The enormous popularity of Korean popular culture called 'Hallyu" (Korean Wave) in recent years has inspired many college students to learn Korean. The classroom has been filled with students of more diverse ethnic, language, and cultural backgrounds than ever before. More Korea-related courses are being offered while Korean language classes have seen a significant increase in enrollment. Language serves as the basis for area studies program and it is crucial to understand the relationship between language and other subjects. This presentation will discuss the history and evolution of Korean Language Programs in major U.S. colleges and universities in the context of their development of general Korean Studies program. Current state and issues associated with program development will also be discussed.