TOPIK vs EPS-TOPIK: What You Need to Know About Korean Language Tests

TOPIK and EPS-TOPIK are two standardized tests of Korean language proficiency used in South Korea. Both tests are designed to assess the language skills of non-native speakers of Korean, but there are some key differences between the two.

TOPIK(Test of Proficiency in Korean)

TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is a general Korean language proficiency test that assesses a candidate's ability to understand, read, write and speak the language. It is used by universities, colleges and companies in South Korea to evaluate the Korean language proficiency of foreign students and workers. The test is offered four times a year and has six levels, ranging from beginner to advanced.

TOPIK consists of six levels, ranging from beginner to advanced, as follows:

Level 1 : Scored 80 out of 200 for TOPIK I
This level is designed for those who have limited knowledge of Korean, with a focus on basic grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure. Test-takers will be able to understand and use simple expressions related to daily life and perform simple tasks such as ordering food or asking directions.

Level 2 : Scored 140 out of 200 for TOPIK I
At this level, test-takers should have a basic understanding of Korean grammar and vocabulary, and be able to engage in simple conversations about everyday topics. They should be able to express themselves in writing using simple sentences and vocabulary.

Level 3 : Scored 120 out of 300 for TOPIK II
At this level, test-takers should have an intermediate understanding of Korean grammar and vocabulary, and be able to engage in conversations about a variety of topics with ease. They should be able to understand written passages and express themselves in writing using a wider range of vocabulary and grammar.

Level 4 : Scored 150 out of 300 for TOPIK II
This level is for those with an advanced understanding of Korean grammar and vocabulary. Test-takers should be able to communicate in Korean fluently and understand complex written passages with ease. They should be able to express themselves in writing using a variety of styles and structures.

Level 5 : Scored 190 out of 300 for TOPIK II
This level is for those who have a near-native level of proficiency in Korean. Test-takers should be able to communicate in Korean effortlessly and understand complex written passages with ease. They should be able to express themselves in writing using a wide range of vocabulary, grammar and structures.

Level 6 : Scored 230 out of 300 for TOPIK II
This is the highest level of the TOPIK test and is designed for those who have a native-level proficiency in Korean. Test-takers should be able to communicate in Korean fluently and effortlessly, and understand written passages of a highly advanced level with ease. They should be able to express themselves in writing using a variety of styles, structures and expressions.​

EPS-TOPIK(Employment Permit System-Test of Proficiency in Korean)

​EPS-TOPIK (Employment Permit System - Test of Proficiency in Korean) is a Korean language proficiency test specifically designed for foreign workers who wish to work in South Korea. The test focuses on practical, everyday language skills and assesses a candidate's ability to communicate in a workplace setting.

The EPS(Employment Permit System) refers to a system designed to legally employ foreign workers. In English, it is called the Employment Permit System, or EPS for short. EPS-TOPIK, which is aimed at communication in the labor field, is not as difficult as other Korean language proficiency tests.

Until 2013, problem banks had been disclosed in advance and questions were presented here, but most of the tests are currently conducted in a closed-door manner by gradually increasing the ratio of closed-door questions to increase the discrimination of test questions and select workers with excellent Korean skills.

The EPS-TOPIK test time is 25 minutes for listening and 25 minutes for reading, a total of 50 minutes.

The evaluation content is largely divided into three categories. It is the basic communication skills necessary for Korea's daily life, the ability to speak Korean at industrial sites, and understanding of Korean corporate culture.

EPS-TOPIK evaluation method is a relative evaluation, and the successful candidates are determined in the order of grades by the number of selected (scheduled) as the scorers above the lowest score for each industry below.
- Scored 110 out of 200 in the manufacturing industry
- Scored 80 points out of 200 points for construction, agriculture, and fisheries
- Scored 60 points out of 200 points for special fishing practices

Conclusion

In conclusion, both TOPIK and EPS-TOPIK are used to evaluate the Korean language proficiency of non-native speakers, but the former is a general proficiency test for university admission, job placement and immigration purposes, while the latter is specifically designed for foreign workers. The content and format of the two tests differ, with the TOPIK being more comprehensive and the EPS-TOPIK being more focused on practical language skills.