Korean is a beautiful language with a unique structure. Its influence on Singapore as well as globally is readily growing. This is attributed to a vibrant economy, amazing culture and ease of learning. You can sign up for Korean classes in Singapore to experience this trendy language. If you have plans to learn Korean, here are some fascinating facts about the language to keep you motivated.

1. It has two counting systems

Different vocabulary is used for large and small numbers in Korean. Apart from that, one counting system is of Chinese origin, while the other utilizes native Korean vocabulary.

The former is used for numbers that have no limit, while the latter goes up to 99. Besides that, the Korean based system is applied in counting objects, expressing hours when indicating the time and measuring age. On the other hand, the Chinese based system is incorporated in expressing measurements such as dates, money and distance as well as defining minutes when telling time.

2. Has an estimated 76 million native speakers

Mastering the Korean language is significant as approximately 76 million natives speak it. It is also the 17th most popular language in the world – imagine how useful it can be to learn the language and connect with more people!

3. Uses communal pronouns

The Korean society is very united, and that is reflected greatly in their language. That might explain why the language uses communal pronouns such as ‘us’ and ‘we’ instead of ‘I’ and ‘me’. Grasping when and how to apply this concept may be confusing for a first-time learner. However, you need not worry too much about it as you will gradually get used to it.

4. Formality is indicated by special verb and noun endings 

Status, politeness and formality are very vital in the Korean culture, thereby reflecting in their language. Special verbs and nouns are used at the end of sentences to show respect.

5. Korean sentences always have verbs at the end

Unlike English, a subject-verb-object (SVO) language, the Korean language utilizes the subject-object-verb (SOV) structure. The word order for the Korean language comes in the form of a subject, followed by an object and lastly verb. In simple terms, the verb is always used at the end of every sentence, after the subject.

6. Most of its vocabulary is borrowed from Chinese

Korea has a strong connection to the Chinese, attributed to the close proximity of the two countries, China and Korea. This is why the Korean language has up to sixty per cent of its words taken from the Chinese language. The Korean language also has another five per cent of its words borrowed from other languages, while only thirty-five per cent is pure Korean.

7. A unique and different language

The Korean language is fairly unique and special. It is slightly different from most Asian languages. The Korean language is classified as an isolate language because it does not have significant similarities with any other languages. Some linguists have linked the Korean language to Finnish and Turkish. However, it does not seem like the case.

The Korean language is indeed fascinating, and there is so much more to learn about it. You can sign up for Korean classes in Singapore at a local Korean language school to get yourself ahead with the rest of the world.