A Study on The Vocabulary Size Development Pattern of Korean Language Majors in Chinese University

Objectives This study aims to emphasize the significance of vocabulary knowledge assessment and explore the vocabulary size development patterns of Korean language majors in Chinese universities. The aim is to derive educational implications for effective vocabulary teaching in the context of Korean language education in China. Methods To achieve this, we constructed a vocabulary assessment list and developed a Korean vocabulary size test, which was then validated for reliability and validity. Subsequently, an empirical study was conducted with 320 college students across first to fourth-year levels in Chinese universities. Results First, the average vocabulary size of Korean language majors in Chinese universities was approximately 6,892 words. Specifically, the average vocabulary size was 3,435 words for first-year students, 5,915 words for second-year students, 8,800 words for third-year students, and 9,415 words for fourth-year students. Second, vocabulary size development was observed to be relatively rapid from the first to third year, with a noticeable deceleration after the third year. Furthermore, No ceiling effect was detected in vocabulary development throughout the four years. Third, vocabulary with a frequency range of 1k-3k should be targeted in the first year, vocabulary within the 4k-6k range in the second year, and vocabulary exceeding 7k should be the focus for third and fourth-year students. Conclusions The findings suggest that concentrated educational support is essential for significant vocabulary growth, particularly during the second and third years. Furthermore, given the observed slowdown in vocabulary size development after the fourth year due to factors such as learning fatigue and job preparation pressures, it is crucial to implement motivational vocabulary learning strategies at this stage.