I'm thinking to study Korean. I pretty much know the basics, but I don't live in Korea, so I'm wondering what I can do to still improve and practice it. Any ideas?
2006-12-27 15:25:40 · 4 answers · asked by JudasHero 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
Oh yeah, and no, I'm not willing to move there, so any other suggestions would be helpful. Thanks.
2006-12-27 15:33:31 · update #1
I'm studying Arabic and I'm Chinese-born and raised in the US so I'm also trying to make my Chinese more fluent. And my mother's a language teacher so I've got a few tips.
1. I usually review vocabulary and grammar right before I go to sleep and right after I wake up (like, looking at a textbook while I eat breakfast or brush my teeth). It really works (for any subject).
2. Repetition. Keep looking at the book :/.
3. Listening to things in that language. For example, I listen to Arabic and Chinese music and I watch Chinese television shows and as much Arab ones as I can. Even though I don't understand the Arabic songs at all (except for the ocassional word), it gets me used to the language.
Korean television shows, movies, and music are extremely popular among Asians (in the US and in Asia) so finding ones to download are not hard at all (forums, blogs, Youtube, etc. have people who upload entire television series, movies, and albums for others' viewing pleasures). They're not hard to find either if you want to purchase them (go to yesasia). I watch and listen to Korean things so I'd be happy to point you to places or shows/artists if you would like.
Even if you're viewing them with subtitles, it's still good practice because you get used to the different tones and pronunciations. It also a huge ego-booster when you recognize or understand what they're saying :D.
There are also tons of Korean shows that teach English, so maybe they'll be useful? Lol.
I know there are a few Chinese television shows that teach Chinese that's geared towards English-speakers. There should be Korean equivalents as well.
4. Labelling. I label things I've learned in Arabic (bookself, bathroom, table, etc.). I first start off with the romanization and then once I get that down, I move on to actual Arabic script.
5. Make new Korean-speaking friends :). And speak to them of course! Plus, it also gets you a little closer to the culture. Aaand who can say no to more friends?
6. Children's books. Find children's books with really basic Korean and read them. It's definitely far better to enjoy reading something. It also gets you more exposed to the culture. Children's books are definitely really interesting to analyze. And it gets you in touch with your inner child ^_^!
7. If you've achieved a certain level, try to find good translations of your favorite books. For me, I've found a really great translation of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings in Chinese. It's a great way to learn and getting through an entire chapter feels like a huge accomplishment. Plus, it makes understanding a little bit easier because you'll know the story already. Helps with getting used to the grammar, etc.
8. I respond to my mother and close friends in Arabic even though they don't understand a word.
9. Take advantage of every opportunity. If you go to Korean restaurants for instance (run by Korean-speaking Koreans of course), don't be afraid to speak Korean to them (unless they look mean). It usually amuse and impress them.
10. I assume you're not taking classes. I would suggest that you take classes. It's much easier learning a language with the help of a teacher, lol. Try to visit South Korea too. It's a really great place for eating, shopping, and karaoking. And you'll definitely find more people there willing to help you with your Korean. Asians are usually pretty open and friendly to Westerners (assuming that you are one of course) trying to learn Asian languages/culture.
2006-12-27 22:09:27 · answer #1 · answered by ? 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you live near a university that offers Korean courses, you could see if you are able to enroll. Also, if there are Korean exchange students there, you may be able to practice with them. If you are nearing (or already are) the age where you can enter college, then you should definitely try to find one that offers Korean. Taking classes is the best way to make sure that you know the language and are using it correctly and like a native.
The Polyglot site I've listed is also popular for those who cannot take classes. If you don't like that site, there are many websites that help people who want to study each other's languages to do language exchanges.
Good luck!
2006-12-27 23:59:59 · answer #2 · answered by Rabbityama 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I love Korean :]
There are some videos on Youtube that teaches Korean. I'm Korean so I have never actually looked at these videos but there were a lot of views. Just type in How to learn Korean or something.
I'd also suggest going to a bookstore and finding books on Korean.
THe best way believe is to watch Korean dramas on Youtube that have subtitles. The dramas are cute and you'll also be learning Korean :]
Good Luck.
2006-12-28 01:43:13 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
go to Korea and live there for a year or so, so you can learn the language perfectly or go to a Foreign Korean guy/lady,Be friends with him/her, and ask him/her to learn the language adn that it.
Make sure they don't hate/don't like you, or the wise bride/pay them with a lot of big ones(slang for 100 dollars or any other money system that you use in your country.)
2006-12-27 23:32:21 · answer #4 · answered by Ugly George Bush 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