King Sejong Institute Launches K-Pop Language Series
The foundation's new YouTube series connects K-pop stardom with Korean language education.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Language Learning
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The King Sejong Institute Foundation has launched a new three-part YouTube series featuring K-pop idols to boost global interest in the Korean language. The series reached one million views in its first week.
Why it matters
The project leverages the global popularity of K-pop to encourage structured language learning and deeper cultural engagement among international fans. It builds on significant interest in institutional Korean programs worldwide.
The King Sejong Institute Foundation currently supports 273 institutes across 89 countries. Their 2026 Korean Speaking and Writing Contest drew 3,715 applicants from 75 nations and 178 institutions.
The players
King Sejong Institute Foundation
This government-affiliated organization promotes the Korean language and culture through a global network of educational institutes.
VERIVERY
This South Korean boy group is known for their active engagement in global music markets and will serve as honorary teachers in Indonesia.
The details
Produced in collaboration with SBS, the series features idols participating in language lessons and proficiency assessments. The first episode showcased RESCENE members Minami and May taking a language test, while upcoming segments include Ricky of AND2BLE and Mǎ Jingxiang of CLOSE YOUR EYES.
Timeline
Oct. 17, 2026: The first episode of the series was released.
Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026: The second episode premieres at 2 p.m.
November 2026: VERIVERY will lead an in-person Korean language class in Jakarta.
Culture Shift
The project follows the pattern set by the Hallyu wave by utilizing cultural exports to drive international language acquisition. This trend reflects a broader move toward integrating popular entertainment media into formal and informal educational outreach strategies.
International fans can access the series online to supplement their own language studies through casual idol-led content. Those near Jakarta may have the opportunity to participate in the upcoming in-person class led by VERIVERY.
The takeaway
Fans of Korean pop culture can utilize these digital resources to begin or advance their language proficiency journey outside of a traditional classroom setting. Engaging with these materials provides a culturally relevant bridge to mastering the Korean language.
What happens next
The second episode of the series premieres on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, at 2 p.m. Additionally, the group VERIVERY is scheduled to host a live Korean language class in Jakarta, Indonesia, during November 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about global educational initiatives at the Language Learning section.
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