Today we’re going to look learn Korean adjectives. There are a number of important rules that we’re going to go over, and afterwards we’ll introduce 100 Korean adjectives with more than 200 examples so that by the end of this article, you’ll be able to:
- Understand Korean adjective words in dictionary form and adjective form
- Change the dictionary form of an adjective into the adjective form
- Know how to use these forms correctly
- Memorize 100 adjectives in Korean that are commonly used by native speakers
Table of Contents
- How to Use Korean Adjectives
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Dimensions, Sizes, Distances, etc.
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Values
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Feeling & Sense
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Speed, Difficulty, Importance, etc.
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Colors
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Shapes
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Weather
- Korean Adjectives for Food: Describing Taste
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Situations
- Korean Adjectives to Describe Physical Traits
- Korean Adjectives to Describe a Person and Conditions
- How to Improve Your Korean Skills with KoreanClass101
1. How to Use Korean Adjectives
1- When an Adjective Comes before a Noun
Let’s say that you want to say: “I want to have a cat.” It’s easy, right?
고양이를 갖고 싶어요
Goyangireul gatgo sipeoyo.
“I want to have a cat.”
What if you want to describe the size of the cat? What if you want to say: “I want to have a small cat?”
The Korean word for “small” is 작다, therefore you may think that simply adding this word to the sentence will complete it. Well, the answer is NO. Remember that 작다 means “small,” but it’s the dictionary form. Therefore, you need to change it into an adjective. To do this, you need to eliminate ~다 and add ~ㄴ or ~은.
There are two important rules to remember in terms of how to conjugate Korean adjectives:
1) When the stem’s last syllable ends with a consonant, such as 낮다 (natda) or 젊다 (jeolda), add ~은 to the stem. For example:
| Vocabulary | Stem | Adjective form | Example | English |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 낮다 (natda) | 낮 (nat) | 낮은 (najeun) | 낮은 책상 (najeun chaeksang) | “A low desk” |
| 젊다 (jeolda) | 젊 (jeol) | 젊은 (jeolmeun) | 젊은 여자 (jeolmeun yeoja) | “A young lady” |
2) When the stem’s last syllable ends with a vowel, such as 싸다 (ssada) or 이쁘다 (ippeuda), add ~ㄴ to the stem. For example:
| Vocabulary | Stem | Adjective form | Example | English |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 싸다 (ssada) | 싸 (ssa) | 싼 (ssan) | 싼 물건 (ssan mulgeon) | “Cheap stuff” |
| 이쁘다 (ippeuda) | 이쁘(ippeu) | 이쁜 (ippeun) | 이쁜 여자 (ippeun yeoja) | “Pretty lady” |
Now, let’s have a look at the example from before. We want to add “small” into the sentence. The stem of 작다 (jakda) is 작 (jak), and the last syllable of its stem ends in a consonant: ㄱ. So in order to make it into an adjective form, you need to eliminate 다 (da) and add ~은 instead. So the whole sentence should look like this:
작은 고양이를 갖고 싶어요. [Correct]
Jageun goyangireul gatgo sipeoyo.
“I want a small cat.”
작다 고양이를 갖고 싶어요. [Incorrect]
Jakda goyangireul gatgo sipeoyo.
“Small cat I want.”
Now, the question is…how do you use 작다 (jakda) and 작은 (jageun), or 싸다 (ssada) and 싼 (ssan), in sentences correctly?
2- When an Adjective is Used after a Noun as a Predicate
1) An Adjective in a Dictionary Form
Let’s have a look at two examples:
이 고양이는 작다.
I goyangineun jakda.
“This cat is small.”
저기에 작은 고양이가 있어.
Jeogie jageun goyangiga isseo.
“There is a small cat.”
Do you see the difference? Dictionary forms are used after the noun, and adjective forms are used before nouns.
Also, remember that the dictionary form is usually used in writing.
- 이곳의 사람들의 평균 키는 165cm로 키가 매우 작다. (Written)
Igosui saramdeurui pyeonggyun kineun 165cmro kiga maeu jakda.
“The average height of people (here) is 165cm, which is lower than the average.”
2) An Adjective in a Speech Form
Here are various ways to say the same sentence, but in speech:
- 이곳의 사람들의 평균 키는 키가 매우 작습니다. [Formal]
Igosui saramdeurui pyeonggyun kineun kiga maeu jakseumnida. - 이곳의 사람들의 평균 키는 키가 매우 작은 것 같아요. [Casual-formal]
Igosui saramdeurui pyeonggyun kineun kiga maeu jageun geot gatayo. - 이곳의 사람들의 평균 키는 키가 매우 작아. [Informal]
Igosui saramdeurui pyeonggyun kineun kiga maeu jaga.
You need Korean conjugation rules to change adjectives into a speech form. Check out these Korean Conjugation Rules!
Now that we have the basics out of the way, let’s move forward to our Korean adjectives list!
2. Korean Adjectives to Describe Dimensions, Sizes, Distances, etc.
1- 크다 (keuda) — “To be Big”
Examples:
- 이 강아지는 크다. [writing]
I gangajineun keuda.
“This dog is big.” - 큰 강아지를 갖고 싶어요.
Keun gangajireul gatgo sipeoyo.
“I want to have a big dog.”
2- 작다 (jakda) — “To be Small”
Examples:
- 이 강아지는 작다. [writing]
I gangajineun jakda.
“This dog is small.” - 이 강아지는 작아요. [speaking]
I gangajineun jagayo.
“This dog is small.” - 작은 강아지를 갖고 싶어요. (standard speech level)
Jageun gangajireul gatgo sipeoyo.
“I want to have a small dog.”
3- 넓다 (neolda) — “To be Wide”
Examples:
- 이 집은 넓다. [writing]
I jibeun neolda.
“This house is very wide.” - 이 집은 넓어요. [speaking]
I jibeun neolbeoyo.
“This house is very wide.” - 넓은 집에서 살고 싶어요. [standard speech level]
Neolbeun jibeseo salgo sipeoyo.
“I want to live in a wide (big) house.”
4- 좁다 (jopda) — “To be Narrow”
Examples:
- 이 공간은 매우 좁다. [writing]
I gongganeun maeu jopda.
“This place is very narrow.” - 이곳은 너무 좁은 것 같아요. [speaking]
Igoseun neomu jobeun geot gatayo.
“I reckon this place is very narrow.” - 좁은 공간에 사람이 많이 있어요. (standard speech level)
Jobeun gonggane sarami mani isseoyo.
“There are too many people in a narrow space.”
5- 무겁다 (mugeopda) — “To be Heavy”
Examples:
- 이 짐은 매우 무겁다. [writing]
I jimeun maeu mugeopda.
“This baggage is extremely heavy.” - 이 짐은 너무 무거워요. [speaking]
I jimeun neomu mugeowoyo.
“This stuff is really heavy.” - 무거운 짐을 들면 허리가 아파요. [standard speech level]
Mugeoun jimeul deulmyeon heoriga apayo.
“If I lift heavy stuff, it gives me back pain.”
6- 가볍다 (gabyeopda) — “To be Light (in weight)”
Examples:
- 이 이불은 깃털처럼 가볍다. [writing]
I ibureun gitteolcheoreom gabyeopda.
“This blanket is as light as a feather.” - 어머, 이 고양이 진짜 가볍네. [speaking]
Eomeo, i goyangi jinjja gabyeomne.
“Oh my gosh, this cat is really light.” - 가벼운 짐만 있어요. [standard speech level]
Gabyeoun jimman isseoyo.
“I only have a light load.”
7- 높다 (nopda) — “High (in height)”
Examples:
- 이 굽은 매우 높다. [writing]
I gubeun maeu nopda.
“This heel is extremely high.” - 이 신발 너무 높아서 못 신겠어. [speaking]
I sinbal neomu nopaseo mot singesseo.
“I can’t wear these shoes because they (the heels) are too high.” - 굽이 높은 구두 신으면 발 안아파요? [standard speech level]
Gubi nopeun gudu sineumyeon bal anapayo?
“Don’t you feel pain when you wear high heels?”
8 – 낮다 (natda) — “To be Low (in height)”
Examples:
- 이 테이블의 높이는 낮다. [writing]
I teibeurui nopineun natda.
“The height of this table is low.” - 이 테이블의 높이는 낮아요. [speaking]
I teibeurui nopineun najayo.
“The height of this table is low.” - 내일 굽이 낮은 신발 신고 오세요. [standard speech level]
Naeil gubi najeun sinbal singo oseyo.
“Please wear flat shoes tomorrow.”
9 – 가깝다 (gakkapda) — “To be Close (in distance)”
Examples:
- 집에서 학교까지의 거리는 가깝다. [writing]
Jibeseo hakgyokkajiui georineun gakkapda.
“The house and school are close by each other.” - 집에서 학교까지는 가까워. [speaking]
Jibeseo hakgyokkajineun gakkawo
“From the house to the school is a short distance.” - 집은 역에서 가까운 곳에 있어요. [standard speech level]
Jibeun yeogeseo gakkaun gose isseoyo.
“My house is close to a station.”
10 – 멀다 (meolda) — “To be Far (in distance)”
Examples:
- 집에서 학교까지는 멀다. [writing]
Jibeseo hakgyokkajineun meolda.
“The distance between the house and the school is far.” - 우리 집에서 학교까지는 멀어. [speaking]
Uri jibeseo hakgyokkajineun meoreo.
“It’s far from the house to the school.” - 남자친구는 너무 먼 곳에 있어요. [standard speech level]
Namjachinguneun neomu meon gose isseoyo.
“My boyfriend lives far from where I live.”
11 – 길다 (gilda) — “To be Long”
Examples:
- 이 터널은 한국에서 가장 길다. [writing]
I teoneoreun hangugeseo gajang gilda.
“This tunnel is the longest in Korea.” - 이 터널은 한국에서 가장 길어. [speaking]
I teoneoreun hangugeseo gajang gireo.
“This tunnel is the longest in Korea.” - 길다는 긴 금발 머리를 갖고 있어. [standard speech level]
Gildaneun gin geumbal meorireul gatgo isseo.
“Gilda has long blonde hair.”
Do you want to improve your vocabulary for expressing quantity?
Check out 수량을 표현하는 방법 (suryangeul pyohyeonhaneun bangbeop) or “How to Express Quantity” on KoreanClass101!
3. Korean Adjectives to Describe Values
1- 좋다 (jota) — “To be Good”
Examples:
- 이 제품은 품질이 좋다. [writing]
I jepumeun pumjiri jota.
“The quality of this product is good.” - 이 제품은 품질이 좋은것 같아. [speaking]
I jepumeun pumjiri joeungeot gata.
“The quality of this product is good.” - 그 사람은 좋은 사람인것 같아. [standard speech level]
Geu sarameun joeun saramingeot gata.
“I think that he is a good person.”
2- 나쁘다 (nappeuda) — “To be Bad”
Examples:
- 이 제품의 품질은 나쁘다. [writing]
I jepumui pumjireun nappeuda.
“The quality of this product is bad.” - 이 제품의 품질은 나쁜 것 같아. [speaking]
I jepumui pumjireun nappeun geot gata.
“The quality of this product is bad.” - 아무도 나쁜 사람을 좋아하지 않아요. [standard speech level]
Amudo nappeun sarameul joahaji anayo.
“No one likes a bad person.”
3- 괜찮다 (gwaenchanta) — “To be Nice”
Examples:
- 이 곳의 분위기는 괜찮다. [writing]
I gosui bunwigineun gwaenchanta.
“The atmosphere of this place is nice.” - 여기 분위기 진짜 괜찮네. [speaking]
Yeogi bunwigi jinjja gwaenchanne.
“The atmosphere of this place is nice.” - 어디 괜찮은 장소있습니까? [formal speech level]
Eodi gwaenchaneun jangsoitseumnikka?
“Are there nice places?”
4- 끔찍하다 (kkeumjjikada) — “To be Terrible”
- Dictionary form: 끔찍하다 (kkeumjjikada)
- Adjective form: 끔찍한 (kkeumjjikan)
Examples:
- 생각만해도 끔찍하다. [writing]
Saenggangmanhaedo kkeumjjikada.
“It’s terrible just thinking about it.” - 생각만해도 끔찍해. [speaking]
Saenggangmanhaedo kkeumjjikae.
“It’s terrible just thinking about it.” - 끔찍한 광경을 보고 말았습니다. [formal speech level]
Kkeumjjikan gwanggyeongeul bogo maratseumnida.
“I witnessed a terrible sight.”
5- 놀라다 (nollada) — “To be Surprised”
Examples:
- 놀라서 소리 쳤다. [writing]
Nollaseo sori chyeotda.
“I screamed in surprise.” - 놀라서 소리 쳤어. [speaking]
Nollaseo sori chyeosseo.
“I screamed in surprise.” - 그건 진짜 놀라운 업적인것 같아. [standard speech level]
Geugeon jinjja nollaun eopjeogingeot gata.
“I think it is such an amazing achievement.”
4. Korean Adjectives to Describe Feeling & Sense
1- 심심하다 (simsimhada) — “To be Bored”
- Dictionary form: 심심하다 (simsimhada)
- Adjective form: 심심한 (simsimhan)
- The opposite of “feeling bored” is “feeling entertained,” which is 재미있다 (jaemiitda).
Examples:
- 할일이 없어서 심심하다. [writing]
Hariri eopseoseo simsimhada.
“I’m bored because there is nothing to do.” - 할일이 없어서 심심해. [speaking]
Hariri eopseoseo simsimhae.
“I’m bored because there is nothing to do.” - 심심해 죽겠어. [standard speech level]
Simsimhae jukgesseo.
“I’m bored to death.”
2- 질투하다 (jiltuhada) — “To be Jealous”
- Dictionary form: 질투하다 (jiltuhada)
- Adjective form: 질투하는 (jiltuhaneun)
Examples:
- 질투심을 자극하다. [writing]
Jiltusimeul jageukada.
“To cause someone’s jealousy.” - 너 지금 내 친구 질투하니? [speaking]
Neo jigeum nae chingu jiltuhani?
“Are you jealous of my friends right now?” - 너 지금 나 질투하는 거야? [standard speech level]
Neo jigeum na jiltuhaneun geoya?
“Are you jealous of me now?”
3- 무관심하다 (mugwansimhada) — “To be Indifferent / Ignorant”
- Dictionary form: 무관심하다 (mugwansimhada)
- Adjective form: 무관심한 (mugwansimhan)
Examples:
- 공부에 전혀 무관심하다. [writing]
Gongbue jeonhyeo mugwansimhada.
“He doesn’t care about the studies.” - 공부에 전혀 무관심해. [speaking]
Gongbue jeonhyeo mugwansimhae.
“He doesn’t care about the studies.” - 공부에 무관심한 아들때문에 화가나. [standard speech level]
Gongbue mugwansimhan adeulttaemune hwagana.
“I’m upset about the fact that my son doesn’t show any interest in his studies.”
4- 생각이 깊다 (saenggagi gipda) — “To be Thoughtful”
- Dictionary form: 생각이 깊다 (saenggagi gipda)
- Adjective form: 생각이 깊은 (saenggagi gipeun)
Examples:
- 수미는 생각이 깊다. [writing]
Sumineun saenggagi gipda.
“Sumi is a considerate (thoughtful) person.” - 수미는 생각이 깊어. [speaking]
Sumineun saenggagi gipeo.
“Sumi is a considerate (thoughtful) person.” - 내 생각에는 수미는 생각이 정말 깊은 사람이야. [standard speech level]
Nae saenggageneun sumineun saenggagi jeongmal gipeun saramiya.
