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Korean Language Learning
Discover the Best Methods for Learning Korean in 2023
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Did you know that approximately 1 million people in the USA can speak Korean? With the growing popularity of K-Pop, K-Drama, K-Movies, and other Korean cultural exports, more individuals are getting inspired to learn this fascinating language each year.
If you’re considering traveling to South Korea, learning Korean can significantly enhance your experience by allowing you to understand and appreciate the country’s unique etiquette and culture.
Whatever your motivation for wanting to learn Korean, this comprehensive guide will help you explore the most effective ways to achieve your language learning goals.
Different methods suit different learning styles, available time, and commitment levels. To find the approach that’s perfect for you, check out the quick links below, which outline the five best approaches to learning Korean.
A Short Story about the Korean Language
The Korean language is spoken in both North and South Korea, and it’s a unique language that has evolved over many centuries through interactions with various countries. Its origins are believed to be linked to languages spoken in central Asia, like Turkish and Mongolian, and possibly Uralic languages like Hungarian and Finnish.
Korean has some similarities with the languages spoken in neighboring countries, China and Japan. In the past, Korean writing used Chinese characters, but in the 15th Century, they created their own alphabet called hangul. Even today, you can still find Korean characters called hanja in temples, palaces, and other historic places in Korea.
The writing system from China, which also spread to Japan, has led to many similar words between the three languages, with up to 60% of Korean words coming from China. However, unlike Chinese, Korean has a different word order. Both Japanese and Korean follow a subject-object-verb (SOV) word order, while English and Chinese use a subject-verb-object order.
Hangul: The Simple Korean Alphabet
If you go to Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul, you’ll find a big statue of King Sejong, Korea’s beloved ruler. He’s famous for many things in Korean history, and one of the most significant is creating the Korean alphabet, called hangul.
Before hangul, Koreans used complicated Chinese characters to write their language. But because Chinese and Korean are quite different, these characters didn’t always match the sounds accurately. Moreover, only the educated elite had the time to learn and remember thousands of characters needed for reading and writing.
So, King Sejong decided to make a new alphabet that regular people could learn quickly and use easily. That’s how hangul came to be! It’s one of the easiest writing systems to learn, with only 24 letters (14 consonants and 10 vowels). If you’re learning Korean, you can become proficient in most of the alphabet in just a couple of days with a little practice.
Koreans love hangul so much that they even celebrate it with a public holiday. If you visit Korea in October, join the fun on Hangul Day, celebrated on October 9th.
Showing Respect in Korean Culture
As you start learning Korean, you’ll come across different forms of speech used in specific situations. These forms are informal, formal, and respectful, and it’s important to use the correct one depending on the context.
When talking to strangers in Korean, it’s common to use the polite form, as it shows respect and is considered safe. Informal Korean is used among friends and family members, while respectful Korean is reserved for formal situations, elderly people, and when you need to apologize. You’ll also encounter it in business settings when addressing customers in Korea.
As you study Korean, it’s essential to recognize which form of speech is being used, so you know when to use it yourself. Thankfully, this is usually straightforward, as the words conjugate in the same way depending on the form of speech used. If you follow a structured course to learn Korean, the different forms will be pointed out to you.
If you’re curious to learn more about how Korean culture influences language, check out our detailed Korean Etiquette and Culture Guide.
What's the Most Effective Way to Learn Korean?
In this guide, we will introduce you to the most popular and effective methods for learning Korean. You’ll find options like online courses, mobile apps, Korean textbooks, social media, and private tutors. We have carefully selected the best examples in each category, proven to help people learn Korean successfully.
If you want to improve your vocabulary and memorize new words, Korean apps are a great choice. For a deeper understanding of grammar, reading hangul, and writing practice, online courses and home studying are beneficial. Social media offers real-world listening and pronunciation practice, which textbooks can’t replicate. And if you prefer personalized support and feedback, a private tutor can be very helpful.
Everyone has their own way of learning a language. Some prefer reading and memorization, while others enjoy speaking and practicing in real-life situations. For some learners, a structured course with guidance and support works best.
There isn’t a single “best” way to learn Korean that suits everyone. That’s why we recommend combining different methods to practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing. By incorporating various approaches, you can tailor your learning experience and achieve better results.
1 : Learning Korean Online
The first and highly recommended method for learning Korean is through structured online courses. These courses offer a comprehensive learning experience, starting from the basics of Korean grammar and hangul. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your skills with advanced idioms and slang, these courses cater to all levels.
