By Honorary Reporter Nasim Gerami from Iran
Photos = Nasim Gerami and Tara Ostovarpour

The 96th Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) on Oct. 12 was held in Istanbul, Turkey. 

This was important to Iranian takers of the test because it resumed a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring over 90 of them to go to another country to take it.

TOPIK banner at Istanbul University

TOPIK, ranging from Levels 1-6, assesses proficiency in Korean including reading, writing and listening. The test requires deep understanding of Korean grammar, vocabulary and cultural nuances. I prepared for it for half a year by immersing myself in the language. 

TOPIK I consists of listening (30 multiple-choice questions for 40 minutes) and reading (40 for an hour). Each section is worth 100 points. 

The first of TOPIK II's two slots consists of listening (50 questions for an hour) and writing (four short-answer questions for 50 minutes) and the second is reading (50 for 70 minutes). Each of the three sections is worth 100 points.

Iranian TOPIK takers pose for a group photo. (Tara Ostovarpour)

The experience of taking TOPIK in Istanbul was not only a steppingstone to academic and professional goals, but also a powerful reminder of the global community of language learners who share a passion for understanding and appreciating cultures. 

Most of the Iranian students who took the test -- myself included -- wanted to apply for the Global Korea Scholarship, and TOPIK plays an important role in getting that. Others took the test to strengthen their resumes to go for jobs requiring Korean.

Students at the test center had to find stickers with their names and registration numbers.

As the Iranian test-takers left Istanbul, they carried a renewed sense of purpose and deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of Korean. They also helped continue the growth and development of Korean-language education worldwide.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.