“I think that Sumi is a considerate (thoughtful) person.”
5- 편안하다 (pyeonanhada) — “To be Comfortable”
- Dictionary form: 편안하다 (pyeonanhada)
- Adjective form: 편안한 (pyeonanhan)
Examples:
- 이 소파는 편안하다. [writing]
I sopaneun pyeonanhada.
“This sofa is comfortable.” - 이 소파는 편안해. [speaking]
I sopaneun pyeonanhae.
“This sofa is comfortable.” - 편안한 신발을 신으세요. [standard speech level]
Pyeonanhan sinbareul sineuseyo.
“Please wear comfortable shoes.”
6- 스트레스 받다 (seuteureseu batda) — “To feel Stressed”
- Dictionary form: 스트레스 받다 (seuteureseu batda)
- Adjective form: 스트레스 받는 (seuteureseu banneun)
Examples:
- 야근이 많아서 스트레스 받다. [writing]
Yageuni manaseo seuteureseu batda.
“To be stressed because of working overtime” - 야근이 너무 많아서 스트레스 받고 있어. [speaking]
Yageuni neomu manaseo seuteureseu batgo isseo.
“I am feeling very stressed because of working overtime.” - 무슨일 있어? 스트레스 받는 일있어? [standard speech level]
Museunil isseo? Seuteureseu banneun irisseo?
“What’s wrong? Did something happen to make you feel stressed?”
7- 아프다 (apeuda) — “To feel Sick / In pain”
- Dictionary form: 아프다 (apeuda)
- Adjective form: 아픈 (apeun)
Examples:
- 많이 걸어서 다리가 아프다. [writing]
Mani georeoseo dariga apeuda.
“Because I walked a lot, I have pain in my leg.” - 어제 많이 걸어서 다리가 아프네. [speaking]
Eoje mani georeoseo dariga apeune.
“Because I walked a lot, I have pain in my leg.” - 우리 고양이가 아픈 것 같아요. [standard speech level]
Uri goyangiga apeun geot gatayo.
“I think my cat is sick.”
8- 상냥하다 (sangnyanghada) — “To be Good-humored”
- Dictionary form: 상냥하다 (sangnyanghada)
- Adjective form: 상냥한 (sangnyanghan)
Examples:
- 우체국에서 일하는 사람들은 상냥하다. [writing]
Uchegugeseo ilhaneun saramdeureun sangnyanghada.
“People who work at the post office are kind (good-humored).” - 우체국에서 일하는 사람들은 상냥해. [speaking]
Uchegugeseo ilhaneun saramdeureun sangnyanghae.
“People who work at the post office are kind (good-humored).” - 상냥한 성격의 아이로 키우고 싶어요. [standard speech level]
Sangnyanghan seonggyeogui airo kiugo sipeoyo.
“I want to raise my child to have a good-humored personality.”
9- 의심이 많다. (uisimi manta) — “To be Suspicious”
- Dictionary form: 의심이 많다. (uisimi manta)
- Adjective form: 의심 많은 (uisim maneun)
Examples:
- 경찰은 항상 의심이 많다. [writing]
Gyeongchareun hangsang uisimi manta.
“Police men are always suspicious of people.” - 경찰은 항상 의심이 많은것 같아. [speaking]
Gyeongchareun hangsang uisimi maneungeot gata.
“I think policemen are always suspicious of people.” - 강아지는 처음 보는 사람에게 의심이 많은 것 같아요. [standard speech level]
Gangajineun cheoeum boneun saramege uisimi maneun geot gatayo.
“I think that dogs are usually suspicious of strangers.”
10- 거만하다 (geomanhada) — “To be Arrogant”
- Dictionary form: 거만하다 (geomanhada)
- Adjective form: 거만한 (geomanhan)
Examples:
- 그 사람의 행동은 거만하다. [writing]
Geu saramui haengdongeun geomanhada.
“His attitude is arrogant.” - 그 사람의 행동은 거만해. [speaking]
Geu saramui haengdongeun geomanhae.
“His attitude is arrogant.” - 거만한 표정으로 나를 쳐다봤어. [standard speech level]
Geomanhan pyojeongeuro nareul chyeodabwasseo.
“He looks at me with this arrogant look.”
5. Korean Adjectives to Describe Speed, Difficulty, Importance, etc.
1- 어렵다 (eoryeopda) — “To be Difficult”
- Dictionary form: 어렵다 (eoryeopda)
- Adjective form: 어려운 (eoryeoun)
Examples:
- 오늘의 수학문제는 어려웠다. [writing]
Oneurui suhangmunjeneun eoryeowotda.
“Today’s math question was difficult.” - 오늘의 수학문제는 어려웠어. [speaking]
Oneurui suhangmunjeneun eoryeowosseo.
“Today’s math question was difficult.” - 이렇게 어려운 문제를 어떻게 풀 수 있었어요? [formal speech level]
Ireoke eoryeoun munjereul eotteoke pul su isseosseoyo?
“How did you solve such a difficult question?”
2- 쉽다 (swipda) — “To be Easy”
Examples:
- 이 문제는 쉽다. [writing]
I munjeneun swipda.
“This problem is easy (to solve).” - 이 문제는 쉬워. [speaking]
I munjeneun swiwo.
“This problem is easy (to solve).” - 이렇게 쉬운 문제를 풀 수 없다는 게 말이 안돼. [standard speech level]
Iireoke swiun munjereul pul su eopdaneun ge mari andwae.
“It does not make sense that you can’t solve such an easy problem.”
3- 빠르다 (ppareuda) — “To be Fast”
- Dictionary form: 빠르다 (ppareuda)
- Adjective form: 빠른 (ppareun)
Examples:
- 토끼는 거북이 보다 빠르다. [writing]
Tokkineun geobugi boda ppareuda.
“Rabbits are faster than turtles.” - 토끼는 거북이 보다 빨라. [speaking]
Tokkineun geobugi boda ppalla.”
Rabbits are faster than turtles.” - 세상에서 가장 빠른 동물은 무엇일까요? [formal speech level]
Sesangeseo gajang ppareun dongmureun mueosilkkayo?
“What is the fastest animal in the world?”
4- 느릿느릿하다 (neurinneurithada) — “To be Slow”
- Dictionary form: 느릿느릿하다 (neurinneurithada)
- Adjective form: 느릿느릿한 (neurinneurithan)
- Usually used to convey a negative meaning
- This is used to criticize someone’s behavior
Examples:
- 그 남자의 걸음걸이는 느릿느릿하다. [writing]
Geu namjaui georeumgeorineun neurinneurithada.
“This man’s walk is slow.” - 그 남자의 걸음걸이는 느릿느릿해요. [speaking]
Geu namjaui georeumgeorineun neurinneurithaeyo.
“This man’s walk is slow.” - 느릿느릿한 걸음걸이 좀 고칠 수 없겠니? [standard speech level]
Neurinneurithan georeumgeori jom gochil su eopgenni?
“Can you fix the way you walk (slowly)?”
5- 복잡하다 (bokjaphada) — “To be Complicated”
- Dictionary form: 복잡하다 (bokjaphada)
- Adjective form: 복잡한 (bokjapan)
Examples:
- 머리가 복잡하다. [writing]
Meoriga bokjapada.
“I have a lot on my mind.” - 머리가 복잡해. [speaking]
Meoriga bokjaphae.
“I have a lot on my mind.” - 복잡한 상황이라 설명할 수가 없어. [standard speech level]
Bokjapan sanghwangira seolmyeonghal suga eopseo.
“I can’t explain to you right now because it is a complicated situation.”
6- 단순하다 (dansunhada) — “To be Simple”
Examples:
- 이것은 단순한 돈 문제가 아니다. [writing]
Igeoseun dansunhan don munjega anida.
“It’s not simply a question of money.” - 이것은 단순한 돈 문제가 아니야. [speaking]
Igeoseun dansunhan don munjega aniya.
“It’s not simply a question of money.” - 리포트를 쓰는 것은 단순한 일이 아니야. [standard speech level]
Ripoteureul sseuneun geoseun dansunhan iri aniya.
“Writing a report is not a simple task.”
7- 간단하다 (gandanhada) — “To be Simple / Easy”
Examples:
- 이 설명서는 읽기 간단하다. [writing]
I seolmyeongseoneun ilgi gandanhada.
“This explanation is simple to read.” - 이 설명서는 읽기 간단해. [speaking]
I seolmyeongseoneun ilgi gandanhae.
“This explanation is simple to read.” - 지금은 간단한 일만 하고 있어요. [standard speech level]
Jigeumeun gandanhan ilman hago isseoyo.
“I’m doing a simple task right now.”
8- 느리다 (neurida) — “To be Slow”
- Dictionary form: 느리다 (neurida)
- Adjective form: 느린 (neurin)
Examples:
- 이 곳의 서비스는 느리다. [writing]
I gosui seobiseuneun neurida.
“The service here is slow (inefficient).” - 이 곳의 서비스는 느려요. [speaking]
I gosui seobiseuneun neuryeoyo.
“The service here is slow (inefficient).” - 할아버지는 느린 걸음으로 걸어갑니다. [formal speech level]
Harabeojineun neurin georeumeuro georeogamnida.
“An old man walks at a slow pace.”
9- 결정적이다 (gyeoljeongjeogida) — “To be Crucial”
- Dictionary form: 결정적이다 (gyeoljeongjeogida)
- Adjective form: 결정적인 (gyeoljeongjeogin)
Examples:
- 이 순간은 결정적이었다. [writing]
I sunganeun gyeoljeongjeogieotda.
“This moment was crucial.” - 이 순간은 결정적이었어. [speaking]
I sunganeun gyeoljeongjeogieoseo.
“This moment was crucial.” - 결정적인 순간에 없었어. [standard speech level]
Gyeoljeongjeogin sungane eopseosseo.
“You were not there in the crucial moment.”
10- 다양하다 (dayanghada) — “Various”
Examples:
- 과일 종류가 다양하다. [writing]
Gwail jongnyuga dayanghada.
“There are different kinds of fruits.” - 과일 종류가 다양해. [speaking]
Gwail jongnyuga dayanghae.
“There are different kinds of fruits.” - 저희는 다양한 서비스를 제공합니다. [formal speech level]
Jeohuineun dayanghan seobiseureul jegonghamnida.
“We offer various services.”
6. Korean Adjectives to Describe Colors
1- 빨갛다 (ppalgatta) — “Red”
- Dictionary form: 빨갛다 (ppalgatta)
- Adjective form: 빨간 (ppalgan)
Example:
- 저는 빨간색을 좋아해요. [standard speech level]
Jeoneun ppalgansaegeul joahaeyo.
“I like red (color).”
2- 하얗다 (hayatta) — “White”
- Dictionary form: 하얗다 (hayatta)
- Adjective form: 하얀 (hayan)
Examples:
- 하얀 새들이 날아가고 있다. [standard speech level]
Hayan saedeuri naragago itda.
“White birds are flying.”
3- 파랗다 (paratta) — “Blue”
- Dictionary form: 파랗다 (paratta)
- Adjective form: 파란 (paran)
Example:
- 우리집 고양이는 파란 눈을 가지고 있어요. [standard speech level]
Urijip goyangineun paran nuneul gajigo isseoyo.
“My cat has blue eyes.”
4- 어둡다 (eodupda) — “Dark”
Examples:
- 하늘이 어둡다. [writing]
Haneuri eodupda.
“The sky is dark.” - 하늘이 어둡네요. [speaking]
Haneuri eodumneyo.
“The sky is dark.” - 저는 어두운 색의 옷을 자주 입어요. [standard speech level]
Jeoneun eoduun saegui oseul jaju ibeoyo.
“I wear dark-colored clothes often.”
5- 밝다 (balda) — “Light/Bright”
- Dictionary form: 밝다 (balda)
- Adjective form: 밝은 (balgeun)
Examples:
- 하늘이 밝다. [writing]
Haneuri balda.
“The sky is bright.” - 하늘이 밝아요. [speaking]
Haneuri balgayo.
“The sky is bright.” - 여름에는 밝은 색의 옷을 많이 입어요. [standard speech level]
Yeoreumeneun balgeun saegui oseul mani ibeoyo.
“I wear light-colored clothes a lot during the summer.”
7. Korean Adjectives to Describe Shapes
1- 동그랗다 (donggeuratta) — “To be Round”
- Dictionary form: 동그랗다 (donggeuratta)
- Adjective form: 동그란 (donggeuran)
Example:
- 강아지는 동그란 눈을 가졌어요. [casual speech level]
Gangajineun donggeuran nuneul gajyeosseoyo.
“Puppies have round eyes.”
2- 세모낳다 (semonatta) — “To be Triangular”
- Dictionary form: 세모낳다 (semonatta)
- Adjective form: 세모난 (semonan)
Example:
- 고양이는 세모난 귀를 가졌어. [standard speech level]
Goyangineun semonan gwireul gajyeotseo.
“Cats’ ears look like triangles.”
3- 뾰족하다 (ppyojokhada) — “To be Sharp”
- Dictionary form: 뾰족하다 (ppyojokhada)
- Adjective form: 뾰족한 (ppyojokan)
Examples:
- 장미의 가시는 뾰족하다. [writing]
Jangmiui gasineun ppyojokada.
“The thorns of roses are pointy (sharp).” - 장미의 가시는 뾰족해. [speaking]
Jangmiui gasineun ppyojokahae.
“The thorns of roses are pointy (sharp).” - 수미의 턱은 뾰족해. [standard speech level]
Sumiui teogeun ppyojokahae.
“Sumi’s chin is sharp (pointy).”
4- 네모낳다 (nemonatta) — “To be Square”
- Dictionary form: 네모낳다 (nemonatta)
- Adjective form: 네모난 (nemonan)
Examples:
- 저는 네모난 지갑을 찾고 있어요. [standard speech level]
Jeoneun nemonan jigabeul chatgo isseoyo.
“I am looking for a square wallet.”
5- 질기다 (jilgida) — “To be Tough”
- Dictionary form: 질기다 (jilgida)
- Adjective form: 질긴 (jilgin)
Examples:
- 이 가죽은 질기다. [writing]
I gajugeun jilgida.
“This leather is tough.” - 이 가죽은 질겨. [speaking]
I gajugeun jilgeo.
“This leather is tough.” - 이 지갑은 질긴 가죽으로 만들어져있습니다. [formal speech level]
I jigabeun jilgin gajugeuro mandeureojyeoitseumnida.
“This wallet is made of tough leather.”
6- 부드럽다 (budeureopda) — “To be Soft”
Example:
- 이 천은 부드럽다. [writing]
I cheoneun budeureopda.
“This fabric is soft.” - 이 천은 부드러워. [speaking]
I cheoneun budeureoweo.
“This fabric is soft.” - 이 가방은 부드러운 천으로 만들어졌습니다. [formal speech level]
I gabangeun budeureoun cheoneuro mandeureojyeoitseumnida.
“This bag is made of soft cloth.”
8. Korean Adjectives to Describe Weather
1- 눈이 내리다 (nuni naerida) — “Being Snowy”
- Dictionary form: 눈이 내리다 (nuni naerida)
- Adjective form: 눈이 내리는 (nuni naerineun)
Examples:
- 내일 저녁 눈이 내린데. [speaking]
Naeil jeonyeok nuni naerinde.
“It seems like it will snow tomorrow.” - 어린이들은 눈이 내리는 날을 즐깁니다. [formal speech]
Eorinideureun nuni naerineun nareul jeulgimnida.
