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Archive for the 'Tips & Techniques' Category

10 Common Questions in Korean and How to Answer Them

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One of the most important language skills to attain is the ability to ask and answer different questions appropriately. This is because once you understand them, you’ll be able to hold conversations with native speakers of that language. 

Today, KoreanClass101 will introduce you to the ten most common questions and answers in Korean at different levels of speech. In Korea, there are many speech levels that you can utilize when conversing with people. There are three commonly used speech levels: formal (business level), formal, and informal.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Beginner Vocabulary in Korean Table of Contents
  1. What is your name?
  2. Where are you from?
  3. Do you speak Korean?
  4. How long have you been studying Korean?
  5. Have you been to Korea?
  6. Do you like [country’s] food?
  7. What are you doing?
  8. What’s wrong?
  9. How much is it?
  10. How is…?
  11. Want to Learn More Korean? We Can Help You!

1. What is your name?

This is one of the first Korean questions any beginner should learn right away. Let’s have a look at three different ways to ask “What is your name?” in Korean. 

1. Formal Phrase – Business Level

성함이 어떻게 되세요? (Seonghami eotteoke doeseyo?) – “Could I have your name, please?”
성함이 어떻게 되십니까? (Seonghami eotteoke doesimnikka?) – “Could I have your name, please?”

성함 (seongham) is a formal word for 이름 (ireum), which is a noun for “name.” In business, it’s offensive to ask someone’s name using the word 이름(ireum), so we use 성함 (seongham) instead to show respect to the person we’re speaking to. 

Appropriate Answer – Business Level

제 이름은 Bob입니다. (Je ireumeun bobimnida.) – “My name is Bob.”

제 (je) is a humble way to refer to yourself. 이름은 (ireumeun) means “name is” and 입니다 (imnida) means “it is…”  

To answer with “My name is [name],” simply add your name between 이름은 (ireumeun) and 입니다 (imnida). This makes a complete sentence.

Example: 

  • 처음 뵙겠습니다. 성함이 어떻게 되십니까? 
    Cheoeum boepgetseumnida. Seonghami eotteoke doesimnikka?
    “Nice to meet you. What is your name?”
  • 제 이름은 윌슨입니다. 
    Je ireumeun wilseunimnida.
    “My name is Wilson.”

2. Formal Phrase – Conversational Level 

이름이 뭐예요? (Ireumi mwoyeyo?) – “What’s your name?”
이름이 어떻게 돼요? (Ireumi eotteoke dwaeyo?) – “What’s your name?” 

This sentence structure works exactly the same way as that of the formal phrase we just looked at. 

이름 (ireum) is “name” and 뭐예요? (mwoyeyo) and 어떻게 돼요? (eotteoke dwaeyo) mean “what is…” in Korean. You can use this phrase for everyday situations, such as speaking to complete strangers (e.g. cashier, receptionist, waiter, etc.) and building a relationship with someone you’ve just met (e.g. on a date, at school, etc.). 

Appropriate Answer

제 이름은 Bob입니다. (Je ireumeun bobimnida.) – “My name is Bob.”
제 이름은 Bob이라고 합니다. (Je ireumeun bobirago hamnida.) – “My name is Bob.”

The answer is exactly the same as the business level one. You can even skip 제 이름 (je ireum), or “my name,” as this is very common to do in conversations. 

Example: 

  • 이름이 뭐예요? 
    Ireumi mwoyeyo?
    “What’s your name?”
  • 제 이름은 마이클이라고 합니다. 
    Je ireumeun maikeurirago hamnida.
    “My name is Michael.”

3. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

이름이 뭐야? (Ireumi mwoya?) – “What’s your name?”
이름이 어떻게 돼? (Ireumi eotteoke dwae?) – “What’s your name?” 

You can use these phrases with various people, such as your friends and people who are the same age as you. However, it’s better to start off with a formal phrase when meeting someone for the first time, even if they’re the same age as you. It’s a way to show respect to each other. Eventually, one of you will request to talk informally, and from there, you can start talking to each other in a more casual manner. 

Appropriate Answer

Bob이야. (Bobiya.) – “I’m Bob.”

이야 (iya) means “it is” in Korean. Add your name before this word to complete the sentence. 

Example:

  • 이름이 뭐야? 
    Ireumi mwoya?
    “What’s your name?”
  • 앨리스야. 
    Aelliseuya.
    “I’m Alice.”

2. Where are you from? 

First Encounter

This is one of the most commonly asked questions that Koreans ask foreigners, usually to start a conversation with them. 

1. Formal Phrase 

어디 출신이세요? (Eodi chulsiniseyo?) – “Where are you from?”
어느 나라에서 왔어요? (Eoneu naraeseo wasseoyo?) – “Which country did you come from?”

어디 (eodi) and 어느 (eoneu) indicate a location. 출신 (chulsin) means “origin” and 나라 (nara) means “country.” Koreans use these phrases a lot, so try to memorize them. 

Appropriate Answer

일본에서 왔어요. (Ilboneseo wasseoyo.) – “I am from Japan.”
일본에서 왔습니다. (Ilboneseo wassseumnida.) – “I am from Japan.”

~에서 (~eseo) means “from~,” 왔어요 (wasseoyo) means “came,” and 왔습니다 (wassseumnida) means “come from.” Add the name of your country in Korean in front of ~에서 (~eseo) to complete the sentence. 

You can find a list of countries in Korean on our website; if you don’t know how to say your country in Korean, please check it out. 

Example: 

  • 어느 나라에서 왔어요? 
    Eoneu naraeseo wasseoyo?
    “Which country did you come from?”
  • 인도에서 왔습니다. 
    Indoeseo wassseumnida.
    “I am from India.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

어느 나라 사람이야? (Eoneu nara saramiya?) – “What is your nationality?”

어느 나라 (Eoneu nara) means “which country” and 사람 (saram) means “person.”

Appropriate Answer

일본에서 왔어. (Ilboneseo wasseo.) – “I’m from Japan.”

This sentence structure works exactly the same way as the one above: add the name of the country you want to say to the beginning of the sentence. 

Example: 

  • 어느 나라 사람이야? 
    Eoneu nara saramiya?
    “What is your nationality?”
  • 인도네시아에서 왔어. 
    Indonesiaeseo wasseo.
    “I’m from Indonesia.”
Two Businesswomen Shaking Hands

Do you speak Korean?

3. Do you speak Korean?

There are many Koreans who can speak English. They’ve been learning English as their second language since they were in primary school, and many of the younger generations spend years in English-speaking countries to become fluent. However, when you travel to very remote areas of South Korea, bilingual or trilingual Koreans will be a rarity. This can make it challenging for you to travel around, especially when it comes to purchasing train tickets or buying specific items. But you can always ask questions politely; it’s better than nothing!

Here are the Korean questions and answers you can use to find out what languages your interlocutor speaks, or let them know your current Korean level.

1. Formal Phrase 

한국어 할 수 있습니까? (Hangugeo hal su itseumnikka?) – “Do you speak Korean?”

할 수 있습니까? (Hal su itseumnikka?) means “Can you do ~?” in Korean. 

“English” is spelled 영어 (yeongeo), and “Can you speak English?” is 영어 할 수 있습니까? (Yeongeo hal su issseumnikka?). 

Do you want to know how to spell or say your language in Korean? Check out our list of the Top 38 Languages Spoken in the World on KoreanClass101.com.

Appropriate Answer

조금 할 수 있습니다. (Jogeum hal su isseumnida.) – “Yes, I speak a little.”
네, 잘 할 수 있습니다. (Ne, Jal hal su isseumnida.) – “Yes, I speak fluently.”
아뇨. 못 합니다. (Anyio. Mot hamnida.) – “No, I don’t.”

