How to Learn Korean Language?
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How to Learn Korean Easily?: Are you a student fascinated by Korean culture and eager to learn the language and wondering where to begin? Learning the Korean language can help you immerse into the Korean culture well. Not just that, learning the Korean language can also open the doors to securing a spot in the top Korean universities.
Learning Korean can be an incredibly rewarding experience, opening doors to Korean culture, career opportunities, and personal growth. However, it's essential to have realistic expectations from the outset. While achievable, Korean is considered a challenging language for English speakers due to its unique writing system, grammar structure, and pronunciation. The United States Foreign Service Institute (FSI) has recognised Korean as a Category V language which establishes the fact that Korean is one of the hardest masterable languages in the world. FSI has also suggested the estimated required time for mastering the Korean language to be around 2200 hours or 88 weeks of extremely intense study.
Check: Top 10 Best Foreign Languages to Learn for Students
In other words, one would be required to study the Korean language 7-9 hours per week for 3 months to be able to hold a 3-minute conversation in the language. But as they say, consistency is the key, if you keep on practising with the language, you can gain great fluency in the language. Let us read this article to know how to learn Korean language if you wish to study and live in Korea.
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Why Learn Korean Language?
Korean culture, from K-dramas to K-pop, has captured the hearts of many. Learning the language opens doors to a deeper understanding of this vibrant culture, allowing you to:
- Connect with native speakers: Converse with Koreans, travel to Korea, and build meaningful relationships.
- Enhance your career prospects: Korean language skills are increasingly valued in various fields, especially those related to international business and education.
- Challenge yourself: Learning a new language, especially one with a different writing system like Korean, can be a rewarding intellectual pursuit.
How is the Korean Language Different from English?
Both Korean alphabets and English alphabets differ in their sounds which means that you cannot learn the Korean alphabets by means of associating them with the English alphabets. This forms the basis of the difficulty of learning the Korean language for native English speakers.
On the other hand, the sentence structure in the Korean language follows the “Subject-Object-Verb” order which is entirely different than that used in the English language, i.e. “Subject-Verb-Object” order. Also, articles like a, an and the are not used in the Korean language as used in English. Both of these are also the reasons why Korean people find it difficult to learn the English language.
Steps to Learn the Korean Language Easily
Learning any language requires unbroken attention and continued effort. However, the importance of structured learning cannot be neglected here. Any language can only be learned when learnt in a structured and organised manner. Experts have determined the sequence of steps to be followed in the process of learning a language. Refer to the steps given below to know how to learn Korean language efficiently.
1. Master the Korean Alphabet (Hangul)
The modern-day Korean Script or Korean Alphabet System (Hangul in South Korea and Chosŏn'gŭl in North Korea) has 24 basic letters and 27 complex letters, derived from the basic letters. You can begin learning by associating the few Korean letters (or Hangul) that sound the same/similar to the corresponding English letters with the same sounds.
2. Build Your Korean Vocabulary
Once you have conquered Hangul, focus on building a solid foundation in vocabulary and grammar. Start with basic everyday words and phrases relevant to your interests. Use flashcards, spaced repetition apps like Anki, or create mind maps to solidify your learning. Online dictionaries like Naver Dictionary and Korean Wiktionary provide definitions and pronunciation aids.
Utilise online resources like “how to learn Korean language” free websites and apps that teach the language in the simplest and most effective ways. These apps and websites teach the Korean language by using advanced sound features and providing structured lessons and engaging exercises.
3. Embrace Immersion
Learning a language thrives on immersion. Surround yourself with Korean people! Watch K-dramas and movies with subtitles, listen to K-pop music, and explore Korean podcasts. Actively engage with the content by pausing, rewinding, and noting down unfamiliar words and phrases.
4. Practice Makes Perfect
Speaking is key to fluency. Don't be afraid to make mistakes while you are at it. Utilise language exchange platforms like HelloTalk to connect with native speakers and practice conversation.
5. Make it Fun and Engaging
Learning should not feel like a chore. Discover ways to make learning the Korean language enjoyable. Play language learning games, read Korean comics (Manhwa), or even attempt Korean recipes. This will ensure retained interest in the language without you getting exhausted to a point where you feel dropping to be the best option.
6. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Milestones
Learning a language takes time and dedication. Set achievable goals, track your progress, and celebrate your milestones. This will keep you motivated and focused.
7. Consider Formal Education
Enrolling in Korean language courses can provide structure, expert guidance, and opportunities for in-person interaction with classmates and instructors. Consider online platforms or join offline Korean language learning classes for that purpose.
