안녕하세요^^ Koreanstudyjunkie입니다! If you've been wondering how to start your Korean learning journey then you are in the right place! In this blog, I'll be adding in some of my favorite and most recommended resources for learning and studying Hangul. I'll be giving tips and advice as well, so I hope you enjoy.
Question: How long does it take?
Answer: It depends. It can take as low as 2 days up to a month. It's not hard to learn initially, but you HAVE TO review it often for the first 1-2 months or you WILL forget it.
Tip #1: Review is sooo Important
Review, Review, Review! Try not to take any breaks when you are just starting to learn Korean. Take at least 10 minutes each day to study and review.
Question: Which apps do you recommend?
Answer: There are a ton of great apps that you can use! I remember when I started I used Duolingo and Drops to help me learn the alphabet. I even tried out LingoDeer - you can definitely try it too although it may cost money these days. There are some lessons that are free.
Quizlet is another simple, but great tool! Even if you don't use it to learn, I highly recommend using it for quick review sessions in your first few weeks of studying.
[I'll link my hangul quizlet set here for you]
Tip #2: Split the alphabet in half.
I recommend learning the consonants first, because they are a bit easier than the consonants. It will have you a little less frustrated in the beginning. Learn the consonants and then the vowels. OR learn the vowels first and then the consonants. Whichever way you prefer.
Question: Do I have to learn how to write it? Does it matter about how it's written?
Answer: YES, it does matter. (At least to some extent). Korean letters have a specific stroke order that we are supposed to follow when writing. But besides that, taking time in the beginning to write the Korean letters will help you SO much. It's going to help you memorize them a lot faster as well.
Apps like 'Write It! Korean' or 'Learn Korean - Hangul' are great for that! You can practice writing right on your device. Of course there are videos as well on the internet that you can follow along with and practice on your own paper or in your noteboook.
Tip #3: Keep a notebook
There will be times while learning Korean that you feel like you haven't made progress. In those times, having a notebook from when you first started will motivate you a lot. If not a notebook, maybe some digital notes that you've taken. Either way, something to show your progress will be helpful.
HERE ARE SOME VIDEOS I RECOMMEND:
Tip #4:
Doing karaoke of Korean songs that you like is extremely helpful. You are practicing your reading and pronunciation at the same time.