TOPIK Level 1 is the entry tier of the Test of Proficiency in Korean. It's reached by scoring 80-139 on TOPIK I. This guide explains the vocabulary and grammar it covers, sample tasks, and a realistic study plan for a complete beginner.
Korean TokTok
TOPIK is the official Korean proficiency test, organized into 6 levels across 2 exams β TOPIK I (Levels 1-2) and TOPIK II (Levels 3-6). This guide explains how the levels map to your score, what each exam contains, and how to pick the right test for you.
Korean TokTok
TOPIK Level 2 is the upper tier of TOPIK I, earned with a score of 140 or higher. It certifies survival Korean for daily life β about 1,500-2,000 vocab words and core grammar. This guide covers scope, sample tasks, and a realistic 3-month study plan.
TOPIK Level 1 is the entry tier of the Test of Proficiency in Korean (νκ΅μ΄λ₯λ ₯μν, Hanguk-eo Neungryeok Siheom). You earn Level 1 by scoring between 80 and 139 points on the TOPIK I exam (Levels 1 and 2 share a single test; your score determines which level you qualify for). It certifies you can handle very basic Korean β introductions, simple daily life phrases, essential particles and endings.
A Level 1 passer is expected to:
-μ/μ΄μ-a/eoyo), formal ending (-γ
/μ΅λλ€-γ
/seupnida), past tense (-μ/μ-at/eot), and a handful of connectors (-κ³ -go, -μ§λ§-jiman)The test itself (TOPIK I) has two sections:
Each section is 100 points; together 200. You need 80+ total to pass Level 1 and 140+ to pass Level 2.
A typical Level 1 listening item sounds like:
μ¬μ: μ§κΈ λ ν΄μ? λ¨μ: μΉκ΅¬λ₯Ό λ§λμ.
Question: λ¨μλ μ§κΈ λ ν΄μ? (What is the man doing now?)
A typical reading item shows a short ad or notice and asks "When is the event?" or "Where is the place?" Visual cues help enormously.
If you're starting from zero Hangul, give yourself three months of consistent study:
Use free past papers published by NIIED, the official TOPIK administrator.