8. Join the Community
Connect with other Korean learners online or in your local community. Sharing experiences, tips, and challenges can boost your motivation and provide valuable support.
Dedicate short, consistent periods to studying Korean daily. Regular practice, even for 20 minutes, is far more effective than sporadic cramming sessions.
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How to Learn Korean Language for Beginners?
There are 6 aspects of learning the Korean language as given below:
1. Immerse Yourself in the Korean Language
This involves surrounding yourself more and more with the sources of Korean language and try participating in korean social events, traveling to Korea or even talking to Korean friends and experts online that can help you enhance your Korean language speaking skills.
2. Learn Korean Language Basics
Learning the Korean alphabets (Hangul), pronunciation of the letters and basic words is the first step towards learning the Koreamn language. While learning Hangul, learn vowels and consonants separately and memorise them carefully along with added writing practice. For pronunciation and sound practice of each letter and word, learn the sound rules and the Korean accent and intonation.
3. Learn Korean Grammar Rules
Learning grammar is the first step to learning any language. To begin your learning of the Korean language, you can also start by learning how to create sentence structure in Korean, verb conjugation and Honorifics.
4. Use Online and Offline Resources
You can join online Korean classes with expert language tutors or join YouTube Channels that teach Korean in live classes for free. Alongside, there are multiple textbooks and phrasebooks in the market that can help you build foundation in the language.
As a beginner, you can start learning Korean yourself by trying your hands at some apps if you wish to learn the Korean language for free. These apps are available to download for both Android and iOS users. Below are the top 10 apps for learning the Korean language for free.
- Duolingo
- HelloTalk
- Simply Learn Korean
- Memrise
- LingoDeer
- Talk To Me in Korean
- Pimsleur
- Eggbunn
- FluentU
- Learn Korean - 11,000 Words
5. Build Vocabulary
Once you learn the sentence structure, grammar and other rules of the language, then it's the right time to enhance your vocabulary to bring out more effective communication among your peers. You can improve your Korean vocabulary by learning common Korean phrases, topic-specific words, and everyday words.
6. Practice, Practice and Practice!
You can practice with regular listening to understand and speaking in the Korean language. Listen to Korean podcasts, Korean songs and K-dramas to understand the intonations and pronunciation. For speaking, practice recorded speaking and check on later as where you made mistakes and how can they be improved.
Once you learn even the basics of the Korean language with the help of these apps, you can join language exchange groups or communities to practice this language. Remember that the ideal daily learning time for the Korean language is 7 hours - to be continued for 3 months.
Top 7 Korean Language Learning Institutes in India
Below we have given some top Korean teaching institutes in India, their fees, the duration of the program taught and locations.
| Institute |
Program, (Duration) |
Fees (approx.)* |
|---|---|---|
| King Sejong Institute |
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Levels (3 months - 1 year) |
₹3,000 - ₹12,000 |
| Korean Cultural Center |
Beginner, Intermediate Levels (3 months - 6 months) |
₹5,000 - ₹8,000 |
| Certificate, Diploma, BA, MA (1 year - 4 years) |
₹7,200 - ₹21,000 |
|
| University of Delhi (DU) Colleges (SGTB Khalsa, St. Stephen's, Daulat Ram, Shyam Lal, Ramjas) |
Certificate, Diploma (1 year - 3 years) |
₹5,000 - ₹15,000 |
| The English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) |
Certificate (1 year) |
₹4,453 per year |
| Korean Language Institute, Pune |
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Levels (3 months - 1 year) |
₹6,000 - ₹10,000 |
| Chennai Korean Language Institute |
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Levels (3 months - 1 year) |
₹5,000 - ₹8,000 |
*The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the specific course.
Best Online Korean Courses
The websites offering the best online Korean courses are given below.
| Platform |
Description |
Fees (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Talk To Me In Korean (TTMIK) |
Comprehensive curriculum with video lessons, grammar explanations, and interactive exercises. |
Free & Paid Plans |
| HowtoStudyKorean |
Free beginner and intermediate Korean lessons, downloadable resources, and a mobile app. |
Free |
| Korean Unnie |
Engaging YouTube channel with lessons on various Korean language topics, catering to learners of all levels. |
Free |
| Lingodeer |
Gamified language learning app with interactive lessons, voice recognition exercises, and personalized learning paths. |
Free Trial & Paid Subscriptions |
| Duolingo |
Bite-sized lessons, gamified activities, and leaderboards for casual learners. |
Free |
| LKI School of Korean Language |
India-specific platform offering online Korean language courses customized for Indian learners. |
Varies based on course |
| I-KETS (India – Korea Edu Tech Solutions) |
Online Korean learning platform with various resources and course options. |
Varies based on course |
Please note:
- The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the specific course, subscription plan, and platform.
