국제교류원

- Grand welcome ceremony blending Kyrgyz traditional melodies and Korean songs confirms the ‘Korean    Boom’ in the Osh region 

- Osh State Pedagogical University proposes opening Korean courses as liberal arts and second foreign        languages, and establishing a ‘Korean Language Center’ on campus

[April 9, 2026] U1 University (President Jung Hyun-yong) has established a practical foundation for educational cooperation with Osh State Pedagogical University in Osh, the educational hub of southern Kyrgyzstan, confirming the intense ‘K-culture’ fever in the region.

 When the U1 University delegation visited Osh State Pedagogical University on the 9th (local time), the scene was filled with a massive welcoming crowd, reminiscent of a festival atmosphere. The faculty of Osh State Pedagogical University moved the delegation deeply by performing traditional Kyrgyz instruments and singing Korean songs themselves. This exceptional welcome is interpreted as a reflection of the rapidly spreading ‘Korean boom’ in the Osh region and high expectations for U1 University.

 U1 University President Jung Hyun-yong and Osh State Pedagogical University Rector Zuluev Bekmurza Bekbolotovich signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on this day and discussed specific plans for educational cooperation.

 While Osh State Pedagogical University does not currently have an official Korean language department, students' interest in the Korean language and culture is exploding. Consequently, the two universities agreed to first include Korean as a second foreign language and a liberal arts subject in the regular curriculum.

 Notably, Osh State Pedagogical University officially proposed the establishment of a ‘Korean Language Center’ within the university to U1 University. They showed a strong determination to build a Korean language education infrastructure, specifically requesting the dispatch of excellent Korean language teachers from U1 University to operate the center. This strategy aims to ensure the sustainability of educational exchange between the two countries by equipping local prospective teachers with Korean language proficiency, going beyond simple academic exchange.

 President Jung Hyun-yong of U1 University stated, “I was deeply moved by the Korean songs sung directly by the professors of Osh State Pedagogical University and their warm hospitality.” He added, “Having confirmed the intense enthusiasm for Korean language learning in the Osh region, we will actively cooperate through practical support, such as establishing a Korean language center and dispatching teachers, so that Osh State Pedagogical University can become an outpost for Korean language education in Central Asia.”

 This agreement is significant as it presents a new model of educational cooperation mediated by ‘culture and language,’ moving beyond existing industry-linked models. U1 University expects to further diversify its channels for attracting excellent international students within the Central Asian region through this opportunity.

2026. 4. 9.