Example: 미국에 가본 적 있어

  • 불가리어 할 수 있습니까?
    Bulgariaeo hal su issseumnikka?
    “Can you speak Bulgarian?”
  • 아니요, 못 합니다. 
    Aniyo, mot hamnida.
    “No, I can’t.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

Here’s an informal way to ask the same question. 

영어 할 수 있어? (Yeongeo hal su isseo?) – “Do you speak English?”

Appropriate Answer

응, 조금 할 수 있어. (Eung, jogeum hal su isseo.) – “Yes, I speak a little.”
응, 할 수 있어. (Eung, hal su isseo.) – “Yes, I speak fluently.”
아니. 못해. (Ani. Mot hae.) – “No, I don’t.”

Example: 

  • 불가리어 할 수 있어? 
    Bulgariaeo hal su issseumnikka?
    “Can you speak Bulgarian?”
  • 응, 조금 할 수 있어. 
    Eung, jogeum hal su isseo.
    “Yes, I speak a little.”
Introducing Yourself

4. How long have you been studying Korean?

If you’ve been speaking Korean with your interlocutor, they may be curious how long you’ve been learning. Following are some simple Korean questions and answers you should learn and be prepared for! 

1. Formal Phrase 

한국어 공부한지 얼마나 됐어요? (Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolmana dwaesseoyo?) – “How long have you been studying Korean?”

한국어 공부한지 오래됐어요? (Hangugeo gongbuhanji oraedwaesseoyo?) – “Have you been studying Korean for a long time?”

얼마나 됐어요? (Eolmana dwaesseoyo?) means “How long has it been since~” and 오래됐어요? (Oraedwaesseoyo?) means “Has it been long since~” in Korean. 

To ask about a different language, just add the appropriate word in front of 공부한지 (gongbuhanji) to complete the sentence. 

Appropriate Answer

#년/개월/달 됐어요. (#nyeon/gaewol/dal dwaesseoyo.) – “It’s been #year/month/month.”

한국어 공부한지 얼마 되지 않았어요. (Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolma doeji anasseoyo.) – “It has not been long since I studied Korean.”

한국어 공부한지 좀 됐어요. (Hangugeo gongbuhanji jom dwaesseoyo.) – “It’s been awhile since I’ve been studying Korean.” 

There are various ways to answer this question, and it’s your time to shine. Usually, Koreans don’t appreciate it when someone brags about themselves, so find a way to answer humbly. 

년 (nyeon) means “year.” 개월 (gaewol) and 달 (dal) mean “month(s).”

한국어 공부한지 얼마 되지 않았어요 (Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolma doeji anasseoyo) literally means “It has not been long since I studied Korean,” though it’s also a humble way to express that you’re fluent in Korean, but don’t want to show off your skills. 

Example: 

  • 한국어 공부한지 얼마나 됐어요? 
    Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolmana dwaesseoyo?
    “How long has it been since you started studying Korean?”
  • 한국어 공부한지 1년 됐어요. 
    Hangugeo gongbuhanji ilnyeon dwaesseoyo.
    “It has been a year since I started studying Korean.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

한국어 공부한지 얼마나 됐어? (Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolmana dwaesseo?) – “How long have you been studying Korean?”

한국어 공부한지 오래됐어? (Hangugeo gongbuhanji oraedwaesseoyo?) – “Have you been studying Korean for a long time?”

There’s not much difference, except that the polite form 요 (yo) is removed. 

Appropriate Answer

#년/개월/달 됐어. (#nyeon/gaewol/dal dwaesseo.) – “It’s been #year/month/month.”

한국어 공부한지 얼마 되지 않았어. (Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolma doeji anasseo.) – “It has not been long since I studied Korean.”

한국어 공부한지 좀 됐어. (Hangugeo gongbuhanji jom dwaesseoyo.) – “It’s been awhile since I’ve been studying Korean.” 

There’s not much difference, except that the polite form 요 (yo) is removed. 

Example: 

  • 한국어 공부한지 얼마나 됐어? 
    Hangugeo gongbuhanji eolmana dwaesseo?
    “How long have you been studying Korean?”
  • 한국어 공부한지 좀 됐어. 한 4년 됐나? 
    Hangugeo gongbuhanji jom dwaesseoyo. Han sanyeon dwaenna?
    “It’s been awhile. About four years?”
Someone Holding a Book of Travel Records with a Globe Nearby

Have you been to Korea?

5. Have you been to Korea? 

The person you’re speaking with may be curious about what countries you’ve been to (or maybe you’re the one who’s curious!). Below are some basic questions and answers in Korean that will be useful in a situation like this. 

1. Formal Phrase 

미국에 가본 적 있어요? (Miguge gabon jeok isseoyo?) – “Have you been to America?”
미국으로 여행한 적 있어요? (Migugeuro yeohaenghan jeok isseoyo?) – “Have you ever traveled to America?”

Appropriate Answer

“Yes I have” answers: 
네, 가본 적 있습니다. (Ne, gabon jeok isseumnida.) – “Yes, I have been.”
네, 여행한 적 있습니다. (Ne, yeohaenghan jeok isseumnida.) – “Yes, I have traveled [there].”
네, 가본 적 있어요. (Ne, gabon jeok isseoyo.) – “Yes, I’ve been there.”
네, 여행한 적 있어요. (Ne, yeohaenghan jeok isseoyo.) – “Yes, I have traveled [there].”

“No I haven’t” answers:
아니요, 가본 적 없습니다. (Aniyo, gabon jeok eopseumnida.) – “No, I have never been.”
아니요, 없습니다. (Aniyo, eopseumnida.) – Literally: “No, not.”

Example: 

  • 미국에 가본 적 있어요?
    Miguge gabon jeok isseoyo?
    “Have you been to America?”
  • 네, 가본적 있어요. 
    Ne, gabon jeok isseoyo.
    “Yes, I have.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

미국에 가본적 있어? (Miguge gabon jeok isseo?) – “Have you been to America?”
미국으로 여행한 적있어? (Migugeuro yeohaenghan jeok isseo?) – “Have you ever traveled to America?”

As you may have already guessed, informal phrases are exactly the same as the formal ones, except that the polite form 요 (yo) is removed from each sentence. 

Appropriate Answer

“Yes I have” answers: 
응, 가본적 있어. (Eung, gabon jeok isseo.) – “Yes, I’ve been there.”
응, 여행한 적 있어. (Eung, yeohaenghan jeok isseoyo.) – “Yes, I have traveled [there].”

“No I haven’t” answers:
아니, 가본 적 없어. (Ani, gabon jeok eopseo.) – “No, I’ve never been.”
아니, 없어. (Ani, eopseo.) – Literally: “No, there is not.”

응 (eung) is a casual, conversational word to say “yes” and 아니 (ani) is an informal way to say “no” in Korean. 

Example: 

  • 미국에 가본적 있어? 
    Miguge gabon jeok isseo?
    “Have you been to America?”
  • 아니, 가본적 없어. 
    Ani, gabon jeok eopseo.
    “No, I’ve never been.”

6. Do you like [country’s] food? 

This question is a great way to start a conversation, especially when you want to go to a restaurant. 

1. Formal Phrase 

태국 음식 좋아해요? (Taeguk eumsik joahaeyo?) – “Do you like Thai food?”

음식 (eumsik) means “food” and 좋아해요? (joahae?) means “I like~” in Korean. You can add any noun in front of 좋아해요? (joahaeyo?) to say “Do you like ~?” but let’s focus on food here. 

To ask about a country’s food, you need to write the name of the country, followed by 음식 (eumsik), meaning “food.” For example, if you want to say “Italian food,” then it would be 이탈리아 음식 (itallia eumsik). 

