What it means
한글 is the Korean writing system, created in 1443 by King Sejong the Great. It has 14 consonants and 10 vowels, combining into syllable blocks. Widely praised as one of the most scientifically designed writing systems in the world.
Nuance & when to use
한글 ≠ 한국어. 한글 = the writing system/alphabet. 한국어 = the Korean language (including grammar, vocabulary). You can learn 한글 (the letters) in a few hours — the sounds and vocabulary take much longer. 한글날 (October 9) is Hangeul Day, a national holiday.
⚠ Common mistake
Foreigners often say "I'm learning 한글" when they mean they're learning Korean (한국어). 한글 is just the script; 한국어 is the full language.
Example sentences
See also
FAQ
When is this used?
한글 ≠ 한국어. 한글 = the writing system/alphabet. 한국어 = the Korean language (including grammar, vocabulary). You can learn 한글 (the letters) in a few hours — the sounds and vocabulary take much longer. 한글날 (October 9) is Hangeul Day, a national holiday.
What's a common mistake?
Foreigners often say "I'm learning 한글" when they mean they're learning Korean (한국어). 한글 is just the script; 한국어 is the full language.
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