Expansion of the Internet-Based Korean Language Proficiency Test (TOPIK) from 2025
Starting in 2025, the opportunities to take the Internet-based Korean Language Proficiency Test (TOPIK) are set to expand significantly. The test, which is currently offered in six countries, will now be available in 13 countries, and the frequency of exams will increase from three to six times a year. This expansion responds to the soaring demand for TOPIK, as announced by the Ministry of Education in their plan for implementation in 2025.
Wider Access to the TOPIK Exam
Currently, the Internet-based test is conducted in South Korea, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, China (Hong Kong), and the Philippines. Beginning next year, candidates will also have the option to take the exam in the United States (Guam), Romania, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Paraguay, and Pakistan. This enhancement means that aspiring Korean language students can now participate in the exam more frequently, significantly increasing accessibility for test-takers.
Testing Formats and Schedules
From 2025, the Korean Language Proficiency Test will be conducted in two primary formats:
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Paper-Based Test (PBT): This format will include Listening, Reading, and Writing components.
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Internet-Based Test (IBT): This will be held six times a year.
Additionally, the speaking component will be offered in the IBT format three times annually, allowing candidates to assess their Korean language skills in a more accessible and convenient manner.
Introduction of a Digital Platform for the TOPIK Exam
The Ministry of Education is aiming for a 2026 launch of an AI-based digital platform for the Korean Language Proficiency Test. This innovative solution will include remote monitoring, automatic question generation, and grading capabilities, facilitating the ability for students to take the exam without having to visit a test center. This digital shift is expected to streamline the response to growing demand and greatly enhance convenience for test-takers.
The Importance of the Korean Language Proficiency Test
Since its inception in 1997, the TOPIK has been essential in objectively assessing the Korean language abilities of overseas Koreans and foreigners. The results play a crucial role in academic opportunities, such as studying at domestic universities, participating in government-sponsored scholarship programs (GKS), and receiving academic credit at foreign institutions. With a remarkable surge in test-takers—from approximately 350,000 in 2022 to over 420,000 in 2023—the significance of TOPIK continues to climb.
TOPIK Assessment Schedule for 2025 (Domestic Dates)
| Format | Round | Region | Registration Period | Exam Date | Result Release |
|————-|——-|————-|—————————–|————–|————————-|
| PBT | 98th | Domestic | ‘24.12.10(Tue) – 12.16(Mon) | 1.19(Sun) | 2.27(Thu) |
| IBT | 5th | Domestic/Overseas | ‘24.12.17(Tue) – 12.23(Mon) | 2.22(Sat) | 3.14(Fri) |
| IBT | 6th | Domestic/Overseas | 1.14(Tue) – 1.20(Mon) | 3.22(Sat) | 4.11(Fri) |
| PBT | 99th | Domestic/Overseas | 2.11(Tue) – 2.17(Mon) | 4.12(Sat) – 4.13(Sun) | 5.30(Fri) |
| PBT | 100th | Domestic/Overseas | 3.11(Tue) – 3.17(Mon) | 5.11(Sun) | 6.26(Thu) |
| IBT | 7th | Domestic/Overseas | 4.15(Tue) – 4.21(Mon) | 6.14(Sat) | 7.4(Fri) |
| PBT | 101st | Domestic/Overseas | 5.13(Tue) – 5.19(Mon) | 7.12(Sat) – 7.13(Sun) | 8.29(Fri) |
| IBT | 8th | Domestic/Overseas | 7.15(Tue) – 7.21(Mon) | 9.20(Sat) | 10.10(Fri) |
| PBT | 102nd | Domestic/Overseas | 8.5(Tue) – 8.11(Mon) | 10.18(Sat) – 10.19(Sun) | 12.11(Thu) |
| IBT | 9th | Domestic/Overseas | 8.26(Tue) – 9.1(Mon) | 10.25(Sat) | 11.14(Fri) |
| PBT | 103rd | Domestic/Overseas | 9.2(Tue) – 9.8(Mon) | 11.16(Sun) | 12.23(Tue) |
| IBT | 10th | Domestic/Overseas | 9.23(Tue) – 9.29(Mon) | 11.29(Sat) | 12.19(Fri) |
For more information, visit the Korean Language Proficiency Test Center.