Appropriate Answer

네, 태국 음식 좋아해요. (Ne, taeguk eumsik joahaeyo.) – “Yes, I like Thai food.”
아니요, 태국 음식 좋아하지 않아요. (Aniyo, taeguk eumsik joahaji anayo.) – “No, I don’t like Thai food.”

Example: 

  • 비빔밥 좋아해요? 
    Bibimbap joahaeyo?
    “Do you like Bibimbap?”
  • 네, 좋아해요. 
    Ne, joahaeyo.
    “Yes, I like it.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

태국 음식 좋아해? (Taeguk eumsik joahae?) – “Do you like Thai food?”

Appropriate Answer

응, 태국 음식 좋아해. (Eung, taeguk eumsik joahaeyo.) – “Yes, I like Thai food.”
아니, 태국 음식 좋아하지 않아. (Ani, taeguk eumsik joahaji ana.) – “No, I don’t like Thai food.”

Example: 

  • 태국 음식 좋아해? 
    Taeguk eumsik joahae?
    “Do you like Thai food?”
  • 아니, 태국 음식 좋아하지 않아. 
    Ani, taeguk eumsik joahaji ana.
    “No, I don’t like Thai food.”
A Man Sneaking Up on a Woman and Covering her Eyes with His Hands

What on earth are you doing?

7. What are you doing? 

This is a useful question to know in any language. Here are a few ways you can ask and answer this question. 

1. Formal Phrase 

지금 뭐하세요? (Jigeum mwohaseyo?) – “What are you doing?”
뭐하고 계세요? (Mwohago gyeseyo?) – “What are you doing?”

지금 (jigeum) means “now,” and 지금 뭐하세요? (Jigeum mwohaseyo?) literally means “What are you doing right now?”

Do be careful of your tone when you say this, because it may also sound like “What on earth are you doing?!” in Korean. If you’re a big fan of Korean dramas, you’ve probably heard this phrase a lot. If you want to avoid ambiguity, stick to 뭐하고 계세요? (Mwohago gyeseyo?), or “What are you doing?” which sounds friendlier than the previous phrase. 

Appropriate Answer

지금 일하고 있어요. (Jigeum ilhago isseoyo.)  – “I’m working now.”
전화 하고 있어요. (Jeonhwa hago isseoyo.) – “I’m on the phone.”

There are two simple ways to answer: 

  • 지금 [noun]하고 있어요. (Jigeum ~ isseoyo.) – “I’m ~ing now.” 
  • [noun] 하고 있어요. ([noun]~ hago isseoyo.) – “I’m ~ing.”

To complete the sentence, all you need to do is add a noun to the middle of the sentence and at the beginning of the sentence, respectively. For example, if you want to say “I am swimming now,” “swim” is 수영 (suyeong) in Korean. So the full sentence becomes: 지금 수영하고 있어요. (Jigeum suyeonghago isseoyo.)

Example: 

  • 뭐하고 계세요? 
    Mwohago gyeseyo?
    “What are you doing?”
  • 지금 청소하고 있어요. 무슨 일 있어요? 
    Jigeum cheongsohago isseoyo. Museun il isseoyo?
    “I’m cleaning now. What’s going on?”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

지금 뭐해? (Jigeum mwohae?) – “What are you doing right now?”
뭐하고 있어? (Mwohago isseo?) – “What are you doing?”

If you want to ask this question even more casually, you can say 뭐해 (mwohae), or “What are you doing?” 

Appropriate Answer

지금 [noun]하고 있어. (Jigeum [noun]~hago isseo.) – “I’m ~ing now.”
[noun]하고 있어. ([noun]~hago isseo.) – “I’m ~ing.”

The rules for constructing each sentence above are exactly the same as for the formal answers. 

Example: 

  • 뭐하고 있어? 
    Mwohago isseo?
    “What are you doing?”
  • 공부하고 있어. 무슨일 있어? 
    Gongbuhago isseo. Museun il isseo?
    “I was studying. What’s up?”

8. What’s wrong? 

This is such an important question to know, because you never know when your Korean friend will be sick or feeling down. Here are some ways to ask this question, and answer it. 

1. Formal Phrase 

무슨일 있어요? (Museun il isseoyo?) – “What’s up?”
왜 그래요? (Wae geuraeyo?) – “What’s wrong?”
무슨 일 있었어요? (Museun il isseosseoyo?) – “What happened?”
괜찮아요? (Gwaenchanayo?) – “Are you alright?”

There are various ways to check up on someone in Korean, but the four above are the most common.  

Also, to start a conversation, Koreans say: 얼굴색이 안좋아 보여요. (Eolgulsaegi anjoa boyeoyo.) The literal translation of the phrase is: “The color of your face does not look good.” It may sound strange or even offensive, but the phrase means “You don’t look well,” in English. 

So if a friend looks sad or seems ill, you can use this phrase followed by one of the “what’s wrong” questions above. 

Appropriate Answer

아무일도 없어요. (Amuildo eopseoyo.) – “I’m good (nothing is happening).”
괜찮아요. (Gwaenchanayo.) – “I’m okay.”

아, 그게 말이죠 (A, geuge marijyo…) – “Uh, actually…”
 사실은요 (sasireunyo) – “Actually”

There’s no fixed answer to “What’s wrong?” because you need to describe how you feel or what exactly happened to you. 

Example: 

  • 무슨 일 있어요? 
    Museun il isseoyo?
    “What’s up?”
  • 아, 그게 말이죠. 중요한 미팅이 취소가 되었어요. 
    A, geuge marijyo. Jungyohan mitingi chwisoga doeeosseoyo.
    “Oh, actually, an important meeting has been canceled.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

무슨일 있어? (Museun il isseo?) – “What’s up?”
왜 그래? (Wae geurae?) – “What’s wrong?”
무슨일 있었어? (Museun il isseoseo?) – “What happened?”

Appropriate Answer

어 그게… (Eo, geuge...) – “Uh…”
아 무슨일이 있었냐면… (A museuniri isseonnyamyeon…) – “Actually…” (connotes “Actually, what happened is that…”)

Example: 

  • 무슨일 있었어? 
    Museun il isseoseo?
    “What happened?”
  • 남자친구랑 헤어졌어.
    Namjachingurang heeojyeosseo.
    “I broke up with my boyfriend.”

9. How much is it?

If you enjoy shopping, this is one of the most important Korean questions for you to learn. Here are the different ways to ask and answer it. 

1. Formal Phrase 

가격이 어떻게 됩니까? (Gagyeogi eotteoke doebnikka?) – “What is the price of this/that?”
저건 얼마입니까? (Jeogeon eolmaimnikka?) – “How much is that?”
이건 얼마예요? (Igeon eolmayeyo?) – “How much is this?”

가격 (gagyeok) means “price.” 가격이 어떻게 됩니까? (Gagyeogi eotteoke doebnikka?) is the most humble way to ask for the price, and it’s commonly used in business environments. 저건 (jeogeon) means “that” and 이건 (igeon) means “this.”

Appropriate Answer

10,000원입니다. (Manwonimnida.) – “It’s 10,000 won.”
10,000원이에요. (Manwonieyo.) – “It’s 10,000 won.”

Check out these pages to learn how to say the price in Korean:

Example: 

  • 저건 얼마입니까?
    Jeogeon eolmaimnikka?
    “How much is that?”
  • 이거요? 15,000원이에요. 
    Igeoyo? Manocheonwonieyo.
    “This one? It’s 15,000 won.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

이건 얼만데? (Igeon eolmande?) – “How much is this?”
저건 얼마줬어? (Jeogeon eolmajwosseo?) – “How much did it cost?”

