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M-A in Korean Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Korean Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This M.A. in Korean Studies program at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Korea, encompassing its language, history, politics, economy, society, and culture. With India''''s growing economic ties and cultural exchange with South Korea, this program is designed to create experts capable of navigating the complex dynamics of the Korean peninsula. Its interdisciplinary approach offers a unique perspective differentiating it from mere language programs. India''''s Look East policy and increasing investments from Korean companies (e.g., Samsung, Hyundai, LG) have amplified the demand for professionals with in-depth Korean expertise.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into diplomatic services, international business, academic research, or cultural exchange organizations focused on East Asia. It also suits working professionals, particularly in trade, technology, or media sectors, looking to upskill with specialized regional knowledge. Career changers transitioning into international relations or area studies will find this program valuable, especially those with a strong interest in Asian geopolitics or linguistics. A foundational interest in history, social sciences, or languages is a beneficial prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles in Indian government bodies (Ministry of External Affairs), think tanks, Korean multinational corporations operating in India, and educational institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-15 lakhs, particularly in translation, interpretation, or business development roles. Growth trajectories in Indian companies often lead to leadership positions in international relations or corporate strategy. The program aligns well with certifications in Korean language proficiency (TOPIK).
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Korean Language- (Semester 1)
Dedicate daily time to learning Hangul and fundamental grammar using ''''Korean From Zero'''' or university-provided materials. Join JNU''''s informal language exchange groups to practice speaking and listening. This ensures a solid base for advanced language acquisition and direct communication with Korean nationals, essential for academic and professional growth.
Tools & Resources
Korean From Zero, Duolingo, JNU Language Clubs
Career Connection
Develops foundational communication skills crucial for any Korea-focused career, from diplomacy to corporate roles.
Engage with Korean History & Society- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in discussions on historical and cultural topics. Read widely beyond textbooks from sources like the JNU library''''s East Asian collection. Attending seminars or guest lectures on contemporary Korean issues at JNU will deepen understanding, crucial for academic papers and future policy analysis roles.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library East Asian Section, Korean Cultural Centre Delhi events, Academic Seminars
Career Connection
Fosters a nuanced understanding of Korea, vital for informed decision-making in international relations and cultural exchange.
Build a Strong Study Network- (Semester 1)
Form study groups with peers to discuss course material, share insights, and prepare for exams. Utilize JNU''''s academic support resources and connect with senior students for guidance on course navigation and potential research areas. Collaborative learning enhances comprehension and creates a valuable support system for the program''''s rigor.
Tools & Resources
Peer Study Groups, JNU Academic Support Services, Alumni Network via LinkedIn
Career Connection
Develops teamwork skills and expands professional networks, beneficial for future collaborations and job referrals.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Language Proficiency & Translation Skills- (Semesters 2-3)
Progress to advanced Korean grammar and vocabulary, aiming for TOPIK Level 3-4. Practice translation regularly using current news articles from Korean media (e.g., Yonhap News) and academic texts. Platforms like Papago can assist, but focus on understanding cultural and linguistic nuances. This prepares for professional translation/interpretation roles.
Tools & Resources
TOPIK Study Guides, Yonhap News, Papago, Korean news websites
Career Connection
Essential for roles requiring high-level language proficiency, such as interpreter, translator, or cross-cultural communicator.
Explore Specialization Electives- (Semesters 2-3)
Strategically choose elective courses (e.g., Korean Linguistics, Korean Cinema, Media, etc.) that align with long-term career interests. Supplement with online courses from platforms like Coursera (e.g., Yonsei University''''s offerings on Korean culture) to further specialize. This helps in building a niche expertise and a strong resume, demonstrating specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
JNU Elective Course Catalog, Coursera/edX (Korean-related courses), Academic Journals in chosen field
Career Connection
Narrows down career focus and builds specialized knowledge, making graduates more attractive to specific industries or research areas.
Seek Early Research & Project Opportunities- (Semesters 2-3)
Look for opportunities to assist professors with their research projects or initiate small independent research papers on topics of interest within Korean Studies. Present findings at departmental seminars or internal JNU conferences. This hands-on experience is vital for a robust dissertation and future academic or research careers, enhancing analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Research Profiles, JNU Seminar Series, Research Databases (JSTOR, J-Stage)
Career Connection
Develops critical research and analytical skills, highly valued in academia, think tanks, and policy analysis roles.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation Excellence- (Semester 4)
Begin working on the dissertation topic early in Semester 4, refining the research question, conducting thorough literature reviews, and executing primary/secondary data collection. Regularly consult with the supervisor and utilize JNU''''s research support services. A well-executed dissertation is key to academic progression and demonstrating independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
JNU Research Supervisors, JNU Library resources, Plagiarism Checkers (Turnitin)
Career Connection
Showcases advanced research skills and independent thinking, crucial for academic positions, PhD applications, and high-level analytical roles.
