Korean Syllable Rules and Pronunciation

Overview

This lecture covers the rules for writing and pronouncing Korean syllables, specifically focusing on the use of second (final) consonants, proper letter placement, pronunciation patterns, and related exercises.

Korean Syllable Structures

• Korean syllables can have four combinations: consonant+vowel, consonant+vowel+consonant, vowel+consonant, or consonant+vowel+consonant+consonant.
• The "second consonant" refers to the final consonant in a syllable, also called "batchim."
• The second consonant is always written at the bottom of the syllable block.

Pronunciation of Final Consonants (Batchim)

• There are 19 possible final consonants, but their pronunciation is limited compared to their initial sounds.
• Final consonants are often pronounced in a shortened/closed manner (the sound feels "unfinished").
• Example: "박" (bak) is pronounced like "bak," not "baki."
• When practicing pronunciation, limit the sound and do not fully release the final consonant.

Writing Rules and Examples

• Second consonants must be placed at the bottom of the syllable block.
• Incorrect placement (side-by-side instead of top-bottom) is not allowed.
• Practice writing syllables with different structures, ensuring correct placement of consonant and vowel components.

Practice & Homework Instructions

• Listen to the provided audio tracks and repeat the words out loud.
• Write down the syllables you hear and practice pronouncing them.
• Attempt the exercises on pages 26–30: identify the correct syllable structure, transcribe audio, and write examples.
• Write your name, country, and city in Korean.
• Self-correct your answers using the next video before sending them to the teacher for feedback.

Common Expressions & Politeness

• "안녕히 계세요" (please stay well) is said by students to the teacher.
• "안녕히 가세요" (please go well) is said by the teacher to students.
• There is a perceived difference in formality, but no strict rule.
• "아니요" means "no" and should be remembered for use in class.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Batchim — the final consonant in a Korean syllable, written at the bottom.
• 안녕히 계세요 — "please stay well"; used when someone stays.
• 안녕히 가세요 — "please go well"; used when someone leaves.
• 아니요 — "no" in Korean.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Complete all writing, listening, and speaking exercises on pages 26–33.
• Practice syllable pronunciation and letter placement.
• Write your personal info (name, country, city) in Korean.
• Self-correct your answers using the next lecture video before submitting.