Probably the only time you would discuss the price of a certain item with someone the same age as you, such as a friend, would be after you purchased the item. These two sentences are common questions to ask a friend. 

Appropriate Answer

이거? 10,000원. (Igeo? Manwon.) – “This? 10,000 won.”
저거? 10,000원 주고 샀어. (Jeogeo? Manwon jugo sasseo.) – “That? I bought it for 10,000 won.”

Example: 

  • 저건 얼마줬어? 
    Jeogeon eolmajwosseo?
    “How much did it cost?”
  • 저 드레스? 25,000원 주고 샀어. 
    Jeo deureseu? Imanocheonwon jugo sasseo.
    “That dress? I bought it for 25,000 won.”
Man Asking How Are You?

10. How is…?

This is a common question structure in any language. Learn how to ask and answer this question in Korean! 

1. Formal Phrase 

어떻게 지내요? (Eotteoke jinaeyo?) – “How are you?”
잘 지내고 있어요? (Jal jinaego isseoyo?) – “How have you been doing?”

These two sentences are commonly used to ask someone how he or she has been doing. If you want to specify the subject, you can add it in front of each sentence. For example, “How is your dog?” is 강아지 잘 지내고 있어요? (Gangaji jal jinaego isseoyo?) in Korean. 

Appropriate Answer

네, 잘 지내고 있어요. (Ne, jal jinaego isseoyo.) – “Yes, I’m doing well.” 
요즘 ~ (yojeum) “~these days”
아니요, 잘 못 지내고 있어요. (Aniyo, jal mot jinaego isseoyo.) – “No, I’m not doing well these days.” 

Example: 

  • 잘지내고 있어요? 
    Jal jinaego isseoyo?
    “How have you been doing?”
  • 그럼요, 잘 지내고 있어요. 
    Geureomyo, jal jinaego isseoyo.
    “Of course, I’m doing well.”

2. Informal Phrase – Conversational Level 

어떻게 지내? (Eotteoke jinae?) – “How are you?”
잘 지내고 있어? (Jal jinaego isseo?) – “How have you been doing?”

Appropriate Answer

응, 잘 지내고 있어. (Eung, jal jinaego isseo.) – “Yes, I’m doing well.” 
아니, 잘 못 지내고 있어. (Ani, jal mot jinaego isseo.) – “No, I’m not doing well these days.” 

Example: 

  • A: 잘지내고 있어?
    Jal jinaego isseo?
    “How have you been doing?”
  • B: 아니, 잘 못 지내고 있어.
    Ani, jal mot jinaego isseo.
    “No, I’m not doing well these days.”
  • A: 왜? 무슨 일 있어? 
    Wae? Museun il isseo?
    “Why? What’s wrong?”

11. Want to Learn More Korean? We Can Help You!

In summary, we’ve gone over ten different Korean questions and how to answer each question appropriately. We’ve also covered the different levels of speech that we could apply, depending on whom we’re talking to. Here are more web pages to help you learn different questions and answers in Korean. 

If you want to learn grammar and culture insights in detail, KoreanClass101.com is here for you. We have free study materials to help you improve your Korean language skills, and blog articles with practical Korean culture insights. Good luck in your studies! 

Before you go, why not practice right away? Leave us a comment with answers in Korean to some of the questions above. We look forward to hearing from you!

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The TOPIK Test: Tips for Getting a High Score

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TOPIK is the most popular Korean language proficiency test in the world. For those of you who don’t know much about the TOPIK Korean exam, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with tons of relevant and practical information about the test. If you’ve already decided to take the exam, you should stick around too. We’re going to give you lots of tips on how to get a high score on the TOPIK, and provide you with many free Korean study materials.

Log in to Download Your Free Cheat Sheet - Study Strategies in Korean Table of Contents
  1. Korean Proficiency Tests
  2. Let’s Learn More About TOPIK
  3. A Look Inside the TOPIK Korean Test
  4. Tips for Your TOPIK Exam Practice
  5. Get Ready for TOPIK with KoreanClass101

1. Korean Proficiency Tests 

Let’s take a look at what Korean proficiency tests are available to Korean-learners. In Korea, there are two kinds of Korean language tests, which are: TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) and KLPT (Korean Language Proficiency Test). We’re going to focus only on TOPIK in this article, but it’s important to compare these two tests so you know which one is better-suited for you.

1) TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) 

  • TOPIK stands for “Test of Proficiency in Korean
  • The Korean Institute for Curriculum and Evaluation 9KICE conducts these tests 
  • The test is evaluated in five main categories, which are:
    • Vocabulary
    • Grammar
    • Writing
    • Listening
    • Reading
  • TOPIK offers two different tests, which are:
    • S-TOPIK (Standard Korean)
    • B-TOPIK (Business Korean) 
  • TOPIK testing takes place twice per year (in April and September)

2) KLPT (Korean Language Proficiency Test)

  • The Korean Language Society conducts these tests 
  • The test is evaluated in five categories, which are:
    • Listening 
    • Vocabulary
    • Grammar
    • Reading
    • Conversation 
  • KLPT offers two different tests, which are:
    • KLPT
    • B-KLPT (Beginners’ KLPT) 

2. Let’s Learn More About TOPIK

Language Skills

Foreigners may take TOPIK tests for various reasons. If you’re planning to stay in Korea for an extended period of time, you should consider obtaining the highest TOPIK level. There are two levels for TOPIK: TOPIK I (the basic level test) and TOPIK II (the combination of intermediate and advanced levels). The evaluation is based on the total number of points earned.

1) What Can You Do with Your TOPIK Scores?

Test-takers register for the TOPIK exam for various reasons:

  • To enter a Korean university as a foreigner
  • To obtain a work visa for a company in Korea
  • To obtain a marriage-based immigrant visa
  • To apply for permanent residency

As you can see, one’s TOPIK results can have many practical benefits and uses! 

2) TOPIK Levels & Their Passing Scores

TOPIK I has two levels, which are Level 1 and Level 2. In order to pass Level 1, you need to attain 80 points; for Level 2, you need to attain 140 points. 

As for TOPIK II, there are four levels: Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, and Level 6. The passing marks are 120 points, 150 points, 190 points, and 230 points, respectively.

3) What Does the Exam Structure Look Like?

SectionDurationQuestionsMarksSession
TOPIK I (Levels 1-2)Listening40 min301001st session
Reading60 min40100
TOPIK II(Levels 3-6)Listening60 min501001st session
Writing50 min4100
Reading70 min501002nd session

4) How to Register for the TOPIK Test

If you reside in Korea, you can register for the test online through the official TOPIK website. The registration fee costs 35,000 KRW for TOPIK I (Levels 1 and 2) and 40,000 KRW for TOPIK II (Levels 3-6). You can pay with your debit or credit card, through online banking, or using a direct bank transfer.

If you’re from another country, you can register for the test at the Korean embassies or Korean culture centers. For registration, you’ll be required to bring two passport-size photographs and the registration fee. Note that the fee varies from country to country, so it’s important to research in advance.

A Man Listening to a TOPIK Listening Test.

3. A Look Inside the TOPIK Korean Test

Now that you know how to register, what the TOPIK tests you on, and other essential information, let’s go over what you can expect from each portion of the test.  

1- Introduction to the TOPIK Listening Section 

What is the TOPIK listening section like, and how can you score higher marks here?

1. What Type of Tasks?

These are some sample questions that you can expect to see in the TOPIK listening test. 

  • Listen to the audio and choose the appropriate picture (2 points)
  • Listen to the dialogue and choose what the speaker (e.g. woman) is going to do next (2 points)
  • Listen to the audio and choose the appropriate topic (2 points) 
  • Choose the answer that matches with the content of the dialogue (2 points) 

2. Tip for a Higher Score

Read the Question and Answers First

As soon as you open the test book, read through the questions and answers. This way, you’ll have a sense of what kind of audio will be played, and if you understand the questions and answers, it will be easier for you to spot the correct answer right away. While the audio is being played, you won’t have enough time to think and go through each answer.

