The Korean writing system is called 한글 (Hangeul, also often written Hangul in English). The National Institute of the Korean Language’s English overview says the new script was devised under King Sejong in 1443 and published with its explanatory text, Hunminjeongeum, in 1446. Modern Korean uses 24 basic letters: 14 consonants and 10 vowels. This is a brief orientation, not a complete history of the script.
Think in syllable blocks
Hangeul letters are arranged into compact syllable blocks. For example, 한 combines ㅎ・ㅏ・ㄴ, while 글 combines ㄱ・ㅡ・ㄹ. Learning the letter shapes and recognizing familiar words is a useful first step; it does not make every sign immediately understandable.
Useful words on stations and buildings
- 역 yeok
- Station. It often follows a station name: 서울역 means Seoul Station.
- 입구 ipgu
- Entrance. Look for it on building and facility signs.
- 출구 chulgu
- Exit. At a station, it often appears with an exit number.
- 화장실 hwajangsil
- Restroom or toilet. It appears on many public-facility signs.
- 안내 annae
- Information or guidance. 안내소 means an information desk or centre.
- 계단 gyedan
- Stairs. Check nearby signs for lifts or escalators if you need step-free access.
Romanized spellings are only a reading aid; they do not capture every Korean sound. Station and place names can include Sino-Korean words and proper nouns, so recognizing one syllable does not always reveal the full meaning.
A short phrase you can show on your phone
화장실이 어디예요?
This is one polite way to ask, “Where is the restroom?” If pronunciation feels difficult, you can show the written phrase. Some places also provide English or Japanese signs.
Where to keep learning
The National Institute of the Korean Language publishes official spelling rules and explanations. The King Sejong Institute Foundation also offers beginner Korean, culture-focused and travel-Korean learning materials. These are starting points for study, not promises of fluency in a set amount of time.