Topik 1 book is an essential resource for beginners aiming to build a solid foundation in Korean and pass the TOPIK I exam successfully. This article introduces 10+ of the best study books covering grammar, vocabulary, and practice tests to help you prepare effectively. Each recommendation includes content highlights, suitable learners, and key benefits to guide you in finding the perfect study companion, all curated by Migii.
What is TOPIK 1?
TOPIK 1 is the beginner level of the Test of Proficiency in Korean, focusing on basic communication in daily situations. It includes two parts: Listening and Reading, which assess vocabulary, grammar, and short sentence comprehension. Learners are expected to understand and use simple expressions for everyday needs and interactions.
Unlike TOPIK II, which targets intermediate and advanced learners with an added Writing section, TOPIK 1 centers on foundational language skills. It is best suited for beginners or those seeking to confirm their basic Korean proficiency before progressing to higher levels.
TOPIK 1 focuses on Listening and Reading, making it ideal for beginners to build foundational Korean skills
Top 10+ must-have TOPIK 1 books for effective exam preparation
Looking for the best book for TOPIK 1 to start your Korean study journey? Below is a curated list of 10+ must-have titles that will help you build essential skills and prepare effectively for the TOPIK I exam:
Complete Guide to TOPIK I – New Edition (Basic)
The Complete Guide to TOPIK I – New Edition (Basic) is a detailed Korean TOPIK textbook that aligns with the latest exam structure and evaluation criteria. Ideal for beginners and TOPIK I candidates, it features two complete mock tests, in-depth explanations, and analysis of various question types. With 11 special lecture sections offering targeted test-taking strategies, this book equips learners with the skills and confidence needed to excel in the TOPIK I exam.
Best for:
- Beginners looking to build a solid foundation in Korean vocabulary and grammar.
- Students preparing for the TOPIK I exam who want to familiarize themselves with test structure and question patterns.
Content highlights:
- Core grammar and vocabulary tailored to beginner-level learners.
- Practice exercises focusing on listening and reading comprehension with real-life topics like self-introduction, shopping, and dining.
- Step-by-step explanations and study methods to enhance understanding and performance.
Why it stands out:
- Offers a systematic learning path from theory to practice.
- Strengthens key skills in listening and reading — the main focus areas of TOPIK I.
- Features realistic examples for practical application.
Note: The book doesn’t cover Speaking and Writing, so combining it with other practice materials is recommended for more comprehensive preparation.
Comprehensive book with mock tests and strategy lectures for TOPIK I
New TOPIK I Essential Grammar 101
New TOPIK I Essential Grammar 101 is a must-have grammar guide that compiles 101 essential grammar patterns frequently appearing in TOPIK I exams. The book was developed based on a detailed analysis of past test papers, helping learners focus on the most relevant grammar structures for beginner levels.
Content and structure:
- Includes 101 core grammar points selected from previous official exams.
- Arranged by frequency and difficulty to help learners prioritize important grammar rules first.
Best for:
- Learners who have basic vocabulary knowledge but struggle with grammar consistency.
- Self-learners who want a clear roadmap to master grammar for TOPIK I.
This book is ideal as a reference and daily practice material to strengthen grammatical accuracy and understanding before tackling full mock tests.
Grammar guide featuring 101 essential patterns for TOPIK I
TOPIK 1 (Revised Edition 2016) with CD – Test of Proficiency in Korean
New TOPIK I Essential Grammar 101 is a must-have grammar guide that compiles 101 essential grammar patterns frequently appearing in TOPIK I exams. The book was developed based on a detailed analysis of past test papers, helping learners focus on the most relevant grammar structures for beginner levels.
Content and structure:
- Includes 101 core grammar points selected from previous official exams.
- Arranged by frequency and difficulty to help learners prioritize important grammar rules first.
Best for:
- Learners who have basic vocabulary knowledge but struggle with grammar consistency.
- Self-learners who want a clear roadmap to master grammar for TOPIK I.
This book is ideal as a reference and daily practice material to strengthen grammatical accuracy and understanding before tackling full mock tests.
Beginner-friendly resource with CD for listening, vocabulary, and grammar
HOT TOPIK 1 Actual Test
HOT TOPIK 1 Actual Test is a practice-focused workbook designed to simulate the official exam format and difficulty. It includes realistic listening and reading sections, full transcripts, answer keys, and guided explanations to help learners self-evaluate.
Content overview:
- Full-length mock tests for Listening (듣기) and Reading (읽기).
- Vocabulary lists, grammar notes, and essential expressions from past exams.
- CD/MP3 audio files for listening comprehension practice.
Why it’s effective:
- Offers a day-by-day study schedule, balancing grammar review and practical exercises.
- Focuses on test-taking strategies rather than rote memorization.
- Ideal for learners who already understand basic grammar and want to improve accuracy and timing under exam conditions.
