Korean Pronunciation Lesson 1: Vowels108

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Introduction
Korean has a systematic and relatively easy-to-learn pronunciation system. Korean vowels are clear and distinct, and they are pronounced in a very consistent manner. In this lesson, we will learn how to pronounce all of the Korean vowels.


The Korean Vowel Chart
The Korean vowel chart is a 5x3 grid, with 10 vowel sounds:
```
ㅏ [a] ㅓ [ʌ] ㅗ [o] ㅜ [u] ㅡ [ɯ]
ㅑ [ya] ㅕ [yʌ] ㅛ [yo] ㅠ [yu]
ㅣ [i]
```
The vowels in the first row are pure vowels, while the vowels in the second row are diphthongs, which are combinations of two vowels. The vowel ㅡ is a unique vowel that is pronounced with the lips rounded and the tongue in a neutral position.


Pronouncing the Korean Vowels
The Korean vowels are pronounced as follows:
* ㅏ [a] is pronounced like the "a" in "father".
* ㅓ [ʌ] is pronounced like the "a" in "but".
* ㅗ [o] is pronounced like the "o" in "boat".
* ㅜ [u] is pronounced like the "oo" in "boot".
* ㅡ [ɯ] is pronounced like the "eu" in "neutral".
* ㅑ [ya] is pronounced like the "ya" in "yacht".
* ㅕ [yʌ] is pronounced like the "ya" in "yacht" but with the tongue in a lower position.
* ㅛ [yo] is pronounced like the "yo" in "yoga".
* ㅠ [yu] is pronounced like the "yu" in "yule".
* ㅣ [i] is pronounced like the "ee" in "feet".


Practice Pronouncing the Korean Vowels
The best way to learn how to pronounce the Korean vowels is to practice saying them aloud. Here are some exercises that you can try:
* Repeat the vowel sounds: Say each vowel sound several times, making sure to pronounce it correctly.
* Read aloud Korean words: Once you are comfortable pronouncing the vowels, start reading aloud Korean words. Pay attention to the pronunciation of the vowels in each word.
* Listen to native Korean speakers: Listen to native Korean speakers and try to imitate their pronunciation. You can find native Korean speakers on YouTube, in Korean movies and TV shows, or in person if you know any Korean people.


Conclusion
Pronouncing the Korean vowels correctly is essential for speaking Korean correctly. By following the tips in this lesson, you can learn how to pronounce the Korean vowels accurately and confidently.

2024-12-08

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