Korean culture has been around for so long that it introduces plenty of it to our life. It first arrived when we were kids. We watched Korean movies and television dramas then. Now, we eat Korean foods. As Korean culture gains popularity, the language has become a new material to learn.

Do you plan to take Korean classes in your spare time? Do you want to know what you get from those classes? Let’s find out!

Speaking Language vs Writing Language

Korean has a simple writing system. You can even master Hangul in two hours. However, what’s written and spoken can be different. For instance, Korean has certain words and conjugations used only in either speaking or writing languages. That makes distinguishing words used in speaking and writing languages challenging. Thus, it is recommended that you learn the spoken language to start with.

Grammar

Korean grammar is based on context. If you want to say “and”, that is not the only way to say it. There are some other ways to say the word based on the context.

Spelling

Although Korean has a very simple writing system and easy phonetic sounds, it doesn’t mean the spelling job would be easy. Korean spelling doesn’t follow a logical structure. If you have learned English word spelling, Korean one will be your friend. The world “ae” and “e” sounds the same. Plus, “kamsahamnida” is spelled “gamsahabnida”. Don’t be confused yet, at least before you take your Korean classes.

Learning How to Think From Scratch

When you learn Korean for the first time, don’t expect fast learning. Korean has a different language system from English and some other language. You need to put yourself in as a newborn who is new to the method of thinking and speaking.

Korean has its grammar and vocabulary. Thus, the challenges come from not only how to speak but also which word to choose. You will use different words for goodbyes in different situations, like when you leave and when someone leaves. So, the best way to learn Korean is to learn it from scratch.

Learning to Speak in a Polite Way

This is a new challenge for those who are new to the politeness level. Korean has three politeness levels: formal, polite, and informal. You have to identify the one you speak with based on age and the situation you are in. A higher level of politeness is expected to be used when you talk to the teacher. A lower one is expected for casual conversation.

Those are what you will get from Korean classes. As long as you pay attention and organize your notes, you will be fine.