Top 21 Korean Learning Apps for 2024 Success

Discovering the Korean language has become easier than ever, thanks to the abundance of language-learning apps at your fingertips. Whether you’re eager to learn how to speak Korean or on the lookout for the top app to aid your journey, this guide will steer you through the best choices available.

Apps offer a handy introduction to your Korean learning journey, but for a faster and more personalized experience, consider 1-on-1 tutoring. Language expert Sylvia Johnson emphasizes that while apps are excellent for expanding vocabulary and mastering basic skills, achieving true fluency requires consistent conversation practice with native speakers.

In this article, we’ll dive into the 21 top apps for learning Korean, designed to suit a range of learning styles and objectives. Whether you’re just starting out and eager to speak Korean for the first time or an advanced learner aiming to refine your skills, we’ve got options for everyone—from free resources to premium services.

Let’s explore the specifics of each option to help you discover the perfect app for learning Korean that aligns with your needs!

1. LingualNeeds: Best for 1-on-1 Korean tutoring

• Best use case: Personalized Korean language instruction
• Price: From $10 per hour
• Free trial: Yes, trial lessons available
• Levels: All levels (beginner to advanced)
• Average rating: 4.7/5 (based on 30.6K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

LingualNeeds is an innovative online platform designed to bridge the gap between language learners and skilled tutors. Boasting a growing roster of over 400 qualified Korean instructors, LingualNeeds offers a personalized learning experience through high-quality one-on-one lessons. This targeted approach makes it one of the most effective apps for mastering the Korean language.

LingualNeeds offers a user-friendly app that makes it easy to connect with the perfect tutor, chat with them, and schedule lessons seamlessly. In addition to personalized tutoring, the platform provides free vocabulary and pronunciation resources for all students. You can also enjoy trial classes, and if you’re not completely satisfied, LingualNeeds guarantees a free tutor replacement.

LingualNeeds stands out by prioritizing speaking practice with native Korean speakers, making it an ideal choice for anyone eager to learn the language. This hands-on approach not only offers real-time feedback but also ensures personalized instruction tailored to your skill level. Whether you’re just starting your journey into Korean or you’re an advanced learner seeking to refine your abilities, LingualNeeds’s expert tutors are ready to customize lessons that fit your specific goals.

Pros

• Easy to find a tutor who suits your needs
• 1-on-1 lessons
• Lessons that fit your schedule

Cons

• It’s not free

2. Rocket Languages: Best for Korean culture

• Best use case: Learning conversational Korean and cultural insights
• Price: One-off fee of $149.95
• Free trial: 7-day free trial available
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.3/5 (based on 2.46K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Rocket Languages empowers individuals to master Korean for everyday conversations with native speakers. This service not only focuses on accurate pronunciation but also equips users with essential cultural insights, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively with locals.

Rocket Languages empowers you to confidently converse in Korean during everyday scenarios. It features engaging audio recordings and interactive exercises designed to teach essential phrases for common interactions, like greeting others, asking for directions, and ordering at restaurants. Additionally, the app offers insightful notes on Korean culture, enriching your understanding of the context behind various words and expressions.

Pros

• Lifetime access for a one-time charge
• Voice recognition software checks pronunciation accuracy
• Suitable for day-to-day use and basic travel phrases

Cons

• Lessons can start to feel repetitive after a while

3. Duolingo: Best free app

• Best use case: Free, gamified Korean learning
• Price: Free or premium membership option for $6.99 a month
• Free trial: Free version available with limited features
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.7/5 (based on 26.9K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Duolingo stands out as one of the most popular and effective free apps for learning Korean. With its user-friendly layout and engaging gamified elements, it keeps you motivated and makes the process enjoyable. While Duolingo excels at building vocabulary, pairing it with another app that offers live one-on-one lessons can enhance your learning experience even further.

