The number of applicants to take the official Korean language test has sharply increased among nationals of other Asian countries. The Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development in Seoul said on Thursday that a total of 17,531 people have presented applications to take the Korean Language Proficiency Test this weekend, a 44 percent rise from last year. The test is to be held in Seoul, Busan, Daejon and Gwangju as well as in 43 cities in 15 other countries including Japan, China and Vietnam. The most significant rise in applicants came from other Asian countries. Applicants in Japan accounted for the biggest portion with 6,185, a 24 percent rise from the previous year, followed by applicants in South Korea with 3,650 (68 percent increase). China had 2,737 applicants (170 percent increase) and the U.S., Uzbekistan and Vietnam combined for 658 (176 percent increase).