Practice workbook simulating real TOPIK I exams with audio and answer keys
TOPIK MASTER: Basic
The TOPIK MASTER: Basic book from Darakwon is one of the most trusted resources for serious TOPIK learners. It contains 10 mock tests that mirror the real TOPIK I exam in both format and difficulty. Each test comes with detailed answer explanations, analysis of common traps, and strategy tips for time management.
Best for:
- Self-learners who have completed beginner-level Korean and want to practice real exam questions.
- Students looking to strengthen listening and reading comprehension through repeated practice.
Key advantages:
- Closely replicates actual exam experience with realistic test papers.
- Provides clear, in-depth explanations for every answer.
- Includes advanced test-taking strategies and practical techniques to improve efficiency.
Considerations:
- Contains 10 mock tests — fewer than some other collections.
- Does not include writing practice, as it focuses on TOPIK I (listening and reading only).
Collection of 10 mock tests with solutions and exam strategies
One Book Is OK – 한국어뱅크 TOPIK I
The One Book Is OK – 한국어뱅크 TOPIK I is a comprehensive preparation book designed specifically for international learners aiming to conquer the TOPIK I exam. This all-in-one resource provides a structured study plan covering every aspect of the test, ensuring learners can build both confidence and competence.
What makes this book special:
- Real exam preview: Includes recent official-style mock tests to help you understand the latest question trends and improve time management.
- Systematic learning plan: Guides learners from foundational grammar and vocabulary to practical exercises and test strategies.
- Expert-led explanations: Written by seasoned Korean language educators, the explanations are clear, approachable, and easy to follow — just like a real classroom experience.
Book structure:
- Preparation phase: Builds essential vocabulary and grammar knowledge for TOPIK I.
Test analysis: Breaks down each section of the test to familiarize you with question types and solving strategies. - Practice phase: Offers numerous exercises and model tests for realistic preparation. This book is ideal for self-learners or anyone who wants an organized, step-by-step approach to mastering the first level of the TOPIK exam.
All-in-one guide with lessons, mock tests, and expert explanations
JAEM Korean Book – TOPIK 1 Book (Basic)
The JAEM Korean Book – TOPIK 1 (Basic) serves as a foundational textbook tailored for beginners who are just starting their Korean journey and planning to take the TOPIK I exam. It introduces learners to the Korean alphabet (Hangeul) and progresses through 15 practical lessons that cover key grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills.
Book highlights:
- Alphabet foundation: Begins with clear instruction on reading and writing Hangeul.
- 15 thematic lessons: Covers daily topics such as self-introduction, shopping, food ordering, family, and hobbies.
- Exam-oriented design: Aims to help learners master 800 essential words and key grammar points needed to score above 80 on the TOPIK 1 test.
Who should use it:
- Absolute beginners looking for a step-by-step introduction to Korean.
- Learners who want to combine language fundamentals with targeted exam practice. This book offers a balanced mix of learning and testing, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a structured entry into Korean and a successful first TOPIK attempt.
Foundational textbook with 15 lessons covering Hangeul, grammar, and vocabulary
seemile Easy TOPIK I
Seemile Easy TOPIK I is an excellent TOPIK test book designed for non-native learners seeking clear and structured guidance. Written by an experienced Korean language professor, it offers easy-to-understand explanations of grammar, pronunciation, and essential test strategies. With English translations and detailed practice sections, the book makes self-study more effective and helps learners confidently prepare for the TOPIK I exam.
Key features:
- Comprehensive grammar coverage: Explains key grammatical patterns and expressions for each TOPIK I question type, complete with example sentences for real-world application.
- Strategic test guidance: Divides listening and reading sections into 16 question types, with strategies on how to find the correct answer efficiently.
- Authentic exam insight: Includes analysis of the 64th TOPIK I test with notes on vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
- Practical add-ons: Comes with three full practice tests, downloadable audio files, and a 1,600-word vocabulary list with pronunciation audio for continuous review.
User-friendly book with grammar explanations, strategies, and audio practice
TOPIK ‐ The Self-Study Guide [For All Levels] – Topik Guide
The TOPIK – The Self-Study Guide [For All Levels] by Topik Guide is a versatile reference book suitable for learners at every stage of their Korean learning journey. It compiles practical study plans, strategy breakdowns, and mock questions covering both TOPIK I and II.
Book highlights:
- Provides a complete overview of the TOPIK structure, scoring criteria, and preparation timeline.
- Includes sample questions, vocabulary lists, and grammar explanations across levels.
- Focuses on helping learners develop independent study habits through guided self-assessment.
Reference book with strategies, sample questions, and study plans for learners
Intensive Course for TOPIK I Success: Listening
The Intensive Course for TOPIK I Success: Listening is one of the most effective TOPIK study books for improving listening comprehension. Tailored for beginners, it replicates real exam listening scenarios with diverse exercises and step-by-step lessons. Through consistent practice, learners can enhance their ability to recognize tones, understand dialogues, and confidently tackle the listening section of the TOPIK I exam.
