As the lingua franca of this globalized world, English is emphasized in different countries and regions around the globe, while motivation is a substantial element that leads to language learning success. This has resulted in numerous studies focusing on English learning and using motivations, trying to promote their international status by enhancing the learners’ English proficiency. Meanwhile, Hong Kong and South Korea share similar English educational backgrounds and cultures, and South Korea has been gaining popularity in Hong Kong in recent years. In light of this phenomenon, this capstone project intends to investigate the English learners’ learning and using motivational development in Hong Kong and South Korea by interviewing two English majors from each place. This project discovered the participants’ different developmental trajectories, suggesting that English language learning and using motivations can be fluctuated by various factors despite the similar contexts. Intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, L2 self-identification, career plans, and L2 communicative competence are the major factors that brought about the participants’ motivational differences. Through identifying these factors, the project wishes to seek better ways for different stakeholders, including students, parents, schools, and education policymakers, to boost English learners’ motivations in their individual contexts.

As an English major who is keen on investigating foreign cultures and being an English teacher in the future, this project is a perfect fit for me. It links to my past knowledge gained from my undergraduate degree, which has provided me with some background knowledge to conduct this project. It also allows me to have a better understanding of South Korean English culture, at the same time relates to my future by equipping me with the knowledge and skills to teach my future students to improve their motivation. It has definitely drawn my 4-year journey as an English major to a perfect end.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, Professor Tongle Sun, who supported me throughout the semester with her constructive feedback and encouraging words. The effort and engagement of all my friends and participants are also highly appreciated.