Duolingo boasts an attractive design that enhances your vocabulary retention. After signing up for a free account, you’ll gain access to essential vocabulary and grammar lessons. If you decide to upgrade to a premium subscription, you’ll unlock an adaptive learning tool that identifies areas for improvement. Plus, the app features engaging challenges and a ranking system, allowing you to track your progress against other users.

Pros

• Includes a placement test to determine your language level
• Tracks your learning progress

Cons

• Presents random phrases without context
• Gamification can give a false sense of authentic achievement

4. Pimsleur: Best for listening and comprehension

• Best use case: Audio-based Korean learning
• Price: $20.95 monthly or $164.95 for the premium annual package
• Free trial: 7-day free trial available
• Levels: Beginner to advanced
• Average rating: 4.2/5 (based on 11.5K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Pimsleur offers a method that it claims is scientifically validated, allowing learners to acquire intermediate Korean skills in just 30 days. Although this may sound ambitious, the app effectively blends practical vocabulary with real-life scenarios, focusing heavily on listening skills for a more immersive learning experience.

Pimsleur’s premium package offers an impressive 48 hours of audio content, featuring native Korean speakers to enhance your listening comprehension. The program focuses heavily on listening and pronunciation skills, making it an effective tool for verbal communication. However, to provide a more well-rounded learning experience, it could include additional resources for grammar, reading, and writing.

Pros

• Portable audio language lessons
• Easy to use and navigate
• Effective for listening and comprehension skills

Cons

• Repetitive with limited reading practice
• Expensive

5. Mondly: Best for learning with AR/VR

• Best use case: Interactive Korean learning with augmented and virtual reality
• Price: $9.99 monthly or $47.99 annually
• Free trial: Limited free version available
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.5/5 (based on 865K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

If you’re seeking an engaging way to learn Korean, Mondly is a top choice, especially for fans of brief lessons and a game-like experience. This app stands out with its cutting-edge use of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), making it an exciting alternative to conventional classroom learning.

Mondly’s lessons are designed to be engaging and dynamic, featuring quick, interactive exercises in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. With its free augmented reality (AR) components and premium virtual reality (VR) options, learners can converse with an AI teacher who provides instant feedback on their responses. Additionally, Mondly includes a ranking system that allows you to compare your progress with other Korean learners, encouraging you to stay motivated and continually enhance your skills.

Pros

• Short, engaging lessons
• Affordable

Cons

• Lack of content for advanced learners
• Limited grammar and speaking tips

6. TOPIK One: Best to prepare for a test

• Best use case: Preparation for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK)
• Price: Free but includes in-app purchases
• Free trial: Basic features available for free
• Levels: Intermediate to advanced
• Average rating: 5/5 (based on 1.55K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

TOPIK One is your ultimate companion for preparing for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), which evaluates non-native speakers’ skills in reading, writing, and listening. Designed with mobile users in mind, this app makes it easy to enhance your Korean language abilities and study for the TOPIK anytime, anywhere.

TOPIK One offers a comprehensive Korean-English dictionary and features past TOPIK exams for students to utilize. Whether or not you intend to take this proficiency test, it serves as a valuable resource for gauging your language progress—all at no cost!

Pros

• Great for exam preparation
• Tells you the score you would achieve on the actual exam

Cons

• Audio files for listening questions are difficult to control
• Only suitable for intermediate and advanced learners

7. Drops: Best for vocabulary

• Best use case: Visual-based Korean vocabulary learning
• Price: Limited free use or paid subscription plans (Monthly: $13, Yearly: $89.99, Lifetime: $159.99)
• Free trial: Free version with 5 minutes per day
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.8/5 (based on 300K+ reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

Drops stands out as one of the most visually captivating and interactive apps for learning Korean vocabulary. With its stunning design that grabs your attention right away, the app transforms the process of acquiring new words into an enjoyable game-like experience.

Drops features a sleek and user-friendly design that accelerates your ability to memorize Korean vocabulary. The app organizes words into various categories, including work, home, clothing, and even natural disasters. Plus, it monitors your progress over time, making it an excellent resource for enhancing your Korean language skills.