“Children enjoy the snowy days.”
2- 맑다 (malda) — “To be Clear”
Examples:
- 이 물은 맑다. [writing]
I mureun malda.
“The water is very clean (clear).” - 이 물은 맑아. [speaking]
I mureun malga.
“The water is very clean (clear).” - 맑은 물에는 물고기가 모이지 않아. [standard speech level]
Malgeun mureneun mulgogiga moiji ana.
“A clear stream is avoided by fish.”
3- 상쾌하다 (sangkwaehada) — “To be Fresh”
Examples:
- 공기가 상쾌하다. [writing]
Gongiga sangkwaehada.
“The air is fresh.” - 공기가 상쾌해. [speaking]
Gongiga sangkwaehae.
“The air is fresh.” - 상쾌한 공기를 들이마시는 것은 좋아. [standard speech level]
Sangkwaehan gonggireul deurimasineun geoseun joa.
“It is good to breathe some fresh air.”
4- 비가 내리다 (biga naerida) — “Rainy”
- Dictionary form: 비가 내리다 (biga naerida)
- Adjective form: 비가 내리는 (biga naerineun)
Examples:
- 지금 비가 내리고 있어. [speaking]
Jigeum biga naerigo isseo.
“It’s raining right now.” - 여름에는 비가 내리는 날이 많다. [standard speech level]
Yeoreumeneun biga naerineun nari manta.
“There are many rainy days during the summer.”
5- 화창하다 (hwachanghada) — “Sunny”
Examples:
- 오늘의 날씨는 화창하다. [writing]
Oneurui nalssineun hwachanghada.
“Today is sunny.” - 오늘 날씨 정말 화창하네. [speaking]
Oneul nalssi jeongmal hwachanghane.
“Today is very sunny.” - 오늘의 날씨는 때때로 구름이 끼는 화창한 날씨입니다. [standard speech level]
Oneurui nalssineun ttaettaero gureumi kkineun hwachanghan nalssiimnida.
“Today’s weather is sunny with occasional clouds.”
6- 안개가 끼다 (angaega kkida) — “Foggy”
- Dictionary form: 안개가 끼다 (angaega kkida)
- Adjective form: 안개가 낀 (angaega kkin)
Example:
- 안개가 낀 날은 운전하기 힘들어요. [standard speech level]
Angaega kkin nareun unjeonhagi himdeureoyo.
“It is difficult to drive on a foggy day.”
7- 바람이 많이 분다 (barami mani bunda) — “Windy”
- Dictionary form: 바람이 많이 분다 (barami mani bunda)
- Adjective form: 바람이 많이 부는 (barami mani buneun)
Examples:
- 오늘은 바람이 많이 분다. [writing]
Oneureun barami mani bunda.
“It is windy today.” - 오늘은 바람이 많이 부네 [speaking]
Oneureun barami mani bune.
“It is windy today.” - 바람이 많이 부는 날에 치마를 입지 않는 것이 좋아. [standard speech level]
Barami mani buneun nare chimareul ipji anneun geosi joa.
“It is better off not to wear a skirt on a windy day.”
8 – 변덕스럽다 (byeondeokseuropda) — “Unstable (weather)”
- Dictionary form: 변덕스럽다 (byeondeokseuropda)
- Adjective form: 변덕스러운 (byeondeokseureoun)
Examples:
- 날씨가 변덕스럽다. [writing]
Nalssiga byeondeokseureopda.
“The weather is unstable.” - 날씨가 변덕스럽네. [speaking]
Nalssiga byeondeokseureomne.
“The weather is unstable.” - 변덕스러운 날씨 때문에 캠핑을 가지 못했어요. [standard speech level]
Byeondeokseureoun nalssi ttaemune kaempingeul gaji mothatatseoyo.
“They couldn’t go camping because of the changeable (unstable) weather.”
9- 건조하다 (geonjohada) — “Dry”
- Dictionary form: 건조하다 (geonjohada)
- Adjective form: 건조한 (geonjohan)
Examples:
- 사막은 건조하다. [writing]
Samageun geonjohada.
“The desert is dry.” - 사막은 건조해. [speaking]
Samageun geonjohae.
“The desert is dry.” - 사막에는 비가 내리지 않아 극도로 건조해요. [standard speech level]
Samageneun biga naeriji ana geonjohaeyo.
“It rarely rains in the desert, therefore the weather is extremely dry.”
10- 습도가 높다 (seupdoga nopda) — “Humid”
- Dictionary form: 습도가 높다 (seupdoga nopda)
- Adjective form: 습도가 높은 (seupdoga nopeun)
Examples:
- 여름은 습도가 높다. [writing]
Yeoreumeun seupdoga nopda.
“It is humid in summer.” - 여름은 습도가 높아. [speaking]
Yeoreumeun seupdoga nopa.
“It is humid in summer.” - 비가 오는 날에는 습도가 높아져. [standard speech level]
Biga oneun nareneun seupdoga nopajyeo.
“The humidity becomes higher on a rainy day.”
11- 시원하다 (siwonhada) — “Cool”
- Dictionary form: 시원하다 (siwonhada)
- Adjective form: 시원한 (siwonhan)
Examples:
- 날씨가 시원하다. [writing]
Nalssiga siwonhada.
“The weather is cool.” - 날씨가 시원하네. [speaking]
Nalssiga siwonhane.
“The weather is cool.” - 여름에는 시원한 아이스크림이 먹고 싶어지네. [standard speech level]
Yeoreumeneun siwonhan aiseukeurimi meokgo sipeojine.
“I want to eat cold (cool) ice cream during the summer.”
12- 덥다 (deopda) — “Hot”
- Dictionary form: 덥다 (deopda)
- Adjective form: 더운 (deoun)
Examples:
- 오늘 날씨는 정말 덥다. [writing]
Oneul nalssineun jeongmal deopda.
“It’s really hot today.” - 오늘 날씨는 정말 덥네. [speaking]
Oneul nalssineun jeongmal deopne.
“It’s really hot today.” - 더운 날씨가 그립다. [standard speech level]
Deoun nalssiga geuripda.
“I miss the hot weather.”
9. Korean Adjectives for Food: Describing Taste
1 – 달다 (dalda) — “Sweet”
Examples:
- 화이트 초콜릿은 달다. [writing]
Hwaiteu chokolliseun dalda.
“White chocolate is sweet.” - 화이트 초콜릿은 달아. [speaking]
Hwaiteu chokolliseun dala.
“White chocolate is sweet.” - 우와, 이 음식에서 단맛이 난단 말이야? [standard speech level]
Uwa, i eumsigeseo danmasi nandan mariya?
“Wow, how come this food tastes sweet?”
2 – 짜다 (jjada) — “Salty”
Examples:
- 라면에서 짠맛이 나다. [writing]
Ramyeoneseo jjanmasi nada.
“This noodle tastes too salty.” - 라면에서 짠맛이 나. [speaking]
Ramyeoneseo jjanmasi na.
“This noodle tastes too salty.” - 소금의 맛은 짜다. [standard speech level]
Sogeumui maseun jjada.
“The taste of salt is salty.”
3 – 싱겁다 (singgeopda) — “Bland / Tasteless”
- Dictionary form: 싱겁다 (singgeopda)
- Adjective form: 싱거운 (singgeoeun)
Examples:
- (맛이) 싱겁다. [writing]
(Masi) singgeopda.
“It’s tasteless.” - 이 라면은 조금 싱겁네. 소금 조금 더 넣자. [speaking]
I ramyeoneun jogeum singgeomne. Sogeum jogeum deo neocha.
“This noodle tastes bland. Let’s add some more salt.” - 너무 싱거운데? 맛없다야. [casual speech level]
Neomu singgeounde? Maseopdaya.
“It tastes bland! It’s not delicious.”
4 – 맵다 (maepda) — “Spicy”
Examples:
- 한국 음식은 맵다. [writing]
Hanguk eumsigeun maepda.
“Korean foods are spicy.” - 이 라면 엄청 맵네. [speaking]
I ramyeon eomcheong maemne
“This noodle is really spicy.” - 저는 매운 음식 좋아해요. 매운 음식 잘 드세요? [formal speech level]
Jeoneun maeun eumsik joahaeyo. Maeun eumsik jal deuseyo?
“I like spicy food. Do you like spicy food?”
5 – 비리다 (birida) — “Fishy”
- Dictionary form: 비리다 (birida)
- Adjective form: 비린 (birin)
Example:
- 생선에서 비린내가 납니다. [formal speech level]
Saengseoneseo birinnaega napnida.
“This fish smells fishy (doesn’t smell fresh).”
6 – 느끼하다 (neukkihada) — “Greasy”
- Dictionary form: 느끼하다 (neukkihada)
- Adjective form: 느끼한 (neukkihan)
Examples:
- 기름이 너무 많아 느끼하다. [writing]
Gireumi neomu mana neukkihada.
“It’s too oily, therefore it is greasy.” - 치즈맛은 느끼한것 같아. [casual speaking]
Chijeumaseun neukkihangeot gata.
“I reckon the taste of cheese is very greasy.” - 고기에 기름기가 너무 많아서 느끼해요. [standard speech level]
Gogie gireumgiga neomu manaseo neukkihaeyo.
“The meat is too greasy.”
7 – 바삭바삭하다 (basakbasakhada) — “Crispy”
- Dictionary form: 바삭바삭하다 (basakbasakhada)
- Adjective form: 바삭바삭한 (basakbasakan)
Examples:
- 튀김은 바삭바삭하다. [writing]
Twigimeun basakbasakada
“Fries are crispy.” - 튀김은 바삭바삭해. [speaking]
Twigimeun basakbasakahae.
“Fries are crispy.” - 바삭바삭한 치킨이 먹고 싶어요. [standard speech level]
Basakbasakan chikini meokgo sipeoyo.
“I want to eat some crispy chicken.”
8 – 역겹다 (yeokgyeopda) — “Disgusting”
- Dictionary form: 역겹다 (yeokgyeopda)
- Adjective form: 역겨운 (yeokgyeoun)
Examples:
- 쓰레기를 보면 역겹다. [writing]
Sseuregireul bomyeon yeokgyeopda.
“I feel disgusted when I look at trash.” - 쓰레기를 보면 너무 역겨워. [speaking]
Sseuregireul bomyeon neomu yeokgyeowo.
“I feel disgusted when I look at trash.” - 우웩! 이 역겨운 냄새는 어디서 나오는거야? [casual speaking]
Uwek! I yeokgyeoun naemsaeneun eodiseo naoneungeoya?
“Ew! Where is this disgusting smell coming from?”
9 – 발효되다 (balhyodweda) — “Fermented”
- Dictionary form: 발효되다 (balhyodweda)
- Adjective form: 발효된 (balhyodoen)
Example:
- 김치는 발효된 음식이에요. [standard speech level]
Gimchineun balhyodoen eumsigiyeyo.
“Kimchi is fermented food.”
10 – 쫄깃쫄깃하다 (jjolgitjjolgithada) — “Chewy”
- Dictionary form: 쫄깃쫄깃하다 (jjolgitjjolgithada)
- Adjective form: 쫄깃쫄깃한 (jjolgitjjolgithan)
Examples:
- 이 떡은 쫄깃쫄깃하다. [writing]
I tteogeun jjolgitjjolgithada.
“This rice cake has a chewy texture.” - 이 떡 쫄깃쫄깃하니? [speaking]
I tteok jjolgitjjolgithani?
“Does this rice cake have a chewy texture?” - 이 떡은 쫄깃쫄깃해서 맛있다. [standard speech level]
I tteogeun jjolgitjjolgithaeseo masitda.
“This rice cake is delicious because it is chewy.”
11 – 김빠지다 (gimppajida) — “Flat”
- Dictionary form: 김빠지다 (gimppajida)
- Adjective form: 김빠진 (gimppajin)
Examples:
- 콜라의 김이 빠지다. [writing]
Kollaui gimi ppajida.
“The cola is flat.” - 콜라의 김이 빠졌네. [speaking]
Kollaui gimi ppajyeotne.
“The cola is flat.” - 김빠진 콜라로 청소할 수 있어요. [standard speech level]
Gimppajin kollaro cheongsohal su isseoyo.
“You can clean the house with flat cola.”
12 – 신선하지 않다 (seonseonhaji anta) — “Stale”
- Dictionary form: 신선하지 않다 (seonseonhaji anta)
- Adjective form: 신선하지 않은 (sinseonhaji aneun)
Examples:
- 이 빵은 더이상 신선하지 않다. [writing]
I ppangeun deoisang sinseonhaji anta.
“This bread is no longer fresh (stale).” - 이 빵은 더이상 신선하지 않아. [speaking]
I ppangeun deoisang sinseonhaji ana.
“This bread is no longer fresh (stale).” - 신선하지 않은 빵은 먹지 않는 편이 나아요. [standard speech level]
Sinseonhaji aneun ppangeun meokji anneun pyeoni nayo.
“It’s better not to eat stale bread.”
13 – 맛없다 (maseopda) — “Unsavory”
- Dictionary form: 맛없다 (maseopda)
- Adjective form: 맛없는 (maseomneun)
Examples:
- 너무 맛없다. [writing]
Neomu maseopda.
“It’s unsavory.” - 너무 맛없어. [speaking]
Neomu maseopda.
“It’s unsavory.” - 그런 맛없는 요리는 처음이야. [standard speech level]
Geureon maseomneun yorineun cheoeumiya.
“I’ve never had such a tasteless dish in my life.”
10. Korean Adjectives to Describe Situations
1 – 위험하다 (wiheomhada) — “Dangerous”
Examples:
- 공사장은 항상 위험하다. [writing]
Gongsajangeun hangsang wiheomhada.
“Construction sites are always dangerous.” - 공사장은 항상 위험해. [speaking]
Gongsajangeun hangsang wiheomhae.
“Construction sites are always dangerous.” - 위험한 장소에는 가지말아요. [standard speech level]
Wiheomhan jangsoeneun gajimarayo.
“Don’t go to a dangerous place.”
2- 재미있다 (jaemiitda) — “Fun”
Examples:
- 이 만화는 재미있다. [writing]
I manhwaneun jaemiitda.
“This cartoon is fun (to watch).” - 이 만화 진짜 재미있다. [speaking]
I manhwa jinjja jaemiitda.
“This cartoon is really fun (to watch).” - 뭐 재미있는 영화 없나? [standard speech level]
Mwo jaemiinneun yeonghwa eomna?
“Are there any interesting (fun) films (to watch)?”
3 – 재미없다 (jaemieopda) — “Uninteresting”
- Dictionary form: 재미없다 (jaemieopda)
- Adjective form: 재미없는 (jaemieomneun)
Examples:
- 이 영화는 재미없다. [writing]
I yeonghwa jinjja jaemieopda.
“The film is uninteresting.” - 이 영화 진짜 재미없어. [speaking]
I yeonghwa jinjja jaemieopseo.
“The film is uninteresting.” - 지금 하고 있는 아르바이트는 정말 재미없는 것 같아. [standard speech level]
Jigeum hago inneun areubaiteuneun jeongmal jaemieomneun geot gata.
“My current part-time job is not interesting at all.”
4 – 조용하다 (joyonghada) — “Quiet”
Examples:
- 늦은 저녁의 버스 정류장은 항상 조용하다. [writing]
Neujeun jeonyeogui beoseu jeongnyujangeun hangsang joyonghada.
“It’s always quiet at the bus station in late evening.” - 늦은 저녁의 버스 정류장은 항상 조용해. [speaking]
Neujeun jeonyeogui beoseu jeongnyujangeun hangsang joyonghae.
