Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK)

Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) was designed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) with the aim of providing a standard to Korean language as well as a tool for testing the proficiency of non-native Korean speakers.

The test is largely divided into 2 levels: TOPIK I and TOPIK II, where the latter denotes a higher proficiency in the language. The score is valid for 2 years from the date of test results issued, and test takers can find the schedule as well as register for the test at the official website.

Eligibility and Benefits

Applicants for the test come from a wide range of backgrounds, including both overseas Korean and foreign nationals who study Korean. The test results can be useful when applying for Korean universities, companies, public institutions, or acquiring permanent residency status.

Test administrator

National Institute for International Education (NIIED). More information about TOPIK can be found at the official website.

Website

www.topik.go.kr (Korean, English, Japanese, Chinese)

Levels

Type	Area	Level	Note
TOPIK Ⅰ (Beginner)	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions)	Level 1	Use of basic commands of Korean for survival, such as greeting, purchasing, ordering, etc. Expressing and understanding oneself in simple everyday conversation by making simple sentences from 800 basic words.
	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions)	Level 2	Discussion of familiar topics employing a vocabulary of about 1,500∼2,000 words. Distinguishing correctly between formal and informal situations.
TOPIK Ⅱ (Intermediate · Advanced)	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions) Writing (Essay Question)	Level 3	Carrying out transactions with people in public spaces and maintaining social relationships. Understanding the correct usage of words and speech. Command of fundamental characteristics of Korean.
	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions) Writing (Essay Question)	Level 4	Comprehension of news articles, general social issues and abstract topics with accuracy and fluency. Comprehension of Korean social and cultural contents relying on essential idioms and understanding of representative aspects of Korean culture.
	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions) Writing (Essay Question)	Level 5	High fluency in using the Korean language in professional research or work. Understanding and discussing less unfamiliar topics in politics, economics and other fields. Usage of appropriate expressions, distinguishing formal and informal, written and spoken, by context.
	Listening /Reading (multiple choice questions) Writing (Essay Question)	Level 6	Absolutely fluent in the Korean language for professional research or work. Capacity to understand and express oneself without problem, although without the full fluency of a native speaker.