Investigating the Effectiveness of Korean Dramas with English Subtitles on the English Language Competence of Students

Abstract

This research focused on students’ English language competence in watching Korean dramas with English subtitles. It investigated the advantages and disadvantages of watching Korean dramas with English subtitles and students’ English language learning in terms of language proficiency, reading speed in English, English communication skills, and English reading comprehension. This study used qualitative research utilizing a narrative approach to analyze the English language competence of the Senior high school students of Negros Occidental National High School who were enrolled for the Academic year 2022-2023. The participants of the study were chosen using purposeful sampling. Meanwhile, the data were thematically analyzed using the recursive textual analysis guided by the three C’s of Lichtman. The findings indicated that the student's English language learning in watching Korean dramas with English subtitles has both advantages and disadvantages, such as subtitles flashing up too quickly and occasionally pausing the Korean drama being watched. Moreover, the results also show that students’ language competence in watching Korean dramas with English subtitles have influenced their learning of new English vocabulary words, speed reading, comprehension, and English language proficiency.