“It’s always quiet at the bus station in late evening.” - 조용한 곳에 있으면 잠이와. [standard speech level]
Joyonghan gose isseumyeon jamiwa.
“I feel so sleepy when I’m at a quiet place.”
5 – 즐겁다 (jeulgeopda) — “Pleasant”
- Dictionary form: 즐겁다 (jeulgeopda)
- Adjective form: 즐거운 (jeulgeoun)
Examples:
- 오늘 하루종일 즐겁다. [writing]
Oneul harujongil jeulgeopda.
“I feel pleasant all day.” - 오늘 하루종일 즐겁네. [speaking]
Oneul harujongil jeulgeopne.
“I feel pleasant all day.” - 즐거운 하루가 되시길 바래요. [standard speech level]
Jeulgeoun haruga doesigil baraeyo.
“Have a great (pleasant) day.”
6 – 고요하다 (goyohada) — “Silent”
- Dictionary form: 고요하다 (goyohada)
- Adjective form: 고요한 (goyohan)
Example:
- 엄마가 좋아하는 크리스마스 노래는 “고요한 밤”입니다. [formal speech level]
Eommaga joahaneun keuriseumaseu noraeneun “goyohan bam” imnida.
“My mum’s favorite Christmas song is Silent Night.”
7 – 시끄럽다 (sikkeureopda) — “Noisy”
Examples:
- 클럽은 항상 시끄럽다. [writing]
Keulleobeun hangsang sikkeureopda.
“Clubs are always noisy.” - 클럽은 항상 시끄러워. [speaking]
Keulleobeun hangsang sikkeureowo.
“Clubs are always noisy.” - 시끄러운 거리에서 가까운 곳에 살고 있어요. [formal speech level]
Sikkeureoun georieseo gakkaun gose salgo isseoyo.
“I live by a noisy street.”
8 – 진지하다 (jinjihada) — “Serious”
- Dictionary form: 진지하다 (jinjihada)
- Adjective form: 진지한 (jinjihan)
Examples:
- 아빠는 항상 진지하다. [writing]
Appaneun hangsang jinjihada.
“My dad is always serious.” - 아빠는 항상 진지해. [speaking]
Appaneun hangsang jinjihae.
“My dad is always serious.” - 어제 아빠랑 같이 진지한 대화를 했어. [standard speech level]
Eoje apparang gachi jinjihan daehwareul haesseo.
“I had a serious conversation with my dad.”
9 – 지저분하다 (jijeobunhada) — “Messy”
- Dictionary form: 지저분하다 (jijeobunhada)
- Adjective form: 지저분한 (jijeobun)
- The opposite word of “being messy” is 깨끗하다 (kkaekkeuthada).
Examples:
- 윤서의 집은 항상 지저분하다. [writing]
Yunseoui jibeun hangsang jijeobunhada.
“Yunseo’s house is always messy.” - 윤서의 집은 항상 지저분해. [speaking]
Yunseoui jibeun hangsang jijeobunhae.
“Yunseo’s house is always messy.” - 이렇게 지저분한 집에 살수가 없어요. [standard speech level]
Ireoke jijeobunhan jibe salsuga eopseoyo.
“I can’t live in a messy house like this.”
10 – 흥분되다 (heungbundeoda) — “Thrilling”
- Dictionary form: 흥분되다 (heungbundeoda)
- Adjective form: 흥분되는 (heungbundoeneun)
Example:
- 그 장면은 정말 흥분되는 마지막 장면이었어! [standard speech level]
Geu jangmyeoneun jeongmal heungbundoeneun majimak jangmyeonieosseo!
“That scene was a thrilling finish!”
11. Korean Adjectives to Describe Physical Traits
1 – 피곤하다 (pigonhada) — “To be Tired”
- Dictionary form: 피곤하다 (pigonhada)
- Adjective form: 피곤한 (pigonhan)
Examples:
- 일이 많아서 피곤하다. [writing]
Iri manaseo pigonhada.
“I feel tired because I have so much work.” - 일이 많아서 피곤해. [speaking]
Iri manaseo pigonhae.
“I feel tired because I have so much work.” - 휴, 오늘은 정말 길고 피곤한 하루였네. [standard speech level]
Hyu, oneureun jeongmal gilgo pigonhan haruyeonne.
“Sigh, it was a long and tiring day.”
2 – 건강하다 (geonganghada) — “To be Healthy”
- Dictionary form: 건강하다 (geonganghada)
- Adjective form: 건강한 (geonganghan)
- 건강하지 않다 (geonganghaji anta) is the opposite of 건강하다 (kkaekkeuthada).
Examples:
- 철수는 항상 건강하다. [writing]
Cheolsuneun hangsang geonganghada.
“Cheolsu is always healthy.” - 철수는 항상 건강해. [speaking]
Cheolsuneun hangsang geonganghae.
“Cheolsu is always healthy.” - 철수는 건강한 사람이야. [standard speech level]
Cheolsuneun geonganghan saramiya.
“Cheolsu is a healthy person.”
3- 늙다 (neulgda) — “To be Old”
- Dictionary form: 늙다 (neulgda)
- Adjective form: 늙은 (neulgeun)
Example:
- 저는 늙은 사람이 아니예요. [standard speech level]
Jeoneun neulgeun sarami aniyeyo.
“I’m not an old person.”
4 – 젊다 (jeomda) — “To be Young”
Example:
- 젊은 부부가 이사왔어요. [standard speech level]
Jeoleun bubuga isawatseoyo.
“A young couple moved in.”
5 – 약하다 (yakada) — “To be Weak”
Example:
- 약한 모습 보이면 안돼. [standard speech level]
Yakan moseup boimyeon andwae.
“Don’t show your weakness.”
6 – 강하다 (ganghan) — “To be Strong”
Examples:
- 엄마는 강하다. [writing]
Eommaneun ganghada.
“Mothers are strong.” - 엄마는 강해. [speaking]
Eommaneun ganghae.
“Mothers are strong.” - 난 강한 남자야. [standard speech level]
Nan ganghan namjaya.
“I’m a strong man.”
7 – 가난하다 (gananhan) — “To be Poor”
Example:
- 가난한 사람을 도와주자. [standard speech level]
Gananhan sarameul dowajuja.
“Let’s help the poor.”
8 – 부유하다 (buyuhada) — “To be Rich”
- Dictionary form: 부유하다 (buyuhada)
- Adjective form: 부유한 (buyuhan)
Examples:
- 지수의 집은 부유하다. [writing]
Jisuui jibeun buyuhada.
“Jisu’s family is rich.” - 지수의 집은 부유해. [speaking]
Jisuui jibeun buyuhae.
“Jisu’s family is rich.” - 지수는 부유한 집에서 태어났습니다. [formal speech level]
Jisuneun buyuhan jibeseo taeeonatseumnida.
“Jisu was born to a rich family.”
9 – 불편하다 (bulpyeonhada) — “To be Uncomfortable”
- Dictionary form: 불편하다 (bulpyeonhada)
- Adjective form: 불편한 (bulpyeonhan)
- 편안하다 (pyeonanhada) is “To be comfortable.”
Examples:
- 모르는 사람을 만나는 것이 불편하다. [writing]
Moreuneun sarameul mannaneun geosi bulpyeonhada.
“I feel uncomfortable meeting new people.” - 모르는 사람을 만나는 것이 불편해. [speaking]
Moreuneun sarameul mannaneun geosi bulpyeonhae.
“I feel uncomfortable meeting new people.” - 불편한 자세로 누우면 허리가 아파요. [standard speech level]
Bulpyeonhan jasero nuumyeon heoriga apayo.
“If I lie in an uncomfortable position, I get back pain.”
10 – 연약하다 (yeonyakada) — “To be Delicate”
- Dictionary form: 연약하다 (yeonyakada)
- Adjective form: 연약한 (yeonyakan)
Examples:
- 아기의 피부는 연약하다. [writing]
Agiui pibuneun yeonyakada.
“Babies’ skin is delicate.” - 아기의 피부는 연약해. [speaking]
Agiui pibuneun yeonyakhae.
“Babies’ skin is delicate.” - 아기의 연약한 피부를 위한 로션을 만들었습니다. [formal speech level]
Agiui yeonyakan pibu
“I created a lotion for the delicate skin of babies.”
12. Korean Adjectives to Describe a Person and Conditions
1 – 예쁘다 (yeppeuda) — “To be Pretty”
- Dictionary form: 예쁘다 (yeppeuda)
- Adjective form: 예쁜 (yeppeun)
- 못생겼다 (motsaenggyeotda) means the opposite of “pretty.”
Examples:
- 이 꽃은 참 예쁘다. [writing]
I kkocheun cham yeppeuda.
“This flower is very pretty.” - 이 꽃은 참 예뻐. [speaking]
I kkocheun cham yeppeo.
“This flower is very pretty.” - 수미의 검은 머릿결은 참 예쁜 것 같아. [standard speech level]
Sumiui geomeun meoritgyeoreun cham yeppeuda.
“I think that Sumi’s black hair is very pretty.”
2 -체격이 좋다 (chegyeogi jota) — “To be Well-built”
- Dictionary form: 체격이 좋다 (chegyeogi jota)
- Adjective form: 체격이 좋은 (chegyeogi joeun)
Examples:
- 수미는 근육이 많아 체격이 좋다. [writing]
Sumineun geunyugi mana chegyeogi jota.
“Because Sumi has a lot of muscles, she is well-built.” - 수미는 근육이 많아 체격이 좋아. [speaking]
Sumineun geunyugi mana chegyeogi joa.
“Because Sumi has a lot of muscles, she is well-built.” - 키는 작지만 체격이 좋은 친구예요. [standard speech level]
Kineun jakjiman chegyeogi joeun chinguyeyo.
“He is small, but is very well-built.”
3- 날씬하다 (nalssinhada) — “To be Slim”
Examples:
- 케이팝 가수들은 날씬하다. [writing]
Keipap gasudeureun nalssinhada.
“K-pop singers are slim.” - 케이팝 가수들은 날씬해. [speaking]
Keipap gasudeureun nalssinhae.
“K-pop singers are slim.” - 날씬한 허리를 가지고 싶어요. [standard speech level]
Nalssinhan heorireul gajigo sipeoyo.
“I wish I had a slim waist.”
4 – 뚱뚱하다 (ttungttunghada) — “To be Overweight”
- Dictionary form: 뚱뚱하다 (ttungttunghada)
- Adjective form: 뚱뚱한 (ttungttunghan)
Examples:
- 돼지는 뚱뚱하다. [writing]
Dwaejineun ttungttunghada.
“Pigs are overweight.” - 돼지는 뚱뚱해. [speaking]
Dwaejineun ttungttunghae.
“Pigs are overweight.” - 저는 제가 뚱뚱한 사람이라고 생각해요. [standard speech level]
Jeoneun jega ttungttunghan saramirago saenggakaeyo.
“I think that I am overweight.”
5- 매력적이다 (maeryeokjeogida) — “To be Attractive”
- Dictionary form: 매력적이다 (maeryeokjeogida)
- Adjective form: 매력적인 (maeryeokjeogin)
Examples:
- 방탄소년단 멤버들은 매력적이다. [writing]
Bangtansonyeondan membeodeureun maeryeokjeogida.
“Members of BTS are attractive.” - 방탄소년단 멤버들은 매력적이야. [speaking]
Bangtansonyeondan membeodeureun maeryeokjeogiya.
“Members of BTS are attractive.” - 방탄소년단은 정말 매력적인 케이팝 그룹인것 같아요. [standard speech level]
Bangtansonyeondaneun jeongmal maeryeokjeogin keipap geurubingeot gatayo.
“I think that BTS is a very attractive K-pop group.”
6 – (키가) 크다 (kiga keuda) — “To be Tall”
Examples:
- 농구선수 김연경은 키가 192cm로 키가 정말 크다. [writing]
Nongguseonsu Kim Yeon-koungeun kiga baekgusibisentimiteoro kiga jeongmal keuda.
“Kim Yeon-koung is very tall because her height is 192cm. “ - 농구선수 김연경은 키가 192cm이래. 키 정말 커. [speaking]
Nongguseonsu Kim Yeon-koungeun kiga baekgusibisentimiteorae. Ki jeongmal keu.
“Kim Yeon-koung is very tall because her height is 192cm.” - 키가 작은 사람도 있고 반면에 키가 큰 사람도 있어요. [standard speech level]
Kiga jageun saramdo itgo banmyeone kiga keun saramdo isseoyo.
“Some people are short, while some are tall.”
7 – (키가) 작다 (kiga jagda) — “To be Short”
- Dictionary form: (키가) 작다 (kiga jagda)
- Adjective form: (키가) 작은 (kiga jageun)
Examples:
- 코메디언 박나래는 키가 148cm로 키가 많이 작다. [writing]
Komedieon Park Na-raeneun kiga baeksasip-palsentimiteoro kiga mani jakda.
“Comedian Park Na-rae is very short because her height is 148cm.” - 코메디언 박나래는 키가 148cm이래. 키 정말 작다. [speaking]
Komedieon Park Na-raeneun kiga baeksasip-palsentimiteorae. Ki jeongmal jakda.
“Comedian Park Na-rae is very short because her height is 148cm.” - 수미는 152 cm로 키가 작은 편이에요. [standard speech level]
Sumineun 152 sentimiteoro kiga jageun pyeoniyeyo.
“The height of Sumi is 152 cm so she is a bit short.”
8 – 잘생기다 (jalsaenggida) — “To be Handsome”
- Dictionary form: 잘생기다 (jalsaenggida)
- Adjective form:잘생긴 (jalsaenggin)
Examples:
- 에릭은 코가 잘생겼다. [writing]
Eric-eun koga jalsaenggyeotda.
“Eric has a handsome nose.” - 에릭은 코가 잘생겼어. [speaking]
Eric-eun koga jalsaenggyeoseo.
“Eric has a handsome nose.” - 잘생긴 남자가 많은 나라는 어디일까요? [formal speech level]
Jalsaenggin namjaga maneun naraneun eodiilkkayo?
“Where is the country that has many handsome men?”
13. How to Improve Your Korean Skills with KoreanClass101
Overwhelmed by the number of basic Korean adjectives we went over? Don’t worry! Take your time to understand each of these top Korean adjectives. For those who want to learn more new words, or are wondering how to study Korean adjectives even further, here are three additional pages that you can check out:
By continuing to study beyond this article with KoreanClass101, you’re sure to master Korean adjectives (and the rest of the language)! Want to get 1-on-1 lessons from a personal Korean language teacher? Try out our MyTeacher program!
Before you go, why not practice using Korean adjectives by writing a descriptive paragraph in the comments? You choose the topic. 😉
삼일절: Korea’s Independence Movement Day
On Independence Movement Day, Koreans commemorate those who sacrificed themselves for Korea’s freedom from Japan. They also celebrate that freedom and independence through a range of patriotic traditions.
In this article, you’ll learn about the March 1 Movement, Korean celebrations for it today, and one of the most notable figures associated with Korea’s Independence Movement Day.
Are you ready? Let’s get started.
1. What is Independence Movement Day in South Korea?
If you grew up in the United States, you probably remember hearing about the Battle of Alamo in school. Well, did you know that in South Korea, Independence Movement Day commemorates a similar episode in Korean history?
On March 1, 1919, underground fighters in Korea claimed independence from the Japanese, who, at the time, had Korea under its colonial rule. In opposition to this claim, Japanese police and military forces killed about 7,000 protestors who were unarmed. Following this event, the Japanese would continue its rule over Korea for another twenty-six years (1910-1945).
