1.1 10 Basic Vowels

Introduction to Hangeul

  • Hangeul: The Korean alphabet or writing system.

  • Compared to Chinese characters and Japanese katakana, Hangeul appears more simple and elegant with its collection of straight lines and circles.

  • Known as one of the simplest and most logical writing systems globally.

Structure of Hangeul

  • Syllable Structure:

    • Composed of a consonant and a vowel forming one syllable.

    • Each syllable consists of:

      • Initial consonant (beginning sound)

      • Medial vowel (middle sound)

      • Optional final consonant.

  • Writing Direction: Written from left to right and top to bottom.

Components of Hangeul

  • Basic Letters:

    • 10 basic vowels and 14 basic consonants.

    • Total of 24 basic characters in current use.

  • Historical Background:

    • Created by King Sejong the Great in the 15th century.

    • Originally consisted of 28 letters called "correct sounds" to educate the public.

Vowels of Hangeul

  • Basic Vowels Formation:

    • Constructed from three foundational characters:

      1. Symbolizes heaven (the sun)

      2. Flat horizontal line symbolizes earth

      3. Vertical line symbolizes mankind.

    • Additional vowels formed by adding dots to these basic characters:

      • Dots placed on different sides to indicate "light" vs "dark" vowels.

Derived Vowels

  • Second Derived Letters: Created by adding two dots to each side of the basic characters.

  • Phonetic Characteristics:

    • Different sounds attributed to the presence and position of dots in derived vowels.

Pronunciation Practice

  • Basic Vowel Sounds:

    • A: like the "a" in "cat"

    • O: sounds like "ou" in "odd"

    • O: pure "o" sounds like "o" in "go"

    • O: double "o" sounds as in "food"

    • E: unique sound roughly like "e" in the word "given"

    • I: double "e" sound as in "see"

  • Diphthongs:

    • Yel: combines "e" and "r"

    • U: combines "e" and "u"

Writing Practice

  • Method of Writing Vowels:

    • Using circular strokes and straight lines:

      • A: Circle first, long stroke top to bottom, short stroke left to right.

      • E: Circle first, long stroke left to right, two strokes top to bottom.

      • O: Circle first, long stroke top to bottom, long stroke left to right.

  • Word Reading Exercise: Practice reading out loud to reinforce learning (words: o, e, e, o, u, yawuyayou).

Conclusion

  • Encourage continuous practice to enhance reading skills in Hangeul.