3. Questions from the Past TOPIK Exams

Here are some example questions from past TOPIK exams so you can get a good idea of what to expect. 

1. TOPIK 60 I – listening exercise

2. TOPIK 60 II – listening exercise

3. TOPIK 60 I – listening exercise

4. TOPIK 60 II – listening exercise

Want to have fun while practicing your listening? Check out these pages on KoreanClass101.com:

A lLady Studying Korean on the Bus

2- Introduction to the TOPIK Reading Section

Now, let’s take a look at the TOPIK reading section and how you can ace this portion of the test. 

1. What Type of Tasks?

These are some sample questions that you can expect to see in the TOPIK reading test. 

  • Read the sentence and choose the topic (2 points)
  • Read the sentences and choose the appropriate word that goes inside the () (2 points)
  • Read the information (e.g. pamphlet) and choose the information that is not correct (3 points)
  • Read the sentence and choose the answer that matches with the topic (3 points)
  • Read the paragraph and choose the appropriate word that goes inside the () (2~3 points)
  • Read 4 sentences and choose the answer that is chronologically arranged (2~3 points)

2. Tip for a Higher Score

Try to Make Sense out of the Words You Know 

If you struggle to understand Korean phrases, it’s normal to feel stressed. But don’t let your stress take over. If the section you’re reading is too long and you can’t understand what’s written, just look for words you do understand and try to make sense out of them. Don’t forget to read the questions and multiple choices so that when you’re reading, you can remind yourself about what information to look for.

3. Questions from the Past TOPIK Exams

1) TOPIK 60

무엇에 대한 이야기입니까? <보기>와 같이 알맞은 것을 고르십시오. (각 2점)
mueose daehan iyagiimnikka? wa gachi almajeun geoseul goreusipsio. (gak 2jeom)
“What is the topic about? Select the answer that appropriately describes . (2 points per question)”

바람이 붑니다. 시원합니다.
barami bumnida. Siwonhamnida.
“The wind is blowing. It is cool.”

① 과일 ② 사람 ③ 날씨 ④ 얼굴
gwail saram nalssieolgul
① “fruit” ② “human” ③ “weather” ④ “face”
저는 일본에서 왔습니다. 친구는 미국에서 왔습니다.
jeoneun ilboneseo watseumnida. chinguneun migugeseo watseumnida.
“I come from Japan. My friend comes from America.”

① 음식 ② 나라 ③ 요일 ④ 선물
eumsik nara yoil seonmul
① “food” ② “country” ③ “day” ④ “gift”
2) TOPIK 47

다음의 내용과 같은 것을 고르십시오.
daeumui naeyonggwa gateun geoseul goreusipsio.
“Select the answer that has the same context as the sentences.”

저는 오늘 이사를 했습니다. 친구가 도와줘서 이사가 금방 끝났습니다.
jeoneun oneul isareul haetseumnida. chinguga dowajwoseo isaga geumbang kkeunnatseumnida.
“I moved in today. I could finish the moving-in quickly because a friend helped me out.”

새집에서 친구와 저녁을 먹었습니다.
saejibeseo chinguwa jeonyeogeul meogeotseumnida.
“I had dinner with a friend at a new house.”

① 친구가 이사를 했습니다. 
chinguga isareul haetseumnida.
① “A friend moved in.”

② 제가 친구를 도와줬습니다. 
jega chingureul dowajwotseumnida.
② “I helped a friend moving.”

③ 지난주에 이사를 했습니다. 
jinanjue isareul haetseumnida.
③ “I moved to a new place last week.”

④ 이사한 집에서 식사를 했습니다.
isahan jibeseo siksareul haetseumnida.
④ “I ate some dishes at a new house.”

3) TOPIK 37

다음을 읽고 물음에 답하십시오.
daeumeul ilgo mureume dapasipsio.
“Read the passage below and answer the questions.”

저는 자기 전에 하루를 정리하면서 메모를 합니다.
jeoneun jagi jeone harureul jeongnihamyeonseo memoreul hamnida.
“I summarize what I did each day by writing them down in a note.”

먼저 오늘 일어난 일 중에서 잘 한 일 세 가지를 씁니다.
meonjeo oneul ireonan il jungeseo jal han il se gajireul sseumnida.
“Firstly, I write down three things that I did well.” 

그렇게 하면 힘든 하루를 조금 잊을수 있습니다.
geureoke hamyeon himdeun harureul jogeum ijeulsu itseumnida.
“If I do so, I can forget about the hard times of the day.”

그 다음에는 내일 할 일을 ( ㉠ ). 그러면 중요한 일을 잊어버리지 않아서 좋습니다.
geu daeumeneun naeil hal ireul ( ㉠ ). geureomyeon jungyohan ireul ijeobeoriji anaseo joseumnida.
“Next, I would (㉠) for things to do tomorrow. If I do this, I won’t forget about the important things, so it’s good.” 

이렇게 메모를 하면 생각만 할 때보다 하루 하루를 훨씬 더 잘 정리할 수 있습니다.
ireoke memoreul hamyeon saenggangman hal ttaeboda haru harureul hwolssin deo jal jeongnihal su itseumnida.
“If you take notes like this, you can organize your day much better than you think.”

Q. ㉠에 들어갈 알맞은 말을 고르십시오.(2점)
Q. ㉠e deureogal almajeun mareul goreusipsio.(2jeom)
Q. Please choose the appropriate answer for ㉠. (2 points)

① 적어 봅니다
jeogeo bomnida
① “write down”

② 적게 됩니다
jeokge doemnida
② “being written down”

③ 적을까 합니다
jeogeulkka hamnida
③ “maybe write down”

④ 적을 것 같습니다
jeogeul geot gatseumnida
④ “might write down”

Q. 이 글의 내용과 같은 것을 고르십시오.(3점)
Q. i geurui naeyonggwa gateun geoseul goreusipsio.(3jeom)
Q. Choose the answer that has the same meaning as the written context. (3 points)

① 하루의 잘못한 일을 써서 정리합니다.
haruui jalmothan ireul sseoseo jeongnihamnida.
① “Summarize things that the author did wrong.”

② 아침에 일어나서 오늘 할 일을 씁니다.
achime ireonaseo oneul hal ireul sseumnida.
② “Write down things to do for the day in the morning.”

③ 잊어버린 일들은 자기 전에 메모합니다.
ijeobeorin ildeureun jagi jeone memohamnida.
③ “Write down things that the author forgot in a note.”

④ 메모를 하면서 하루의 일을 생각합니다.
memoreul hamyeonseo haruui ireul saenggakamnida.
④ “The author thinks about the day as he/she takes notes.”

It’s important to practice reading tests from the official TOPIK website. That way, you can get your hands on real tests and get a good idea of what the TOPIK reading section will be like. 

However, it’s also important to have fun while practicing your Korean skills. For a fun learning experience, why not check out the pages below? These are great for practicing your reading!

Three Students Taking a TOPIK Writing Exam

3- Introduction to the TOPIK Writing Section

Let’s take a look at the TOPIK writing section now. 

1. What Type of Tasks?

These are some sample questions that you can expect to see in the TOPIK writing test.

  • Listen to the conversation and choose the appropriate answer from the multiple choices (3~4 points)
  • Listen to the conversation and choose the location of the two speakers (3~4 points)
  • Listen to the conversation and choose the topic of the conversation (3~4 points)
  • Listen to the conversation and choose the right picture (4 points)
  • Listen and choose the answer that describes the situation (3 points)

2. Tips for a Higher Score

Read the Question Carefully

Before you do anything, make sure you know exactly what they expect you to write. Without understanding the question, you’ll end up writing answers that don’t relate to the question.

