President Abraham Kim Advances U.S.–Korea Partnerships During California Visit 

The Korea Society’s President & CEO Dr. Abraham Kim recently concluded a productive business trip to the San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles, where he met with Van Fleet Council members, Korea Society leaders, donors, and corporate partners to share the organization’s mission and discuss its next chapter of growth.

During the visit, Dr. Kim highlighted The Korea Society’s continued commitment to strengthening U.S.–Korea relations and expanding its impact through new partnerships and leadership initiatives. He also expressed appreciation for the strong support and enthusiasm from community leaders and partners dedicated to advancing the future of the U.S.–Korea relationship.

Dr. Kim expressed his gratitude to all the leaders, partners, and friends who contributed to the meaningful conversations and continue to support The Korea Society’s mission.

Why Kim Jong Un Won’t Pick Up the Phone and What to Do About It

05/04/2026

Why Kim Jong Un Won’t Pick Up the Phone and What to Do About It

In an article for War on the Rocks, Korea Society Policy Director Jonathan Corrado examines why North Korea has remained reluctant to engage in negotiations with the United States and South Korea despite recent shifts toward greater flexibility on denuclearization. Drawing on the history of U.S.–North Korea negotiations and changes in North Korea’s strategic position, Corrado argues that the current approach should focus less on achieving complete denuclearization and more on arms control and tangible risk reduction. 

The article is available here.

President Abraham Kim Strengthens U.S.–Korea Engagement Through Seoul Visit with Congressional Study Group on Korea (CSGK)

The Korea Society President & CEO Abraham Kim recently returned from a 1.5-week visit to Seoul, where he met with key business and government leaders and accompanied the Congressional Study Group on Korea (CSGK) on its visit to the Republic of Korea.

The engagement provided U.S. congressional leaders with firsthand insight into Korea’s security, political, economic, and societal landscape, while creating opportunities to exchange perspectives and explore new areas of partnership between the United States and Korea.

During the visit, discussions focused on critical areas of cooperation, including shipbuilding, energy, and technology. The delegation also engaged with the next generation of leaders at Ewha Womans University, experienced Korean baseball, and connected with Korean American chef Edward Lee, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and people-to-people connections.

Through these meaningful exchanges, President Kim emphasized The Korea Society’s continued role as a bridge between the United States and Korea—bringing together leaders, fostering mutual understanding, and supporting future collaboration and leadership development.

The Korea Society extends its gratitude to the Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC) for continuing this important partnership.

President Abraham Kim Visits Seoul to Strengthen U.S.–Korea Engagement

The Korea Society President & CEO recently returned from Seoul following his introductory visit to Korea, where he met with leaders across government, business, and cultural sectors to reaffirm the Society’s commitment to strengthening U.S.–Korea relations and fostering mutual understanding.

During the visit, he was joined by Board Chair Ambassador (ret) Kathleen Stephens and Vice President Jiyoung Suh for a series of meetings highlighting the important role of civil society organizations in sustaining dialogue and building connections between the United States and Korea, particularly amid global uncertainty and evolving geopolitical challenges.

The delegation met with leaders from major Korean companies, including Hyundai Motor, Samsung, POSCO, and Hanwha, as well as cultural organizations and innovators such as HYBE, CJ ENM, and Simone. The group also held discussions with representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), and the Korea Foundation.

Reflecting on the visit, the President & CEO emphasized The Korea Society’s ongoing mission to elevate awareness of the U.S.–Korea alliance and invest in the next generation of leaders who will help shape the future of this important partnership.

The visit marked an important opportunity to deepen relationships with key stakeholders in Korea and further advance The Korea Society’s role as a bridge connecting the people of the United States and Korea.


Founded in 1957, The Korea Society is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting greater awareness, understanding, and cooperation between the U.S. and Korea.

This War-era Humanitarian Rescue Story Undercuts North Korean Propaganda

12/25/2025

This War-era Humanitarian Rescue Story Undercuts North Korean Propaganda

In an article for The Diplomat, Korea Society Policy Director Jonathan Corrado examines how the history of the Hungnam evacuation during the Korean War challenges North Korea’s portrayal of the United States and South Korea. Corrado highlights how more than 90,000 North Korean refugees were rescued and brought to safety in South Korea, arguing that this humanitarian story offers a powerful counterpoint to decades of Pyongyang’s anti-American and anti-South Korean propaganda. He suggests that sharing the story with North Korean audiences could help reshape perceptions and lay cultural foundations for future reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula.

