How I learnt Korean with First Step Korean (Yonsei University), Korean Language Certificate course (IGNOU)

 *This is the first part of an email interview conducted online with an Indian Korean learner. For more details, please refer to the content below.

Q1. Could you please briefly introduce yourself? (optional)

I’m Manika Sethi, a student who has always been fascinated by languages and cultures. I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and English Literature major) and a Diploma in Teaching, and along the way, I also earned certifications like CTET and Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) Level 2 in Korean.

My journey into Korean language and culture has been both challenging and rewarding, and it has shaped not only my academic interests but also the way I see opportunities for education and cross-cultural exchange. 

Q2. Why did you choose Korean over all other foreign languages? How long have you studied Korean? Do you have any TOPIK level certification? 

I chose Korean because it felt like more than just a language to me. I was drawn to the culture first, through music, dramas, and that curiosity slowly turned into a genuine passion for understanding the language itself.

My interest in Korean actually started back in 2013, when I was watching K-dramas and listening to Korean music. I always wanted to understand the meaning of every dialogue and every lyric in their own language rather than a translation.

During the COVID lockdown, I had more time at home and began teaching myself the alphabet and some basic phrases through YouTube. In 2023, I finally got the chance to study at King Sejong Institute (KCCI), and that’s when I began learning the language professionally.

Since then, I’ve completed up to Level 4. I also hold a TOPIK Level 2 certification, which reflects my current proficiency.

Section 1: First Step Korean (Coursera) by Yonsei University)

Q1. What motivated you to begin your Korean learning journey with a course, and why did you choose First Step Korean on Coursera?

I wanted to start my Korean journey from somewhere, and at that time, I didn’t know about KCCI. I came across the First Step Korean course on Coursera and chose it as a structured way to begin learning the basics properly.

Q2. Could you share how the course was structured — free/ paid, enrollment, duration, topics covered, teaching style, exams, and learning pace?

The First Step Korean course on Coursera was a free beginner-level course that I enrolled in easily online. It was self-paced, so I could learn according to my schedule.

The course lasted about 5 weeks and covered the Korean alphabet (Hangul), basic greetings, daily vocabulary, simple grammar, and introductions. The teaching style was very structured, with short video lectures, practice exercises, and quizzes at the end of each week.

It gave me a clear foundation and confidence to move on to advanced learning later. 

Q3. How was the experience of learning from Yonsei University professors online? Did the course feel interactive and engaging, despite being self-paced?

It was a good experience overall, and learning from Yonsei University professors online definitely felt valuable. But since I personally learn better in a classroom setting with a teacher physically present, I did find it a bit difficult to stay consistent without getting distracted. Still, it gave me a solid start and foundation.

Q4. Did it give you enough foundation to move to the next stage?  Did they provide any certification (free or paid)?

Yes, the course provided me with a solid foundation to move to the next stage. They did offer a paid certificate, so I opted for the digital copy.

Q5. Would you recommend First Step Korean to others who want to start learning Korean casually or as a hobby? Why or why not?

Yes, I would recommend First Step Korean to beginners who want to explore Korean casually or as a hobby.

It’s structured in a simple and systematic way, which makes it easy to follow. The bite-sized lessons and self-paced format are convenient for learners who want flexibility.

However, if someone learns better with a teacher’s guidance or needs strong discipline to stay consistent, they might find it challenging to keep up on their own. For casual learners, though, it’s definitely a good starting point.

Section 2: Certificate course in Korean Language (IGNOU)

Q6. After Coursera, you chose IGNOU’s online certificate program. What motivated that decision (was it for academic recognition, structured study, language competency, or career goals)?  (optional)

After completing the Coursera course, I wanted to take my Korean learning more professionally and with proper academic recognition. That’s when I found IGNOU’s online certificate program, which provided both structured study and a certified credential. So, I opted for it to strengthen my language foundation.

Q7. How different is IGNOU’s program compared to Coursera in terms of duration, syllabus, assignments, and evaluation? 

IGNOU also works in a similar way to online learning, but with some added structure. They provide physical books, and students are required to submit assignments regularly.

There are also term-end exams conducted at designated centres, which ensure that learning is properly assessed. So, while it offers flexibility like online platforms, it also combines traditional elements like study materials and exams.

Q8. IGNOU is known for distance learning. How is the support system (study materials, online resources, interaction with teachers, and doubt clarification)?

IGNOU provides strong support for distance learners through well-structured study materials, online resources like eGyankosh, and access to study centres for teacher interaction and doubt clarification, making the learning process flexible yet well-guided.

Q9. Did IGNOU’s program give you confidence in reading, writing, and grammar? How practical is it for real communication in Korean? Do they prepare students for TOPIK too?

Yes, IGNOU’s program definitely strengthened my reading, writing, and grammar. However, for real-life communication, I relied more on practice outside the course, like speaking with peers and using online platforms.

While the program builds a strong foundation, it doesn’t directly prepare for TOPIK, so I supplemented with Sejong Institute courses and personal practice for that.

Section 3: Tips & Recommendations

Q10. What advice would you give to Indian students who want to start learning Korean but are confused about where to begin?

If I had to advise someone just starting, I’d say: don’t overthink the “perfect place” to begin, just start. Even if it’s with YouTube, Duolingo, or free online materials, getting familiar with Hangul (the Korean alphabet) should be your very first step. Once you can read and write, you’ll naturally feel more confident.

From there, if you’re serious, try enrolling in structured courses like those at King Sejong Institute or KCCI. They not only give you discipline but also connect you with fellow learners and teachers who can guide you. Self-study is great, but in a classroom, you get feedback, practice speaking, and a sense of progression.

Also, I’d suggest Indian students not fall into the “K-drama/K-pop-only” learning trap.  Yes, that’s a huge motivator, and I started with that, but Korean has its own system and grammar that needs steady practice. Balance fun learning (songs, dramas, social media) with disciplined study (books, workbooks, vocab lists).

Most importantly, don’t rush. A lot of learners quit because they compare themselves to others. Korean is very different from Indian languages, so progress takes time. Celebrate small wins, like ordering food in Korean or understanding a line in a drama without subtitles. Those moments are what keep you going.

* This is the end of the first part of the interview. If you have any questions for the guest, please leave them in the comments. Read the second part here.

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