Pros

• Fun and engaging activities
• A vast pool of vocabulary topics

Cons

• No lessons for speaking or pronunciation
• The free version comes with a daily time limit

8. KoreanClass101: Best for daily conversation

• Best use case: Immersive audio and video lessons for everyday Korean
• Price: Basic: $4 per month, Premium: $10 per month, Premium Plus: $23 per month
• Free trial: 7-day free trial available
• Levels: Absolute beginner to advanced
• Average rating: 4.5/5 (based on 41K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

KoreanClass101 provides engaging audio and video lessons designed to immerse you in real Korean conversations. With dynamic and entertaining tutors leading the way, this app equips you with the essential skills to understand and effectively communicate in various situations.

KoreanClass101 boasts an impressive library of over 3,200 audio and video lessons, catering to learners from absolute beginners to advanced levels. The app also features flashcard decks, vocabulary lists, and a Korean dictionary, all designed to help you establish a strong foundation in the language. Lessons are crafted to reflect real-life situations, enriching your understanding of both the language and Korean culture.

Pros

• Massive amounts of content
• Covers all skill levels
• Affordable

Cons

• Video lessons can be low-quality
• Not enough focus on speaking practice

9. LingQ: Best for learning through your interests

• Best use case: Self-directed Korean learning through personal interests
• Price: Premium: $14.99 per month, Premium Plus: $41.99 per month
• Free trial: 7-day free trial available
• Levels: Beginner to advanced
• Average rating: 4.7/5 (based on 4.9K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

LingQ caters to learners of all levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—offering interactive lessons drawn from an extensive library of native-speaking materials. By emphasizing contextual learning, it motivates you to explore the Korean language through topics that genuinely interest you.

LingQ allows you to bring in videos, podcasts, articles, songs, and other intriguing content, transforming them into interactive lessons—so long as they come with a text transcript. With this app, you can track your progress, organize audio files, and even create personalized flashcards to enhance your vocabulary. Dive into learning with resources that captivate your interests!

Pros

• Self-directed
• An active online community

Cons

• Expensive
• Doesn’t teach reading or writing in Korean

10. LingoDeer: Best app for intermediate learners

• Best use case: Comprehensive Korean learning for intermediate students
• Price: Monthly: $14.99, Quarterly: $39.99, Yearly: $79.99, Lifetime: $299.99
• Free trial: Limited free version available
• Levels: Beginner to advanced, best for intermediate
• Average rating: 4.3/5 (based on 438K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

LingoDeer is a user-friendly app designed specifically for learning East Asian languages. It offers comprehensive courses that encompass grammar, vocabulary, reading, and pronunciation. Ideal for intermediate learners, LingoDeer provides the tools needed to advance towards fluency in Korean.

LingoDeer offers a variety of engaging fluency practice exercises, a handy travel phrasebook, and character drills, all designed to enhance your learning experience. With interactive features like multiple-choice questions, fill-in-the-blank tasks, and word recall games, you can enjoy a dynamic approach to language learning. Plus, with its offline mode, you can study anytime, anywhere—perfect for learning on the go!

Pros

• Simple, well-functioning design
• Brilliant for listening and speaking skills

Cons

• Doesn’t teach Hangul alphabet

11. Talk To Me In Korean: Best for beginners

• Best use case: Engaging Korean lessons for beginners
• Price: Monthly: $12.99, Yearly: $93
• Free trial: Limited free content available
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.8/5 (based on 2.4K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Embarking on your Korean language adventure? Look no further than Talk to Me in Korean, a fantastic resource designed to make learning enjoyable and accessible. Their classes feature engaging bite-sized videos, followed by brief quizzes that help reinforce your understanding and track your progress.

Talk To Me In Korean provides a comprehensive suite of resources for language learners, including online courses, engaging videos, informative podcasts, and downloadable PDF lessons. Additionally, you can connect with others through social groups and explore an extensive selection of workbooks. Don’t forget to check out their YouTube channel, packed with a wealth of free content designed to enhance your Korean language skills!

