Learning a new language is not easy, and it takes a process and effort. Especially for you who are taking Korean language classes because Korean is ranked as one of the most difficult languages to learn. One of the aspects that makes it hard is because it is a hierarchical language. However, making mistakes in a learning process is a common thing. Therefore, no need to feel stressed. Here, we share five common mistakes you could avoid during your Korean language classes.
Using Romanization
We all understand that seeing whole different alphabets in the Korean writing system can be intimidating. Still, know that the Korean writing system Hangul is quite easy to learn. They have 24 letters, and once you understand the sound they represent, you will easily know how to read them.
You will be surprised at how fast you will learn Hangul. Relaying on romanization during your first times in the process seems to be the easiest way. However, it can confuse you instead because romanization is inconsistent when used in Korean materials.
Neglecting Pronunciation
One of the things that make Korean difficult to learn is their pronunciation. If you are an English speaker, you will notice that many sounds are similar to English sounds but not quite. Korean has two similar “o” sounds and the vowel “으”, which can’t be found in English.
Moreover, they have three “t-like” sounds, three “k-like” sounds, three “ch-like” sounds but no “ch”, two “s-like” sounds but no “s”, and three “p-like” sounds but no “p”. That is why ignoring your pronunciation and hoping the listeners will understand you are a big mistake.
Using Incorrect Honorific
Korea, like most Asian countries, respects elders in the politest speaking way. In Korean, there are differences between speaking to your friends and speaking to someone older than you or in higher positions. It is essential to know what to use during informal chats and when to speak more politely.
Even if you are a learner, do not expect people to understand you. Using the wrong honorific when addressing someone can make you sound rude and offend someone even if you do not have that intention.
Implementing English Word Order
Another common mistake during Korean language classes is confusing Korean word order and English word order. While the basic word order is S.V.O (Subject, Verb, Object), Korean sentence structure is S.O.V. The word order mistakes are mostly made in long sentences that use multiple adjectives or adverbs.
Make yourself common to this new word order by practicing a lot. Make sure you ask your teachers or native speakers if you know one, and ask them whether you have already used the right structure or not. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Overusing Pronouns
The most common mistake in Korean language classes is non-Korean speakers use too many pronouns. For example, when you are introducing yourself, you may say, “Hi, my name is Bill. I come from the United States. I enjoy learning Korean.” Here, you will notice that the pronoun “I” is used too many.
In English, it is common things to repeat personal pronouns. When omitting the word “I” in that sentence, you will still understand but find it weird in your ears. Korean, on the other hand, say a little pronoun most of the time.
Do not let those common mistakes stop you from taking or continuing your Korean language classes. Consider them as a good start. Now that you can be more aware of those mistakes, learning can be far easier.