This semester, we will be focusing on the reading and writing of Korean Hangul system. I am very excited because by learning the Hangul system, not only could I be able to write Korean words, but my ability of reading and listening will be greatly improved as well since I will be able to link the pronunciation with the letters.
We learned the 14 basic consonants this week. Most Korean consonants come in three versions, unaspirated (without a puff of air), aspirated (with a puff of air) and tensed (stressed). Unaspirated consonants exist in English too, but never alone, for example, the sound of 'p' in "pot" (aspirated) and "spot" (unaspirated).I found it helpful to pronounce a little "m" in front to 'stop' the puff. While Tensing isn't really found in English, pronouncing the consonant quick and hard could be a good way for tensing consonants.
Also, I found a very useful video to self study Korean alphabet: http://korean.cuk.edu/en/. There are many different levels of Korean language learning lectures. Level 1.1, 1.2 are the introduction of consonants and vowels and the pace and structure of the lectures are very good for beginners.
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