- It's recommended to check the individual platform websites for the latest information on their pricing and course offerings.
- This table is not exhaustive and there are many other online resources available for learning Korean.
Alternative Options for Learning the Korean Language
While traditional methods like classroom learning are valuable, consider exploring alternative learning options such as:
- Private tutoring: Benefit from personalised instruction and feedback from a qualified tutor who can tailor their approach to your specific needs and learning style.
- Language learning games: Make learning fun and engaging with apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and LingoDeer. These gamified experiences can help you practice vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation in a dynamic way.
- Cultural exchange programs: Immerse yourself in the language and culture firsthand through programs abroad or online exchange opportunities. These experiences can provide valuable insights and accelerate your learning journey.
Different Learning Styles to Meet Your Korean Learning Journey
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to language learning. Tailor your learning methods to your preferred learning style:
- Visual learners: Focus on watching Korean shows and movies, using visual aids like flashcards and mind maps, and exploring Korean websites and blogs.
- Auditory learners: Listen to Korean music, podcasts, and audiobooks, participate in spoken language practice through conversation exchange apps, and shadow native speakers.
- Kinesthetic learners: Engage in interactive learning activities like language learning games, role-playing scenarios, and attending cultural events where you can practice speaking and interacting with others.
Challenges in Learning the Korean Language for Indian Students
While learning Korean is certainly achievable for Indian students, there are some potential limitations to be aware of:
- Memorizing vocabulary: Mastering new words can be daunting. Utilise spaced repetition apps like Anki, create mind maps to connect related words, and use flashcards for active recall.
- Lack of exposure and resources: Compared to European languages like French or Spanish, Korean is less commonly spoken and taught in India. This can lead to a scarcity of readily available resources and learning opportunities compared to other languages.
- Different language family: Korean belongs to the Altaic language family, which is distinct from the Indo-European family that includes most Indian languages and English. This difference can make mastering pronunciation, grammar, and sentence structure more challenging for Indian learners compared to languages with shared linguistic roots.
- Overcoming pronunciation hurdles: Korean has sounds not present in English. Shadow native speakers, practice tongue twisters, and record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – they are valuable learning opportunities.
- Limited cultural context: The cultural context surrounding Korean can be unfamiliar to Indian students. Understanding nuances of Korean humour, social etiquette, and historical references might require additional effort compared to learning languages from closer cultural spheres.
- Finding native speakers: Due to the smaller Korean-speaking population in India compared to other regions, finding native speakers for language exchange or immersion opportunities might be more challenging.
- Motivation and consistency: Learning any language requires sustained dedication and consistent practice. The initial excitement about Korean culture might fade over time, and staying motivated over the long term can be a challenge for some learners.
Q: Which is better: Korea University or Yonsei University?
If we compare Korea University and Yonsei University, the following points can be given to show which university is better:
| Category | Korea University | Yonsei University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | Around 8% | 18% |
| QS World Rankings 2024 | #79 | #76 |
| Tuition Fees (MBA) | INR 26 L | INR 28 L |
Q: Can international students get jobs in Korea after graduation?
Yes, post-graduation international students can seek and get a job in Korea. However, to seek a job in South Korea, international students change their visa status from D-2 to D-10. The D-10 study visa in South Korea is for job seekers. However, to change their visa status from D-2 to D-10 international students need to have the followings:
- Application, photo, copy of passport, fee, copy of identification card
- Plan for seeking employment
- Diploma
- Proof of career (if applicable)
- Proof of Korean language proficiency (if applicable)
- Letter of recommendation for employment (if applicable)
- Recommendation from the head of the central administrative agency
- Proof of being a high-earning professional (if applicable)
Q: Is South Korea good for MBA?
South Korean universities are among the best and top universities in the world. South Korean universities highly-ranked MBA programs across a wide range of specializations. South Korean universities are regularly ranked among the top universities worldwide. Top Korean universities for business and management:
University | THE World University Rankings 2024 – Business and Management |
|---|---|
Yonsei University (Seoul campus) | #47 |
Seoul National University | #88 |
#101-125 | |
#151-175 | |
Kyung Hee University | #151-175 |
Sejong University | #151-175 |
Hanyang University | #201-250 |
Korea University | #201-250 |
Pusan National University | #201-250 |
Chung-Ang University | #301-400 |
Q: What are the admission requirements for MBA in South Korea for international students?
