10 Best Apps for Learning Korean in 2022 (Duolingo, LingoDeer, and More)
Whether you have roots in Korean culture, you're a K-pop or K-drama lover, or you just want to know more about Korea in general, a great place to start is by learning the language. Language apps are a great way to do so, but there are a ton of choices out there, right? That's why we researched and compiled a list of 10 of the best Korean learning apps out there.
Out of all the apps we researched, we liked Drops the best. This app claims, "You have only 5 minutes per day to learn Korean. Might sound insane but works like a charm!". The five-minute sessions are designed to make learning effortless and addicting through games and illustration. If you prefer different modes of learning, check out the rest of our list and our buying guide to find the right app for you!
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How to Choose an App for Learning Korean - Buying Guide
Having trouble picking an app for learning Korean? Don’t worry! We’re here to help you sort through the sea of options.
Consider Your Goal for Learning Korean
The type of app you get will depend largely on what your goal is. There is a large difference between studying Korean casually or with intent of fluency, so make sure you choose a style that fits your goals best.
Basics for Beginners or Traveling
If you're just starting your Korean language learning journey or looking to brush up for a trip to the peninsula, try centering your goals around the basics. Even learning the basics of Korean will help you understand K-dramas a little better.
Look for apps that are for absolute beginners and aren’t too intensive, offering short daily vocab lessons or alphabet practice.
Holistic Learning Is Best for Full Fluency
If you’re looking to become fully fluent, look for intensive apps. When trying to become fluent, you have to gain holistic skills in the language, including speaking, typing, listening, and reading. However, you can become more fluent in one aspect, such as speaking, before you master the others.
There are many holistic language learning apps, but some don't provide all of the above skills in every language they offer. For example, popular languages like Spanish and French tend to have more resources than others.
Other apps focus on one aspect of language learning, such as vocabulary acquisition, so you can consider downloading several different apps to reach fluency. If you want to become fluent in Korean, it may be easier to just invest in a language learning app that focuses on Korean language skills.
Talking With Others for Creating Relationships
If you’re more interested in making friends and connecting with people in Korea, look for apps that connect you with native Korean speakers. Many of these are voice calling apps, but there are several messaging apps if you only want to write.
There are social media-style apps where you can post written excerpts in your target language to be corrected, ask or answer questions about the target language, and respond to discussion boards about various different topics. They are a great way to both learn your target language and potentially make friends.
If you're focused on speaking skills, there are also voice calling apps where you can talk with a native speaker from your target language. Many of these apps are on a barter system, so you can also contribute your native language skills in another conversation with that same partner!
Look for Mechanics Based on Your Learning Style
Everyone has their own learning style. You’ll want to implement what works best for you, so pick an app that matches your learning preferences. For instance, if you're aiming to become fluent, a game based app will not offer you the intensity you need. However, they are great if you're trying to study hard while gaming hard!
Self-Learn With Automatic Grading or Reading
If you're a self-learner, automatic grading or self-grading will be good for you. You will be able to get immediate feedback on your answers, allowing you to process the mistake and move on. Self-grading will help you identify patterns in your language skills and address them. Some apps allow you to go through the lessons again, which is great for repetitive practice.
Reading is another great way to learn Korean comprehension in a fun and organic setting. Some apps offer short stories that end with comprehension questions, pushing you to pay attention to your target language's written text.
Overall, Korean language apps are made for self-sufficient learning. Since apps are generally more interactive than textbooks, they can be a relatively effective method compared to traditional learning!
Collective Learning With Penpals or Tutors
Some apps pair you with tutors, penpals, and even short-term conversation partners. These apps are a great way to expose you to the trials of speaking a new language in a safe space. The people on these apps are always willing to help, and you can search for people who are a good match for you.
Game Apps for Non-Traditional Learning
If you dislike traditional learning, such as flashcards, memorization, and testing, you should look for an app that functions as a game or has game-like features! These types of apps will capture your attention better and might even motivate you through the win-or-lose nature of games.
Ensure the App Suits Your Level and Commitment
While most apps have several different levels, some may not be as beginner-friendly or as advanced as you need. You should also consider your day-to-day schedule and select an app with an appropriate amount of commitment.
Hangul for Beginners, Grammar for Advanced Learners
If you are a beginner, finding an app that teaches Hangul is a great first step into the language. Hangul, the Korean alphabet, is the basis of all Korean, so apps that cover this will have levels available for very beginners. You can also tell if an app is geared for beginners if it offers basic vocabulary and sentence construction lessons, such as how to introduce yourself.
Advanced learners should turn to apps offering grammar-heavy lessons. If an app skips Hangul lessons, then it's likely aimed for this type of learner. While speaking skills can be learned at any level, many intermediate and advanced apps push speaking skills more than beginner apps.
Many apps offer placement tests to help you assess what your learning level is. Alternatively, they will denote their learning units according to difficulty. While it can be beneficial to push yourself, when learning a new language it's good to start with the basics unless you're sure you can handle intermediate and advanced lessons.
Set a Realistic Study Schedule
You know your schedule best! If you don’t trust yourself to devote more than five minutes a day to studying, don’t choose an app that suggests 30 minutes or more a day. By setting realistic goals from the start, you will position yourself for success. Making studying a daily habit is key, even if it's only for a short amount of time!
Some apps offer study reminder notifications, the most famous of which is probably Duolingo. This is great if you want to study every day but are forgetful.
On the other hand, if you want an app that will still track your progress without having to stick to a strict schedule, look for apps that offer adjustable study goals, such as goals based on units completed rather than days completed.
Look for Extra Features That Encourage Learning
There are also features to specifically assist your learning journey, such as placement tests that will accurately place you in a learning level, flashcard creation for retention of grammar and vocabulary, and extra learning resources such as podcasts and YouTube videos.