After 민족 대표 33인 (minjeok daepyo samsipsamin), or “the 33 nationalists,” were arrested, ordinary civilians from around Korea became inspired to support the cause. A month following the initial protest, Shanghai set up a provincial government that would serve as a way for Koreans to have their wishes and desires carried out, and ultimately to aid in the fight for freedom.
삼일절 (Samiljjeol), or Independence Movement Day, is a special holiday in Korea to commemorate this event. Further, Koreans celebrate the spirit of 독립 (dongnip), or “independence,” and courage that the protesters exhibited and infused their fellow citizens with. It was this inspiration that allowed the Japanese colonial rule to come to an end in 1945.
Did you know the formal name of Korea is Daehanminguk in Korean? This phrase means that the independence of the country of Daehanminguk will last forever. Only after gaining independence in 1945 were Koreans finally able to shout their country’s name for what it really means.
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→ To read more about Korea’s Independence Day, read our blog post on the topic!
2. When is Independence Movement Day?
As you probably guessed, on March 1, Koreans celebrate Independence Movement Day.
3. Independence Movement Day – South Korean Celebrations
It’s evident that March 1 is still a very important day for Koreans, one on which we can think deeply about the painful history of the country. For Independence Movement Day in South Korea, celebrations are very patriotic and probably similar to your country’s Independence Day or national day.
If you’re in Korea on March 1, not only will you see the 태극기 (taegukgi), or “Flag of South Korea,” flying outside the prison, but a lot of houses will also raise the flag. There are even people who put the flag up on their cars or wear clothes with the flag.
At ten o’clock in the morning on March 1, you’ll hear sirens go off at many places. People stop whatever they’re doing, and pay silent tribute to the nationalists who lost their lives for Korea’s independence.
4. Seodaemun Prison
Many people went to jail for their support of the Independence Movement. One of the biggest jails was the Seodaemun Prison, which was established during Japanese rule. A part of this prison is still preserved today, and Koreans come here to honor those who lost their lives while imprisoned.
Perhaps the most famous of these people was a woman named Yu Gwan-sun, or 유관순 (yu gwansoon) in Korean. She was jailed at seventeen years old for her involvement in the Independence Movement, and today, her cell is called Ryu-Gwan-Sun Cave.
This is a popular Korea Independence Movement Day location for people to visit.
5. Must-Know Vocabulary for Independence Movement Day
Ready to review some of the vocabulary words from this article? Here’s a list of the most important words and phrases for Independence Movement Day!
- 삼일절 (Samiljjeol) — “Independence Movement Day”
- 민족 자결주의 (minjeok jagyeoljuui) — “self-determination”
- 국가 (gukga) — “nation”
- 독립 기념관 (dongnip ginyeomgwan) — “Independence Hall of Korea”
- 독립 (dongnip) — “independence”
- 정부 (jeongbu) — “government”
- 태극기 (taegukgi) — “Flag of South Korea”
- 식민지 (singminji) — “colony”
- 1919년 3월 1일 (cheongubaeksipgunyeon samwol iril) — “March 1, 1919”
- 민족 대표 33인 (minjeok daepyo samsipsamin) — “the 33 nationalists”
- 기미 독립 선언서 (gimi dongnip seoneonseo) — “the Declaration of Independence written in 1919”
- 유관순 (yu gwansoon) — “Yu, Gwan-sun”
To hear the pronunciation of each word and phrase, and to read them alongside relevant images, be sure to check out our Korean Independence Movement Day vocabulary list.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, in Korea, March 1 is a major holiday and a very patriotic, melancholy time for the Korean people.
How do you celebrate Independence Day in your country? Who are some of the most notable figures? We look forward to hearing from you!
If you’re interested in learning more about Korean culture and holidays, please visit the KoreanClass101 pages below:
- All About Korean Culture and Society
- Top 10 Must-Try Korean Street Foods in Seoul
- Hyeon Chung Il: Memorial Day in Korea
- Jeheonjeol: South Korean Constitution Day
- Pepero Day: Fun Facts About Pepero Day in South Korea
- Tourist Attractions in South Korea
- Essential Idioms That Will Make You Sound Like a Native Speaker
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Best Netflix Korean Dramas to Learn Korean
Watching Korean movies on Netflix is a great way to practice the Korean language in a way that’s fun, even if you’re not in the country. In this article, we’ll recommend ten Netflix Korean dramas to learn Korean, as well as many secret tips and advice on how to learn Korean using these shows.
Table of Contents
- Why is it Important to Learn Korean Using Netflix Dramas?
- How to Watch Korean Netflix for Language-Learning
- Korean Netflix List: 10 Best Korean Dramas on Netflix
- How KoreanClass101 Can Help You with Korean
1. Why is it Important to Learn Korean Using Netflix Dramas?
1- You Can Immerse Yourself in Korean Vocabulary
You can choose a Korean Netflix series or movie that has many words related to your interests. For example, if you want to learn about Korean business, then you should look for business-related dramas. If you’re interested in learning conversational Korean, you should look for romance stories or family-related dramas.
2- You Can Practice the Flow and Pronunciation of Korean
Actors and actresses speak very clearly in Korean Netflix films and series. By repeating phrases and mimicking them, you’ll be able to improve your Korean skills.
3- You May Learn a Slice of Korean Culture
Not all Korean dramas reflect our culture, but you will be able to learn Korean customs by watching how characters interact with each other. For example, you may notice in the Korean TV dramas on Netflix that when meeting someone of higher status (e.g. their boss), native Koreans usually bow to show respect.
2. How to Watch Korean Netflix for Language-Learning
How can you use Korean Netflix content to actually learn Korean? Here are a couple of tips for how to use Korean Netflix TV shows for your benefit!
1- Choose a Drama You Like
What’s your favorite genre? Do you want to focus more on daily conversation or business language? Make a list of your goals in learning Korean and choose the drama that matches with your needs. Also, learning Korean should be fun, so try to choose a Korean Netflix drama that interests you.
2- Watch to Learn
Everyone has their own methods for studying a language. Here, we’ll introduce two methods to study Korean on Netflix.
1. Practice Intonation and the Pronunciation by Repetition
Some people prefer to watch the first episode with subtitles in their own language. This is because they want to understand the entire story before jumping into learning Korean. Once the first episode is finished, they try re-watching it with Korean subtitles and writing down all the expressions, phrases, and vocabulary that they found useful.
Netflix has a special feature where you can rewind the show by ten seconds. Use this feature to listen to the part that you want to learn. Pay close attention to the flow, intonation, and pronunciation. Practice it many times until you’re comfortable with the speed.
2. Study Korean with Transcripts
Others download an entire transcript of the show and use it as their study material. For example, they may choose to leave blanks in the transcript, and then fill in those blanks while listening to the show. To see how they did, they turn on the subtitles and watch again.
There are many methods for learning Korean. I’m sure you have your own way, too.
Without further ado, let’s discover what’s on Korean Netflix for you!
3. Korean Netflix List: 10 Best Korean Dramas on Netflix
1- Korean Drama: 킹덤 (Kingdeom)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 킹덤 (kingdeom)
- Translation: Kingdom
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: Season 1
- Episodes: 6
- Genres: TV Thriller
- Actors: Ju Ji-hoon; Ryu Seung-ryong; Bae Doona
2. Story
The Korean Netflix Kingdom periodical drama is set in the Chosun Dynasty and revolves around Prince Yi-Chang, who is forced to embark on a mission to investigate the spread of a mysterious disease that kills people. (Read more)
3. Example
이 드라마는 조선 시대를 배경으로 한 좀비 미스터리 스릴러이다.
I deuramaneun Joseon sidaereul baegyeongeuro han jombi miseuteori seurilleoida.
“The drama is a zombie mystery thriller based on the Chosun Dynasty period.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 드라마 (deurama) — “drama/show”
- 조선 시대 (Joseon sidae) — “the Joseon Dynasty period”
- 배경 (baegyeong) — “background”
- 좀비 (jombi) — “Zombi”
- 미스터리 스릴러 (miseuteori seurilleo) — “Mystery Thriller”
2- Korean Drama: 로맨스는 별책부록 (Romaenseuneun byeolchaekburok)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 로맨스는 별책부록 (romaenseuneun byeolchaekburok)
- Translation: Romance is a Bonus Book
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Romantic TV show
- Actors: Lee Jong-suk; Lee Na-yong; Jung Yoo-jin
2. Story
The story of this Korean drama by Netflix revolves around Cha Eun Ho—a successful author and a senior editor at a publishing company—and Kang Da-i, a single mother who was once a successful advertising executive. They each face their own personal and professional challenges, while gradually developing feelings for each other. (Read more)
3. Example
이 드라마에 나오는 강단이(이나영)는 짧은 결혼 생활 끝에 이혼을 하게 되고 1년 동안 혼자 아이를 키우며 취직을 하게 됩니다.
I deuramae naoneun Gang Dan-Yi (inayeong)neun jjalbeun gyeolhon saenghwal kkeute ihoneul hage doego ilnyeon dongan honja aireul kiumyeo chwijigeul hage doemnida.
“Gang Dan-Yi, a single mom divorced after a short marriage, lands a job after taking care of her child on her own for a year.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 이혼 (ihon) — “divorce”
- 결혼 (gyeolhon) — “marriage”
- 취직 (chwijik) — “finding a job”
- 짧다 (jjalda) — “short”
- 키우다 (kiuda) — “to raise (a kid/animal/plant)”
3- Korean Drama: 도깨비 (Dokkaebi)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 도깨비 (dokkaebi)
- Translation: Guardian: The Lonely and Great God. Also known as Goblin.
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Romance; Sci-Fi
- Actors: Gong Yoo; Lee Dong-wook; Kim Go-eun
2. Story
Kim Shin is a goblin who wants to end his immortal life. To do this, he needs to find his human bride, the only being who can end his life. He is roommates with the Grim Reaper and the story of the Korean Goblin Netflix show starts from there. (Read more)
3. Example
이 드라마에는 도깨비(공유)와 저승사자(이동욱), 그리고 도깨비의 신부(김고은)가 나옵니다.
I deuramaeneun dokkaebi(Gong Yoo)wa jeoseungsaja(Lee Dong-wook), geurigo dokkaebiui sinbu(Kim Go-eun)ga naomnida.
“The drama features The Goblin (Gong Yoo), The Grim Reaper (Lee Dong-wook), and The Bride of the Goblin (Kim Go-eun).”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 드라마 (deurama) — “drama”
- 도깨비 (dokkaebi) — “Goblin”
- 저승사자 (jeoseungsaja) — “the Grim Reaper”
- 신부 (sinbu) — “bride”
- 나오다 (naoda) — “to appear”
4- Korean Drama: 앵그리맘 (Aenggeurimam)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 앵그리맘 (aenggeurimam)
- Translation: Angry Mom
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Drama
- Actors: Kim Hee-Seon; Ji Hyun-woo; Kim Yoo-jung
2. Story
Jo Kang-ja used to be a troublemaker at her high school, and dropped out of school when she became pregnant. She then decides to become a responsible mother to her daughter.
Many years later, however, her now-teenage daughter Ah-ran becomes bullied. Jo Kang-ja decides to enroll herself in her daughter’s high school as Jo Bang-woo to protect her daughter. It’s only there that she realizes that there are many problems within the Korean educational system, and so begins this Netflix Korean drama. (Read more)
3. Example
부산 고등학교에서 유명했던 주인공이 다시 고등학생이 되어 한국 교육의 문제점을 찾아내는 드라마이다.
Busan godeunghakgyoeseo yumyeonghaetdeon juingongi dasi godeunghaksaengi doeeo hanguk gyoyugui munjejeomeul chajanaeneun deuramaida.
“The main character, who was famous at Busan High School, becomes a high school student again and finds the problems of Korean education.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 고등학교 (godeunghakgyo) — “senior high school”
- 유명 (yumyeong) — “famous”
- 주인공 (juingong) — “protagonist”
- 교육 (gyoyuk) — “education”
- 문제점 (munjejeom) — “problem/drawback”
5- Korean Drama: 청춘시대 (Cheongchunsidae)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 청춘시대 (cheongchunsidae)
- Translation: Hello, My Twenties
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 12
- Genres: Romance; Comedy
- Actors: Han Ye-ri; Han Seung-yeon; Park Eun-bin
2. Story
This story is about the everyday life of five university students who share a house together. If you’re interested in how Korean university students live, you might be able to get some ideas from watching Korean Netflix shows like this one. (Read more)
3. Example
‘청춘시대’는 인기가 많아 ‘청춘시대 2’도만들어졌다.
‘Cheongchunsidae’neun ingiga mana ‘cheongchunsidae 2’domandeureojyeotda.
“Hello, My Twenties was so popular that season 2 was also created.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 청춘 (cheongchun) — “youth”
- 시대 (sidae) — “era”
- 인기 (ingi) — “popular”
- 많다 (manta) — “a lot”
- 만들다 (mandeulda) — “to make”
6- Korean Drama: 알함브라 궁전의 추억 (Alhambeura gungjeonui chueok)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 알함브라 궁전의 추억 (Alhambeura gungjeonui chueok)
- Translation: Memories of the Alhambra
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Romance; Sci-fi
- Actors: Hyun Bin; Park Shin-hye; Park Hoon
2. Story
Yoo Jin-Woo, CEO of an investment company, travels to Spain to meet the creator of a game, Jung Se-joo, who went missing. When he starts staying at the hostel of the creator’s sister, Jung Hee-joo, he experiences strange incidents. In one of the most fascinating Korean dramas on Netflix, the border between the real world and the AR world begins to blur. (Read more)
3. Example
투자회사 대표와 전직 기타리스트가 스페인에 있는 호스텔에 묵는 동안 일어나는 사건을 다룬다.
Tujahoesa daepyowa jeonjik gitariseuteuga seupeine inneun hoseutere mungneun dongan ireonaneun sageoneul darunda.
“An investment company representative and a former guitarist deal with events happening while staying at a hostel in Spain.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 투자회사 (tujahoesa) — “an investment company”
- 대표 (daepyo) — “representative”
- 전직 (jeonjik) — “former”
- 묵다 (mukda) — “to stay”
- 사건 (sageon) — “case”
7- Korean Drama: 맨도롱 또똣 (Maendorong Ttottot)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 맨도롱 또똣 (maendorong Ttottot)
- Translation: Warm and Cozy
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Comedy; Romance
- Actors: Yoo Yeon-seok; Kang So-ra; Lee Sung-jae
2. Example
맨도롱 또똣은 제주어로 ‘음식이 먹기 좋을 만큼 따뜻하다’라는 뜻을 가지고 있다.
Maendorong ttottoseun jejueoro ‘eumsigi meokgi joeul mankeum ttatteuthada’raneun tteuseul gajigo itda.
“Maendorong Ttottot comes from the Jeju dialect, which means ‘The food is warm enough to eat.’”
3. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 제주어 (jejueo) — “Jeju dialect”
- 음식 (eumsik) — “food”
- 좋다 (jota) — “good; better; nice”
- 만큼 (mankeum) — “as much as”
- 따뜻하다 (ttatteuthada) — “warm”
8- Korean Drama: 슬기로운 감빵생활 (Seulgirowoon Gambbangsaenghwa)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 슬기로운 감빵생활 (seulgirowoon Gambbangsaenghwa)
- Translation: Prison Playbook (Literal translation: Wise Prison Life)
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Drama
- Actors: Park Hae Soo; Jung Kyung-ho; Jung Hae-in
2. Story
This Korean drama on Netflix now depicts the everyday life of the prisoners and staff at a prison. Many famous and well-respected actors were cast in this drama, making it worth watching if you’re interested in a well-acted prison-related Korean drama. (Read More)
3. Example
이 드라마는 야구선수 김제혁의 교도소 안에서 일어나는 이야기를 다룬다.
