Southeast Asia forum

Hello,

I have a question that someone might be able to help me with. I am looking to learn a foreign language for both the personal enrichment and to hopefully expand my future career possibilities. Although I still do not know what I want to be "when I grow up," my current dream job would be either governmental (specifically Foreign Services Officer or a traveling auditor for the G.A.O.) or a career in the business world (international sales/travel).

I still need to knock three continents off of my list, but thus far I have a fascination with the Asian culture. Many reputable universities require a foreign language in order to be admitted into their international master's programs. Therefore, I think it would be best to learn an Asian language.

I know that the fastest and most efficient way to learn a language is a combination of classes and cultural immersion. I could easily afford to live in Thailand and take Thai language classes (without having to work) or I could proceed with my planned "teach in Korea" adventure and learn the language there.

With the current status of Thailand as a developing nation it seems that it might be a useful language to learn. On the other hand, with the possible fall of communism in North Korea and the business opportunities that would ensue (not to mention the current opportunities that already exist in the south), Korean might be more useful.

To sum it up, which language is more useful for governmental and international business careers, Thai or Korean?

Thank you!