Thematic Classification of Korean Proverbs for Korean Language Education

Abstract

This paper examines the importance and cultural value of teaching proverbs in Korean language education. Currently, in the field of Korean language teaching, proverb education is primarily concentrated in intermediate and advanced courses due to the prioritization of basic communication skills and the linguistic difficulty involved. However, proverbs are more than mere linguistic expressions; they are cultural products that embody the Korean way of thinking, history, and lifestyle. This study identifies the distinctiveness of Korean culture through 100 proverbs categorized by themes such as food, clothing, shelter, animals, nature, and humanity. Based on this, the research aims to propose educational methods that enable foreign learners, particularly Uzbek-speaking learners, to gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture and develop effective communicative competence.