I always had an affinity for new languages. And that love has finally brought me to Korean. Known for its unique script, Hanguel, learning this language can give you a headstart with those K-pop flicks and dramas.
Whether you’re a student or a working professional who is planning to visit Korea for travel, study, work, or business purposes, the Korean learning apps will help you with vocabulary building and day-to-day conversations.
But there are a bunch of them, and locating effective ones can be challenging. That’s why I have compiled a list of recommendations based on my own research and personal experience using them for my week-long trip to South Korea.
Top 10 Apps for Learning Korean [Android & iOS]
These are not any random suggestions. I evaluated over 30 apps, considering expert opinions, alignment with Korean education standards, user reviews, and hands-on testing before my trip.
The featured apps have structured lessons, fun content, beginner-friendly features, and a focus on grammar. Let’s get into it.
1. Best Interactive: Korean Language Learning Games
If you want to master Korean with fun and games, this one is it. This app focuses on game-based and interactive learning. Furthermore, it keeps the learners engaged, all while covering everything from grammar to vocabulary.
It is perfect for students and beginners who want to ease into the Korean language slowly.
Key Features
- Different difficulty levels
- Progress tracking support
- Regular updates
- Visual and acoustic aids
- Interactive games
- Cultural insights
2. Best for Structured Learning: LingoDeer
For individuals who are serious about the Korean language and are interested in a curriculum-based learning approach with a focus on organized lessons, LingoDeer takes the cake.
Every lesson is as detailed as possible, with adequate attention to details related to vocabulary and grammar.
What works even better is the intuitive UI, followed by the clean app layout. Plus, it can detect speech, bring in cultural notes to amplify the learning experience, and help you build a strong Korean base.
Not just Korean, but the app also helps you learn Italian, Vietnamese, Arabic, German, French, Thai, and more.
key Features
- Grammar tips
- Structured lessons
- Speech recognition
- Offline learning support
- Access to other languages
- Interactive exercises
3. Best for Conversations: Eggbun
Eggbun, the app, makes a name for itself by being one of the best options for learning conversations in Korean.
It works by integrating a Chatbot-driven learning technique, where a person can learn and even practice the conversational aspects of the language.
Using this app feels like texting a friend in Korean. What works best for this app is the ability to bring in real-life scenarios and topics, making learning fun. Plus, you get access to graphics and a fun UI.
Key Features
- Audio lessons
- Access to grammar and vocabulary bits
- Quizzes
- Progress tracking functionality
- Cultural lessons
- Packed with chatbot support
4. Best for Script: Write It! Korean
As the name suggests, the Write It! Korean app is useful for advanced Korean mastery. Using this, you can very well become an expert in Hanguel — the Korean script. This way, you should even be able to learn the intricacies of the language, slowly moving towards native-like expertise.
Yes, it still offers basic reading and writing options for beginners, but the functionality that lets you practice writing, memorizing characters, and more stands out.
Key Features
- Instant feedback
- Progress tracking
- Voice recognition
- Offline access
- Customizable practice sets
- Writing practice
- Stroke order support for better writing
5. Best for Traveling: TEUIDA Learn Korean & Japanese
The TEUIDA app stands out in its Korean teaching capabilities. It brings practical scenarios and then teaches you the basics and complexities of the language with the scenario.
This app, therefore, makes more sense to travelers who aren’t interested in learning the script but mostly the key phrases to converse while traveling.
Almost every professional scenario is covered from attending a business meeting to having lunch at a restaurant. You can choose the TEUIDA to acquire the practical communication edge based on usability.
Key Features
- Access to interactive dialogues
- Voice recording support
- Content updates
- Bilingual learning
- Cultural insights
- Grammar focus
6. Best for Speaking: HelloTalk
In case you want an app that has a network of native Korean speakers teaching you, HelloTalk takes the cake. The app connects native speakers across the globe, presenting a unique experience that hinges on language exchange.
The idea is to allow users to chat, send voice and text messages, and even initiate calls in Korean, thereby improving their Korean every step along the way.
It is the social and conversational aspect of HelloTalk that makes it insanely popular.
Key Features
- Voice and text messaging support
- Translation and language correction tools
- Cultural exchange
- Community learning
- Language tools
- Interactive UI
7. Best Korean Vocab: Infinite Korean
Infinite Korean is simply a gamified app that helps learn the Korean language by improving your vocabulary. As a beginner, if you are mostly interested in learning the names and terms, this has to be the perfect app.
And guess what? The lineup of fun in-app activities ensures that each word is tied with a fun element, helping you better memorize the same.
From food-based terms to travel-specific elements, the Infinite Korean app covers a wide range of scenarios. Plus, you can even indulge in vocab-specific games.
Key Features
- Daily challenges
- Progressive levels for better learning
- Interactive games
- Diverse vocabulary categories
- Leaderboards for games
- Audio pronunciation of words
8. Best for Trips: 90-Day Korean
Already familiar with basic Korean? Or only planning a trip to Korea for a few days? Well, if these are your requirements, the 90-Day Korean app has you covered. This app works best for disciplined and focused learners, helping build the entire Korean language framework within 90 days.
From writing lessons to dedicated speaking sessions and reading support, the 90-Day Korean app has everything for the most intensive learning experience.
Key Features
- Access to language coaches
- Customized learning plan
- Community support
- Personal Coaching
- Regular assessments
- Cultural insights for a better experience
9. Best for Beginners: Learn Korean (Beginners)
If you are only looking to gain basic Korean language insights, this app fits in rather perfectly. From basic phrases to common vocabulary, this app has it all.
Despite the grammar-based coverage, you only need to learn the basic elements and not the most complex aspects of the Korean script.
The app is the best option if you want to get your basics cleared and get a feel of the Korean language, before advancing to the more complex elements.
Key Features
- Progress tracking functionality
- Offline access
- Audio-based word pronunciations
- Interactive quizzes
- Cultural notes
10. Best for Comprehensive Learning: Learn Korean!
If you want end-to-end Korean coverage, the Learn Korean! app is the one to invest in. From covering the basics to letting you delve deeper into the script-based elements of the Korean language, this tool has it all.
What stands out is the app integrates listening, reading, grammar, and even vocabulary-based exercises to teach Korean in its entirety.
Despite the features and possibilities, the app comes with an easy UI.
Key Features
- Grammar focus
- Flashcards for seamless memorization
- Interactive quizzes
- Progress tracking support
- Detailed course material
Frequently Asked Questions
To learn Korean, you must start by getting the hang of the Korean alphabet or script — Hanguel. Post that, you can practice the same using apps like Write It! Korean, and more. Once you know the script, you must head over to expanding your vocabulary, followed by understanding grammar and sentence structuring better. The last step involves regular listening and speaking practice.
Learning the language in 10 days is nothing short of ambitious. However, if you still want to proceed and learn only the basics, the aforementioned apps might be useful.
Learning Korean without a tutor can be a challenge. However, using some of the reviewed apps and being consistent is the key to succeeding. Plus, the extent of proficiency also depends on your requirements.
For instance, if you are a traveler planning a trip to South Korea, apps like Eggbun, HelloTalk, and more can help you learn a lot on your own.
Wrap Up!
Each of the reviewed apps caters to a specific type of individual. I’ve included ones with multiple learning techniques. I hope you found the list helpful. If you’ve any suggestions or queries, feel free to comment below.
Leave a Reply