I deuramaneun yaguseonsu gimjehyeogui gyodoso aneseo ireonaneun iyagireul darunda.
“This drama deals with the story that takes place by a famous baseball player, Kim Jye-huk, who ends up in jail.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 야구선수 (yaguseonsu) — “baseball player”
- 교도소 (gyodoso) — “jail/prison”
- 안 (an) — “inside”
- 일어나다 (ireonada) — “takes place”
- 다루다 (daruda) — “to deal with”
9- Korean Drama: 사의 찬미 (Saui Chanmi)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 사의 찬미 (saui chanmi)
- Translation: Hymn of Death
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Drama; Romance
- Actors: Lee Jong-suk; Shin Hye-sun
2. Story
This Korean drama depicts the romance story between a soprano (Yun-Sim-deok) and a playwright (Kim Woo-jin). But remember to have your handkerchief ready, because it’s not just any other romance story with a happy ending.
3. Example
이 이야기는 소프라노 윤심덕과 극작가인 김우진의 비극적인 사랑 이야기이다.
I iyagineun sopeurano yunsimdeokgwa geukjakgain gimujinui bigeukjeogin sarang iyagiida.
“This story is a tragic love story of soprano Yoon Jin-duk and playwright Kim Woo-jin.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 소프라노 (sopeurano) — “soprano”
- 극작가 (geukjakga) — “playwright”
- 비극적인 (bigeukjeogin) — “tragedy”
- 사랑 (sarang) — “love”
- 이야기 (iyagi) — “story”
10- Korean Drama: 비밀의 숲 (Bimileui Sup)
1. Basic Information
- Name: 비밀의 숲 (bimileui sup)
- Translation: Stranger
- Type: Netflix Original
- Season: 1
- Episodes: 16
- Genres: Crime; Drama
- Actors: Cho Seung-woo; Bae Doona; Lee Joon-hyuk
2. Story
A cold-hearted prosecutor teams up with a passionate and warm-hearted detective to uncover and find the truth behind a serial killer case. Check here for more information.
3. Example
성격이 전혀 다른 검사와 검찰이 함께 살인사건과 숨겨진 진실을 파헤치는 드라마이다.
Seonggyeogi jeonhyeo dareun geomsawa geomchari hamkke sarinsageongwa sumgyeojin jinsireul pahechineun deuramaida.
“It is a drama in which a prosecutor and a detective, who are totally different in character, delve into murder cases and unearth hidden truths.”
4. Vocabulary List
*Click a word below to listen to the Korean pronunciation.
- 성격 (seonggyeok) — “character”
- 검사 (geomsa) — “prosecutor”
- 검찰 (geomchal) — “detective”
- 살인사건 (sarinsageon) — “murder case”
- 진실 (jinsil) — “truth”
4. How KoreanClass101 Can Help You with Korean
I hope you enjoyed reading our article about Korean Netflix recommendations, and thank you for staying to the end! Keep up the good work to speak Korean like a native in no time!
For those who are interested in Korean movies, KoreanClass101 has a vocabulary list that introduces the top ten Korean movies. Check out “What are the Top 10 Korean Movies?” and choose a movie to watch on Friday night!
We also have techniques for you to improve your Korean skills. Do you want to be able to speak like native speakers? No worries! Check out 말하기 능력을 향상시키는 방법 (malhagi neungnyeogeul hyangsangsikineun bangbeop) or “How to Improve Your Speaking Skills.”
What about your listening skills? You can’t continue conversing with the locals if you have difficulty understanding them. Check out the page 듣기 능력을 향상시키는 방법 (deutgi neungnyeogeul hyangsangsikineun bangbeop) or “How to Improve Your Listening Skills,” where we introduce many tips and techniques for Korean learners to improve their listening skills.
Apart from these useful techniques on improving your Korean skills, KoreanClass101 has many lessons available for free. Check out “15 Ways to Study Korean for FREE with KoreanClass101” and choose the best methods for you to practice Korean with us!
Now for the fun part! Which of these Korean Netflix shows do you want to watch first and why? Let us know in the comments and get the snacks ready!
Korean Conjunctions List: Essential Korean Conjunctions
Conjunctions are an important part of every language. They allow us to connect our thoughts, make comparisons, and string together sentences. In this Korean conjunctions list, I’ll explain to you the basic conjunctions with plenty of examples so you can make the most out of the article and improve your Korean skills.
Ready to learn Korean conjunctions? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- What is a Conjunction?
- Conjunctions to Correlate Similar Thoughts
- Conjunctions to Express Condition
- Conjunctions to Express Cause
- Conjunctions to Express Opposition
- Conjunctions to Express Contrasts with the Statement in the Main Clause
- Conjunctions to Express Preference
- Conjunctions to Express Reasons
- Conjunctions to Add Additional Information
- More Conjunctions
- How KoreanClass101 Can Help You Learn Korean
1. What is a Conjunction?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition of a conjunction is a word that’s used to connect phrases, clauses, and sentences. Conjunctions in Korean work similarly to how they work in any other language, and learning Korean conjunctions and how to use each one properly will certainly boost your confidence in speaking, writing, and reading.
There are many Korean conjunctions, and if you struggle to understand all of the different Korean conjunctions, you’re not alone. Many Korean learners—even native speakers—struggle to use Korean conjunctions appropriately. In our Korean conjunctions list and guide, we’re going to focus on fundamental connecting words in Korean so as not to overwhelm you.
By the end of this article, you should have a better idea about the basic Korean conjunction rules, and an expanded vocabulary of Korean language conjunctions!
2. Conjunctions to Correlate Similar Thoughts
1- 그리고 (geurigo) – “and”
- 그리고 (geurigo) is used to link two different words or phrases together.
- Apply this conjunction when you want to correlate two words.
Example:
스테이크 그리고 레드와인 주세요.
Seuteikeu geurigo redeuwain juseyo.
“I would like a steak and a glass of red wine, please.”
난 한국 가면 떡볶이, 순대 그리고 김밥 먹을꺼야.
Nan hanguk gamyeon tteokbokki, sundae geurigo gimbap meogeulkkeoya.
“I’m going to eat tteokbokki, sundae, and gimbap when I go to Korea.”
2- ~랑 (~rang) – “and”
- ~랑 (~rang) means the same thing as 그리고 (geurigo).
- The difference is that this conjunction is attached after a noun stem, is strictly colloquial, and isn’t used in official documents.
- Since ~랑 (~rang) has the same value as geurigo, they can replace each other without generating any changes in the meaning.
Example:
스테이크랑 레드와인 주세요.
Seuteikeurang redeuwain juseyo.
“I would like a steak and a glass of red wine, please.”
난 한국 가면 떡볶이랑, 순대랑 김밥 먹을꺼야.
Nan hanguk gamyeon tteokbokkirang, sundaerang gimbap meogeulkkeoya.
“I’m going to eat tteokbokki, sundae, and gimbap when I go to Korea.”
3- ~고 (go) – “and”
- ~고 (go) means the same thing as rang and geurigo.
- This conjunction is always attached after a verb stem and usually means “I will do this AND THEN I will do this.”
- A synonym of ~ 고 (go) is 그리고 나서 (geurigo naseo) which means “then.”
Example:
내일 아침에 요가하고* 저녁에는 복싱할거야.
Naeil achime yogahago jeonyeogeneun boksinghalgeoya.
“I am going to do yoga in the morning and boxing in the evening tomorrow.”
*하다 (hada) meaning “to do” and 고 (go) meaning “and,” become 하고 (hago), meaning “After I do…”
내일은 밥먹고 바로 집으로 갈거야.
Naeireun bammeokgo baro jibeuro galgeoya.
“I am going to eat and (then) go home.”
* 먹다 (meokda) meaning “to eat” and 고 (go) meaning “and” become 먹고 (meokgo), meaning “After I eat.”
4- ~와/과 (~wa/gwa)
- ~와 (~wa) is usually attached to noun stems.
- ~과 (~gwa) is usually attached to verb stems and after nouns that end with consonants.
Example:
너와 나는 친구가 될 수 없어.
Neowa naneun chinguga doel su eopseo.
“You and I can’t be friends.”
수영하는 것과 축구 하는 것 중에 어떤 스포츠를 더 좋아하세요?
Suyeonghaneun geotgwa chukgu haneun geot junge eotteon seupocheureul deo joahaseyo?
“Between swimming and playing soccer, which do you prefer?”
3. Conjunctions to Express Condition
1- 만약 (manyak) – “if”
- To talk about hypothetical situations, we often use 만약 (manyak), with the direct translation being “if” in English.
- Note that 만약에 (manyage) is more commonly used in spoken language (conversation).
Example:
만약(에) 비가 온다면 난 그냥 집에 있을래.
Manyak(e) biga ondamyeon nan geunyang jibe isseullae.
“If it rains, I’m just going to stay at home.”
만약에 네가 시험에 불합격한다면 어떻게할거야?
Manyage nega siheome bulhapgyeokandamyeon eotteokehalgeoya?
“If you fail the exam, what are you going to do?”
2- 한다면 (handamyeon) – “if”
- Although 만약 (manyak) and 한다면 (handamyeon) have the same meaning in English, these two conjunctions are used in different situations.
- To differentiate these two conjunctions:
- 만약 (manyak) focuses on hypothetical situations.
- 한다면 (handamyeon) focuses more on actions.
Example:
그 회사가 망한다면 월급을 받지 못할거야.
Geu hoesaga manghandamyeon wolgeubeul batji mothalgeoya.
“If the company goes bankrupt, you will not receive the income anymore.”
네가 계속 그렇게 욕한다면 앞으로 너랑 친구되고 싶지 않아.
Nega gyesok geureoke yokandamyeon apeuro neorang chingudoego sipji ana.
“If you continue to swear like this, I don’t want to be friends with you.”
4. Conjunctions to Express Cause
1- 그래서 (geuraeseo) – “so,” “therefore”
- When this conjunction is used, the first sentence is usually a statement or fact, followed by the cause or evidence. 그래서 (geuraeseo) connects these two sentences together.
Example:
어제 많이 아팠어요. 그래서 학교에 못 갔어요.
Eoje mani apasseoyo. geuraeseo hakgyoe mot gasseoyo.
“I was really sick yesterday. Therefore I could not go to school.”
어제는 눈이 왔다. 그래서 하루 종일 집에 있었다.
Eojeneun nuni watda. geuraeseo haru jongil jibe isseotda.
“It rained yesterday, so I stayed home all day.”
2- 그렇기 때문에 (~gi ttaemune) – “therefore”
- The second conjunction to express cause is ~기 때문에 (~gi ttaemune) which means “because of that” or “therefore” in English.
Example:
저녁을 일찍 먹었기 때문에, 배고프지 않아.
Jeonyeogeul iljjik meogeotgi ttaemune, baegopeuji ana.
“Because I had an early dinner, I am not hungry.”
사람들이 너무 많았기 때문에 빨리 집으로 갔다.
Saramdeuri neomu manatgi ttaemune ppalli jibeuro gatda.
“Because there were so many people, I went home.”
3- 그러므로 (geureomeuro) – “therefore”
- This conjunction is rarely used in spoken language, but is often used in literature.
- On the other hand, 그렇기 때문에 (~gi ttaemune), which we saw above, is commonly used in spoken language.
Example:
나는 생각한다. 그러므로 나는 존재한다.
Naneun saenggakanda. Geureomeuro naneun jonjaehanda.
“I think, therefore I am.”
The sentence below has the same meaning as above:
나는 생각한다. 그렇기 때문에 나는 존재한다.
naneun saenggakanda. geureoki ttaemune naneun jonjaehanda.
“I think, therefore I am.”
4- 따라서 (ttaraseo) – “so,” “therefore”
- This conjunction means the same thing as 그러므로 (geureomeuro) and 그렇기 때문에 (~gi ttaemune).
- 따라서 (ttaraseo) sounds a bit formal, therefore it’s not commonly used in spoken language.
Example:
물건의 가격이 많이 올랐다. 따라서 사람들이 물건을 사지 않을 것이다.
Mulgeonui gagyeogi mani ollatda. ttaraseo saramdeuri mulgeoneul saji aneul geosida.
“The price of goods has increased. Therefore, people will not buy them.”
지구온난화는 점점 더 심해지고 있다. 따라서 공해는 더욱더 심해질 것이다.
Jiguonnanhwaneun jeomjeom deo simhaejigo itda. Ttaraseo gonghaeneun deoukdeo simhaejil geosida.
“Global warming is getting worse and worse, thus increasing pollution.”
5. Conjunctions to Express Opposition
The conjunctions mentioned below all indicate that the following sentence will be in contrast to the previous one. Let’s have a look each Korean conjunction.
1- 하지만 (hajiman) – “but”
- 하지만 (hajiman) means “but” or “however” in English.
- This conjunction is used at the beginning of a sentence to combine two opposing clauses.
- You can also shorten 하지만 (hajiman) and combine two clauses with ~지만 (~jiman).
Example:
우리 언니는 노란색을 좋아해. 하지만 언니의 남자친구는 노랑색을 싫어해.
Uri eonnineun noransaegeul joahae. Hajiman eonniui namjachinguneun norangsaegeul sileohae.
“My sister likes yellow. But her boyfriend doesn’t like yellow.”
The sentence above has the same meaning as the sentence below:
=우리 언니는 노랑색을 좋아하지만 언니의 남자친구는 노랑색을 싫어해.
Uri eonnineun norangsaegeul joahajiman eonniui namjachinguneun norangsaegeul sileohae.
—
우리 집에 언제든지 놀러와돼. 하지만 오기전에 전화해줘.
Uri jibe eonjedeunji nolleowadwae. Hajiman ogijeone jeonhwahaejwo.
“You can always come to my house. But call me before (you plan to come).”
The sentence above has the same meaning as the sentence below:
=우리 집에 언제든지 놀러와도 되지만 오기 전에 전화해줘.
Uri jibe eonjedeunji nolleowado doejiman ogi jeone jeonhwahaejwo.
2- 그렇지만 (geureochiman) – “but,” “however”
- When this conjunction is used, the sentence structure usually goes like this: [Admitting what a speaker said] however [say conflicting claims.]
Let’s look at an example. Your friend Sujin likes Jinsu a lot, and she believes that Jinsu likes her too. But you know that it’s not true because you’ve seen that Jinsu is dating someone else. In this situation, you can say:
수진이는 진수를 좋아해. 그렇지만 진수는 수진이를 좋아하지 않아.
Sujinineun jinsureul joahae. Geureochiman jinsuneun sujinireul joahaji ana.
“Sujin likes Jinsu. However, Jinsu does not like Sujin.”
Let’s have a look at another example:
네 말도 일리는 있어. 그렇지만 다른 사람들의 의견도 들어봐야지.
Ne maldo illineun isseo. Geureochiman dareun saramdeurui uigyeondo deureobwayaji.
“I agree with your points, but I need to listen to what other people say too.”
3- 그러나 (gureona) – “however”
- 그러나 (gureona) has the same value as the other conjunctions mentioned above.
- This conjunction is only used in formal settings.
Example:
6월이 되어 날씨가 따뜻해졌다. 그러나 최근에는 매일 비가 오고 있다.
