Why this is important to Wisconsin businesses: South Korean students often travel abroad for English-language immersion experiences, and Wisconsin's renowned institutions of higher education may appeal to Korean students in a broad range of fields.
The pandemic of 2020 has ravaged the world economy, with many industries suffering, and education is no exception. According to the Open Doors report from the Institute of International Education, a total of 49,809 South Korean students enrolled in U.S. institutions for academic year 2019-2020. Although this represented a decrease of 4.7%, South Korea still places third in the world in terms of number of students sent to the U.S.
Of the South Korean students currently in the U.S., 14% of students are studying engineering, 13% business, 11% the social sciences, and 11% fine or applied arts. The report noted that South Korea places fifth in the world in terms of the number of students taking part in intensive English-language learning programs in the U.S. These programs have seen a slight downward trend thanks to the existence of intensive English programs at lower prices in other locations. There are many English-language schools located in South Korea, and a growing number of international schools and universities in South Korea that appeal more to some students and than going abroad. However, a sizable number of South Korean university students still prefer to visit to the U.S. to learn English and experience U.S. culture, and even some elementary school students use their summer or winter vacation to travel abroad to learn English.
Since education is highly regarded in Korean culture, university reputation still plays a very important role in South Korea. Wisconsin institutions of higher education may appeal to South Korean students on the basis of strength in programs such as biomedical research, computer science and game development. Furthermore, the University of Wisconsin’s strong alumni network in South Korea can serve as an asset to persuade students to consider Wisconsin.