These online courses are well-organized, breaking down grammar concepts into step-by-step sections and progressing from beginner to expert levels. You’ll find engaging videos and exposure to real-world Korean to help you learn more naturally. While there might be a monthly fee, these courses are much more affordable than hiring a private tutor, and the best part is that you can access them anytime you need.
If you’re interested, here are six of the top online courses for learning Korean, suitable for various types of learners. Click the links to learn more about each course.
90 Day Korean
90 Day Korean stands out as one of the best online structured courses for learning Korean, catering to absolute beginners and taking them to conversational proficiency. The course materials are well-organized, making it easy to grasp the concepts, and each of the four 90-day modules includes review activities. This approach reduces the intimidation factor and allows you to learn at your own pace.
In addition to the main course, the Inner Circle offers additional benefits. With a personal coach to assess your progress and provide feedback, you can get personalized support. The course also provides discussion forums for interaction with fellow learners, extra learning materials, printable resources, and much more. If you’re looking for guidance in learning Korean but can’t afford a private tutor, this course could be the perfect solution for you.
Korean Class 101
Korean Class 101 offers a vast collection of online lessons that cater to Korean language learners seeking to improve their listening, grammar, and vocabulary skills. Accessible through computers or phones, these audio-based lessons are especially beneficial for beginner to intermediate level learners, providing a unique depth of learning materials that are hard to find elsewhere. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer to learn by listening.
The audio-based approach makes learning on the go effortless. Whether you’re on the bus, preparing dinner, or taking a walk, you can easily learn Korean with these lessons. Detailed lesson notes and clear grammar instructions accompany the audio, ensuring you learn the correct forms effectively. It’s a great way for beginners to enhance their listening skills while acquiring new language knowledge.
How To Study Korean
If you’re seeking a detailed and clear approach to learning Korean, with well-organized units that explain grammar rules and introduce small chunks of vocabulary in each lesson, then How To Study Korean is an ideal choice. Despite its simple appearance, this course is carefully structured to take learners from beginner to expert, guiding them through the entire journey of learning the Korean language. What’s even better is that these courses are completely free! With over 150 lessons divided into 8 units, plus bonus units covering the Chinese-based Korean writing system (hanja), audio files to complement the printable lessons, and a YouTube channel, you have access to a comprehensive learning resource. After completing each unit, you can take a test to assess your progress. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to learn Korean effectively and at their own pace.
Udemy
Udemy serves as a global hub for online learning, offering a diverse selection of content to aid in learning Korean. Rather than producing its own material, Udemy acts as a platform that brings learners and educators together. Here, you’ll find numerous courses catering to Korean language learning.
These courses cover a wide range of levels, from beginner to expert, and focus on various aspects of learning Korean, including grammar, vocabulary, conversational Korean, the Korean TOPIK exam, and much more. You have the flexibility to choose a course that suits your schedule, whether it’s a quick 3-hour course or a more comprehensive 30-hour program.
While some courses are available for free (14 in total), most require payment (144). The paid courses are reasonably priced, starting at around $15 for over 5 hours of structured Korean language lessons. Udemy offers a great opportunity to access quality Korean language learning materials at a reasonable cost.
Fluent U
Fluent U provides a unique approach to learning Korean through videos that focus on listening, comprehension, and vocabulary skills. With a collection of over 350 carefully chosen videos and 14 sets of flashcards, this platform enhances your real-world listening abilities while keeping you engaged with interesting content. If traditional reading from textbooks or computer screens bores you, Fluent U offers an enjoyable alternative for learning Korean.
The materials cater to beginners and intermediate learners, with flashcards designed for beginners and videos for those at an intermediate level. There’s also advanced content available. However, it’s important to note that this style of learning doesn’t cover reading, writing, or speaking Korean. Instead, it’s a great fit for individuals who love watching K-Dramas on Netflix and other fantastic Korean content, as it focuses on improving listening skills and expanding vocabulary in a captivating way.
Lingo Pie
Introducing Lingo Pie, a new Korean language learning course similar to Fluent U. With Lingo Pie, you can learn Korean while enjoying real-world content like K-Dramas, comedies, and other shows. Unlike traditional educational videos, this platform uses authentic content, making the learning experience more engaging and enjoyable.
The videos on Lingo Pie come with a variety of helpful features to aid your Korean language learning journey. You have the flexibility to adjust the play speed, ranging from 0.5x to normal speed. Each sentence is provided with subtitles, complete with word translations and grammar explanations. Additionally, you can create your own private dictionary by adding words, enabling you to learn through personalized flashcards and games. By using Lingo Pie, you’ll naturally pick up numerous expressions and phrases commonly used in everyday conversations.
