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The Korean Alphabet: An Introduction to Hangeul

Discover the basics of Hanguel, the official alphabet and writing system of Korea dating back to the fifteenth-century.

12,304 enrolled on this course

A large golden statue of King Sejong holding the book of Hunminjeongeum sits in front of a blue sky. Hangul letters overlay the right side of the image.

The Korean Alphabet: An Introduction to Hangeul

12,304 enrolled on this course

  • 4 weeks

  • 2 hours per week

  • Digital certificate when eligible

  • Introductory level

Find out more about how to join this course

Explore the Hanguel alphabet and start learning Korean

Hanguel, also spelt Hangul or Han’gŭl, is the alphabetic system used for writing the Korean language.

Known as Chosŏn muntcha in North Korea, it consists of 24 letters including 14 consonants and ten vowels.

The name combines the ancient Korean word han (‘great’), and geul (‘script’). The word han is used to refer to Korea in general, so the name also means ‘Korean script’.

This course is an introduction to the basics of Hanguel including the principles and systems of consonants and vowels, as well as an exploration of the creation and use of Hangeul in a wider historical context.

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Skip to 0 minutes and 10 seconds Hello everyone. This class will cover the Korean alphabet “Hangeul” in a fun and easy way. First we’ll cover what kind of alphabet it is, who created it and the creation process. Next we’ll learn about the principles behind Hangeul’s character creation and its characteristics. Finally we’ll explore how to read and write in Hangeul. Shall we get started?

What topics will you cover?

  1. Introduction and features of Hangeul
  2. Invention and Dissemination of Hangeul
  3. Principles of Hangeul
  4. How to use Hangeul

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

  • Available now

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

  • Explore how Hangeul is different from the Roman alphabet, Japanese characters and other characters.
  • Investigate the creation, dissemination and the historical context of Hangeul.
  • Discuss the principles and systems of Hangeul consonants and vowels.
  • Experiment reading signs or names in Hangeul and experiment with writing words in your language in Hangeul.

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for students and teachers of Korean as well as anyone interested in Korean or alphabets from around the world.

Who will you learn with?

I am a professor of Korean Language and Literature at Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, Korea. I currently teach classes on Korean language to undergraduate students, and on Korean grammar instruction

Who developed the course?

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

Sungkyunkwan University, founded in 1398 as the highest national educational institute in the early years of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea, has fostered leaders of Korean society for over 600 years.

  • Established

    1398
  • Location

    Seoul, South Korea
  • World ranking

    Top 100Source: QS World University Rankings 2021

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Ways to learn

Choose the best way to learn for you!

Subscribe & save

$27.99

For the first two months. Automatically renews

Develop skills to further your career

  • Access to this course
  • Access to 1,000+ courses
  • Learn at your own pace
  • Discuss your learning in comments
  • Digital certificate when you're eligible

Cancel for free anytime

Buy this course

$134/one-off payment

Fulfill your current learning need

  • Access to this course
  • Learn at your own pace
  • Discuss your learning in comments
  • Printed and digital certificate when you’re eligible

Limited access

Free

Sample the course materials

  • Access expires 16 Apr 2024

Find out more about certificates, Unlimited or buying a course (Upgrades)

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