The article is available here.

North Korea’s Deadly Drone Bonanza Is Coming to a Peninsula Near You

07/22/2025

North Korea’s Deadly Drone Bonanza Is Coming to a Peninsula Near You

In an article for War on the RocksJonathan CorradoChelsie Alexandre, and Anton Ponomarenko examine the rapid advancement of North Korea’s drone warfare capabilities following its military cooperation with Russia and battlefield experience in the Russo-Ukraine War. The authors explain how North Korean troops have adapted their tactics in both offensive and counter-drone operations, while benefiting from Russian technology, training, and battlefield support. They argue that these developments could significantly enhance North Korea’s military capabilities and coercive potential on the Korean Peninsula and beyond.

The article is available here.

In Memoriam, Congressman Charles B. Rangel

In Memoriam, Congressman Charles B. Rangel

In Memoriam, Congressman Charles B. Rangel

 
The Korea Society fondly remembers our friend, Former United States Congressman Charles B. Rangel, who passed away on Memorial Day at the age of 94. 
 
For his full obituary, please go here. An excerpt reads:
 
“Born and raised in Harlem, he was first elected to Congress in 1970, after serving in the New York State Assembly and as an Assistant U.S. Attorney. Congressman Rangel retired from the United States Congress in 2017. He was a veteran of the Korean War, where he earned the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star with Valor.” 
 

In 2020, Congressman Charles B. Rangel received The Korea Society’s highest honor, the Van Fleet Award, alongside Korean War Veterans Association Area Commander Salvatore Scarlato on behalf of American veterans who served during the Korean War. 

Congressman Rangel said: “Thank you for giving me this award on behalf of the hundreds of thousands of people who made the ultimate sacrifice. When I left Korea, I had hoped in my heart that I never would return, but I did return. To my miraculous amazement, I saw out of the smothering ashes and the poverty, despair, and hopelessness, a great nation rise that is not only a friend of America and an exciting trading partner, but an anchor in that part of the world for democracy. On behalf of all of us who participated, for those of us who are not here and for those families who still have the haunting memories of their loved ones, let me thank you for what you’re doing to make sure that these efforts were not in vain.” To watch his full acceptance speech, please go here

 


Jiyoung Suh, Vice President of The Korea Society, has been awarded the ROK Prime Minister’s Citation

Jiyoung Suh, Vice President of The Korea Society

Jiyoung Suh, Vice President of The Korea Society

We are pleased to announce that Jiyoung Suh, Vice President of The Korea Society, has been awarded the ROK Prime Minister’s Citation (국무총리 표창) in recognition of her exceptional contributions to advancing the Korean American community and the enhancement of national Korean prestige in the United States.

With over 11 years of dedicated service at The Korea Society, she has played a vital role in building these networks and has supported efforts to enhance the rights, status, and development of human resources within the Korean diaspora.

2026 Fall Korean Language Class

What Our Students Say:

“My professor is fantastic with review, answering questions when you don’t understand something, helping with correct pronunciation and in-class participation.”

10% Discount for TKS Members and KLP continuing students

📍10% Discount : If you have previously taken an 8-week or 10-week KLP course or if you are a member of The Korea Society at the Individual level and above, please contact language@koreasociety.org to receive your 10% discount code.

A Guide To Choosing a Right Level

New to Korean? ➡️ Beginning Korean 1
Know Hangul already? ➡️
 Beginning Korean 2 or Fast-track Beginning Korean 1&2 
Already beyond the complete beginner level? ➡️
 Beginning Korean 3 or 4 or Fast-track Beginning Korean 3&4 
Want to practice speaking and listening mainly? ➡️
 Beginning Conversation Korean 1 or 2 or 3
Already intermediate level? ➡️ Intermediate Korean 1 or 2 

Missed the First Few Classes? No Worries—You Can Still Join!
Registration through October 16

You are also welcome to take the course asynchronously.
You can still join the class and catch up with

For complete beginners. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Korean 1: Syllabus here.

Jump into learning Korean with this stimulating course designed for complete beginners! First, you master the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) and then quickly move to learning and practice with introducing yourself (name, nationality, gender and occupation), asking simple questions, counting, and ordering food. You practice using the present tense as well as using 12 additional elementary grammar points and 80+ vocabulary necessary for basic conversation, reading, and writing. Covering the first half of the textbook I Love Korean I, this class is the perfect start to your meaningful and successful journey toward mastering the Korean language.

