DiscoverTOPIK & Beyond#59: Why TOPIK Writing Feels Hard — And How to Finally Make It Click
#59: Why TOPIK Writing Feels Hard — And How to Finally Make It Click

#59: Why TOPIK Writing Feels Hard — And How to Finally Make It Click

Update: 2025-12-09
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If you feel like TOPIK Writing is confusing, overwhelming, or just “too hard”… you’re not alone.
In this episode, Eliza explains the real reasons TOPIK Writing feels difficult — and why it has nothing to do with your intelligence or Korean ability.

You’ll hear a simple, beginner-friendly Korean story about a common TOPIK mistake (writing exactly like you speak)… and you’ll learn how to shift from spoken Korean to written Korean (문어체) in a clear, stress-free way.

Finally, Eliza gives you one of her signature frameworks for Level 4–5 writing, so you can instantly improve your next TOPIK essay.

Whether you’re preparing for TOPIK II, struggling with sentence flow, or just want to feel confident writing in Korean, this episode will help everything “click.”

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✔ Why TOPIK Writing feels hard (it’s not your fault!)
The three major reasons most learners struggle — and how understanding them changes everything.

✔ The difference between speaking Korean and writing Korean (문어체)
A simple Korean story demonstrates why spoken patterns (like “너무… 너무… 너무…”) don’t work for TOPIK.

✔ How to avoid the “childish writing” trap
Common Level 3–4 mistakes and how to fix them.

✔ A simple TOPIK Writing structure you can use immediately
Eliza teaches a clear framework: Topic → Reason → Example → Ending
Perfect for TOPIK Level 4–5 tasks.

✔ A mini writing challenge to build confidence
Learn how to express a negative experience or inconvenience in a logical, TOPIK-friendly format.

Key Korean Expressions From the Episode:

  • 말하기 스타일 — speaking style
  • 문어체 — written/formal style
  • 논리 흐름 — logical flow
  • 부담이 크다 — to feel burdened
  • 계획을 조정하다 — to adjust a plan

Perfect for learners who want practical vocabulary for TOPIK essays.

Your Weekly Writing Challenge:

Think of one small inconvenience you experienced this week (e.g., transportation issue, weather, schedule issue).

Write a short paragraph using the TOPIK structure: Topic → Reason → Example → Ending.

Small practice grows big confidence.

Want Personalized Feedback on Your TOPIK Writing?

The TOPIK Writing Confidence Lab opens very soon.
If you want to write clear, logical, Level 4–5 essays with guidance and supportive feedback:

👉 Join the waitlist herehttps://www.joaacademy.com/writing-confidence-lab-waitlist 

You'll be the first to know when doors open + receive special bonuses.

Prefer reading while you listen?

I’m experimenting with a new way to support visual learners!
Read this episode on Substack

⭐ If You Enjoyed the Episode…

Please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a quick review. It helps more Korean learners discover the podcast and feel supported on their TOPIK journey.

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#59: Why TOPIK Writing Feels Hard — And How to Finally Make It Click

#59: Why TOPIK Writing Feels Hard — And How to Finally Make It Click

Eliza Wang