Some resources may come with a price, but will provide additional material that will enhance your language learning. Check the app's pricing structure to make sure the features you want are within your budget.
10 Best Apps for Learning Korean
| Products | Image | Click to purchase | Popularity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | LingoDeer LingoDeer |  | No.1 | |
2 | HelloTalk HelloTalk Foreign Language Exchange |  | No.2 | |
3 | Drops: Learn Korean Planb Labs Ou |  | No.3 | |
4 | Eggbun Eggbun Education Co., Ltd |  | No.4 | |
5 | Korean - Lessons+ Technical Data Freeway |  | No.5 | |
6 | Infinite Korean Jernung |  | No.6 | |
7 | Teuida Teuida |  | No.7 | |
8 | Duolingo Duolingo |  | No.8 | |
9 | Learn Korean Hangul Alphabet Luli Languages |  | No.9 | |
10 | Learn Korean Phrasebook Codegent |  | No.10 |
Pros:
Cons:
This app takes a typical classroom language learning curriculum and puts it into a fun app. It's perfect for self-learners who are seeking interactive ways to study. The courses provide learning tips, two to five lessons, vocabulary, pop quizzes, and stories. However, after one free lesson, a membership is required to access the rest of the content.
Overall, reviewers say this app offers a well-rounded approach to learning Korean. They like that the lessons are fun, and some users report that they are learning very quickly. Reviewers also like the "learning tips" in each lesson, saying this information helps them be extra prepared!
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This app utilizes a social media approach to help you improve your Korean skills. While the primary features are the language partners and photo sharing, the app also has a podcast, live classes, five-minute vocabulary practices, and news articles.
Many of the app's criticisms are about fixing bugs and occasional bad experiences with other people using the app. However, most reviewers say its social media aspect is very effective and fun, noting that they are exposed to many useful words. Plus, many users report they have made friends on this app!
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The addictiveness of games and the reward of learning combine to make this great beginners' app. It teaches vocabulary with images, so you won't rely on your native language. There's a five-minute time limit for studying, where you get to do a variety of game-like exercises. For example, you can swipe to match words and images. If you want more study time, you can buy more time, watch ads, or refer friends.
Some people wish that the free version had a longer time limit or that 10-hour reload time was shorter. However, reviewers like the way it tracks your progress. They also say that this app helps them consistently and quickly learn vocab and is fun to use.
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If you've ever wanted your own personal Korean tutor, consider this app. The live chatbot guides you through lessons about reading, writing, vocab, and speaking just like a personal tutor would. This app also has an entire section about Korean culture and useful tips.
Some reviewers mention having issues downloading or using the premium version. However, overall, many users like the interactive nature of the chatbot, Lanny. Specifically, many users enjoy being able to learn at their own pace. They especially recommend this app for beginners, saying the content is easy to understand.
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This app has material for beginners and advanced learners alike. It's full of podcasts, Hangul lessons, grammar lessons, video content, and PDF files. The app seems to be in the process of improving its interface, so there are some bugs at the moment.
Some reviewers mention issues with accessing the PDF files. However, users are very happy with the amount of content, saying it's a great app for learning many aspects of Korean. They especially like how the PDF files help visualize the information and the plethora of podcasts.
Pros:
Cons:
This app utilizes an addictive, fast-paced game to teach a comprehensive amount of vocab. It encourages the acquisition of language without the assistance of your native tongue, by using images and offering the ability to turn off romanization.
Some reviewers complain that the sound sometimes stops working, which makes the game difficult to play. However, many reviewers rave about the game's effectiveness, saying it's especially beneficial for beginners. They also appreciate the large amount of free content.
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Rather than teaching basic phrases like "I am a boy," this app teaches you first-person conversations you can use in real life, giving you plenty of practical speaking practice. Practicing Korean with a native speaker can be nerve-wracking, so this app utilizes an AI pronunciation grader to judge your speech. It's is an excellent way to start practicing without feeling embarrassed!
Some reviewers wish previous lessons were available to view for reviewing purposes and dislike the number of ads in the free version. However, many users like that this app lets them speak without fear of mistakes. They also appreciate the engaging videos and interactive lessons.
Pros:
Cons:
In this app, Korean is taught in small amounts using a variety of exercises. The interactive lessons cover grammar, speaking, and vocabulary, and the content is geared towards beginners. However, it does not teach Hangul, or Korean characters. This app is also incredibly user-friendly and shows you your progress as you go.
Some users are unhappy with the way the app punishes wrong answers. Some reviewers also note issues with the accuracy of the automated audio. However, many users enjoy the fun and quick lessons, saying that this app is a great companion to other language tools. Many also note that it's excellent for casual learners.
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This app focuses on helping people learn how to write Hangul, the Korean alphabet. The major feature of this app is that it doesn't let you progress unless you write the letters properly, ensuring that you learn them correctly. You can complete the free levels or pay to unlock all of the content.
Many reviewers appreciate the app's strict grading, saying it helps them learn. They also really like being able to practice writing the characters in the correct stroke order. Plus, they say they also get to learn Korean phonics.
Pros:
Cons:
This is a travel-specific app geared towards helping you navigate your first time in Korea as smoothly as possible. The app is separated into categories, such as "Greetings," "Eating Out," and "Tongue Twisters." You can adjust the audio speed to your liking. Certain sounds can slur together in Korean, so this speed feature is incredibly useful.
Some reviewers feel that the free version of the app lacks content. However, many reviewers say that it's fun to use, noting that the user interface is easy to navigate. They also confirm that it has helpful phrases for traveling.
Looking for More Helpful Apps?
Apps can be very useful tools, especially when you're trying to learn a new language. Check out more of our favorite apps that can help you reach your goals!
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