[GLOBAL ECONOMIC TIMES] Jeju Special Self-Governing Province's efforts to preserve the Jeju Island dialect were introduced through Singapore's national broadcaster CNA (Channel News Asia).
On September 5, CNA covered in depth the current status and challenges of Jeju Island dialect conservation through a special article titled ‘What Japan and Korea are doing to protect endangered languages.’ In addition, citing the results of a survey by the Jeju Language Research Institute, it was reported that the number of native speakers of Jeju is currently up to 40,000.
In 2010, Jeju language was classified as a ‘language in serious danger’, level 4 out of 5 levels of ‘Languages in danger of extinction’ by UNESCO.
In response, CNA explained that Jeju Island's dialect has its roots in Hunminjeongeum, which was created in the 15th century along with Hangul, but has characteristics that have developed independently due to Jeju Island's geographical isolation.
Starting in 2024, Jeju Island is mandating Jeju language education for at least 6 hours (recommended 10 hours) per year for each grade in all elementary, middle, and high schools in the province.
Park Eun-jin, principal of Shin Jeju Elementary School, which was selected as a pilot school for Jeju Island dialect education, said in an interview with CNA, “Instead of separating it into a separate subject, we are allowing children to learn Jeju language naturally through regular classes, creative experiential activities, and club activities.” He said.
Jeju haenyeo play an important role as the last group of native speakers of the Jeju language.
Haenyeo Lee Jeong-hee (78) said, “Many languages have disappeared, and even my grandchildren do not know Jeju language well,” but “I can understand what the grandmothers say,” and spoke about the current status of Jeju language transmission.
The Jeju Language Institute conducts interviews with elderly native speakers every week and records them.
Kim Yang-bo, director of Jeju Island's Culture, Sports and Education Department, said, "The report by Singapore's English media served as a meaningful opportunity to inform the international community of the importance of preserving the Jeju language and our efforts," adding, "We will support the Jeju language to become a living cultural heritage."
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