Sociohistorical Genesis of South Korean EFL Learners’ English Learning Motivation

Abstract

As stated in Chaps. 2, 3, and 4, English has long been regarded as a powerful tool for ascending the social hierarchy in (South) Korea. The person who could speak a moderate level of English in Korea could secure a good job and be considered for promotion more readily. Most Koreans, who cannot speak English fluently, feel stressed among those who are more proficient. This frustrates them and causes reluctance to speak in front of others whose English is better than theirs. In this chapter, by considering various sociological factors, it will be argued that Korean English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ motivation to learn English is based on their unique traditions, culture, and social environments. Thus, a systematic explanation about Koreans’ eagerness to learn English will be explained after we have scrutinized its related five factors. © 2021, Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.