TOPIK I (Beginner) tests your ability to read and understand basic Korean — vocabulary, grammar, and simple comprehension. The exam is purely multiple-choice, with no writing or speaking component. Here’s exactly what the paper looks like, how it’s scored, and what you need to pass.
TOPIK I (Beginner) Section Breakdown
The exam has two sections, taken in one sitting with no break in between.
Section 1: Listening (30 questions, 40 minutes)
- Questions 1–30
- Time allotted: 40 minutes
- Marking: Each correct answer = 1 point (total 100 marks)
- Audio is played once; you cannot pause or rewind
- Topics: basic conversations, directions, numbers, daily life situations
Section 2: Reading (40 questions, 60 minutes)
- Questions 31–70
- Time allotted: 60 minutes
- Marking: Each correct answer = 1 point (total 100 marks)
- Topics: short passages, notices, advertisements, simple articles
Total questions: 70 | Total time: 100 minutes | Total marks: 200
Marking Scheme & Scoring
- Every question carries 1 mark. No negative marking.
- Raw score = number of correct answers (out of 70).
- Raw score is converted to a standardised score (0–200) by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).
- The conversion adjusts for difficulty variation across test editions.
Take a free TOPIK I (Beginner) demo mock to find out where you stand: Try the demo →
Pass Criteria
TOPIK I has two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Your level is determined solely by your total standardised score.
| Level | Standardised Score Range | |-------|--------------------------| | Level 2 | 140–200 | | Level 1 | 80–139 | | Fail | Below 80 |
- Level 1: Basic survival Korean – greetings, self-introduction, shopping, ordering food.
- Level 2: Can handle routine tasks and understand simple texts about familiar topics.
- There is no separate passing threshold per section; only the total score matters.
Key Rules & Tips
- Bring your own earphones if the test centre provides individual audio players. Confirm with your centre.
- Mark answers directly on the OMR sheet. Pencil or pen? Check official instructions – usually a black pen is required.
- No extra time for transferring answers. Manage time within each section.
- Listening audio is played only once. Focus completely; do not dwell on a missed question.
See TOPIK I (Beginner) mock-test packs and pricing: View plans →
How to Prepare
- Practice with past papers to get used to the question format and timing.
- Build vocabulary: aim for 800–1000 basic Korean words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, particles).
- Listen to Korean audio daily – K-dramas with subtitles, podcasts for learners, or TOPIK listening samples.
- Simulate exam conditions: 100 minutes, no breaks, no dictionary.