Spotlight On: Jung Ah Lee

How did you find your way to CCAE? How has the Korean program developed since then, with the creation of the Intermediate Class?

Eight years ago, when I first came to Boston, I discovered CCAE by chance while taking a walk and I came across their catalog. Later, I learned that they offered Korean classes and, with a recommendation from the Korean teacher at the time, I started teaching here. When I first joined CCAE five years ago, the Korean program had three levels. Over time, as more students became interested in learning Korean and their language skills improved, there was a growing demand for higher-level classes. This led to the development of the current program, which now includes seven levels. I'm happy that the expanded program allows students of various levels to learn Korean through CCAE.

What has been your favorite moment while teaching?

Every moment of teaching brings me joy, but the most special moments are when I see my students' passion for learning Korean. As a teacher, their motivation and enthusiasm inspire me to teach even better. I like to think of these moments as a synergy between the student and the teacher, where we encourage and energize each other to achieve more.

You speak Korean, Chinese, and English – why do languages interest you?

Learning a new language means gaining access to a new culture, history, and the people who live it. While we can learn about cultures through various sources, language offers a more practical and deeper understanding. It allows me to truly connect and even build friendships with its speakers, which makes the experience even more meaningful.

What is special about CCAE students?

Most CCAE students have full-time jobs, which makes their decision to spend their valuable time and money learning Korean very special to me. Their determination and passion, visible in their eyes, are something I could never give them—it comes from within. Each student brings their own story and chooses to study late into the evening at CCAE, and I find their commitment truly admirable and inspiring.

In addition to the global phenomenon that is Hallyu (The Korean Wave), why do you think people should be interested in Korean language and culture?

Korea has a long history marked by resilience, having endured numerous invasions and hardships. This unyielding spirit is deeply embedded in Korean culture, which has evolved and thrived in the era of globalization and digital innovation, giving rise to the Korean Wave, or Hallyu. Additionally, Hangul, the Korean writing system, is unique. It’s the only language with documented records of its creation, purpose, principles, and teaching method. Known for its scientific design, Hangul even inspired the UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize, celebrating its accessibility and educational significance. While there are many reasons to learn Korean and Korean culture, I believe it provides a chance to explore the philosophy and resilience of the Korean people. Korea’s geopolitical and cultural significance also makes it an important and fascinating country to understand.


Is the Korean writing script Hangul a special challenge for students? How is it different from the Chinese and Japanese writing system?

Hunminjeongeum Haerye, the guidebook for Hangul, states, “A wise person can learn it before the morning is over, and even a foolish person can master it within ten days.” This simplicity comes from Hangul’s logical design. Consonants are modeled after the shape of speech organs, and vowels are inspired by Korean philosophy, representing heaven (ㆍ), earth (ㅡ), and human (ㅣ). Each syllable is written with relatively few strokes and reflects its pronunciation directly, as Hangul is a phonetic script. Compared to Chinese, which uses thousands of logographic characters, and Japanese, with its complex mix of kanji, hiragana, and katakana, Hangul’s structure is straightforward. Its simplicity and phonetic nature make it easier for learners to pick up, especially in the early stages.