The number of Sejong Hakdang or Korean language schools abroad is likely to surpass 100 soon.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said on Friday that the number of Sejong Hakdang will increase from the current 90 in 44 countries to 117 in 51 countries.

Recently, the ministry received applications from 91 organizations in 42 countries that want Korean language schools in their regions.

The ministry decided to open 13 schools in Asia, eight in Europe, four in the Middle East and two in the Americas.
 
The Korean language schools are rapidly expanding around the world thanks to rising popularity and interest in Korean language and culture since 13 schools opened in three countries in 2007.  

The ministry plans to open 120 schools by the end of this year and 200 by 2017 to meet rising demand for Korean language education.