Busan residents struggling to learn the local language now have a free consultation service they can call on.

Busan Global Center started its Korean Language Supporters service on Monday to help the city’s foreign residents with Korean.

“Students can bring their own books or any materials they want to study,” said Kim Hyo-jeong, who runs the program at the center.

“According to their Korean level the supporters will help any Korean learner, whether they are beginner or advanced.”

Kim said that the service was started at the suggestion of students attending the Korean language course it also offers.

Residents from countries including Russia, Japan and the United States used the service on the opening day, mostly for conversation practice and help with speaking. The center’s volunteers also offer to correct letters, applications and resumes.

“We don’t write everything but we can help by correcting the composition,” Kim explained.

She said that 10 people had used the service on the opening day but that the center expected this number to rise as more people learn about the service.

The service is available from Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Priority will be given to those who book in advance.

For enquiries call the Busan Global Center on (051) 668-7906 or (051) 668-7900

By Paul Kerry (paulkerry@heraldcorp.com)