Why this book stands out:
- Realistic listening practice: Contains audio scripts modeled after actual TOPIK listening tests, reflecting real-life conversations and scenarios.
- Varied exercises: Features a wide range of listening drills based on tone, context, and sentence structure.
- Logical structure: Organized by question types to help learners recognize patterns and improve accuracy.
- Comprehensive skill building: Focuses on identifying key ideas, extracting details, and understanding main content efficiently.
- High-quality audio materials: Comes with clear recordings and full transcripts for in-depth review.
Best for:
- Beginners just starting their TOPIK preparation.
- Learners who want to improve listening comprehension through consistent, focused practice.
Listening-focused guide for beginners with realistic exercises and audio
TOPIK Korean Language Learning Book for Beginners
The TOPIK Korean Language Learning Book for Beginners is one of the most recommended TOPIK preparation books for new learners. It builds a solid foundation in basic grammar and vocabulary, featuring over 700 essential Korean words commonly used in both the TOPIK I exam and daily conversation.
Each chapter integrates word lists, example sentences, and practice exercises, allowing learners to naturally strengthen their reading and listening comprehension from the ground up.
Content & structure:
- Vocabulary units: Over 700 key Korean words with English meanings and sample sentences.
- Grammar focus: Clear explanations of beginner grammar points used in TOPIK I.
- Practice exercises: Reading and listening activities designed for self-assessment.
Target learners:
- Beginners who are just starting Korean.
- Students preparing for TOPIK 1 or equivalent level exams.
Key benefits:
- Strengthens essential vocabulary and grammar knowledge.
- Builds confidence for both exam preparation and real-life communication.
- Helps learners develop a habit of structured self-study.
Beginner-friendly book building core vocabulary and grammar for TOPIK I
2025 Korean Language Proficiency Test TOPIK Ⅰ Practice Test
The 2025 Korean Language Proficiency Test TOPIK I Practice Test is a highly useful TOPIK practice book for beginners preparing for the official exam. It provides multiple mock tests that closely follow the latest TOPIK I format, focusing on listening and reading comprehension. Each test includes clear explanations and answer keys, helping learners identify weaknesses, track progress, and build confidence before taking the real exam.
Content & structure:
- Practice tests: Simulated exams reflecting the 2025 TOPIK I format.
- Listening & reading sections: Realistic tasks to improve comprehension and time management.
- Answer keys & explanations: Step-by-step reasoning for every question.
Target learners:
- Korean language beginners aiming for TOPIK I certification.
- Learners seeking to strengthen core skills before the official test.
Key benefits:
- Builds familiarity with the actual exam environment.
- Enhances listening and reading performance through practice.
- Boosts vocabulary retention and grammar application in test contexts.
Practice book with mock tests, explanations, and answer keys for TOPIK I
How to choose the right Korean TOPIK book?
Selecting the right TOPIK Korean book is the first step toward mastering the TOPIK I exam effectively. Because this level focuses on beginner grammar, vocabulary, and basic communication, choosing materials that match your current ability and goals is key. Below are essential tips to help you find the best TOPIK books for your study journey.
- Assess your current level: TOPIK I targets beginners aiming to improve basic listening and reading skills. You should choose a TOPIK exam book that introduces foundational grammar, essential vocabulary, and simple sentence structures to build a solid language base before moving on to practice tests.
- Consider your study goals: If you’re learning Korean for daily communication, select a comprehensive grammar or vocabulary book such as Korean Grammar in Use (Beginner). For exam-focused learners, prioritize TOPIK book recommendations like Complete Guide to the TOPIK I or One Book Is OK, which include practice sections and test strategies tailored for TOPIK I.
- Look for helpful learning features: Choose books with mock tests, listening scripts, and detailed explanations. A good TOPIK Korean book should also offer answer keys, translations, and downloadable audio files to help you understand pronunciation and usage more naturally.
- Select your preferred format: You can opt for all-in-one guides that combine vocabulary, grammar, and test practice in one volume, or choose specialized books focusing on specific skills like listening or reading. The best TOPIK book recommendation depends on whether you prefer structured study plans or topic-based practice.
- Buy from reliable sources: For authentic TOPIK exam books, check online platforms like Amazon, Coupang, or the official TOPIK website. You can also explore digital learning platforms such as TOPIK GUIDE or Migii to find interactive materials and online mock tests for extra support.
Step-by-step guide to selecting the most suitable TOPIK I book for beginners
Looking for the best TOPIK 1 book to kickstart your Korean learning? The right resource can help you master grammar, vocabulary, and test strategies effectively. With Migii TOPIK, you can access trusted materials and smart tools for efficient exam prep. Start studying today and move closer to your TOPIK I goals!
