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Typing in Korean can seem like a bit of a mystery unless you've learned how. For example, we know that Korean writing is formed of character units called Hangul, but how do these translate into typing? Do you need a new Korean keyboard? Is typing Korean a different process on a phone or laptop? The answers are actually a lot more simple than you might think and today we're going to try and teach you the basics so you can go and get practising on your own! For those of you wh

Learning Mandarin Chinese can feel intimidating at first. The tones, the characters, and the idea of learning one of the world’s most spoken languages often make beginners think they need years of study before they can even hold a simple conversation. But the reality is far more encouraging. Here are some of the best free ways you can start self-learning Mandarin Chinese today. 1. Start with Pinyin Before Chinese Characters Many beginners assume they must memorise hundreds of

Learn Japanese with 10 beginner-friendly self-study methods. Discover apps, textbooks, podcasts, and tips to start learning Japanese effectively at home.

Learning Korean on your own can feel overwhelming at first, but the right approach makes it both manageable and enjoyable. With consistency and the right tools, self study can be just as effective as a classroom. 1. Build a Strong Foundation with Hangul A successful Korean learning journey starts with mastering Hangul, the Korean alphabet. Many learners are tempted to skip this step, but doing so often creates confusion later on. Hangul is logical and surprisingly quick to le

Please attempt to answer every question below. The test could be difficult for certain levels to complete so if you do not understand a question then don't attempt to guess it, you can simply move on by selecting "I do not understand this question" as this will provide you with the most accurate results. Good luck & Have fun! Please note it is very difficult to accurately assess someone's Cantonese ability from a short online test. If you're interested in studying with us, ou

Chinese Lunar Year 2026 is the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, strength, and forward movement. Dragon symbolises power, strength, and good fortune, and is the only mythical creature believed to bring prosperity and auspicious energy. Chinese New Year marks a fresh beginning and the turning of the year. It also signals the change of one’s Chinese zodiac sign (生肖) , a traditional twelve year cycle in which each year is represented by an animal, reflecting personality, cu

Things in the East are surprising. Do you agree? Foreign media often highlight unique Chinese customs, practices, and taboos unheard of elsewhere, creating quite a culture shock for outsiders. But are these customs really that unusual? ​ We’ve compiled some of the quirkiest habits, traditions, and styles that have made headlines across Western media. If you've ever travelled to China, see if you think these observations are spot-on! Or, perhaps you even catch yourself doing t

China is one of the most fascinating countries in Asia to explore, but it is also one of the easiest places to feel overwhelmed if you arrive unprepared. For travellers and language learners in the UK, a little planning goes a long way in turning culture shock into cultural discovery. 1. Visa requirements, including flight transit Unlike many destinations in East Asia, China does not offer visa free entry to most visitors, including those travelling from the UK. In most cases

Hot springs (onsen) hold a special place in Japanese life, offering warmth, relaxation, and a sense of ritual that becomes especially meaningful during the colder months. In winter, soaking in naturally heated mineral water while surrounded by crisp air, or even falling snow, is a deeply comforting experience, cherished for both its physical health benefits and its calming effect on the mind. More than just places to bathe, hot springs are cultural spaces where history, dail

Choosing your textbook can be exciting and "overwhelming"! Whether you are just starting to learn Korean from Hangul, looking to improve your Korean conversation skills, or planning to watch Korean dramas without subtitles, you can achieve your learning goals through practice materials. However, the difficulty levels and targeted themes of Korean study books from various publishers vary, making it difficult to choose where to start. This time, we will explain the key points f

Who's a fan of Studio Ghibli films by Hayao Miyazaki? (raises hand!) Hayao Miyazaki 's movies are like reflections of the real world, filled with imaginative wonders, captivating dreams, breathtaking visuals, and pure storytelling . They often carry profound meanings and insights, revealing a world of enchantment hidden beneath the veil of ordinary life. Many children enjoy watching Miyazaki's films, but some scenes and their deeper meanings are truly appreciated only by a

Matcha is more than just a green tea drink. In Japan, it is deeply connected to history, ritual, and mindfulness, most famously through the Japanese tea ceremony, where preparing and drinking matcha is a carefully practiced art. Traditionally made by whisking finely ground green tea leaves with hot water, matcha represents harmony, respect, purity, and calm, values that continue to shape Japanese culture today. In recent years, matcha has travelled far beyond Japan, finding

Dine Like a Champion:Discover ‘Culinary Class Wars’ Finalists’ Restaurants in London! Korean cuisine is a delightful fusion of bold flavours, vibrant colours, and various textures , all brought together. Known for its spicy, savoury, and sometimes sweet flavours, it's one of the most dynamic and exciting cuisines. ​ If you're craving something different from the usual, and your home-cooked meals are starting to feel repetitive, why not embark on a Korean food adventure aro

Seoul hanbok

Chinese cuisine is famous for its intense flavours and mysterious ingredients. With over 1,000 years of history and deep cultural background, Chinese food represents the nation's taste, soul, and ethnic characteristics. We've got you covered if you have zero idea in a Chinese restaurant. The top 8 iconic Chinese foods are listed here, and you shouldn't miss them! Right before you move on to our most loved top 8 Chinese dishes, I would like to tell you we've covered an ARTIC

Do you love KPOP? Could you be the world's biggest KPOP fan? Well today you can find out by taking the ultimate KPOP Quiz! We've included questions on all your favourite KPOP stars, songs and record labels to truly test your knowledge of this staple of Korean culture. ​ Test yourself today and see how you compare using our leader board! Be sure to share with your friends on social media! If you love keeping up with KPOP news then you may enjoy some of our other Korean content

Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, is a fascinating country that blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. It is a nation that offers a rich tapestry of history, breathtaking natural beauty, busy metropolises, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality. However, cultural barriers and language barriers can be challenging for foreigners. It's important to keep in mind that Japan has a unique culture. By respecting their traditions, understanding etiquette, and making an ef

Ready to take your language skills to the next level? Deciding between mastering Japanese or Chinese can be tough, but we're here to help! We'll break down the nuances of these two major Asian languages, giving you all the insights you need before embarking on your new language-learning adventure.

Thinking of moving from the UK to Tokyo to study? Whether your goal is mastering Japanese, attending a world-class international school, or experiencing life in one of the world’s most vibrant cities, Tokyo offers an exceptional environment. Here are five standout schools in Tokyo you should consider, each with its own strengths, curriculum, and appeal to UK students and expat families. 1. Coto Japanese Academy Source: Coto Japanese Academy Website Address: 3F, Iidabashi Bui

Ever imagined yourself as a Studio Ghibli character? With AI tools like OpenAI’s image generation, users are transforming their photos...