Korean Job Discussion Forums

[KwardBound]

So, how many of you had 0 language ability, but picked up a decent amount in Korea? How long did it taKe you?

[uklathemock]

[Fox]

I obtained a basic proficiency in a few months, and am somewhere in the intermediate range after 2 years (though I've been very lazy about studying for the last 6 months). I could be much better than I am, but I don't work on it very hard.

[pianowill]

Learning the alphabet - a few days.

I've been incredibly slow at picking up basic phrases, but most people I know have a pretty easy time with it. I don't really study in my free time, but I've had two to three 1-hour lessons every week. My Korean teacher has been using a book, which I kind of regret, because while I can ask you how old your aunt's grandmother is, I can't tell you how to get to the bank.

Focus on the practical, the stuff you will be using to help yourself in Korea.

Phrases in order of importance:
1. Restaurants/Transportation (how much? go straight. does this bus go to myeongdong?)
2. Greetings, polite, cordial conversation (hi, how are you? that's great.)
3. Anything that goes into detail about something that doesn't have to do with money or getting somewhere

[suzhou2010]

Yeah I'd also say 6 months of diligent study is a godo amount of time to get the living basics down . . After 2-3 years I'd say I've hit intermediate level. The best thing for me was having a friend who would ONLY speak in Korean to me, except when I didn't understand. Its hard to find someone who will do this but if you can you will improve rapidly!

[Epik_Teacher]

Go to a bittorrent site and download n audio book Korean language program. Load it on an MP3 player and listen to it when you are not doing anything. Any kind of search will turn them up.