Recommended Previous Study: None

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 1 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Korean 1: Wednesday
7:00 – 9:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Sunhee Song

Beginning Korean 1: Saturday
10:00 – 12:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Euna Cho

For learners who can read Korean alphabets. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Korean 2: Syllabus here.

Ready to take your Korean skills to the next level? Beginning Korean 2 is a great way to build on the basics you already know! This course covers everyday essentials like ordering at a restaurant, talking about your schedule and making plans (months, days, times, dates), shopping for groceries, asking for and giving directions to locations, and chatting about the weather. You master 16 different grammar points—including prepositions, negatives, counters, irregular verbs and adjectives and some past tense usage—and 190+ vocabulary necessary for everyday conversation, reading and writing. It covers the second half of the textbook I Love Korean 1. 

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 1 or equivalent skills shown on our placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 1 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Korean 2: Tuesday
6:00 – 8:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Sunhee Song

Beginning Korean 2: Saturday
10:00 – 12:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Sabina Rowe

For learners who want to learn at a faster track. Click to view details and syllabus.

Fast-track Beginning Korean 1 & 2: Syllabus here.

For beginners who can already read basic Korean consonants and vowels and want to quickly complete Beginning 1 & Beginning 2 while building a strong Korean foundation.

Already know some Korean and able to move at a faster pace? Our Fast-Track Beginning Korean I & II course is just what you need! Designed for beginners with some knowledge and ability to write and speak Korean, this fast-paced course, which meets for 2.5 hours per session, covers all content provided in Beginning Korean I and Beginning Korean II classes. You gain proficiency in practical skills such as  introducing yourself and others, asking simple questions, using numbers, ordering at a restaurant, chatting about daily life and making plans with times, dates and days of the week, shopping for groceries, handling  phone calls, describing your location and inquire about directions,, and even talking about the weather. It covers 28 elementary grammar points with an emphasis on the present tense and the past tense in some situations and includes practice with prepositions, irregular verbs and adjectives, as well as introduces 230+ essential vocabulary for basic conversation, reading and writing. It has all the basics you need to build a strong foundation in Korean! It covers the entire textbook I Love Korean 1.

Recommended Previous Study: A preliminary basic understanding of Korean and the Hangeul alphabet. For example, you should be able to understand, read, and write the following:
            1. Simple Korean letters (ㄱ, ㄴ, ㄷ, ㄹ, … ㅏ, ㅑ, ㅓ, ㅕ, …).
            2. Basic consonant and vowel combinations (가, 나, 다, 라, …).
            3. Final consonant concepts (한, 국, 글, 선, 생, 님, 학, 생, …).
Not sure if this class is right for you? Take this short quiz here.

Fee: New student: $475
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 1 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Fast Track Beginning Korean 1&2: Tuesday, 7:00 – 9:30 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Jieun Lee

Essential for anyone who wants to build a stronger foundation. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Korean 3: Syllabus here.

Ideal for students who can handle basic Korean conversations and want to improve their grammar, vocabulary, and real-life communication skills.

Ready to take your Korean skills up a notch? Our Beginning Korean 3 course is designed to do just that! You learn past and future tenses, Korean honorifics and how to introduce your family using honorifics, vocabulary for clothes shopping and making exchanges, sharing travel stories, talking about your weekend plans, and handling tasks at the bank and post office as well as making reservations for travel. It covers 21 new grammar points and introduces 230+ new vocabulary items. In addition to mastering your ability to participate in everyday conversations, you also advance your ability to comprehend basic texts and write simple compositions. The first half of the textbook I Love Korean 2 is covered.

Tip: Consider pairing this course with Beginning Conversation Korean I for additional listening and speaking practice.

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 2, Fast-track Beginning 1 & 2, or equivalent skills shown on our placement exam

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 2 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Korean 3: Thursdays, 7:00 – 9:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Euna Cho

Essential for anyone who wants to learn important vocabulary and grammar. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Korean 4: Syllabus here.