Think About What You Want to Say Before Writing 

When you begin composing your written answer, make sure that you outline your thoughts and ideas first, and only write about things you know and are familiar with.

Cross-Check Your Answer with the Question

Before moving forward, make sure that the answer you wrote matches up with the question, and that you’ve answered all of the questions.

3. Questions from the Past TOPIK Exams

1) TOPIK 26 
여러분은 “어디에서 살고 싶습니까? 왜 그곳에서 살고 싶습니까?” 그곳에 살면서 무엇을 하고 싶습니까? 여러분이 살고 싶은 곳에 대해서 쓰십시오.

yeoreobuneun “eodieseo salgo sipseumnikka? wae geugoseseo salgo sipseumnikka?” geugose salmyeonseo mueoseul hago sipseumnikka? yeoreobuni salgo sipeun gose daehaeseo sseusipsio.

“Where do you want to live? Why do you want to live in that place? What do you want to do while living there? Write about the place you want to live.”
2) TOPIK 29
여러분은 ¹토요일, 일요일에 보통 무엇을 합니까? ²어디에서 합니까? “누구하고 같이 합니까?” 여러분의 주말 이야기를 쓰십시오.

yeoreobuneun ¹toyoil, illyoire botong mueoseul hamnikka? ²eodieseo hamnikka? “nuguhago gachi hamnikka?” yeoreobunui jumal iyagireul sseusipsio.

“What do you normally do on Saturdays and Sundays? Where do you do it? With whom? Write down stories about your weekends.”
3) TOPIK 31
여러분은 ¹봄, 여름, 가을, 겨울 중 어느 계절을 좋아합니까? “그 계절은 어떻습니까?” 그 계절에는 보통 어디에 갑니까? *거기에서 무엇을 합니까? 여러분이 좋아하는 계절과 그 계절에 가는 곳에 대해 쓰십시오.

yeoreobuneun ¹bom, yeoreum, gaeul, gyeoul jung eoneu gyejeoreul joahamnikka? “geu gyejeoreun eotteoseumnikka?” geu gyejeoreneun botong eodie gamnikka? *geogieseo mueoseul hamnikka? yeoreobuni joahaneun gyejeolgwa geu gyejeore ganeun gose daehae sseusipsio.

“Among spring, summer, fall, and winter, which season do you like the most? What do you think about the season? Do you go anywhere special during that season? Write about your favorite season and the places that you go to during the season.”
4) TOPIK 34 
여러분은 ¹함께 여행하고 싶은 사람이 누구입니까? “왜 그 사람과 여행하고 싶습니까?” 그 사람과 함께 여행을 가서 무엇을 하고 싶습니까? 여러분이 함께 여행하고 싶은 사람에 대해서 쓰십시오.

yeoreobuneun ¹hamkke yeohaenghago sipeun sarami nuguimnikka? “wae geu saramgwa yeohaenghago sipseumnikka?” geu saramgwa hamkke yeohaengeul gaseo mueoseul hago sipseumnikka? yeoreobuni hamkke yeohaenghago sipeun sarame daehaeseo sseusipsio.

“Who do you want to travel with? Why do you want to travel with that person? What do you want to do with that person during the trip? Write about your ideal trip with that person.”

In order to achieve a good score for the TOPIK writing section, it’s important to practice your reading and writing together. Check out the pages below to practice your writing skills. 

4- Wait… Is There a Speaking Section?

TOPIK does not test your speaking skills. However, if you want to practice your speaking skills, we recommend that you have a look at the pages below. 

How to Improve Your Speaking Skills – Learn Korean sentences on how to improve your speaking skills

Secret Tips on How to Pass the TOPIK Exam

4. Tips for Your TOPIK Exam Practice

1) Study at a Korean Language School

Studying at a Korean language school will certainly help you improve your Korean skills in no time. This is because you’ll be working on homework and assignments every day, and everyone you meet in the class will have the same goal as you: to be fluent in Korean. If you surround yourself with people who have similar goals, it will motivate you to study more, and you and your friends can help each other, too!

2) Don’t Know the Answer? Don’t Hesitate to Use the Cross Method

Most of the tests, depending on the TOPIK level you’re taking, are multiple choice. If you’re unsure of which answer to choose, try eliminating the answers you think are incorrect. In the end, you’re more likely to narrow down the correct answer.

3) Relax! 

The more you think about how much time is left, the more poorly you’ll do on the test. If you think that certain questions may take more time than the others, just set them aside and move onto the next question. You can always come back to them later.

4) Listen to Korean Dramas or Music in Your Spare Time

Studying only with books can be tiring and boring. Learning Korean should be fun, too. In your spare time, you can actually learn Korean by watching Korean dramas with subtitles or listening to Korean music to practice your listening skills. You can even challenge yourself by mimicking words or phrases you hear.

Someone Climbing the Ladder of Success

5. Get Ready for TOPIK with KoreanClass101

We hope you now have a better understanding of what to expect from the TOPIK test and how to increase your chances of getting a great score. Is there anything we didn’t cover here that you want to know about? Do you feel more prepared for the TOPIK? Let us know in the comments! 

KoreanClass101.com offers free lessons online, and our goal is to make sure that you achieve your goal. We want you to succeed in your language-learning, and we’re here to help. So why not register today and receive free online study materials? 

Remember that in order to score a high mark for the reading section, you need to know many Korean words and have a basic understanding of Korean grammar. Without knowing the various grammar structures, you won’t do very well in other sections, either.

Here’s another list of resources for you to advance your Korean skills:

Vocabulary

You can also learn a new Korean word every day to keep your vocabulary skills sharp. Check out Korean Word of the Day for free subscription. 

Grammar

  • Basic Korean Grammar – Learn some simple tricks to understand Korean grammar.
  • Introduction to Korean Grammar – Whether you want to refresh your skills or learn new grammar structures, check out this page to practice basic Korean grammar. 
  • Idioms and Phrases – Koreans use a lot of idioms and phrases that you don’t get to see in study books. Learn some commonly used idioms and phrases here. 
  • Cheat Sheet to Mastering Korean – If you’re studying Korean on your own, you must check this out. It has twelve lessons and teaches you how to master Korean.

That’s it for now. We hope you get a high score on the TOPIK test. Good luck! 

  1. Happy: 4 or more
  2. Laughing: 1-2
  3. Pointing or gesturing (like showing something off or teaching): 2-3
  4. Sad: 1-2
  5. Shocked (different levels, like mild to super shocked): 3
  6. Angry: 2-3
  7. Neutral: 2-3
  8. Thinking (wondering) + (deciding) = 2
  9. Holding a pen or a learning object: 1
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Korean Keyboard: How to Install and Type in Korean

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You asked, so we provided—easy-to-follow instructions on how to set up your electronic devices to write in Korean! We’ll also give you a few excellent tips on how to use this keyboard, as well as some online and app alternatives if you prefer not to set up a Korean keyboard.

Log in to Download Your Free Korean Alphabet Worksheet Table of Contents
  1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Korean
  2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Korean
  3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer
  4. How to Change the Language Settings to Korean on Your Computer
  5. Activating the Korean Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet
  6. Korean Keyboard Typing Tips
  7. How to Practice Typing Korean

1. Why it’s Important to Learn to Type in Korean

A keyboard

Learning a new language is made so much easier when you’re able to read and write/type it. This way, you will:

  • Get the most out of any dictionary and Korean language apps on your devices
  • Expand your ability to find Korean websites and use the various search engines
  • Be able to communicate much better online with your Korean teachers and friends, and look super cool in the process! 

