Korean and Global Development
Korean and global development is a degree that brings together the study of one of East Asia's most economically and culturally dynamic countries with the analytical frameworks of international development, which is concerned with poverty, inequality, sustainability and the conditions under which societies improve the wellbeing of their people. Korea's own development trajectory, from one of the poorest countries in the world in 1960 to a high-income democracy with a globally significant technology and cultural industry in little over half a century, makes it a compelling case study for development scholars. Korean culture, including its film, music, literature and cuisine, has meanwhile achieved extraordinary global reach.
At the School of Oriental and African Studies, a university with unique expertise in languages and cultures of Asia and Africa, this four-year programme, which includes a foundation year for students who need additional preparation, combines Korean language study with a rigorous academic engagement with global development. You will develop Korean to an advanced level alongside study of Korean culture, history, society and politics, while the global development strand provides training in development economics, international political economy, sustainability, humanitarianism and the global governance of development challenges. The combination creates graduates who can engage with Korean and broader East Asian development questions in the original language and with genuine analytical depth.
Soas's distinctive expertise and its London location provide exceptional resources for this programme, including extensive library collections, a diverse international student body and proximity to development organisations, think tanks and cultural institutions.
Graduates go on to careers in international development, diplomatic service, international organisations, NGOs, research, journalism, business in Korea and East Asia, translation and education. Further study in Korean studies, international development, Asian studies or related fields is also a common route.