Tips for Effective Online Korean Study
To make the most of your online Korean learning journey, consider your preferred method of study and focus primarily on that approach. Some learners excel with video and audio materials, while others prefer daily memorization of words and grammar. Meanwhile, some find speaking and using the language immediately after learning to be most effective.
Experiment with different methods and discover what works best for you. If you prefer structured courses with bite-sized lessons that you can engage with daily, consider options like 90 Day Korean, Korean Class 101, or How To Study Korean. If you enjoy learning through videos and multimedia, try platforms like Udemy or Fluent U (Lingo Pie if you’re not a beginner).
Set a specific time for your online Korean learning and strive to stick to it. Utilize moments during your commute if you have a phone, or incorporate learning into your morning or evening routine while having breakfast or dinner. Establishing and maintaining a routine will help develop productive learning habits.
Remember that solely learning Korean online might limit your real-world communication skills. To enhance your language proficiency, practice using the Korean you’ve learned. Speak aloud, connect with Korean friends online, or write about your day in Korean. While online learning is excellent for absorbing a language, active practice is essential to ensure the knowledge remains ingrained in your mind.
2: Learning Korean through Home Study
The next approach to learning Korean involves studying at home using textbooks and engaging in self-study. This method is ideal for self-motivated individuals who are eager to learn to read and write Korean, as well as develop strong grammar and language skills. You can progress at your own pace and choose to study alone or with others.
By utilizing study books like the ones mentioned below, you can gain proficiency in writing and reading Korean, comprehend how Korean sentences are structured, and acquire a wealth of useful vocabulary and grammar to communicate effectively in Korean. Self-study Korean language books cater to learners of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced, making them an excellent starting point for your language journey.
For those interested in learning Korean through home study, here are six of the best courses suitable for various types of learners. Click the links to explore each option further.
Talk To Me In Korean
Talk To Me In Korean is undoubtedly one of the most comprehensive self-study courses for individuals who wish to learn Korean at home. With an extensive range of books covering everything from the fundamentals to understanding Korean slang, idioms, and jokes, this course has got you covered. The materials are thoughtfully presented, intriguing, and divided into manageable sections, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
In addition to the main textbooks, Talk To Me In Korean provides audio and video materials that enhance your listening and reading skills. The presenters, who are from Korea, offer valuable insights that aid in your learning and understanding of Korean. With this course, you’ll have an enriching and effective self-study experience right from the comfort of your home.
Learn Korean With BTS
If you’re an ARMY member and eager to learn Korean, the ideal choice for you is “Learn Korean With BTS.” This series of home study books is tailor-made for Korean learners who adore Korean Wave (Hallyu) content, especially BTS. The books creatively integrate BTS’ diverse content to make your Korean learning journey thrilling and enjoyable. You can even find BTS videos that accompany the books, making the experience even more engaging.
Additionally, there’s another fantastic series called “Learn Korean With Tiny Tan,” featuring BTS members as cartoon characters. This course is perfect for absolute beginners, offering a step-by-step approach to learning Korean. It covers reading and writing hangul, as well as mastering basic words and phrases, setting a strong foundation for your language learning adventure. Whether you’re a BTS fan or an absolute beginner, these courses promise an exciting and effective way to learn Korean.
Seoul National University
If you prefer a highly academic and structured approach to learning Korean, look no further than the Seoul National University Korean language course books. This comprehensive 6-level series, designed by Korea’s leading university, offers hundreds of hours of language learning materials to enhance your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
These textbooks are written in both Korean and English, making them widely popular among expats in Korea who learn Korean independently or in language classes. Additionally, learners from all around the world appreciate the clear and organized layout of these books. Whether you’re studying on your own or in a formal language class, these textbooks from Seoul National University will undoubtedly provide you with a top-notch learning experience.
I Love Korean
“I Love Korean” is yet another exceptional Korean home study series brought to you by Seoul National University. This series of books is specifically designed for adult learners who aim to rapidly progress from zero to basic Korean language skills.
Within this series, you’ll find a wealth of Korean language learning resources, totaling over 60 hours, thoughtfully distributed across various textbooks and workbooks. Expect the same high-quality learning materials found in the renowned main textbooks provided by Seoul National University. If you’re looking for a comprehensive and effective way to build your Korean language skills in a short period, “I Love Korean” is an excellent choice.
Active Korean
Active Korean is a textbook series designed to equip learners with practical communication skills in Korean, enabling them to engage in real-life conversations confidently. The textbooks revolve around everyday situations like shopping, dining out, and making friends, making the learning experience relevant and applicable.