2. Setting up Your Computer and Mobile Devices for Korean

A phone charging on a dock

It takes only a few steps to set up any of your devices to read and type in Korean. It’s super-easy on your mobile phone and tablet, and a simple process on your computer.

On your computer, you’ll first activate the onscreen keyboard to work with. You’ll only be using your mouse or touchpad/pointer for this keyboard. Then, you’ll need to change the language setting to Korean, so all text will appear in Korean. You could also opt to use online keyboards instead. Read on for the links!

On your mobile devices, it’s even easier—you only have to change the keyboard. We also provide a few alternatives in the form of online keyboards and downloadable apps.

3. How to Activate an Onscreen Keyboard on Your Computer

1- Mac

1. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Check the option “Show Keyboard & Character Viewers in Menu Bar.”

3. You’ll see a new icon on the right side of the main bar; click on it and select “Show Keyboard Viewer.”

A screenshot of the keyboard viewer screen

2- Windows

1. Go to Start > Settings > Easy Access > Keyboard.

2. Turn on the option for “Onscreen Keyboard.”

3- Online Keyboards

If you don’t want to activate your computer’s onscreen keyboard, you also have the option to use online keyboards. Here are some good options:

4- Add-ons of Extensions for Browsers

Instead of an online keyboard, you could also choose to download a Google extension to your browser for a language input tool. The Google Input Tools extension allows users to use input tools in Chrome web pages, for example.

4. How to Change the Language Settings to Korean on Your Computer

Man looking at his computer

Now that you’re all set to work with an onscreen keyboard on your computer, it’s time to download the Korean language pack for your operating system of choice:

  • Windows 8 (and higher)
  • Windows 7
  • Mac (OS X and higher)

1- Windows 8 (and higher)

1. Go to Settings > Change PC Settings > Time & Language > Region & Language.

2. Click on “Add a Language” and select “Korean.” This will add it to your list of languages. It will appear as 한국어 with the note “language pack available.”

3. Click on “한국어” > “Options” > “Download.” It’ll take a few minutes to download and install the language pack.

4. As a keyboard layout, you’ll only need the one marked as “Korean- 한국어.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts.

2- Windows 7

1. Go to Start > Control Panel > Clock, Language, and Region.

2. On the “Region and Language” option, click on “Change Keyboards or Other Input Methods.”

3. On the “Keyboards and Languages” tab, click on “Change Keyboards” > “Add” > “Korean.”

4. Expand the option of “Korean” and then expand the option “Keyboard.” Select the keyboard layout marked as “Korean.” You can ignore other keyboard layouts. Click “OK” and then “Apply.”

3- Mac (OS X and higher)

If you can’t see the language listed, please make sure to select the right option from System Preferences > Language and Region

1. From the Apple Menu (top left corner of the screen) go to System Preferences > Keyboard.

2. Click the Input Sources tab and a list of available keyboards and input methods will appear.

3. Click on the plus button, select “2-Set Korean,” and add the “2-Set Korean” keyboard.

Adding a system language

5. Activating the Korean Keyboard on Your Mobile Phone and Tablet

Texting and searching in Korean will greatly help you master the language! Adding a Korean keyboard on your mobile phone and/or tablet is super-easy.

You could also opt to download an app instead of adding a keyboard. Read on for our suggestions.

Below are the instructions for both iOS and Android mobile phones and tablets.

1- iOS

1. Go to Settings > General > Keyboard.

2. Tap “Keyboards” and then “Add New Keyboard.”

3. Select “2-Set Korean” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by tapping and holding on the icon to reveal the keyboard language menu.

2- Android

1. Go to Settings > General Management > Language and Input > On-screen Keyboard (or “Virtual Keyboard” on some devices) > Samsung Keyboard.

2. Tap “Language and Types” or “ + Select Input Languages” depending on the device and then “MANAGE INPUT LANGUAGES” if available.

3. Select “한국어” from the list.

4. When typing, you can switch between languages by swiping the space bar.

3- Applications for Mobile Phones

If you don’t want to add a keyboard on your mobile phone or tablet, these are a few good apps to consider:

6. Korean Keyboard Typing Tips

Typing in Korean can be very challenging at first! Therefore, we added here a few useful tips to make it easier to use your Korean keyboard.

A man typing on a computer

1- Computer

On Windows 8 Keyboard

  1. Keep in mind that you’ll find vowels on the right of your keyboard, and consonants will be on the left side. To create double consonants, press the Shift key while typing the single consonant. (Example, if you would like ot type ㅆ, press ㅅ+Shift).
  2. This will cause “ENG” to be changed to ‘한’ (or ‘KOR”), and another icon (marked “A”) will appear simultaneously to the left of the language sign.
  3. When you want to type Korean, hit the ALT key on the right side of your keyboard. (There are two ALT keys on the keyboard, however, only the right one works for this purpose.)
  4. Hitting the ALT key will make the status icon change to a Korean character ‘가’ (ga). Once this happens, you’ll be able to start typing in Korean. To toggle between Korean and English, simply hit the Right ALT key at any time.
  5. Vowels are on the right side of the keyboard, and consonants on the left. To create double consonants, press the Shift key while typing the single consonant. (Example, if you would like ot type ㅆ, press ㅅ+Shift).

On IOS Keyboard

  1. On your Mac, click on the flag image at the top right of your screen, and choose 한 (2-Set Korean). In the 2-Set Korean Keyboard, keep in mind that you’ll find vowels on the right of your keyboard, and consonants will be on the left side. This is its default setting for macOS Hangul.
  2. To create double consonants, press the Shift key while typing the single consonant. (Example, if you would like to type ㅆ, press “Shift” + “ㅅ.”

2- Mobile Phones

  1. Open any app that allows typing. A few good options are Messages, Google Widget, or Chrome.
  2. Tap the typing area. This opens the keyboard.
  3. For IOS, tap and hold the Globe key. It’s located at the left of the spacebar. The “Keyboard Settings” option and a list of keyboards will appear. Select the “Korean” keyboard. This will change the keyboard from its default language setting to Korean. Note that this menu can be used to toggle between various language keyboards you may have installed.
  4. For Android, tap the Keyboard Settings icon near the bottom of the keyboard. If you don’t see the gear, you may have to long-press a different key to make it appear. Tap “Add Keyboard” and choose “Korean” from the list. Select your desired layout.
    Afterward, tap the typing area and hold the Globe key. It’s in the bottom row of keys. A list of installed keyboards will appear. Tap “Korean.” The keyboard is now switched to Korean.

7. How to Practice Typing Korean

As you probably know by now, learning Korean is all about practice, practice, and more practice! Strengthen your Korean typing skills by writing comments on any of our lesson pages, and our teacher will answer. If you’re a KoreanClass101 Premium PLUS member, you can directly text our teacher via the My Teacher app—use your Korean keyboard to do this!

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Secret Revealed: The Best Way to Learn a Language on Your Own

Learning A Language on Your Own

Can You Really Learn Korean Alone?

Learning a language on your own or without traditional classroom instruction may seem quite daunting at first. What if you run into questions? How do you stay motivated and on track to achieving goals?

Don’t worry, not only is it possible to learn Korean or any language without traditional classroom instruction: KoreanClass101 has created the world’s most advanced and extensive online language learning system. Not only is KoreanClass101 specifically designed to help you with learning a language on your own, it’s actually faster, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom options!

Let’s look at some of the benefits of learning Korean or any language alone.

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Also, don’t forget to download your free cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Language Skills too!

