Top 5 Foreign Languages Chinese Students Love to Learn in 2025

The Most Popular Foreign Languages to Learn in China

Chinese has become one of the most popular foreign languages to learn globally especially in Asia and Europe. With China’s growing economic influence and the rich cultural appeal many people are increasingly interested in learning Chinese. While the world’s fascination with Mandarin grows it’s equally intriguing to discover which foreign languages are the most popular among Chinese people. In this article we’ll explore the top five foreign languages that young people in China are eager to learn.

1. English

English is indisputably the most popular foreign language in China. Young people in China understand the importance of a strong grasp of the English language especially for career opportunities and job-hunting. Furthermore English is the most spoken language in the world making it essential for global communication, cross-cultural understanding and professional growth.

Learning English is a gateway to understanding foreign cultures and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. With many Chinese students seeking English fluency it is often seen as a crucial skill in the globalized job market.

2. Japanese

Many Chinese people are “attracted” to Japanese because Japan and Japanese culture are often associated with courtesy, elegance and a rich history. Additionally, Japan is a popular tourist destination for Chinese travelers, thanks to its magnificent traditional architecture, vibrant shopping districts and unique cultural experiences.

Knowing Japanese enhances the experience for Chinese tourists visiting Japan allowing them to engage more deeply with the culture. More importantly the close economic cooperation between China and Japan offers excellent job opportunities for those proficient in Japanese, making it a valuable language to learn for career advancement.

3. Korean

Many Chinese girls are passionate about learning Korean. Especially due to their love for Korean singers, actors and the massive influence of Korean pop culture. Many Chinese individuals choose to study Korean to better understand the essence of Korean TV dramas and connect with their favorite stars.

Furthermore speaking Korean opens up opportunities to form friendships with Korean people and gain a deeper understanding of Korean culture, including its traditions, language nuances and societal values.

4. French

A large number of young people in China are interested in studying French because it is widely regarded as the most beautiful language in the world. French is also associated with romance and elegance making it a highly desirable language to learn.

For those interested in French culture, France is seen as a symbol of luxury and high-quality fashion. The French language is essential for those who want to explore career opportunities in sectors such as luxury goods, cosmetics and fashion design. Learning French opens doors to international business and enhances understanding of European cultures.

5. German

German is highly sought after by Chinese learners due to the strong job opportunities and career development it offers. As one of China’s most significant trading partners in Europe, Germany plays a crucial role in the global economy and German language skills are increasingly in demand in sectors such as engineering, manufacturing and business.

Many German companies have established branches and manufacturing plants in China over the last decade further driving the need for German-speaking professionals. Additionally a growing number of Chinese students are pursuing higher education in Germany or France where German is essential for academic and professional success. The combination of academic opportunities, business prospects and economic ties makes German an important foreign language for Chinese speakers to master.

FAQ: Most Popular Foreign Languages to Learn in China

01. Why is English the most popular foreign language in China?

English is the most popular foreign language in China because it’s essential for global communication and career opportunities. Chinese people understand the value of mastering English for job prospects and connecting with the international community.

02. Why do Chinese people learn Japanese?

Japanese is widely learned by Chinese people due to cultural and economic reasons. Japan’s rich culture including anime, traditional arts and fashion has a huge appeal. Additionally, Japan is one of China’s closest neighbors in terms of trade and tourism, so learning Japanese opens up various travel and professional opportunities.

03. What makes Korean a popular language in China?

Korean has gained popularity in China thanks to the influence of K-pop, K-dramas and Korean pop culture. Many Chinese are drawn to Korean TV series and movies which leads them to learn the language for a deeper understanding of Korean culture. Some also see it as a career advantage due to Korea’s significant presence in the global tech and entertainment industries.

04. Why is French a popular language in China?

French is seen as the language of romance and culture. It’s associated with high-end fashion, luxury products and the arts. France’s global presence in fashion and lifestyle also makes learning French valuable for career and personal interests.

05. What are the benefits of learning German in China?

Learning German in China is highly beneficial because of the strong economic ties between China and Germany. Additionally Germany is a top destination for Chinese students seeking higher education, so learning German opens up academic and professional opportunities.

06. How can learning foreign languages benefit young people in China?

Learning foreign languages like English, Japanese or German broadens the horizons for young people in China. Whether for travel, cultural exploration or career advancement, mastering a foreign language enhances communication skills and increases professional opportunities in a globalized world.

We hope this post will be useful. To find out more interesting posts about life in Chinese and Chinese language, check out one of our blog posts Popular Jobs Among Expats in China