Learning Korean becomes much more effective when you have the right study guide. The Hot Topik Book series is one of the most trusted resources for students preparing for the official TOPIK exam. With versions tailored for both beginners and intermediate learners, it provides clear lessons, exam-style practice, and step-by-step guidance. To make your preparation even more flexible, you can also combine the Hot Topik Book with modern study apps like Migii Topik, which offers interactive exercises and mock tests right on your phone.
Overview of Hot Topik Book
This study series has become a trusted choice for many learners thanks to its well-structured content, clear learning roadmap, and suitability for different levels. At Migii Topik, we always encourage our learners to understand the Hot Topik Book before starting, since knowing its structure and strengths will save time and help achieve better results.
What makes the Hot Topik Book stand out is that it does more than provide grammar and vocabulary. The series includes practice exercises that closely follow the actual exam format, allowing learners to strengthen all four essential skills: listening, reading, writing, and vocabulary. With its step-by-step design and clear progress tracking, learners gain confidence as they move closer to their TOPIK goals.
In short, the Hot Topik Book serves as a reliable companion, helping you not only build a strong foundation but also develop effective test-taking habits. In the next sections, Migii Topik will introduce the different versions of this series so you can make the right choice for your learning journey.
Hot Topik Book series showing two main versions designed for different learners
Versions of the Hot Topik Book Series
The Hot Topik Book series is thoughtfully divided into two versions: Hot Topik 1 and Hot Topik 2. This division ensures that learners at different proficiency levels can choose the book that best suits their needs. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each version has a specific focus, structure, and set of exercises that mirror the requirements of the actual TOPIK exam. Whether you are just starting your Korean learning journey or are preparing for advanced exam levels, the series provides a clear roadmap to guide you.
Hot Topik 1 – For Beginners
The Hot Topik 1 book is designed for those who are new to the Korean language or preparing for TOPIK I (Levels 1 and 2). At this stage, learners often struggle with the basics: understanding sentence structures, remembering everyday vocabulary, and recognizing common grammar points. To address this, Hot Topik 1 provides step-by-step lessons that focus on essential skills.
Inside the book, you will find:
- Clear explanations of beginner grammar patterns
- Vocabulary lists centered on practical, everyday usage
- Short, manageable reading passages to build confidence
- Listening exercises that expose learners to natural Korean pronunciation
- Practice questions that mirror the TOPIK I format
The goal of Hot Topik 1 is not only to prepare you for the exam but also to make you comfortable using Korean in daily life. Many learners appreciate how the book avoids overwhelming content, instead offering a gradual path toward fluency. For those who feel uncertain about where to start, Hot Topik 1 provides the perfect foundation.
Hot Topik 1 book for beginners covering basic grammar, vocabulary, and practice tests
Download the complete HOT TOPIK I
Hot Topik 2 – For Intermediate Learners
The Hot Topik 2 book is intended for learners preparing for TOPIK II (Levels 3 to 6). At this stage, students are expected to handle more advanced topics, including abstract ideas, professional contexts, and complex sentence structures. To meet these demands, Hot Topik 2 includes in-depth practice materials that challenge learners while also offering clear guidance.
Key features of Hot Topik 2 include:
- Advanced grammar explanations with examples from real exam contexts
- Expanded vocabulary lists, including academic and topic-specific terms
- Reading passages that require analysis, inference, and summarization
- Listening exercises with longer, more detailed conversations and monologues
- Writing tasks that train learners to compose structured essays and responses
What sets Hot Topik 2 apart is its balance between exam preparation and real-world application. Learners not only review grammar rules but also practice expressing ideas clearly, managing time under test conditions, and applying proven strategies for each section. For intermediate learners aiming for higher scores, this book provides the right combination of challenge and support.
Together, Hot Topik 1 and Hot Topik 2 form a comprehensive learning path. Beginners can start with Hot Topik 1 to establish a strong base, then progress to Hot Topik 2 to refine their skills and aim for advanced results. No matter your level, the Hot Topik Book series makes exam preparation more structured, less stressful, and ultimately more effective.