Curious about navigating the Korean subway, visiting a hospital, or handling everyday tasks in Korean? Our Beginning Korean 4 course guides you through mastering these essential areas. You become proficient at asking for permission, giving advice, discussing your availability for appointments and talking about customs and taboos in Korea. By the conclusion of the course you are able to confidently explain subway routes, describe your symptoms during doctor or hospital visits, make phone calls, and even order food over the phone—all in Korean! The course covers 20 new grammar points, including various causal connectives and sentence endings and 150+ vocabulary. Further, you gain more practice developing your reading and writing skills, including text messaging.  This course covers the second half of the textbook, I Love Korean 2. After completing this course you are ready for intermediate Korean study. 

Tip: Consider pairing this course with Beginning Conversation Korean 2 for additional listening and speaking practice.

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 3 or equivalent ability as demonstrated on the placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 2 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Korean 4: Tuesdays, 8:00 – 10:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Sunhee Song

For learners looking to advance at a faster pace before reaching the intermediate level. Click to view details and syllabus.

Fast-Track Beginning Korean 3 & 4: Syllabus here.

Ideal for learners with a strong beginner-level foundation who want to quickly advance their Korean skills and complete Beginning Korean 3 & 4 in an accelerated format.

Are you ready to quickly accelerate to more advanced beginner-level Korean language study? Then, this fast-track course is the perfect next step!  It covers all the material offered in our Beginning Korean 3 and Beginning Korean 4 courses and meets for 2.5 hours per session. You sharpen your conversation, reading and writing skills in a variety of contexts with essential vocabulary and grammar, including past and future tenses, honorifics, reasoning, and asking for permission, to name a few areas. You learn over 40 new grammar points and 400+ vocabulary items.  By the end or the course, you are able to confidently introduce family members using honorifics, use public transportation, handle bank and post office requests, navigate doctor and hospital visits, understand and give directions as well as shop for clothes and travel with ease. Covering all the chapters in I Love Korean 2, after completing this course you are set for intermediate Korean study. 

Tip: Consider pairing this course with either Beginning Conversation Korean I or Beginning Conversation Korean II for additional listening and speaking practice.

Recommended Previous Study: Fast-track Beginning Korean 1 & 2, Beginning Korean 2, or equivalent ability as demonstrated on our placement exam.

Fee: New student: $475
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: I Love Korean 2 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Fast-Track Beginning Korean 3&4: Wednesdays, 7:00 – 9:30 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Jieun Lee

For learners want to practice speaking and listening mainly, with grammar. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Conversation Korean 1: Syllabus here.

Ideal for advanced beginner-level learners who have a strong foundation in Korean grammar and vocabulary and want to build confidence through practical conversation practice.

Are you one of the millions learning Korean through apps or self-study and looking for a setting to practice speaking skills with actual people? If so, this advanced beginner-level conversation course is perfect for enhancing your conversation abilities in everyday situations like introductions, shopping, making plans, exchanging phone numbers, finding locations, traveling and so much more! This course focuses on speaking from the beginning, helping students build confidence, while also covering a wide range of around 20 grammar points and vocabulary. With a focus on interactive speaking and listening exercises, plus engaging handouts and supplementary materials, this course is ideal for students at an advanced beginning level, coveringthe first half of the textbook Sejong Institute Practical Korean 1.

Recording Policy: The recording will focus primarily on instructional content rather than the full class session and breakout room sessions will not be recorded, as these sessions are designed for students to practice speaking and interacting in small groups. In order to deliver the instructional content more effectively, we may provide recordings that capture only the shared screen and audio, without showing the students’ or instructor’s faces.

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 3 or 4, Fast-Track Beginning Korean 3&4. Beginning Conversation Korean 1 is intended for students who can read basic Hangul and would like to start practicing Korean conversation.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: Sejong Institute Practical Korean 1 (Published by King Sejong Institute Foundation)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.  
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Conversation Korean 1: Tuesday , 7:30 – 9:30 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Gieun Lee

Similar level with Beginning Conversation Korean 1, but cover different topics. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Conversation Korean 2: Syllabus here.

Similar level with Beginning Conversation Korean 1, but cover different topics. Ideal for advanced beginner-level learners who have a strong foundation in Korean grammar and vocabulary and want to build confidence through practical conversation practice.