Pros

• Lots of free content
• Upbeat video hosts

Cons

• Not enough focus on vocabulary

12. Memrise: Best for recalling new words

• Best use case: Efficient memorization of Korean vocabulary
• Price: Free or premium membership options (Monthly: $8.49, Yearly: $29.99, Lifetime: $119.99)
• Free trial: Free version with limited features
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.6/5 (based on 1.53M reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Crafted by neuroscientists, Memrise is a dynamic app for learning Korean vocabulary, packed with effective techniques to enhance your memory of new words. Language learners understand the value of having an extra advantage when it comes to recalling vocabulary, and Memrise delivers just that.

Memrise stands out with its innovative use of mnemonics—a powerful learning technique that enables you to visualize and remember new words effectively. Each vocabulary lesson is enriched with audio, images, and videos, making it easier to grasp groups of words and memorable phrases. These engaging features contribute to Memrise’s reputation as one of the top apps for mastering Korean.

Pros

• Unique approach helps you memorize new words quickly
• Excellent free service

Cons

• Not much emphasis on grammar

13. Rakuten Viki: Best for watching Korean TV

• Best use case: Learning Korean through authentic TV shows and movies
• Price: Free or a premium ad-free membership for $4.99 a month
• Free trial: Free version with ads
• Levels: Intermediate to advanced
• Average rating: 4.4/5 (based on 1.02M reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Discover Rakuten Viki, a free streaming platform perfect for your mobile device! Dive into a rich library of Asian dramas, comedies, and various series, all enhanced by a vibrant community of users who contribute their efforts to translate and subtitle the content. Enjoy a world of entertainment at your fingertips!

Discover a captivating streaming platform that immerses you in the rich tapestry of Korean language and culture. With its innovative approach, you’ll not only be entertained but also enhance your Korean skills through authentic, locally-produced content that makes learning enjoyable and engaging.

Pros

• Free episodes (with ads)

Cons

• Lots of ads for the free version
• Not designed for language learning

14. FluentU: Best for casual practice

• Best use case: Learning Korean through authentic video content
• Price: Monthly: $29.99, Yearly: $240
• Free trial: 14-day free trial available
• Levels: Beginner to advanced
• Average rating: 3.3/5 (based on 3.95K reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

FluentU offers a rich collection of video content, audio clips, and flashcards, making it a user-friendly platform perfect for daily Korean language practice.

FluentU enhances your learning experience by allowing you to watch engaging videos alongside their transcripts, ensuring you grasp the material effectively. As you watch, you can tap on any word to instantly access its definition, hear its pronunciation, or view it in different contexts, making learning both interactive and enjoyable. Afterward, you can take quizzes to reinforce what you’ve learned.

Pros

• A massive library of real-world content
• Quizzes and study tools
• Suitable for casual vocabulary learning

Cons

• Expensive
• It doesn’t help much with grammar

15. Naver Dictionary: Best Korean dictionary

• Best use case: Comprehensive Korean-English dictionary
• Price: Free
• Free trial: Entirely free
• Levels: All levels
• Average rating: 3.2/5 (based on 225 reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Naver Dictionary stands out as the go-to resource for Korean language learners, offering a comprehensive and user-friendly platform. As one of the top free apps for mastering Korean, it provides invaluable tools and features to enhance your learning experience.

This extensive resource features a wealth of idioms, slang terms, example sentences, and pronunciation guidance, along with a variety of free video content. Users can also create a personalized vocabulary list to monitor new or challenging words. Plus, the “reverse translation” tool allows you to verify your language usage effortlessly.

Pros

• No cost
• Tremendous resource with tons of content

Cons

• Not very user-friendly

16. HelloTalk: Best for language exchange

• Best use case: Practicing Korean with native speakers
• Price: Free or monthly premium subscriptions starting at $12.99
• Free trial: Free version available with basic features
• Levels: All levels
• Average rating: 4.6/5 (based on 38.2K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

HelloTalk lets you talk to native Korean speakers via messaging, audio, and video chats to practice the language.