Hot Topik 2 helps intermediate learners with advanced grammar and exam strategies
Download the complete HOT TOPIK II
HOT TOPIK Mock Test Collection
Key Advantages of Hot Topik Book
The Hot Topik Book series stands out because it is practical, exam-focused, and suitable for learners at different stages.
- Level-specific content: Hot Topik 1 supports beginners, while Hot Topik 2 challenges intermediate learners aiming for TOPIK II.
- Real exam format: Questions and tasks mirror the official TOPIK test, helping learners practice with confidence.
- Balanced skills: Each hot topik book develops listening, reading, writing, and vocabulary in harmony.
- Step-by-step learning: Content builds gradually, preventing overwhelm and boosting motivation.
- Self-study friendly: Clear explanations, examples, and practice tests make it ideal for independent learners.
- Trusted by many: Widely recommended by students and teachers worldwide.
In short, the Hot Topik Book series is more than just a practice tool. It is a structured path that prepares you for exam success while also strengthening real language skills.
Comparison Between Hot Topik 1 and Hot Topik 2
To help learners choose the right Hot Topik Book, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two versions:
|
Feature |
Hot Topik 1 |
Hot Topik 2 |
|
Target Level |
Beginners preparing for TOPIK I |
Intermediate learners preparing for TOPIK II |
|
Focus |
Basic grammar, essential vocabulary, simple reading and listening tasks |
Advanced grammar, extended vocabulary, complex reading and writing |
|
Skill Development |
Builds foundation in all four skills |
Strengthens critical thinking, long texts, and essay writing |
|
Difficulty |
Easy to follow, step-by-step practice |
More challenging, exam-style tasks |
|
Exam Preparation |
Covers TOPIK I format and common question types |
Mirrors TOPIK II format with higher-level practice |
|
Best For |
Learners starting Korean or aiming for beginner certification |
Learners with a foundation who want to achieve higher scores |
Both versions of the Hot Topik Book are complementary: beginners start with Hot Topik 1 to gain confidence, while intermediate learners move on to Hot Topik 2 to advance their skills and aim for higher exam levels.
How to Study with Hot Topik Book Effectively
Using the Hot Topik Book becomes much more efficient when you follow a structured approach. Think of your study journey in three phases:
1. Before You Begin
- Choose the right version: Beginners should start with Hot Topik 1, while those preparing for TOPIK II can move directly to Hot Topik 2.
- Plan your timeline: Set a realistic goal, such as finishing one book in 4–6 weeks.
2. During Your Study
- Follow the sequence: Complete lessons in order, since each unit builds on the previous one.
- Practice all skills: Balance grammar, vocabulary, listening, and writing exercises instead of focusing only on one area.
- Stay consistent: Dedicate a fixed time each day (even 30–60 minutes) to maintain steady progress.
3. After Each Section
- Review and revise: Revisit difficult lessons to strengthen retention.
- Take mock tests: Use the exam-style questions in the hot topik book to practice under timed conditions.
- Track your growth: Note your mistakes and focus on improving weak areas before moving forward.
Step by step guide to study Hot Topik Book effectively
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should beginners start with Hot Topik 1 or 2?
Beginners are strongly encouraged to start with Hot Topik 1. This version builds the essential grammar, vocabulary, and basic skills needed for TOPIK I. Jumping directly to Hot Topik 2 may feel overwhelming without a solid foundation.
Can I study both books together?
It is possible, but not recommended for most learners. The Hot Topik Book series is designed step by step, so completing Hot Topik 1 first ensures you are fully prepared before moving on to the challenges of Hot Topik 2.
How long does it take to finish one book?
On average, learners can complete one Hot Topik Book in 1–2 months with daily study of about an hour. The exact time depends on your pace, consistency, and previous knowledge of Korean.
The Hot Topik Book is more than just a textbook. It is a structured pathway that helps learners build confidence and achieve their goals in the TOPIK exam. Whether you are starting with Hot Topik 1 or advancing with Hot Topik 2, this series provides the tools you need for success. When combined with a smart learning app like Migii Topik, you can study anytime and anywhere, making your learning both effective and convenient.
