1. WATCHING KDRAMA
A quick and effective way to start your journey towards learning Hangul is binge watching dramas. There are movies to watch of course but you don’t get as glued to the screen as you would watching the dramas. Consistent watching will have you picking up words, phrases and expressions unknowingly. Before you know it, you are creeping your way up to becoming a pro in Korean! It is important to carefully pick out interesting dramas however, as the boring ones may slow down your process and interest in learning the language.
2. LISTENING TO OSTs
OST is the acronym for Original Sound Track. They are popular in Kdramas. Whilst watching a drama, there is chance that you will find some interesting OSTs. Most of the dramas have typical OSTs to them. They are either in the middle of the drama as you watch along or at the very end. As you watch through episodes, you might find yourself singing along to them subconsciously. You don’t believe me? Try watching a Kdrama today!
3. LISTENING TO KPOP
Kpop is different from OSTs. Don’t get them mixed up. Unlike Kpop, OSTs are tracks purposely for dramas and movies while Kpop is simply hip-hop in Korean. Recently, Korean hip-hop is taking notable and significant stances in different corners around the world. People now listen to Korean music and don’t be surprised that there are even rap songs! Find some lyrics confusing? Check online for the romanisation.
4. REPEATING WORDS OR PHRASES THAT MAY SEEM DIFFICULT
Whether it’s Korean, any other language or when learning something new, repeating words that may seem difficult is an effective way of making them stick and remembering them. You hear a new word you don’t understand in Korean? Find out the meaning and use it whenever you get the chance. You may even use it carelessly and out of context but that’s all right. More mistakes only make you much better.
5. USING A LEARNING APP
With consistent watching of dramas, listening to OSTs, Kpop songs and repetition of difficult words, your interest in the Korean language will definitely heighten. When you find yourself in this stage, you can be rest assured that your zeal to learn Hangul has strengthened. This is when you get an app to keep you going. There are numerous language applications people use but I would recommend LingoDeer or Duolingo. They even help you learn the Korean characters. You can get them on Apple Store or Play Store.
6. FINDING SOMEONE TO ENGAGE IN CONVERSATIONS WITH
Feeling the confidence already? Find someone to converse with. Here is when your interest has reached its peak and you feel the need to brag about your knowledge of the Korean language. Many people are learning Korean lately so, it may be easier to find a partner to speak with than you think. You may be surprised to find out that you understand and can speak better Korean than some people you meet with in the end. If you think you’re confident enough, try giving yourself a Korean name!
- FUN FACT
The steps above are based on my personal trial. It’s been quite effective and I can proudly speak the Korean language to a considerable extent thanks to these steps. You can do it too. 화이팅!
