Korean Language Guide
A comprehensive guide to learning the Korean language for international students, from Hangul basics to TOPIK exam preparation.
Why Learn Korean?
While many programs are taught in English, learning Korean significantly enhances your experience and opportunities.
Understanding Korean helps with class participation, research, and building relationships with professors and classmates.
Navigating daily activities like grocery shopping, banking, healthcare, and using public transport becomes much easier.
Korean language proficiency opens doors to internships and jobs at Korean companies like Samsung, LG, and Hyundai.
Enjoy K-dramas, K-pop, and Korean literature in their original language. Deeper connection with Korean culture.
Learning Resources
Various resources to help you learn Korean effectively.
Most major universities have dedicated Korean Language Institutes (KLIs). Programs run 10-20 weeks per level. Cost: ₩1,500,000–₩1,700,000 per term.
Talk To Me In Korean (TTMIK), How To Study Korean, and Coursera offer excellent free courses. King Sejong Institute offers free online classes.
Join language exchange programs at universities or use apps like HelloTalk and Tandem to practice with native speakers.
TOPIK Exam
The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) is essential for university admission and scholarship applications.
TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is the official Korean language proficiency test administered by NIIED. Required for university admission and most scholarships.
TOPIK I (Levels 1-2): Basic proficiency. TOPIK II (Levels 3-6): Intermediate to Advanced. Level 3+ is typically required for university admission.
TOPIK I: Listening (40 min) + Reading (60 min). TOPIK II: Listening (60 min) + Writing (50 min) + Reading (70 min). Held 6 times per year.
Start learning 6-12 months before the exam. Focus on vocabulary building, practice with past papers, and consider a TOPIK preparation course.