European Languages and Cultures

In 2016, the Department of European Culture Studies was established through the merger of the former Department of French Culture and Department of German Culture. This integration reflected the growing need to examine and understand Europe from a more flexible and interdisciplinary perspective, moving beyond the study of individual European countries in the context of European integration. The Departments of German Culture and French Culture had long nurtured talented graduates equipped with the ability to understand and analyze Germany and France, two leading countries of the European Union, through a humanities-based approach. Building upon this foundation, the European Culture Studies major aims to go one step further by cultivating European specialists who possess both comprehensive knowledge of European cultures and the practical competencies necessary to engage with Europe beyond national boundaries. To achieve these ambitious goals, the European Culture Studies major was selected for the Capital Region University Specialization Project (CK-II), administered by the Ministry of Education. As a result, the program received financial support for five years beginning in August 2014. Through this initiative, the major is committed to developing high-quality educational programs and providing students with opportunities to acquire a profound understanding of European cultures, distinctive multilingual proficiency, and literary imagination. The European Culture Studies major also seeks to nurture forward-looking individuals who possess the values and character necessary to contribute to a more fulfilling society, where people can thrive together. In today's globalized world, intercultural exchange and communication have become increasingly important. As Korea continues to emerge as a major cultural and economic player on the international stage while simultaneously transitioning into a multicultural society, the ability to understand and communicate across cultures has become more essential than ever. In this context, studying the cultures of European countries, particularly their histories of conflict and reconciliation, and reflecting on these experiences in relation to Korean society can provide valuable insights and perspectives. There is a growing demand for European specialists across a wide range of sectors, including domestic and international corporations, government institutions, and international organizations. Employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in culture-related industries are also expanding. Given the increasing influence of intercultural communication on our daily lives, the demand for researchers specializing in European cultures is expected to continue growing. The European Culture Studies major hopes that its graduates, equipped with a solid foundation of academic knowledge and practical skills, will pursue diverse career paths, realize their aspirations, and make meaningful contributions to society in their chosen fields.