Structured meticulously, the Active Korean books offer a comprehensive range of grammar points, tests, and activities, making them perfect for self-study purposes. These high-quality resources are brought to you by Seoul National University, ensuring a reliable and effective learning journey for those seeking to communicate effectively in Korean.
Korean Made Easy
Korean Made Easy is a collection of self-study books designed to make you conversational in Korean. This well-established series combines textbooks, self-study materials, and an extensive array of audio resources.
Each unit is thoughtfully structured, providing valuable explanations that introduce grammar concepts while also honing other language skills. With intriguing topics and cultural insights, the learning experience progresses at a steady pace, making Korean Made Easy an excellent choice for home learning. Whether you’re studying independently or as part of a self-study program, this series is sure to enhance your Korean language proficiency in an enjoyable and effective manner.
Tips for Successful Home Study of Korean
Studying Korean at home, whether alone or with a friend or family member, can be a cost-effective and comfortable way to learn. You have the freedom to study at your own pace, without the pressure of monthly fees and deadlines. Additionally, you can easily review and revisit previous chapters whenever you need.
To create an optimal study environment, find a peaceful and distraction-free area. Avoid studying in places with constant interruptions, like in front of a TV or with a cellphone nearby. An ideal study space could be a quiet bedroom, a dedicated study area, or a library if you need a peaceful place outside your home.
Setting clear goals and targets is essential for productive home study. Self-study textbooks are divided into manageable units and chapters that can usually be completed in an hour or two. Develop a schedule outlining when you plan to finish each unit and how much time you’ll dedicate to studying. Strive to stick to this schedule to stay on track.
If you find it challenging to stick to your study goals, consider seeking support from a friend or family member. You can create realistic short-term goals together that are achievable within a week. For example, you might aim to learn how to say colors in Korean or describe ten different animals. Celebrate your progress as you accomplish these milestones, motivating you to continue your language learning journey.
3 : Learning Korean with Apps
For individuals who are constantly on the move and rely heavily on their tablets and phones for daily tasks, dedicated Korean language apps can be an excellent way to learn. These apps offer a variety of language learning opportunities, from comprehensive Korean language courses to specialized focus on specific aspects like understanding hangul or memorizing vocabulary.
Using Korean apps for learning offers numerous advantages, including the flexibility to study anywhere, the convenience of short study sessions during free moments, and the absence of heavy textbooks to carry around. Moreover, these apps often come with friendly reminders to encourage you to stay on track with your language learning goals.
If you’re looking to learn Korean on the go, here are six of the best apps suitable for a diverse range of learners. Click the links to explore each app further and find the one that best fits your language learning needs.
Eggbun
Eggbun provides Korean learners with an interactive and culturally immersive language learning experience. With its user-friendly interface, Eggbun offers over 550 lessons to help you learn Korean effectively.
The Eggbun method involves engaging in a 2-minute ‘chat’ with the app’s mascot, Lanny, allowing you to practice conversing in Korean and receive instant feedback. Through this approach, you can learn how to type and read Korean while also gaining conversational fluency. If you want to explore more reasons why Eggbun is a fantastic way to learn Korean, check out our Eggbun Review.
Memrise
Memrise, a leading language learning app, offers a comprehensive Korean language section spanning 7 levels. In addition to its dedicated Korean courses, the app includes content from various textbooks and learning resources, including the Active Korean textbooks.
This free app comes with premium features designed to enhance your Korean learning experience, such as a ‘difficult words’ review, learning statistics, and chatbots to practice what you’ve learned. While a basic account is sufficient to get started and learn Korean at your convenience, the premium features provide additional tools to make your language learning journey even smoother. With Memrise, you can easily learn Korean whenever you have your phone at hand.
Duolingo
Duolingo, the world’s largest language learning app, boasts an extensive and dedicated Korean language section. Learning Korean with Duolingo comes with the advantage of bite-sized lessons that are scientifically proven to be effective and efficient, without overwhelming detailed grammar rules and explanations.
Duolingo keeps learners motivated and engaged with its useful features, including setting daily goals, tracking learning statistics, and incorporating interactive games and review lessons. The bright and colorful lessons make it a user-friendly experience, particularly on mobile devices, encouraging learners to return each day to continue their Korean language journey.
LingoDeer
LingoDeer offers a seamless and organic way to learn Korean through its app, where lessons and activities intuitively build upon one another, seamlessly integrating language and culture learning. The Korean courses provided by LingoDeer are not only fun and engaging but also designed to keep you motivated with the inclusion of goals and trophies. The app’s delightful characters and colorful lessons add an element of enjoyment to the process, making learning Korean a truly enjoyable experience.