Yuwori doeeo nalssiga ttatteuthaejyeotda. Geureona choegeuneneun maeil biga ogo itda.
“As June began, the weather has become warmer. However, it has been raining everyday.”
4- 그런데 (geureonde) / 근데 (geunde) – “but,” “by the way”
- This conjunction is often used to change the topic.
- You’ll often hear 근데 (geunde) when conversing with locals. 근데 (geunde) is a shortened word for 그런데 (geureonde).
Example:
그런데 어디서 밥 먹을까?
Geureonde eodiseo bap meogeulkka?
“By the way, where should we eat?”
The sentence above has the same meaning as the sentence below:
=근데 어디서 밥 먹을까?
Geunde eodiseo bap meogeulkka?
—
그 친구 알아. 그런데 이름을 모르겠네.
Geu chingu ara. Geureonde ireumeul moreugenne.
“I know her, but I forgot her name.”
The sentence above has the same meaning as the sentence below:
= 그 친구 알아. 근데 이름을 모르겠네.
Geu chingu ara. Geunde ireumeul moreugenne.
—
우와 이 가방 엄청 이쁘다. 그런데 이거 얼마예요?
Uwa i gabang eomcheong ippeuda. Geureonde igeo eolmayeyo?
“Wow, this bag is really pretty. By the way, how much is this?”
The sentence above has the same meaning as the sentence below:
= 우와 이 가방 엄청 이쁘다. 근데 이거 얼마예요?
Uwa i gabang eomcheong ippeuda. Geunde igeo eolmayeyo?
6. Conjunctions to Express Contrasts with the Statement in the Main Clause
1- 그래도 (geuraedo) – “regardless,” “still”
- The common translation of 그래도 (geuraedo) is “regardless” or “still.”
- When talking about a situation, use 그래도 (geuraedo) to say “regardless of the situation.”
- 철수의 배가 아프기 시작했다. (Cheolsuui baega apeugi sijakaetda.) — “Cheolsu started to have stomach cramps.” [situation]
- 그래도 (geuraedo) [regardless of what happened to him]
- 나는 밥을 먹었다. (naneun babeul meogeotda) — “He continued eating rice.” [continued what he was doing]
More examples:
이상하게 들릴지 모르지만 그래도 그건 사실이야.
Isanghage deullilji moreujiman geuraedo geugeon sasiriya.
“Strange as it may sound, it’s still true.”
내일 비가 온다는데, 그래도 우리 낚시하러 갈꺼지?
Naeil biga ondaneunde, geuraedo uri naksihareo galkkeoji?
“It’s going to rain tomorrow, but we are still going tomorrow, right?”
2- 그럼에도 불구하고 (geureomedo bulguhago) – “nevertheless,” “although”
- Use this conjunction when you say something that contrasts with what has just been said/happened.
- The sentence structure would be: [INCIDENT] +그럼에도 불구하고 (geureomedo bulguhago) + [UNEXPECTED RESULT].
Example:
나를 따라오지 말라고 했는데 그럼에도 불구하고 그 남자는 나를 따라왔다.
Nareul ttaraoji mallago haenneunde geureomedo bulguhago geu namjaneun nareul ttarawatda.
“I told him a couple of times not to follow me, nevertheless he did.”
철수는 많이 아팠다. 그럼에도 불구하고 그는 학교로 갔다.
Cheolsuneun mani apatda. Geureomedo bulguhago geuneun hakgyoro gatda.
“Cheolsu was very sick, yet he went to school.”
7. Conjunctions to Express Preference
1- 이나 (ina) – “or”
- 이나 (ina) is attached only to noun stems.
- The sentence structure should be: [NOUN] +이나 (ina) + [NOUN].
- When someone uses this conjunction in a sentence, this indicates that the person has not decided which noun will be acted upon.
Example:
저는 초콜릿 빵이나 비빔밥을 먹고 싶어요.*
Jeoneun chokollit ppangina bibimbabeul meokgo sipeoyo.
“I want to eat either a chocolate bread or bibimbap.”
*He/she has not decided if he/she wants to eat bread or bibimbap.
대학교에서 심리학이나 패션 과를 공부하고 싶어요.
Daehakgyoeseo simnihagina paesyeon gwareul gongbuhago sipeoyo.
“I want to study either psychology or fashion design at university.”
2- 아니면 (animyeon) – “or”
- 아니면 (animyeon) means the same thing as 이나 (ina).
- The rule is that this conjunction is used to link two sentences.
- The sentence structure should be: [SENTENCE] + 아니면 (animyeon) + [SENTENCE].
- Moreover, it indicates that the speaker has not decided which action verbs will be acted upon.
Example:
아침에 복싱을 하는 게 좋을까 아니면 요가를 하는 게 좋을까?
Achime boksingeul haneun ge joeulkka animyeon yogareul haneun ge joeulkka?
“Should I do boxing or yoga in the morning?”
내일 인사동로 갈래 아니면 동대문 시장 갈래?
Naeil Insadongeuro gallae animyeon dongdaemun sijang gallae?
“Would you rather go to the Insadong or Dongdaemun market?”
3- 거나 (geona) – “or”
- 거나 (geona) is used to link descriptive and action verbs and adverbs.
Example:
부모님 앞에서 담배를 피우거나 술을 마시면 안된다.
Bumonim apeseo dambaereul piugeona sureul masimyeon andoenda.
“You can’t smoke a cigarette or drink alcohol in front of your parents.”
아침에 복싱하거나 요가하거나 너 마음대로 해.
Achime boksinghageona yoga hageona ne maeumdaero hae.
“It’s up to you whether you do boxing or yoga in the morning. Do what you want.”
4- 또는 (ttoneun) – “or”
- This conjunction is a formal way to say or express your preference.
- You can replace 또는 (ttoneun) with 이나 (ina) or 아니면 (animyeon) in sentences. It will sound less formal, but the meaning does not change.
Example:
월요일 또는 수요일
Wollyoil ttoneun suyoil
“Monday or Wednesday.”
The sentences below have a different conjunction but mean the same thing:
= 월요일이나 수요일
Wollyoirina suyoil
= 월요일 아니면 수요일
Wollyoil animyeon suyoil
—
가야금 또는 장구 둘 중 하나를 선택하시오.
Gayageum ttoneun janggu dul jung hanareul seontaekasio.
“Choose either gayageum or jangu.”
8. Conjunctions to Express Reasons
1- 때문에 (ttaemune) – “Because of…”
- 때문에 (ttaemune) means “because of…” and this conjunction is attached to nouns.
- Add a noun before the conjunction, then the rest of the clause will indicate events that happened as a result of the noun preceding 때문에 (ttaemune).
Example:
일 때문에 공부할 시간이 없어.
Il ttaemune gongbuhal sigani eopseo.
“Because of work, I don’t have time to study.”
대학교 등록금 때문에 매일 아르바이트 하고 있어요.
Daehakgyo deungnokgeum ttaemune maeil areubaiteu hago isseoyo.
“Because of the tuition fee, I am working part-time everyday.”
2- 왜냐하면 (waenyahamyeon) – “because…”
- 왜냐하면 (waenyahamyeon) means “because.”
- When using this conjunction in sentences, the grammatical order should be: [result] + 왜냐하면 (waenyahamyeon) + [reason].
- You can also say 왜냐면 (waenyamyeon), which is a shortened version of 왜냐하면 (waenyahamyeon), and is used in spoken language.
Example:
어제 잠을 잘 수가 없었어요. 왜냐하면 이웃이 너무 시끄러웠거든요.
Eoje jameul jal suga eopseosseoyo. Waenyahamyeon iusi neomu sikkeureowotgeodeunyo.
“I could not sleep last night because the neighbor was really noisy.”
잠을 잘 수가 없어. 왜냐하면 방금 커피를 마셨거든.
Jameul jal suga eopseo. Waenyahamyeon banggeum keopireul masyeotgeodeun.
“I can’t sleep because I just drank coffee.”
9. Conjunctions to Add Additional Information
1- 게다가 (gedaga) – “moreover,” “in addition”
- The meaning of 게다가 (gedaga) is exactly the same as the conjunction words 덧붙이자면 (deotbuchijamyeon) and 뿐만 아니라 (ppunman anira).
- You can also say 그리고 instead of 게다가. The meaning does not change.
- If you’ve said 그리고 (geurigo) many times (in writing or speech), try using 게다가 (gedaga).
Example:
게다가 웃으면 기분이 좋아진다.
Gedaga useumyeon gibuni joajinda.
“Moreover, when you laugh, you feel better.”
날씨가 너무 추웠고 게다가 눈까지 내렸다.
Nalssiga neomu chuwotgo gedaga nunkkaji naeryeotda.
“The weather was extremely cold; moreover, it snowed.”
2- 덧붙이자면 (deotbuchijamyeon) – “additionally,” “in addition,” “plus”
- 덧붙이자면 (deotbuchijamyeon) means the same thing as 게다가 (gedaga).
- A common phrase that uses this conjunction is 덧붙여 말하자면… (deotbutyeo malhajamyeon…), meaning “making an additional remark.”
Example:
정국오빠는 너무 잘 생겼어요. 덧붙이자면 노래도 잘해요.
Jeonggugoppaneun neomu jal saenggyeosseoyo. Deotbuchijamyeon noraedo jalhaeyo.
“Jungkook is so handsome. Plus, he’s a great singer.”
판타지 소설을 찾고 있다면 이 책을 추천할게요.
덧붙이자면 이 책은 베스트셀러이기도 해요.
Pantaji soseoreul chatgo itdamyeon i chaegeul chucheonhalgeyo.
Deotbuchijamyeon i chaegeun beseuteuselleoigido haeyo.
“If you’re looking for a fantasy novel, I recommend this book.
In addition, this is also one of the best sellers.”
3- 뿐만 아니라 (ppunman anira) – “besides,” “also”
- When 뿐만 아니라 (ppunman anira) is attached to the end of a clause, it creates the meaning of “not only A, but also B.”
Example:
한국 드라마는 한국에서 뿐만 아니라 해외에서도 매우 인기가 있다.
Hanguk deuramaneun hangugeseo ppunman anira haeoeeseodo maeu ingiga itda.
“Korean dramas are not only popular in Korea, but also overseas.”
이곳에서 옥수수 뿐만 아니라 고구마도 살 수 있어요.
Iigoseseo oksusu ppunman anira gogumado sal su isseoyo.
“You can buy not only corn, but sweet potatoes too.”
10. More Conjunctions
Here are four additional conjunctions for you to learn!
1- 반면에 (banmyeone) – “on the other hand,” “while”
- 반면에 (banmyeone) comes between two sentences.
- Usually, the first sentence and the second sentence contrast each other.
Examples:
김치를 좋아하는 사람도 있지만, 반면에 김치를 싫어하는 사람도 있다.
Kimchireul joahaneun saramdo itjiman, banmyeone gimchireul sileohaneun saramdo itda.
“There are some people who like Kimchi, while others don’t.”
발렌타인 데이에 초콜릿을 많이 받는 사람도 있지만,
반면에 한개도 받지 못하는 사람도 있다.
Ballentain deie chokolliseul mani banneun saramdo itjiman,
banmyeone hangaedo batji mothaneun saramdo itda.
“There are some people who receive many chocolates on Valentine’s Day.
On the other hand, there are others who get nothing.”
2- 결국 (gyeolguk) – “eventually,” “ultimately”
- You can also say 결국에는 (gyeolgugeneun), which means the same thing as 결국 (gyeolguk).
Example:
결국 우리가 이겼다.
Gyeolguk uriga igyeotda.
“Finally, we won the game.”
결국 원국이는 지민이 대신에 호연이를 선택했다.
Gyeolguk Wongugineun Jimini daesine Hoyeonireul seontaekaetda.
“At close of play, Wonkuk chose Hohyun instead of Jimin.”
3- 마지막으로 (majimageuro) – “lastly”
- 마지막으로 (majimageuro) means “for the last time,” “lastly,” and “last time.”
Example:
한국을 마지막으로 가본 지가 10년이나 되었어요.
Hangugeul majimageuro gabon jiga 10nyeonina doeeosseoyo.
“It has been ten years since I visited Korea.”
마지막으로 몇 마디만 더 하겠습니다.
Majimageuro myeot madiman deo hagetseumnida.
“I would like to add a few words in conclusion.”
4- 마찬가지로 (machangajiro) – “similarly,” “likewise”
- 마찬가지로 (machangajiro) means “like,” or “likewise” in English.
- Also, this conjunction links two clauses that have a similar meaning.
Example:
동물도 사람과 마찬가지로 감정을 가지고 있다.
Dongmuldo saramgwa machangajiro gamjeongeul gajigo itda.
“Like humans, animals have feelings.”
개도 사람과 마찬가지로 잡식 동물이다.
Gaedo saramgwa machangajiro japsik dongmurida.
“Like humans, dogs are omnivores.”
11. How KoreanClass101 Can Help You Learn Korean
We hope you enjoyed learning about Korean conjunctions with us! In Korean vocabulary, conjunctions are essential little words and phrases that you really should know. Further, for impeccable Korean grammar, conjunctions should be one of your top learning priorities.
Are there any conjunctions you’re still struggling with, or any you still want to know? Let us know in the comments!
It’s easy to be overwhelmed when you have to memorize so many conjunctions. But don’t worry, learning a language isn’t easy and it takes time. If you’re still not sure when to use these conjunctions, you’re more than welcome to leave a post on our forum. There are many native speakers and Korean learners, like you, who will be happy to help you learn Korean.
For further learning, we have a lesson called “Korean Conjunctions: Add Seaweed, and Meat, and Garlic!” where you can practice learning Korean conjunctions as well as vocabulary. In addition, check out our vocabulary list called “Must-Know Adverbs and Phrases for Connecting Thoughts,” where we listed twenty Korean conjunctions with pronunciation audios and example sentences.
Happy learning!
Learn Korean Dates: Days of the Week in Korean and More
Do you know how to say Korean dates (months, weeks, days, and years)? In this blog, we’re going to introduce not only days of the week in Korean, but also hours, seconds, and much more important vocabulary for learning Korean dates and times. Before we take a closer look at date and time in Korean, let’s look at the Korean dates format.
Table of Contents
- How are Dates Usually Written and Read in Korean?
- How to Say the Years in Korean
- Korean Dates: Months
- How to Say Korean Calendar Dates
- Saying the Days of the Week in Korean
- How to Say the Hours in Korean
- How to Say the Minutes in Korean
- How to Say the Seconds in Korean
- How to Say Other Time-related Words
- Interesting Korean Celebration Days
- Let’s Practice
- How KoreanClass101 Can Help You with Korean
1. How are Dates Usually Written and Read in Korean?
In Korea, the order of the date is written: 1.) Year, 2.) Month, and 3.) Day. We’ll explain this in more detail later, but for now, here’s how you need to write dates in Korean: [“year”]년 (nyeon), [“month”]월 (wol), [“day”]일 (il).
For example, let’s say that today is the 26th of January, 2019. In Korean, it’s written as 2019년 1월 26일 (icheonsipgunyeon irwol isibyugil), or “2019, January 26th.” If this order is the same in your country, then it shouldn’t be too difficult for you. But if the order is different in your country, then it can be confusing sometimes.
This is especially important to keep in mind when you purchase a product that has an expiration date written on the package. Sometimes the first two numbers of the year aren’t included in the expiration date either (e.g. “90” instead of “1990”), so don’t get confused about the date. For example, when you see an expiration date of 20/09/21, it doesn’t mean “20th of September, 2021”; it’s “September 21th, 2020.”