International students should check the minimum eligibility for MBA before applying for any university in Korea. The minimum admission requirement for every university in South Korea is different. However, the general admission requirements in South Korean universities for international students are as follows:
- Application form
- Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate (or distinct number of certificate) of a respective education institution
- Standard Acceptance Letter
- Documents proving the final level of education
- Documents proving your financial ability to support yourself
- Essay
- Resume/CV
- Two Letters of recommendation
- English language proficiency
Q: How do I get a study visa for South Korea?
International students need a student visa to get into South Korea to pursue higher education. To get a study visa for South Korea, international students must satisfy the following conditions.
- Admissions letter or certificate or registration issued by the dean/president of the college or university at Korean University.
- Proof of academic ability of the applicant
- Summary of costs of the program.
- Passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of application with a copy of the photo page. Passport must have at least one blank page.
- Two recent passport-style color photographs.
- Return travel ticket.
- Completed and signed the visa application form.
- Proof of financial stability.
Q: Is it expensive to live in South Korea for international students?
South Korea might be expensive for some international students. However, the cost of living will depend on the location of your university, type of accommodation, and lifestyle. Therefore, the cost of living will vary from individual to individual. However, we have given a list of expected expenses for international students.
Type of Expenses | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
Dormitory | USD 360 – 1,710 (per semester) |
Food | USD 300 – 400 (per month) |
Transportation | Bus: USD 1- 1.2 (per day) Subway: USD 1 – 2.5 (per day) |
Additional expenses | USD 100 – 200 (per month) |
Q: What is Korea University known for?
Korea University was known as the Bosung College and was founded in 1905 in Seoul, South Korea. The university is known for the following:
- Korea University currently has the Seoul Campus, Sejong Campus, along with three auxiliary hospitals that are Anam Hospital, Guro Hospital and Ansan Hospital.
- Korea University currently has more than 37,000 students which includes over 30,000 at the Seoul Campus and more than 7,000 students at the Sejong Campus.
- The university offers a range of courses to international students in liberal arts, sciences, as well as most of the professional fields including law, medicine and business adminstration.
Q: What is it like to study at Yonsei University in South Korea?
According to Yonsei University student review, the university prepares them holistically for industry requirements and gives them opportunities to have a successful career. The students become more confident and competitive after studying at Yonsei University in South Korea. According to surveys carried out by certain independent newspapers, 90% of the graduates are either working or attending schools for higher education.
South Korea is the most popular place for international students, including those from India, to settle down following their studies. The nation provides excellent job opportunities, a work-life balance, and a high standard of living.
Basic Korean Words in English
Still wondering how to learn Korean? Here, start by feeding your curiosity with some basic Korean words given in the section below. These basic Korean words below will help you to understand the basic Korean exclamations and emotions in the movies or day-to-day conversations right away. We have covered all the basic Korean words both in formal and informal tones below.
| Basic Korean Words and Meanings |
|
|---|---|
| Korean Word/Phrase |
English Meaning |
| 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) |
Hello (formal) |
| 안녕히 가세요 (annyeonghi gaseyo) |
Goodbye (informal) |
| 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) |
Thank you (formal) |
| 고마워요 (gomawoyo) |
Thank you (informal) |
| 미안합니다 (mianhamnida) |
Sorry (formal) |
| 미안해 (mianhae) |
Sorry (informal) |
| 학교 (Hakkyo) | School |
| 네 (ne) |
Yes |
| 아니요 (aniyo) |
No |
| 주세요 (juseyo) |
Please |
| 실례합니다 (sillyehamnida) |
Excuse me |
| 잘 지냈어요? (jal jinaesseoyo?) |
How are you? (informal) |
| 저는 ~입니다 (jeoneun ~imnida) |
I am ~ (formal) |
| 한국어 (hangugeo) |
Korean language |
| 사랑해 (saranghae) |
I love you |
| 맛있어요 (masiniseoyo) |
It's delicious |
| 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida) |
Thank you very much |
| 화이팅 (hwaiting) |
Fighting! (used for encouragement) |
| 가족 (Gajok) | Family |
Korean Numbers 1 to 10
Since numbers form the foundation of every aspect of life, having a knowledge of the numbers in the Korean language is also important if you're seeking to get immersed in the language. So, here is the table that contains 1-10 Korean numbers and their pronunciation.