Hello Talk
HelloTalk is a language learning app that focuses on practical language use and exchange. The app connects you with native Korean speakers who are eager to learn your language, such as English or any other language you speak. In return, you get the opportunity to practice Korean with them. This mutual exchange system empowers you to select language partners who match your preferences, and together, you can decide on the timing and frequency of your study sessions. It’s a dynamic and interactive way to learn Korean while forming valuable language connections.
TOPIK 1
The TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is the recognized standard for assessing Korean language proficiency, and many learners strive to pass this exam. The TOPIK 1 app is designed to help you prepare effectively for the test by providing actual content from past TOPIK exams at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. With this app, you can access practice materials for all four sections of the exam, including vocabulary and grammar, listening, writing, and reading. It’s a valuable resource to enhance your skills and readiness for the TOPIK exam.
Tips for Effective Korean Learning with Korean Apps
Korean language apps offer a convenient way to learn daily, providing a sense of accomplishment and visible progress. Establishing a consistent routine or using in-app reminders to practice at specific times can be beneficial, even if it’s just for 5 minutes a day. Remember, even short bursts of learning contribute to your progress.
While apps are excellent for memorizing vocabulary and sentences, don’t solely rely on them. Using the language in real-world situations can be different, so practice speaking and writing Korean beyond the app’s exercises. Just like exercising different muscle groups at the gym, diversifying your language practice is essential for overall improvement.
For a well-rounded learning experience, explore other Korean language resources that have companion apps, such as 90 Day Korean and Talk To Me In Korean. Integrating these apps with your online and home learning allows you to continue studying on the go, ensuring continuous progress on your language journey.
Social Media for Learning Korean
Incorporating modern technology and a social approach to language learning, social media provides an engaging and entertaining way to learn Korean. From in-depth videos that explore various topics to quick 10-second clips highlighting interesting language aspects, different social media platforms cater to diverse learning preferences.
The convenience of studying at your own pace, often for free, makes social media a popular choice for many learners. Additionally, the ability to share favorite channels, interact with fellow language learners, and learn from diverse individuals fosters motivation in learning Korean.
Here are three of the best social media platforms for learning Korean, suitable for learners of all levels. Click the links to explore each platform and delve deeper into your language learning journey.
Learn On YouTube
Explore a plethora of YouTube channels devoted to teaching Korean. From individuals sharing their knowledge to sizable channels managed by language experts, there’s a wide range of content available for everyone. If you prefer learning at your own pace without paying for courses or using textbooks, YouTube is an ideal option. Not only is it informative, but it also provides entertainment and cultural insights that traditional books or apps might not offer.
Discover the top five YouTube channels for learning Korean
1:Â Billy Go
3:Â Korean Unnie
5:Â Seemile Korean
Learn On TikTok
TikTok, the latest social media sensation, has become a hub for viral Korean language content in recent years. It’s an excellent platform for learning Korean in bite-sized chunks. Unlike traditional dry grammar lessons, TikTok offers funny and insightful snippets of the language that you’ll effortlessly pick up and want to share with friends. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Korean pro, TikTok offers an enjoyable way to learn.
Discover the top five TikTok channels for learning Korean:
1:Â @mia_Korean
2:Â @fluentinkorean
3:Â @mehtapisme
4:Â @unniewa.korean
5:Â @jfromkorea
Learn On Instagram
Discover the fun and captivating world of learning Korean on Instagram! From engaging infographics and flashcard-style images to educational videos covering grammar, vocabulary, and expressions, Instagram offers various exciting methods to learn the language. Follow popular accounts that share daily Korean learning resources and cultural insights, providing you with a regular dose of exposure to the language while scrolling through your social media feed. Plus, you can enhance your pronunciation skills by learning from native speakers.
Explore the top five Instagram accounts for learning Korean:
1:Â korean_studyz
2:Â holakorean
4:Â eggbun_education
Tips for Learning Korean with Social Media
Take advantage of social media to discover natural and informal Korean words and expressions that may not be found in textbooks, especially at lower proficiency levels. Embrace the opportunity to expand your vocabulary while enjoying your daily social media interactions.
However, exercise caution not to unknowingly pick up offensive words and use them in inappropriate contexts. Always double-check the meanings of unfamiliar words that might seem impolite before incorporating them into your language use. Mispronouncing a word can lead to unintended misunderstandings when learning Korean.
Apart from traditional platforms like Instagram and TikTok, explore Facebook for additional resources to aid your Korean language mastery. Join Korean language learning groups and follow pages that offer valuable content, allowing you to engage with fellow learners and enhance your learning experience together.