Our Beginning Conversation Korean 2 course is designed to develop your conversational skills for daily life situations and to equip you with the skills needed to communicate on basic topics and with phrases that are essential for everyday life. While reviewing basic grammar, vocabulary, and expressions covered in advanced beginning classes, you expand your conversational skills in real-world situations such as sharing past experiences, making dates and travel plans, clothes shopping for yourself and others, talking about your health and the weather, navigating hospitals, banks, and post offices and much more. This course focuses on speaking from the beginning, helping students build confidence, while also covering a wide range of around 20 grammar points and vocabulary! With interactive exercises, plus engaging handouts and supplementary materials, this course is ideal for students at a very advanced beginning level or initial intermediate level of proficiency, covering the last half of the textbook Sejong Institute Practical Korean 1.

Recording Policy: The recording will focus primarily on instructional content rather than the full class session and breakout room sessions will not be recorded, as these sessions are designed for students to practice speaking and interacting in small groups. In order to deliver the instructional content more effectively, we may provide recordings that capture only the shared screen and audio, without showing the students’ or instructor’s faces.

Note: It would be perfectly fine to take Beginning Conversation Korean 2 this term first, followed by Beginning Conversation Korean 1 in the next term. This is because Beginning Conversation Korean 2 is at the same level as Beginning Conversation Korean 1 and uses the same textbook, covering the latter half of the material.

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 3 or 4, Fast-Track Beginning Korean 3&4 or equivalent ability as demonstrated on our placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Textbook: Sejong Institute Practical Korean 1 (Published by King Sejong Institute Foundation)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.  
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Beginning Conversation Korean 2: Wednesday , 7:00 – 9:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Sabina Rowe

For learners who are comfortable with reading but still find speaking challenging. Click to view details and syllabus.

Beginning Conversation Korean 3: Syllabus here.

For students with a low to mid-intermediate Korean foundation who want to expand their speaking skills, review key grammar, and gain confidence through real-life conversations.

Excited to make your conversation skills shine? In this course, through practical topics such as giving congratulations and gifts, exchanging greetings and personal updates, transportation, food, daily routines, you will be able to build confidence using Korean in real-life contextsWith a focus on fun and interactive speaking and listening exercises with plenty of handouts and extra materials to keep things lively, this course is perfect for students with low to mid-intermediate Korean language skills. This course focuses on speaking from the beginning, helping students build confidence, while also covering a wide range of around 20 grammar points and vocabulary! While reviewing basic grammar, vocabulary, and expressions covered in beginning classes, you expand your conversational skills to many real-world situations, covering the first half of the textbook Sejong Institute Practical Korean 2.

Recording Policy: The recording will focus primarily on instructional content rather than the full class session and breakout room sessions will not be recorded, as these sessions are designed for students to practice speaking and interacting in small groups. In order to deliver the instructional content more effectively, we may provide recordings that capture only the shared screen and audio, without showing the students’ or instructor’s faces.

Recommended Prior Study: Intermediate Korean 1 or 2, Beginning Conversation Korean 2 or equivalent ability as demonstrated on the placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off   

Supplemental Textbook: Sejong Institute Practical Korean 2 (Published by King Sejong Institute Foundation)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee. 
Class Mode: Online On Zoom 

Beginning Conversation Korean 3: Tuesday, 7:30 – 9:30 PM (EDT)
Syllagus here
Instructor: Shin Young Park

For learners who want to learn essential vocabulary and grammar for the intermediate level. Click to view details and syllabus.

Intermediate Korean 1: Syllabus here.
For students with a strong beginner-level foundation who are ready to transition to intermediate study by developing more complex conversational, reading, and writing skills.

Excited to elevate your Korean language skills to an intermediate level? In this course, you will gain the confidence to dive into more complex conversations about your life and so much more. A follow-on to our beginning courses, you learn an additional 36 grammar rules such as conditionals and 250 new situational expressions related to your schedule, making plans and inquiries for vacations and holidays, describing past experiences, describing details about your employment and living expenses, asking for help, sharing in-depth descriptions of health, and much more. Upon completion you are able to engage in more complex conversations, comprehend longer texts and write compositions and notes in Korean. This course covers the first half of I Love Korean 3.

Tip: Consider pairing this course with Beginning Korean Conversation 2 for even more practice and fun! 

Recommended Previous Study: Beginning Korean 4, Fast-track Beginning Korean 3 & 4 or equivalent ability as demonstrated on a placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off

Textbook: I Love Korean 3 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Intermediate Korean 1: Thursday, 7:30 – 9:30 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Gieun Lee

For learners who want to master essential grammar and expressions before moving up to advance level. Click to view class details and syllabus.