| Korean Numbers 1 to 10 | |
|---|---|
| Numbers | Numbers in Korean |
| 1 | 하나 (Hana) |
| 2 | 둘 (Dul) |
| 3 | 셋 (Set) |
| 4 | 넷 (Net) |
| 5 | 다섯 (Daseot) |
| 6 | 여섯 (Yeoseot) |
| 7 | 일곱 (Ilgop) |
| 8 | 여덟 (Yeodeol) |
| 9 | 아홉 (Ahop) |
| 10 | 열 (Yeol) |
It's important to remember that these limitations are not insurmountable. With dedication, resourcefulness, and a passion for the language, Indian students can successfully learn Korean.
Remember, the most effective approach is the one that suits your learning style and preferences. Experiment, find what works best for you, and most importantly, enjoy the process of learning Korean!
This was all about “how to learn Korean”, “how to learn Korean language”, the “Korean alphabets”, and some basic Korean words. If you wish to study abroad then, reach out to Shiksha Counselling Services for free. You can also drop your queries in the comments section below.
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How to Learn Korean Language FAQs
Q. How different is Korean from English?
A. The Korean language is entirely different from the English language. To learn the Korean language better, one must aim to implement the “Comprehensible Input” method by which babies also learn languages. Several aspects by which the Korean language significantly differs from English are:
- Writing system: Korean uses its own alphabet called Hangul, which is completely different from the Latin alphabet used in English.
- Grammar: Korean sentence structure follows the Subject-Object-Verb order, unlike English's Subject-Verb-Object order.
- Vocabulary: There are few cognates (words with shared origin) between Korean and English.
- Pronunciation: Korean has sounds not present in English, making pronunciation challenging for English speakers.
Q. How can I learn Korean by myself?
A. Here are some effective ways to learn Korean independently:
- Immerse yourself: Watch Korean dramas, listen to Korean music, and read Korean books or comics.
- Practice regularly: Set aside dedicated time for learning and find a language partner.
- Learn Hangul: Master the Korean alphabet and their pronunciation. Learn the pronunciation of combination of letters and try to remember the meanings of linking words as the primary steps.
- Focus on vocabulary and grammar: Use flashcards and vocabulary apps, and study grammar rules.
- Practice speaking and listening: Join a language exchange, listen to Korean podcasts, and record yourself speaking.
- Consider online resources: Many websites and apps offer Korean language courses.
Q. How to learn Korean easily?
A. Korean language learning can be made easy by following a set structured learning routine. You can start by learning Hangul (the Korean alphabet) and follow by learning to form words and sentences. To ace your game on how to learn Korean language easily, join online communities of students who share the same intent of learning the language.
As there's no shortcut to fluency, several strategies can make learning Korean more efficient and enjoyable:
- Start with Hangul: Mastering the Korean alphabet is crucial for reading and writing.
- Build vocabulary and grammar: Focus on practical everyday words and basic grammar rules.
- Immerse yourself in the language: Surround yourself with Korean through music, movies, dramas, and conversations with native speakers.
- Practice consistently: Dedicate even short periods daily to studying and practicing.
- Find a learning method that suits you: Explore various resources like apps, online courses, or in-person classes.
- Don't be afraid to make mistakes: Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and seek feedback to improve.
Q. What is oppa meaning in English?
A. "Oppa" is a Korean term used by a younger woman to address an older brother or male friend. It can also be used romantically by a woman to address her boyfriend or husband.
Q. What is unnie meaning in English?
A. "Unnie" is a Korean term used by a younger woman to address an older sister or female friend. Similar to "oppa", it can also be used in a casual and friendly way among women of similar age who are close.
Q. What is hyung meaning in English?
A. "Hyung" is a Korean term used by a younger man to address an older brother. Unlike "oppa," which can be used both romantically and non-romantically, "hyung" is exclusively used for non-romantic relationships. It signifies respect and closeness between brothers or male friends with an age difference.
Q. Can I study Korean in India?
A. Yes, absolutely! You can definitely learn Korean language in India. Several options are available for learning Korean in India:
- Formal education: Enroll in Korean language institutes or university courses.
- Informal learning: Utilise online resources, language exchange platforms, or self-learning materials.
Explore available options, choose the method that suits your learning style and needs, and embark on your Korean language learning journey.
Priya Garg is a seasoned content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-date. H... Read Full Bio
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