied on self-studied through mobile applications or online videos. In addition, more than half (54%) had studied for less than one year. 

Korean language proficiency was also concentrated at the beginner level. Twenty-seven percent of respondents remained at the level of "reading and writing Hangul," while 30% reported proficiency equivalent to level 1, the lowest grade of the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK). This indicates that although motivation is high, there is a lack of pathways that connect learning to long-term continuity and advanced study. 

The survey highlights the need to link the growing demand for Korean driven by K-pop with formal education systems. Experts suggest that combining fandom-based, customized online education with credible assessment systems could turn cultural content into a practical asset for national language promotion strategies.