Yeonhee Yoon

Yeonhee Yoon is a Teaching Professor and Korean Language Program Coordinator in the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures at the University of Notre Dame's College of Arts and Letters. She specializes in historical Korean syntax, intercultural pragmatics, and Korean pedagogy, with extensive teaching experience at Harvard University, University of Hawai‘i, and UNC Chapel Hill.

Education includes:

• Ph.D. in Korean Linguistics, University of Hawaii at Manoa
• M.A. in Korean Linguistics, University of Hawaii at Manoa
• B.S. from Ewha Womans University

Her research explores the sociopragmatic dimensions of Korean language use, including speech acts of refusal, the impact of Korean popular culture (Hallyu) on language learning, and the development of specialized curricula for diplomacy. Recent work examines the globalization of Korean language through geopolitical lenses.

Publications demonstrate consistent focus on Korean pragmatics and pedagogy, with recent expansion into transnational cultural studies and digital language education. Her 15 most recent works show strong emphasis on sociolinguistic analysis and pedagogical applications.

Awards:

• Joyce Award for Undergraduate Teaching (2019)
• Digital Learning Sprint Award (2025)
• LSP Institute Award (2014)

As Korean Program Coordinator, she develops curricula, advises students, and manages study abroad programs. Grants include Liu Institute research funding for North Korean cultural politics analysis and TBC grants for traditional Korean arts. She mentors undergraduate theses and serves as faculty advisor for student organizations.

Leads the Korean Language Program with focus on rigorous cultural and linguistic training, advising student groups like ND Korean Student Association and facilitating international partnerships.