3 Reasons to Learn a Language Alone

Learning Alone

1. Learn at Your Own Pace and On Your Schedule

In today’s fast-paced world, there just isn’t time for traditional classroom instruction. Between getting to class and studying on some professor or teacher’s schedule, traditional classroom learning is simply impossible to fit in. But when you learn Korean alone, you can study in bed if you like and whenever suits your schedule best, making it far easier to actually reach your goal of learning and mastering the language.

2. Learning a Language on Your Own Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Speaking in front of a class, pop quizzes, and tests are just a few of the stressors you will encounter when you learn a language in a traditional classroom setting. Specifically, these are external stressors that often derail most people’s dream of learning a new language. But when you learn Korean alone, there are no external stressors. Without the external stress and anxiety, it becomes much easier and more exciting to study Korean and reach your very own goals—all on your own!

3. Learning Korean Alone Helps Improve Cognitive Function and Overall Success

Learning a language on your own is indeed more challenging in some ways than being taught in a traditional classroom setting. In fact, while classroom instruction requires more rote memorization and following instructions, studying a language on your own requires more problem-solving and higher cognitive function to self-teach lessons and hit goals. So while it’s more challenging and requires higher levels of cognition, teaching yourself a language pays dividends throughout life by better preparing you for social/work opportunities that arise.

How to Learn a Language on Your Own with KoreanClass101

Learning with KoreanClass101

1. Access to the World’s Largest Collection of Korean Audio & Video Lessons

The best way to learn a language on your own is to study from native speaking instructors. Ideally, you want audio and/or video lessons that teach vocabulary, grammar, and provide actual Korean conversations and dialogue to help you with pronunciation. KoreanClass101 has hundreds of hours of HD audio and video lessons created by real Korean instructors and every lesson is presented by professional Korean actors for perfect pronunciation. Plus, all lessons can be accessed 24/7 via any mobile device with Internet access. And, if you download the PDF versions of each lesson, you can even study without Internet access once the lesson is stored on your device!

2. “Learning Paths” with Korean Courses Based Upon Your Exact Needs & Goals

Although KoreanClass101 has more than thousands of video and audio lessons, you need not review each and every one to learn the language. In fact, KoreanClass101 has developed a feature called “Learning Paths”. You simply tell us your goals and we will identify the best courses and study plan to help you reach them in the shortest time possible. So even though you are technically learning a language on your own, our team is always here to help and make sure you reach your goals FAST!

3. Advanced Learning Tools Reduce Learning Time and Boost Retention

When you have the right tools and Korean learning resources, it’s actually easy to teach yourself a language! In the past 10+ years, KoreanClass101 has developed, tested, and refined more than 20 advanced learning tools to boost retention and reduce learning time, including:

  • Spaced Repetition Flashcards
  • Line-by-Line Dialogue Breakdown
  • Review Quizzes
  • Voice Recording Tools to Help Perfect Pronunciation
  • Teacher Feedback and Comments for Each Lesson
  • Korean Dictionary with Pronunciation
  • Free PDF Cheat Sheets
  • And Much More!

Armed with our growing collection of advanced learning tools, it’s truly a breeze to learn Korean alone and reach your goals!

Conclusion

Learning a language on your own is not only possible, it’s actually easier and more beneficial for you than traditional classroom instruction. In fact, when you learn Korean on your own you can study at your own pace, eliminate stress, and actually increase cognitive function.

KoreanClass101 is the world’s most advanced online language learning system and a great resource to help you teach yourself a new language. With the world’s largest collection of HD audio and video lessons, more than 20 advanced learning tools, and customized “Learning Paths”, KoreanClass101 makes learning a new language easier, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom instruction.

And the best part is: With KoreanClass101, you can study in bed, your car, or wherever you have a few spare minutes of time. Create your Free Lifetime Account now and get a FREE ebook to help “kickstart” your dream of learning a language on your own below!

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Language Learning Tips: How to Avoid Awkward Silences

Avoid Awkward Silences

Yes, even beginners can quickly learn conversational Korean well enough to carry on real conversations with native speakers. Of course, beginners won’t be able to carry a conversation the same way they could in their native language. But, just knowing a few tips like which questions to ask to keep a conversation going are all you need to speak and interact with real native speakers! But before we get to specific suggestions, let’s first take a closer look at how having real Korean conversations is so vital to your mastery of the language.

Learning to Carry a Conversation is Vital to Mastery of Any Language

Communicating with other people is the very point of language and conversation is almost second nature in our native tongue. For beginners or anyone learning a new language, conversations aren’t easy at all and even simple Korean greetings can be intimidating and awkward.

However, there are 3 vital reasons why you should learn conversational Korean as quickly as possible:

  • Avoid Awkward Silences: Nothing kills a conversation faster than long periods of awkward silence, so you need practice and specific strategies to avoid them.
  • Improve the Flow of Conversation to Make a Better Impression: When you know what to say to keep a conversation going, communication becomes much easier and you make a better impression on your listener.
  • Master the Language Faster: Nothing will help you learn to speak Korean faster and truly master the language than having real conversations with native speakers. Conversations quickly expose you to slang, cultural expressions, and vocabulary that force you to absorb and assimilate information faster than any educational setting—and that’s a great thing!

But how can you possibly have real conversations with real Korean people if you are just starting out?

3 Conversation Strategies for Beginners

Conversation

1. Ask Questions to Keep a Conversation Going

For beginners and even more advanced speakers, the key is to learn to ask questions to keep a conversation going. Of course, they can’t be just random questions or else you may confuse the listener. But, by memorizing a few key questions and the appropriate time to use them, you can easily carry a conversation with minimal vocabulary or experience. And remember, the more Korean conversations you have, the quicker you will learn and master the language!

2. Learn Core Vocabulary Terms as Quickly as Possible

You don’t need to memorize 10,000’s of words to learn conversational Korean. In fact, with just a couple hundred Korean words you could have a very basic Korean conversation. And by learning maybe 1,000-2,000 words, you could carry a conversation with a native speaker about current events, ordering in restaurants, and even getting directions.

3. Study Videos or Audio Lessons that You Can Play and Replay Again and Again

If you want to know how to carry a conversation in Korean, then you need exposure to native speakers—and the more the better. Ideally, studying video or audio lessons is ideal because they provide contextualized learning in your native language and you can play them again and again until mastery.

KoreanClass101 Makes it Easier and More Convenient Than Ever to Learn Conversational Korean

Learning Korean

For more than 10 years, KoreanClass101 has been helping students learn to speak Korean by creating the world’s most advanced online language learning system. Here are just a few of the specific features that will help you learn conversational Korean fast using our proven system:

  • The Largest Collection of HD Video & Audio Lessons from Real Korean Instructors: KoreanClass101 instructors have created hundreds of video and audio lessons that you can play again and again. And the best part is: They don’t just teach you Korean vocabulary and grammar, they are designed to help you learn to speak Korean and teach you practical everyday topics like shopping, ordering, etc!
  • Pronunciation Tools: Use this feature to record and compare yourself with native speakers to quickly improve your pronunciation and fluency!
  • 2000 Common Korean Words: Also known as our Core List, these 2,000 words are all you need to learn to speak fluently and carry a conversation with a native speaker!

In all, more than 20 advanced learning tools help you quickly build vocabulary and learn how to carry a conversation with native speakers—starting with your very first lesson.

Conclusion

Although it may seem intimidating for a beginner, the truth is that it is very easy to learn conversational Korean. By learning a few core vocabulary terms and which questions to ask to keep a conversation going, just a little practice and exposure to real Korean conversations or lessons is all it really takes. KoreanClass101 has created the world’s largest online collection of video and audio lessons by real instructors plus loads of advanced tools to help you learn to speak Korean and carry a conversation quickly.

Act now and we’ll also include a list of the most commonly used questions to keep a conversation going so you can literally get started immediately!