Strategize for Career & Placements- (Semester 4)
Attend JNU career fairs and workshops focused on international relations and East Asian studies. Network with alumni working in relevant fields through LinkedIn and JNU''''s alumni portal. Prepare a targeted resume and practice interview skills, specifically for roles in diplomacy, corporate, or research sectors, leveraging the university''''s placement cell.
Tools & Resources
JNU Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Alumni Connect Platforms, Mock Interview Platforms
Career Connection
Directly facilitates securing desired placements in government, multinational corporations, or international organizations focused on Korea and East Asia.
Develop Cross-Cultural Competence- (Semester 4)
Engage in discussions on regional security and international relations with a critical, nuanced perspective. Participate in mock debates or diplomatic simulations focusing on East Asian affairs. Seek opportunities for cultural exchange programs or short-term courses in Korea, if feasible. This fosters a deeper understanding of geopolitical complexities, preparing graduates for demanding roles in foreign service or international organizations.
Tools & Resources
Debate Clubs, International Relations Forums, Cultural Exchange Programs
Career Connection
Enhances adaptability and global perspective, vital for international careers and cross-cultural leadership positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline under 10+2+3 pattern of education with at least 50% marks. Or any other Bachelor''''s degree recognized as equivalent. As per JNU e-Prospectus 2024-25.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KS 401 | Introduction to Korean Studies | Core | 4 | Korean Geography and Demography, Overview of Korean History, Political Systems and Economy, Korean Society and Culture, Inter-Korean Relations and Unification |
| KS 402 | Korean Language - I | Core | 4 | Hangul Script and Pronunciation, Basic Korean Grammar and Vocabulary, Simple Sentence Structures, Conversational Korean for Daily Life, Reading and Writing Simple Texts |
| KS 403 | Korean History from Ancient to Modern Period | Core | 4 | Ancient Korean Kingdoms (Gojoseon, Three Kingdoms), Koryo and Choson Dynasties, Japanese Colonial Period and Independence Movement, Post-Liberation Era and Korean War, Contemporary History of South and North Korea |
| KS 404 | Korean Culture and Society | Core | 4 | Traditional Korean Values and Beliefs, Family and Social Structures, Art, Music, and Performing Arts, Cuisine and Festivals, Contemporary Cultural Trends (Hallyu) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KS 405 | Political Economy of Korea | Core | 4 | Post-War Economic Development Models, Role of Chaebols and State Intervention, Political Systems and Democratic Transition, Foreign Economic Relations and Trade Policies, Challenges and Future Prospects of Korean Economy |
| KS 406 | Korean Language - II | Core | 4 | Intermediate Korean Grammar and Syntax, Expanded Vocabulary and Idiomatic Expressions, Reading Comprehension of Complex Texts, Listening and Speaking Practice for Advanced Conversations, Writing Paragraphs and Short Essays |
| KS 407 | Inter-Korean Relations | Core | 4 | Historical Context of Division, Korean War and Armistice, Unification Policies of North and South Korea, Diplomatic Engagements and Conflicts, Future of the Korean Peninsula |
| KS 408 | Research Methodology for Korean Studies | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research Design, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques (Surveys, Interviews), Academic Writing and Citation Styles, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KS 501 | Theory and Practice of Translation (Korean-English/English-Korean) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Translation Theories, Linguistic and Cultural Challenges in Translation, Translation Strategies and Techniques, Practical Translation Exercises, Specialized Translation Fields |
| KS 502 | Korean Language - III | Core | 4 | Advanced Korean Grammar and Syntax, Formal and Informal Speech Levels, Reading Academic and Journalistic Texts, Advanced Listening and Discussion Skills, Writing Analytical Essays and Reports |
| KS 503 | Modern Korean Literature | Core | 4 | Major Literary Movements in Modern Korea, Representative Authors and Works, Analysis of Short Stories and Novels, Poetry and Drama, Literary Criticism and Contextual Readings |
| KS 504 | Korean Linguistics | Elective | 4 | Phonology and Phonetics of Korean, Morphology and Word Formation, Syntax and Sentence Structure, Semantics and Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics and Historical Linguistics of Korean |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KS 508 | Dissertation / Project | Project | 8 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Argumentation, Presentation of Research Findings |
| KS 509 | Korean Language - IV | Core | 4 | Specialized Korean Terminology, Advanced Communication for Professional Settings, Interpreting and Debating Skills, Reading and Analyzing Complex Academic/Business Documents, Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies |
| KS 510 | Regional Security in East Asia | Core | 4 | Geopolitics of East Asia, Traditional and Non-Traditional Security Threats, Role of Major Powers (US, China, Japan, Russia), Denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, Regional Cooperation and Conflict Resolution Mechanisms |
| KS 511 | Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language | Elective | 4 | Second Language Acquisition Theories, Principles of Korean Language Pedagogy, Curriculum Design and Material Development, Teaching Methodologies and Classroom Management, Assessment and Evaluation in Language Teaching |
