Top Reason for Giving Up on English Learning for Professionals is 'Lack of Motivation'. Demand for Online English Conversation and School-based Programs Rising for Re-starters

Even as working adults, English learning remains a familiar theme for many. Whether it is required for work, desired for enjoying overseas travel, or driven by an aspiration to 'be able to speak eventually,' the reasons for starting English learning vary. However, once learning begins, continuing is often more difficult than anticipated. How many working adults are actually able to continue their English studies? In this survey, conducted in partnership with Money English, an English coaching school with integrated online English conversation, we surveyed 500 men and women nationwide about the 'reality of English learning among professionals.'

Survey Overview: 'Survey on English Learning among Professionals'
Methodology: Online questionnaire
Survey Period: June 1, 2026 – June 7, 2026
Target: Working men and women nationwide
Valid Responses: 500 samples

■ 22.0% reported having experience learning English since becoming a professional
We first asked if they had any experience learning English since entering the workforce. 7.2% said they are 'currently continuing to learn,' and 14.8% said they 'previously learned but are not currently.' Combined, 22.0% have experience engaging in English study. Additionally, 9.2% said they 'want to start learning but have not yet.' Combined, about 30% of working adults are proactive toward English learning. Meanwhile, 68.8% said they 'have no plans to learn.'

■ 64.5% used 'self-study (books/reference books)' as their learning method
Next, we asked those with experience learning English about the methods they have used. The most common was 'self-study (books/reference books)' at 64.5%. This was followed by 'self-study (YouTube/SNS/free content)' at 34.5% and 'learning apps (paid/free)' at 24.5%. The top three are all self-study styles pursued alone. On the other hand, 'school-based English conversation schools' accounted for 20.9%, 'corporate training/internal English programs' for 12.7%, and 'online English conversation' for 5.5%.

■ 33.6% started learning for 'hobbies/curiosity'
We also asked those with experience about their motivations or purposes for starting. 'Hobbies/curiosity' was the most frequent at 33.6%. This was followed by 'necessity for work' at 32.7%, and 'enjoying overseas travel' and 'self-growth/investment in oneself' both at 28.2%. Because the objectives are diverse, choosing a learning method suited to the individual is key to continuity.