TOPIK & Beyond

In this episode of TOPIK & Beyond, we dive into the Korean tradition of 송년회 (song-nyeon-hoe), or end-of-year parties. These gatherings are a time for reflection, gratitude, and celebration with family, friends, or coworkers. Whether you’re planning to attend one, want to talk about it in Korean, or simply want to understand more about Korean culture, this episode has you covered. We’ll expl...

Episode Description: In this episode, we dive into three essential areas to help you express yourself naturally in Korean: describing your feelings, talking about preferences, and sharing opinions. These phrases and tips will make your Korean sound more conversational and confident. Plus, I’m sharing an exciting sneak peek of a special Black Friday offer designed to take your speaking skills to th...

In this full-Korean episode, we’re focusing on two essential forms, -어요 and -는 거예요, that can make your Korean sound more natural and conversational. These expressions are key to adding depth and personality to your everyday conversations, whether you’re describing your day or emphasizing a strong feeling. I’ll guide you through practical examples and answer common questions about when and ho...

In this episode, we dive into a key ingredient for sounding natural in Korean: fillers! Learn how to use essential fillers like 음 (um…), 그러니까 (so…), and 글쎄요 (well…) to make your Korean conversations feel smooth and effortless. These small words have a big impact, helping you bridge pauses, connect thoughts, and bring a relaxed, native tone to your speaking. Plus, get a sneak peek into next...

In this episode, we explore how the present tense in Korean transitions from formal, textbook-style language to natural, conversational expressions. I’ll guide you through three versions of a passage to highlight the differences between formal, beginner conversational, and intermediate conversational Korean. By understanding these styles, you’ll be able to adapt your Korean for different situation...

In this episode, we’ll explore key vocabulary to help you start transitioning from TOPIK Level I to Level II. These words will not only support your exam preparation but also enhance your everyday Korean conversations. I’ll guide you through practical examples and share tips on how to use these words correctly in context. You’ll also learn how to effectively use my free PDF vocabulary guide, which...

Welcome to the first episode of TOPIK & Beyond! I'm Eliza, a certified Korean teacher, and in this podcast, I'm here to guide you through your Korean language learning journey. Whether you're preparing for the TOPIK exam or just looking to improve your everyday Korean, you’re in the right place. In this episode, I'll share why I started this podcast and how my experiences learning other langua...