WRITER – NGUVULU BEKIA MONGESE
EDITOR – ARPITA JENA
Hangeul (한글) is the alphabet used to write the Korean language. If you’ve ever watched a K-drama or listened to K-pop, you’ve definitely seen it. What’s amazing is that this simple yet brilliant alphabet was created by a king. Yes, a king
In the 15th century, Korea used Chinese characters, which were extremely difficult to learn. Only the wealthy and the educated could read or write. The common people were left out. But King Sejong the Great, who deeply cared for his people, decided to change that.
So in 1443, he and a group of scholars created a brand new alphabet that was easy to learn. Three years later, he made it official. Back then, it was called Hunminjeongeum, which means “the correct sounds to teach the people.” Today, we simply call it Hangeul, and it has become a national symbol of pride.
What makes Hangeul so special is how logical it is. It has 14 consonants and 10 vowels, and the letters are grouped into blocks to form syllables. The coolest part? The shapes of the consonants actually reflect the position of your mouth and tongue when you say the sound. It’s smart, simple, and made for everyone. Every year on October 9, South Korea celebrates Hangeul Day to remember how this alphabet changed the country’s future. It gave everyone access to reading and writing, opening the doors to education, culture, and progress.
Hangeul isn’t just a writing system, it’s a gift of love, fairness, and brilliance. How do you think the development of the Hangul alphabet has affected the standardization of the Korean Language? Do share your comments in our Official Social Media Accounts
Photo Credit- Pinterest
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