TOPIK II Listening Section Guide
The TOPIK II listening section (듣기) has 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes, scored out of 100 points. Audio is played through speakers in the testing room (PBT) or through personal headphones (IBT). Each correct answer is worth 2 points.
Question Types by Number
| Questions | Type | Audio Plays |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Identify the correct picture or graph | Once |
| 4–8 | Choose the next line of dialogue | Once |
| 9–12 | What action will the person take next? | Once |
| 13–16 | Choose the statement that matches the content | Once |
| 17–20 | Identify the speaker's main idea | Once |
| 21–50 | Paired questions per passage (content + intent/identity/topic) | Twice |
Questions 1–20: Played Once
The first 20 questions use shorter audio clips played only once. Questions 1–3 present images, and you listen to select which picture matches. Questions 4–8 play the beginning of a conversation and ask you to choose the most natural next response. Questions 9–12 ask what someone will do next based on a short dialogue. Questions 13–16 and 17–20 test content matching and main idea identification.
These questions move quickly. Read the answer choices before the audio plays whenever possible. This gives you context for what to listen for.
Questions 21–50: Played Twice, Paired
From question 21 onward, each passage is followed by two questions and played twice. The first question typically asks about factual content (what was said, what is true). The second question asks about the speaker's intent, identity, attitude, or the central topic.
The passages get progressively longer and more complex. Questions 21–30 use everyday conversations and short announcements. Questions 31–40 include interviews, news segments, and workplace discussions. Questions 41–50 feature lectures, debates, and documentary-style monologues with specialized vocabulary.
What to Listen For
- Speaker intent vs. literal meaning. Upper-range questions frequently ask what the speaker is really trying to say, not just what words they used. Listen for tone, hedging, and indirect expressions.
- Key details on first listen, overall picture on second. Use the first play to understand the situation and catch specific details. Use the second play to confirm your answers and catch anything you missed.
- Discourse markers. Words like 그런데 (by the way/however), 사실은 (actually), and 결국 (in the end) signal shifts in meaning or emphasis.
PBT vs. IBT Audio Differences
On the PBT, audio is played through speakers for the entire room. Background noise and seat position can affect clarity. On the IBT, each test-taker wears headphones, which provides clearer audio and individual volume control. If you have the option, IBT offers a more controlled listening environment.
Practice Listening Questions
Solvi provides free TOPIK II listening practice with per-question audio playback from 11 official past exams. Every question includes instant feedback and bilingual explanations. Start practicing listening.
To practice with real exam audio pacing, try a listening mock exam. Audio play counts are restricted just like the real test: one play for Q1-20, two plays for Q21-50.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many times is the TOPIK II listening audio played?
Questions 1-20 are played once. Questions 21-50 are played twice. You cannot replay any clip beyond its allowed plays. This is why practicing with timed past exam audio is important for building real test-day stamina.
How long is the TOPIK II listening section?
The listening section is 60 minutes with 50 multiple-choice questions. Audio clips range from short dialogues to extended lectures.
Related: Reading Guide · Writing Guide · How to Practice · Scoring & Levels
Last updated: March 20, 2026