I have found that learning Chinese characters has greatly increased my retention of new vocabulary. Also, knowing Chinese characters has given me the ability to glance at Chinese and Japanese texts and understand the basic meaning.
I started studying Chinese characters after my first year of studying Korean language, but it might be better that you have a second or third year proficiency in Korean language before undertaking Chinese character study.
Tip: Why should I learn Chinese characters?
I have found that learning Chinese characters has greatly increased my retention of new vocabulary. Also, knowing Chinese characters has given me the ability to glance at Chinese and Japanese texts and understand the basic meaning.
I started studying Chinese characters after my first year of studying Korean language, but it might be better that you have a second or third year proficiency in Korean language before undertaking Chinese character study.