Intermediate Korean 2: Syllabus here.

For learners with an intermediate Korean foundation who want to deepen their communication skills and confidently navigate more complex everyday conversations and cultural situations.

Ready to level up from Intermediate Korean 1? In this course you tackle advanced grammar and vocabulary. Intended to help you navigate trickier cultural situations with ease, you master new expressions for casual hangouts and discussions, holidays and even troubleshooting every day mishaps and accidents. You learn 16 grammar rules, and 175+ new situational/colloquial expressions. Upon completion you are able to talk confidently about everyday life, fix a broken gadget. describe your favorite hobbies and holidays. Note: This course covers the second half of I Love Korean 3. 

Tip: Consider pairing this course with Intermediate Korean Conversation 1 for even more practice and fun! 

Recommended Previous Study: Intermediate Korean 1 or equivalent ability demonstrated on a placement exam.

Fee: New student: $395
Continuing student: 10% off

Textbook: I Love Korean 3 (Seoul National University Language Institute, Published by Seoul National Press)
Note: Textbook not included in course fee.
Class Mode: Online On Zoom

Intermediate Korean 2: Wednesday, 8:00 – 10:00 PM (EDT)
Instructor: Euna Cho

Question & Answer about Comprehensive VS Conversation

The Comprehensive Course offers a structured and balanced approach to Korean learning, focusing on developing all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. You can build a strong foundation through systematic grammar instruction, vocabulary development, and practical language practice.

Compared to the Conversation Course, which places greater emphasis on speaking and listening practice, the Comprehensive Course provides a more complete approach to overall Korean proficiency and is designed to help students steadily progress through each level.

We highly recommend taking both courses together!

Recording Policy

The recording will focus primarily on instructional content rather than the full class session. For the regular courses, the recordings will generally capture the full class session. However, for some classes, in order to deliver the instructional content more effectively, we may provide recordings that capture only the shared screen and audio, without showing the students’ or instructor’s faces. 

The recording will be available only to registered participants throughout the semester and until one month after the semester ends for all classes.

For Fast Track courses, to support asynchronous learning and review, the instructor will provide a separate recording covering the key expressions and instructional content from each class. Since Fast Track courses cover more material than regular courses, these recordings are designed to include additional content to support faster-paced learning and review.

For some Conversation courses, breakout room sessions will not be recorded, as these sessions are designed for students to practice speaking and interacting in small groups. (Breakout room sessions typically make up about 20% of each class and provide students with time to practice speaking and dialogues in small groups, under teacher’s guidance.)

Refund & Transfer Policy

Tuition for registrations made after September 7, 2026, is non-refundable. However, students may transfer to another class.

Why Choose The Korea Society’s Korean Language Program?

The Korea Society has offered Korean language education for more than 30 years. Our online Korean courses provide structured instruction from beginner to intermediate levels, with live Zoom classes, class recordings and materials, small-group learning opportunities, free placement exams, conversation-focused courses, fast-track options, and certificates of completion. Our experienced instructors include university professors and educators with extensive college-level teaching experience, offering high-quality instruction at an affordable tuition rate. 20 hours of live instruction for $395 — just $19.75 per hour, plus access to class recordings, learning materials, and Google Classroom.

What our students are saying..

“I liked the teacher’s teaching style. I appreciated that it was an environment I felt comfortable asking questions and making mistakes in.”

“I really appreciate how my professor runs her class with a focus on speaking idiomatic Korean and connecting the grammar lessons to Korean culture.”

“Our teacher was very helpful and maintained a swift pace in the class, we had plenty of breakout room time to practice in the conversation class.”

This Korean Language Program is open to ages 18+. 
For any inquiries, please email us at language@koreasociety.org.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: HERE 

 

Fall 2026 Korean Language Resource

Are you learning Korean? This page offers free Korean language resources open to the public to support your Korean learning journey. If you’d like to take your Korean learning to the next level, join our 2026 Fall Korean Language Class below.

Creation of Hangeul

Hangeul (한글) is the Korean writing system created under the leadership of King Sejong the Great during the Joseon Dynasty. It was designed to make reading and writing Korean more accessible to ordinary people.

Before Hangeul

Before Hangeul was created, Koreans primarily usedClassical Chinese characters (Hanja) for writing. However, Chinese characters were difficult to learn and did not easily represent the sounds and grammatical structure of the Korean language.