This app is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their Korean speaking skills in a relaxed, informal setting. It not only assists with translation and pronunciation but also displays words in your native alphabet as you chat, making learning seamless and enjoyable.

Pros

• Chat with native speakers easily and immediately
• Improve your pronunciation

Cons

• Sometimes confused for a dating app
• High prices beyond the paywall

17. Beelinguapp: Best for bilingual reading

• Best use case: Learning Korean through parallel text reading
• Price: Free with premium subscription option (price not specified)
• Free trial: Free version available with ads
• Levels: All levels
• Average rating: 4.5/5 (based on 2.2K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

Beelinguapp takes a refreshing approach to mastering Korean by presenting texts side by side in your native language and Korean. This innovative app is especially beneficial for learners aiming to enhance their reading comprehension and expand their vocabulary.

The app offers a diverse array of content, such as news articles and captivating stories, perfect for learners eager to grasp the Korean language in real-world contexts. Its unique audiobook feature includes karaoke-style animations, enabling users to read along while hearing native pronunciation. This interactive approach significantly boosts both listening and speaking abilities.

Beelinguapp employs a proven approach that leverages the power of engaging content to facilitate natural language learning. Research indicates that reading captivating material significantly enhances language acquisition. Additionally, the app provides vocabulary practice centered around word frequency, enabling users to prioritize the most essential words for their learning journey.

Pros

• Unique bilingual reading approach
• Wide variety of reading materials
• Audio narration by native speakers
• Suitable for all proficiency levels

Cons

• Some features may require premium subscription
• Primarily focuses on reading and listening, less on speaking and writing

18. Speechling: Best for pronunciation practice

• Best use case: Improving Korean speaking and pronunciation skills
• Price: Free with premium option at $19.99/month for unlimited tutoring
• Free trial: Free version available with basic features
• Levels: Beginner to advanced
• Average rating: 4.8/5 (based on 478 reviews)
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Speechling is a unique non-profit platform that sets itself apart from other Korean learning apps by prioritizing speaking skills. Ideal for learners eager to refine their pronunciation and intonation, this app offers targeted support to elevate your Korean language abilities.

This innovative app seamlessly blends technology with expert human coaching to enhance your learning experience. Users can listen to skilled voice actors, record their own attempts at repeating sentences, and receive constructive feedback from certified pronunciation coaches within 24 hours. This tailored approach is particularly advantageous for beginners, offering customized support in areas like pronunciation, intonation, rhythm, grammar, and vocabulary selection.

Speechling offers a robust free version that stands out as a fantastic option for anyone eager to learn Korean on a budget. While there is a premium plan available for those seeking unlimited tutoring, users can still enjoy a rich array of features without spending a dime.

Pros

• Free platform with option for affordable unlimited tutoring
• Focuses on speaking and pronunciation
• Personalized feedback from certified coaches
• Suitable for all proficiency levels

Cons

• Primary focus on speaking may not suit learners seeking comprehensive language instruction
• Unlimited tutoring requires a paid subscription

19. Write It! Korean: Best for mastering Hangul writing

• Best use case: Learning to write Korean characters (Hangul)
• Price: Free with in-app purchases
• Free trial: Information not provided
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.8/5 (based on 2.3K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

Write It! Korean is a dedicated language learning app designed to enhance your ability to write Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Ideal for those eager to refine their handwriting and boost character recognition, this app is recognized as one of the top choices for mastering Korean writing skills.

This app leverages advanced handwriting recognition technology and expert-designed lessons to guide users in mastering Korean characters, one stroke at a time. It features interactive practice sessions and assessments, along with a star-earning system to keep learners engaged and motivated. Additionally, the app includes professionally recorded audio, enabling users to connect the sounds to the characters they are studying effectively.