As a result, many ordinary people had difficulty learning to read and write.

King Sejong and the Creation of Hangeul

King Sejong wanted to create a writing system that ordinary people could learn and use more easily.

A new writing system was completed around 1443, and King Sejong introduced it as Hunminjeongeum (훈민정음), meaning approximately “the proper sounds for the education of the people.(백성을 가르치는 바른 소리)”

The Proclamation of Hangeul

In 1446, the Hunminjeongeum Haerye was published. This important document explained the principles behind the new writing system and how the letters should be used.

For this reason, 1443 is generally associated with the creation of Hangeul, while 1446 marks its official promulgation and publication.

What Makes Hangeul Unique?

One of the most remarkable features of Hangeul is its systematic design. The shapes of several consonants were based on the shape or position of the speech organs used to pronounce them.

For example:

  • ㄱ (g/k) reflects the shape of the tongue when making the sound.
  • ㄴ (n) reflects the shape of the tongue touching the upper gum.
  • ㅁ (m) represents the shape of the mouth.
  • ㅅ (s) represents the shape of the teeth.
  • ㅇ (ng/silent) represents the shape of the throat.

Korean vowels were also developed from a set of basic elements representing heaven, earth, and humanity.

Another distinctive feature is that letters are combined into syllable blocks rather than written simply in a linear sequence.

For example: ㅎ + ㅏ + ㄴ → 한

Why Is Hangeul Important?

The creation of Hangeul was more than the creation of a new writing system. It was an important cultural and social development that made it easier for Koreans, including ordinary people who had previously had limited access to literacy, to read and write in their own language.

Today, Hangeul is the official writing system of the Korean language, and October 9 is celebrated as Hangeul Day (한글날) in South Korea to commemorate its creation and promulgation.

Before learning Korean Vowels and Consonants, please read theRomanization Guide.

About Romanization: Korean words may be written differently in English because several Romanization systems are used. Although the spellings may differ, the Korean pronunciation remains the same.

Examples:
김밥 → Kimbap / Gimbap
불고기 → Pulgogi / Bulgogi
태권도 → Taekwondo / Taegwondo

Korean Vowels 

VowelRomanizationApproximate Pronunciation
a“a” as in father
ya“ya” as in yard
eoSimilar to “uh” in sun
yeo“yuh” as in young
o“o” as in go
yo“yo” as in yoga
u“oo” as in food
yu“you” as in you
euSimilar to “oo” but with unrounded lips
i“ee” as in see
aeSimilar to “e” in bed
yaeSimilar to “ye” in yes
e“e” as in bed
ye“ye” as in yes
wa“wa” as in water
waeSimilar to “we” in ウェ / “way”
oeSimilar to “we” in wet
wo“wo” as in wonder
we“we” as in well
wi“wee” as in week
uiA combination of ㅡ (eu) + ㅣ (i); similar to “ui”

Korean Consonants 

ConsonantRomanizationApproximate Pronunciation
g/kSimilar to g in go / k in ski
n“n” as in no
d/tSimilar to d in do / t in stop
r/lBetween r and l
m“m” as in me
b/pSimilar to b in boy / p in spy
s“s” as in see
ng / silentng as in sing; silent at the beginning of a syllable
j“j” as in jam
ch“ch” as in chair
kStrong k sound as in key
tStrong t sound as in tea
pStrong p sound as in pie
h“h” as in hello

Double Consonants (Tense Consonants)

ConsonantRomanizationApproximate Pronunciation
kkTense k sound, similar to a stronger “k”
ttTense t sound, similar to a stronger “t”
ppTense p sound, similar to a stronger “p”
ssTense s sound, similar to a stronger “s”
jjTense j sound, similar to a stronger “j”

Note: These are called tense consonants because they are pronounced with greater tension in the speech muscles. They are not simply “double” versions of the basic consonants.