A standout feature of Write It! Korean is its offline capability, enabling users to learn anytime and anywhere without needing an internet connection. This makes it a fantastic option for anyone seeking a flexible Korean learning app that fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.

Pros

• Focuses specifically on writing Hangul characters
• Uses advanced handwriting recognition technology
• Includes audio support for pronunciation
• Works offline for learning anywhere

Cons

• May not cover other aspects of language learning like speaking or comprehensive grammar
• Pricing information not readily available

20. Eggbun: Best for interactive Korean learning

• Best use case: Learning Korean through interactive chat-based lessons
• Price: Free with Premium subscription (price not specified)
• Free trial: Free version available
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.4/5 (based on 41.9K reviews)
• Platforms: iOS, Android

Eggbun is a cutting-edge Korean language learning app that utilizes a chat-based format to create an interactive and engaging learning experience. This distinctive method sets it apart as one of the top choices for learners who thrive in a conversational environment, making mastering Korean both fun and effective.

The app offers a dynamic range of learning techniques, such as identifying correct phrases, typing exercises, sentence rearrangement, and engaging in role-plays across various scenarios. These interactive activities are tailored to help users rapidly and effectively absorb new language skills. Additionally, Eggbun provides expression lists, practice sessions, and cultural insights to enrich the overall learning journey.

Eggbun shines with its emphasis on retention, ensuring that learners thoroughly grasp new information before progressing. This approach tackles the frequent challenge of quickly forgetting material after standard lessons. As a result, it’s an ideal option for anyone seeking effective free Korean learning apps, offering numerous features without the need for a subscription.

Pros

• Interactive, chat-based learning approach
• Variety of learning methods and activities
• Includes cultural tips and real-life communication practice
• Free version available with many features

Cons

• Premium subscription required for full access (price not specified)
• May not cover advanced levels of Korean

21. Teuida: Best for speaking practice

• Best use case: Learning Korean through interactive speaking exercises
• Price: Free with Premium subscription (price not specified)
• Free trial: Free version available
• Levels: Beginner to intermediate
• Average rating: 4.7/5 based on 28.7K ratings
• Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Teuida is an innovative Korean language learning app designed to immerse users in speaking from the very first lesson. What sets it apart is its focus on enhancing speaking skills and pronunciation, making it one of the top choices for anyone eager to master conversational Korean.

The app immerses users in real-life situations through a first-person perspective, allowing them to practice everyday expressions in a dynamic way. A standout feature is its AI-driven pronunciation analysis, which offers immediate feedback on spoken Korean, enabling users to refine their accent and intonation effectively.

Teuida offers lessons that prioritize brevity and effectiveness, emphasizing that just 3 minutes of active speaking practice can be far more beneficial than 30 minutes of passive study. This approach makes it an ideal option for busy learners or anyone seeking free Korean learning apps that emphasize speaking skills.

Pros

• Focus on speaking practice from the start
• AI-powered pronunciation feedback
• Real-life scenario-based lessons
• Short, effective lessons

Cons

• Premium subscription required for full access (price not specified)
• May not cover in-depth grammar or writing skills

Choosing the best app to learn Korean and achieve fluency

Mastering the Korean language can be both challenging and fulfilling. Although language apps offer a fantastic foundation, reaching fluency demands commitment and regular practice.

If you’re looking to learn Korean without spending a dime, there are plenty of fantastic apps available. The ideal app for you will vary based on your personal learning style, objectives, and availability.

To achieve true fluency, it’s important to complement these apps with personalized learning approaches. While language apps are fantastic for self-study, they often fall short in providing the real-time conversation practice essential for mastering a new language.

For a truly effective learning experience, nothing beats working one-on-one with a skilled native Korean tutor. When you pair personalized tutoring with app-based learning, you can significantly speed up your progress. At LingualNeeds, you’ll benefit from tailored lesson plans, engaging conversation practice, instant feedback, and valuable cultural insights.

Eager to elevate your Korean language skills? Join LingualNeeds for online lessons today and discover how personalized instruction can transform your learning experience!