Basic Korean Greetings

Korean (한글)RomanizationMeaning
안녕하세요AnnyeonghaseyoHello
안녕AnnyeongHi / Bye (casual)
감사합니다GamsahamnidaThank you
고맙습니다GomapseumnidaThank you
죄송합니다JoesonghamnidaI’m sorry
미안합니다MianhamnidaI’m sorry
괜찮아요GwaenchanayoIt’s okay / I’m fine
NeYes
아니요AniyoNo
안녕히 가세요Annyeonghi gaseyoGoodbye (to someone leaving)
안녕히 계세요Annyeonghi gyeseyoGoodbye (when you are leaving)
잘 지내세요Jal jinaeseyoTake care / Hope you’re doing well
만나서 반가워요Mannaseo bangawoyoNice to meet you
잘 부탁드립니다Jal butakdeurimnidaI look forward to working with you / Please take good care of me
좋은 아침이에요Joeun achimieyoGood morning
좋은 하루 보내세요Joeun haru bonaeseyoHave a nice day
좋은 저녁 보내세요Joeun jeonyeok bonaeseyoHave a nice evening
오랜만이에요OraenmanieyoLong time no see
어떻게 지내세요?Eotteoke jinaeseyo?How are you?
잘 지내요Jal jinaeyoI’m doing well
이름이 뭐예요?Ireumi mwoyeyo?What is your name?
제 이름은 ___예요Je ireumeun ___yeyoMy name is ___
어디에서 왔어요?Eodieseo wasseoyo?Where are you from?
저는 ___에서 왔어요Jeoneun ___eseo wasseoyoI’m from ___
네, 맞아요Ne, majayoYes, that’s right
아니요, 괜찮아요Aniyo, gwaenchanayoNo, it’s okay
실례합니다SillyehamnidaExcuse me
잠시만요JamsimanyoJust a moment / Excuse me
다시 말씀해 주세요Dasi malsseumhae juseyoPlease say that again
천천히 말씀해 주세요Cheoncheonhi malsseumhae juseyoPlease speak slowly

Korean Romanization Charts: HERE 

Korean Language & Culture Quiz Answer 

These quizzes were originally shared on The Korea Society’s social media accounts. Try answering the questions yourself first, then check the answers and read the explanations to learn more. It’s a fun way to practice your Korean and build your knowledge of Korean language and culture!

When you are at a restaurant, how do you order food?

a. Wait for them to come to you
b. Ring the table bell
c. Raise your hand

Answer

Answer: B and C In Korea, at many restaurants, servers usually do not check on tables frequently like in some Western countries. Instead, customers actively call the staff when they are ready to order.

B. Ring the table bell — Many Korean restaurants have a call bell on the table that you press to get the server’s attention.

C. Raise your hand — If there is no bell, it is common to raise your hand or call out politely to the staff.

If you need something, what do you say to get the waiter’s attention?

a. 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)
b. 어서 오세요 (eoseo oseyo)
c. 저기요 (jeogiyo)

Answer

Answer: C 저기요 (jeogiyo)

In Korea, 저기요 is a common and polite way to call a waiter or get someone’s attention at a restaurant. It is similar to saying “Excuse me” in English.

a.안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo) = “Hello”
b.어서 오세요 (eoseo oseyo) = “Welcome” (what staff say to customers)
c.저기요 (jeogiyo) = “Excuse me” / “Over here”

So if you need service at a restaurant, you would say:

저기요!

Do people talk on the phone while riding transit in Korea?

A. Yes! Talking on the phone is common and no one cares.
B. No. Most people avoid phone calls on transit.

Answer

Answer: B. No. Most people avoid phone calls on transit.

Explanation:
In Korea, people generally try to avoid talking on the phone while riding public transportation, especially on buses and subways. Speaking loudly on the phone can be considered disruptive or impolite because passengers usually value a quiet environment.

If someone needs to take a call, they often speak quietly, keep the conversation brief, or move to a less crowded area. Many people prefer texting or messaging apps instead of making phone calls while on transit. This reflects a broader Korean social etiquette of being considerate of others in shared spaces.

What can you say when you need to get past someone in a crowd?

A. 저기요 (jeogiyo)
B. 실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)
C. 안녕 (annyeong)

Answer

Answer: B. 실례합니다 (sillyehamnida)

Explanation:
실례합니다 means “Excuse me” and is used when you need to politely get someone’s attention, pass by someone, or apologize for a small interruption. For example, when walking through a crowded subway or a busy street, you can say “실례합니다” to politely ask people to make space.

  • 저기요 (jeogiyo) = “Excuse me / Hey” — used to get someone’s attention, such as calling a server at a restaurant or starting a conversation.
  • 안녕 (annyeong) = “Hi / Bye” — a casual greeting used with friends or people close to you.

So, when you need to move through a crowd, “실례합니다” is the most appropriate and polite expression.