Now, let’s learn more important information about dates in South Korea.
2. How to Say the Years in Korean
If you’re not familiar with numbers in Korean, it’s a good idea to first become familiar with the simpler numbers. Once you have a good understanding of Korean numbers, dates will become a lot simpler.
As you may already know, there are two ways to count numbers in Korea: Sino Korean and Native Korean. To count the years, you’ll only need Sino Korean numbers.
For example, if you were born in 1985:
- 1000, read as 천 (cheon), meaning “one-thousand”
- 900, read as 구백 (gubaek), meaning “nine-hundred”
- 80, read as 팔십 (palsib), meaning “eighty”
- 5, read as 오 (o), meaning “five”
All together, it becomes 천구백팔십오 (cheongubaekpalsibo), meaning “one thousand nine hundred eighty five.”
To say “the year,” you need to say 년 (nyeon). So to say, “The year of 1985,” it becomes 천구백팔십오년 (cheongubaekpalsibonyeon).
In Korea, there’s a number of ways to ask which year someone was born in:
- 몇년생이에요?
Myeonnyeonsaengieyo?
“Which year were you born in?” - 몇년도에 태어났어요?
Myeonnyeondoe taeeonasseoyo?
“Which year were you born in?” - 몇살이에요?
Myeotsarieyo?
Technically, it means “How old are you?” but you can answer by stating the year, too.
From 2002 to 2019
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 2002년 (이천이년) | 2002nyeon (icheoninyeon) | “The year 2002” |
| 2003년 (이천삼년) | 2003nyeon (icheonsamnyeon) | “The year 2003” |
| 2004년 (이천사년) | 2004nyeon (icheonsanyeon) | “The year 2004” |
| 2005년 (이천오년) | 2005nyeon (icheononyeon) | “The year 2005” |
| 2006년 (이천십육년) | 2006nyeon (icheonsibyungnyeon) | “The year 2006” |
| 2007년 (이천칠년) | 2007nyeon (icheonchillyeon) | “The year 2007” |
| 2008년 (이천팔년) | 2008nyeon (icheonpallyeon) | “The year 2008” |
| 2009년 (이천구년) | 2009nyeon (icheongunyeon) | “The year 2009” |
| 2010년 (이천십년) | 2010nyeon (icheonsimnyeon) | “The year 2010” |
| 2011년 (이천십일년) | 2011nyeon (icheonsibillyeon) | “The year 2011” |
| 2012년 (이천십이년) | 2012nyeon (icheonsibinyeon) | “The year 2012” |
| 2013년 (이천십삼년) | 2013nyeon (icheonsipsamnyeon) | “The year 2013” |
| 2014년 (이천십사년) | 2014nyeon (icheonsipsanyeon) | “The year 2014” |
| 2015년 (이천십오년) | 2015nyeon (icheonsibonyeon) | “The year 2015” |
| 2016년 (이천십육년) | 2016nyeon (icheonsibyungnyeon) | “The year 2016” |
| 2017년 (이천십칠년) | 2017nyeon (icheonsipchillyeon) | “The year 2017” |
| 2018년 (이천십팔년) | 2018nyeon (icheonsip-pallyeon) | “The year 2018” |
| 2019년 (이천십구년) | 2019nyeon (icheonsipgunyeon) | “The year 2019” |
Examples:
- A: 너 몇년생이야?
A: Neo myeonnyeonsaengiya?
A: “Which year were you born in?”B: 나? 2010년.
B: Na? icheonsimnyeon.
B: “Me? In 2010.” - A: BTS의 슈가는 몇년도생이었더라?
A: Bitieseuui syuganeun myeonnyeondosaengieotdeora?
A: “What year was Suga from BTS born in?”B: 1993년!
B: Cheongubaekgusipsamnyeon!
B: “In 1993!”
Quiz:
Are you ready for a quiz? Let’s practice your Korean!
Q1. How do you say “The year of 2001” in Korean?
- 이천삼년 (icheonsamnyeon)
- 이천오년 (icheononyeon)
- 이천일년 (icheonillyeon)
- 이천년 (icheonnyeon)
Q2. What does 이천십팔년 mean in English?
- “The year of 2019”
- “The year of 2018”
- “The year of 2010”
- “The year of 2009”
Q3. How do you write “the year” in Korean?
- 월 (wol)
- 일 (il)
- 년 (nyeon)
- 요일 (yoil)
Answers:
Q1. -> 4
Q2. -> 2
Q3. -> 3
3. Korean Dates: Months
Now we can start learning the days and months in Korean. To say the months is very easy too; just add a number in Korean followed by 월 (wol), which means “month” in the Korean language. For example, to say September: “nine” is 구 (gu) in Korean, followed by 월 (wol), meaning “month.” So it becomes 구월 (guwol), or “September.” Let’s have a look at months in Korean and some examples below:
From January to December
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1월 (일월) | 1wol (irwol) | “January” |
| 2월 (이월) | 2wol (iwol) | “February” |
| 3월 (삼월) | 3wol (samwol) | “March” |
| 4월 (사월) | 4wol (sawol) | “April” |
| 5월 (오월) | 5wol (owol) | “May” |
| 6월 (유월) | 6wol (yuwol) | “June” |
| 7월 (칠월) | 7wol (chirwol) | “July” |
| 8월 (팔월) | 8wol (parwol) | “August” |
| 9월 (구월) | 9wol (guwol) | “September” |
| 10월 (시월) | 10wol (siwol) | “October” |
| 11월 (십일월) | 11wol (sibirwol) | “November” |
| 12월 (십이월) | 12wol (sibiwol) | “December” |
We also have a free online vocabulary list called 한국어로 월에 대해서 말하기 (hangugeoro wore daehaeseo malhagi) or “Talking about Months”, so check it out on our website.
Examples:
- A: 너 몇월에 태어났어?
A: Neo myeochwore taeeonasseo?
A: “Which month were you born?”B: 나? 나 10월에 태어났어.
B: Na? Na 10wore taeeonasseo.
B: “Me? I was born in October.” - A: 부처님 오신날이 언제 였더라?
A: Bucheonim osinnari eonje yeotdeora?
A: “Which month was Buddha’s birthday?”B: 5월 8일!
B: Owol paril!
B: “It’s the 8th of May!”
Quiz:
Are you ready for a quiz? Let’s practice your Korean!
Q1. How do you say “September” in Korean?
- 시월 (siwol)
- 칠월 (chilwol)
- 일월 (ilwol)
- 구월 (guwol)
Q2. Which month has Christmas Day?
- 십이월 (sipiwol)
- 십일월 (sipilwol)
- 팔월 (palwol)
- 이월 (iwol)
Q3. Which month has Children’s Day in Korea?
- 사월 (sawol)
- 오월 (owol)
- 삼월 (samwol)
- 이월 (iwol)
Answers:
Q1 -> 4
Q2 -> 1
Q3 -> 2
3. How to Say Korean Calendar Dates
일 (il) means “one” in Korean, but it also means “day.” To say the days in Korean, use Sino Korean number followed by 일 (il). For example, to answer someone who asks what day Valentine’s Day is on, you can say: 발렌타인데이는 14일이에요 (ballentaindeineun sipsairieyo), meaning “Valentine’s Day is on the 14th.”
Something to remember: “1st” and “2nd” sound very similar in Korean. For this reason, Koreans often ask whether they understood you correctly or not. So if this happens, don’t be discouraged. Your pronunciation is perfect, it’s just how we do things. (We also use the number gestures for better clarity.)
From 1st to 31st
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1일 (일일) | 1il (iril) | “1st” |
| 2일 (이일) | 2il (iil) | “2nd” |
| 3일 (삼일) | 3il (samil) | “3rd” |
| 4일 (사일) | 4il (sail) | “4th” |
| 5일 (오일) | 5il (o-il) | “5th” |
| 6일 (육일) | 6il (yugil) | “6th |
| 7일 (칠일) | 7il (chiril) | “7th” |
| 8일 (팔일) | 8il (paril) | “8th” |
| 9일 (구일) | 9il (guil) | “9th” |
| 10일 (십일) | 10il (sibil) | “10th” |
| 11일 (십일일) | 11il (sibiril) | “11th” |
| 12일 (십이일) | 12il (sibiil) | “12th” |
| 13일 (십삼일) | 13il (sipsamil) | “13th” |
| 14일 (십사일) | 14il (sipsail) | “14th” |
| 15일 (십오일) | 15il (siboil) | “15th” |
| 16일 (십육일) | 16il (sibyugil) | “16th” |
| 17일 (십칠일) | 17il (sipchiril) | “17th” |
| 18일 (십팔일) | 18il (sip-paril) | “18th” |
| 19일 (십구일) | 19il (sipguil) | “19th” |
| 20일 (이십일) | 20il (isibil) | “20th” |
| 21일 (이십일일) | 21il (isibiril) | “21st” |
| 22일 (이십이일) | 22il (isibiil) | “22nd” |
| 23일 (이십삼일) | 23il (isipsamil) | “23rd” |
| 24일 (이십사일) | 24il (isipsail) | “24th” |
| 25일 (이십오일) | 25il (isiboil) | “25th” |
| 26일 (이십육일) | 26il (isibyugil) | “26th” |
| 27일 (이십칠일) | 27il (isipchiril) | “27th” |
| 28일 (이십팔일) | 28il (isip-paril) | “28th” |
| 29일 (이십구일) | 29il (isipguil) | “29th” |
| 30일 (삼십일) | 30il (samsibil) | “30th” |
| 31일 (삼십일일) | 31il (samsibiril) | “31st” |
Examples:
- A: 생일이 언제예요?
A: Saengiri eonjeyeyo?
A: “When is your birthday?”B: 9월 25일이에요.
B: Guworisiboirieyo.
B: “It’s the 25th of September.” - A: 너 여동생 생일이 언제야?
A: Neo yeodongsaeng saengiri eonjeya?
A: “When is your sister’s birthday?”B: 2월20일. 근데 너 왜 내 여동생 생일을 알고 싶은데?
B: Iworisibil. geunde neo wae nae yeodongsaeng saengireul algo sipeunde?
B: “It’s the 20th of February. Why do you want to know my sister’s birthday?”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you say 이월 십삼일 in Korean?
- 2월 13일
- 2월 14일
- 1월13일
- 1월14일
Q2. When is Christmas Day?
- 십일월 이십오일
- 십이월 이십오일
- 십이월 이일
- 사월 이십오일
Q3. How do you say 시월 이십일일 in English?
- “21st of November”
- “21st of April”
- “21st of May”
- “21st of October”
Answers:
Q1 -> 1
Q2 -> 2
Q3 -> 4
4. Saying the Days of the Week in Korean
요일 (yoil) means “day” in the Korean language. Let’s check out days in the Korean language as shown below!
From Monday to Sunday
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 월요일 | wollyoil | “Monday” |
| 화요일 | hwayoil | “Tuesday” |
| 수요일 | suyoil | “Wednesday” |
| 목요일 | mongnyoil | “Thursday” |
| 금요일 | geumyoil | “Friday” |
| 토요일 | toyoil | “Saturday” |
| 일요일 | illyoil | “Sunday” |
We also have a free online vocabulary list called 요일에 대해 말하기 (yoire daehae malhagi) or “Talking about Days”. Feel free to check it out on KoreanClass101.
Examples:
- A: 오늘 무슨요일이지?
A: Oneul museunyoiriji?
A: “What day is it today?”B: 오늘? 화요일이야.
B: Oneul? hwayoiriya.
B: “Today? It’s Tuesday.” - A: 내일은 금요일이지?
A: Naeireun geumyoiriji?
A: “Tomorrow is Friday right?”B: 아니, 내일 토요일이야.
B: Ani, naeil toyoiriya.
B: “No, it’s Saturday tomorrow.”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you write “day” in Korean?
- 요일 (yoil)
- 시 (si)
- 년 (nyeon)
- 월 (wol)
Q2. How do you write “Sunday” in Korean?
- 월요일 (wollyoil)
- 화요일 (hwayoil)
- 금요일 (geumyoil)
- 일요일 (illyoil)
Q3. How do you write “Monday” in Korean?
- 일요일 (illyoil)
- 수요일 (suyoil)
- 월요일 (wollyoil)
- 목요일 (mongnyoil)
Answers:
Q1 -> 1
Q2 -> 4
Q3 -> 3
5. How to Say the Hours in Korean
In this section, we’ll focus on “hours” (and not “the time” as in “What time is it?”). If you want to learn how to read the clock in Korean, check out our article titled 시간에 대해 말하기 (sigane daehae malhagi) or “Talking about Time.”
“Hours” in Korean is 시간 (sigan). Let’s have a look at the table below for more vocabulary.
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1시간 (한시간) | 1sigan (hansigan) | “One hour” |
| 2시간 (두시간) | 2sigan (dusigan) | “Two hours” |
| 3시간 (세시간) | 3sigan (sesigan) | “Three hours” |
| 4시간 (네시간) | 4sigan (nesigan) | “Four hours” |
| 5시간 (다섯시간) | 5sigan (daseotsigan) | “Five hours” |
| 6시간 (여섯시간) | 6sigan (yeoseotsigan) | “Six hours” |
| 7시간 (일곱시간) | 7sigan (ilgopsigan) | “Seven hours” |
| 8시간 (여덟시간) | 8sigan (yeodeolsigan) | “Eight hours” |
| 9시간 (아홉시간) | 9sigan (ahopsigan) | “Nine hours” |
| 10시간 (열시간) | 10sigan (yeolsigan) | “Ten hours” |
| 11시간 (열한시간) | 11sigan (yeolhansigan) | “Eleven hours” |
| 12시간 (열두시간) | 12sigan (yeoldusigan) | “Twelve hours” |
Examples:
- A: 비행기가 2시간이나 지연됐어.
A: Bihaenggiga dusiganina jiyeondwaesseo.
A: “The plane got delayed for two hours.”B: 아 정말? 그럼 2시간 뒤에 픽업하러 갈께.
B: A jeongmal? Geureom dusigan dwie pigeopareo galkke.
B: “Oh really? I will come and pick you up after two hours then.” - A: 하루 한시간은 꼭 요가를 하려고 해.
A: Haru hansiganeun kkok yogareul haryeogo hae.
A: “I am trying to do yoga at least one hour per day.”B: 그건 좋은 생각인것 같아. 나는 일주일에 3시간은 꼭 조깅을 하고 있어.
B: Geugeon joeun saenggagingeot gata. Naneun iljuire sesiganeun kkok jogingeul hago isseo.
B: “That’s a great idea. I do jogging for three hours per week.”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you write “hour(s)” in Korean?
- 시간 (sigan)
- 월 (wol)
- 일 (il)
- 년 (nyeon)
Q2. How do you say “twelve hours” in Korean?
- 열시간 (yeolsigan)
- 여덟시간 (yeodeolsigan)
- 네시간 (nesigan)
- 열두시간 (yeoldusigan)
Q3. How do you write “twenty-four hours” in Korean?
- 한시간 (hansigan)
- 이십사시간 (isipsasigan)
- 일곱시간 (ilgopsigan)
- 다섯시간 (daseotsigan)
Answers:
Q1 -> 1
Q2 -> 4
Q3 -> 2
6. How to Say the Minutes in Korean
“Minute(s)” is 분 (bun) in Korean. When you want to write “how many minutes” in Korean, it’s 몇분 (myeotbun).
Let’s have a look at a number of examples:
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 5분 (오분) | 5bun (obun) | “Five minutes” |
| 10분 (십분) | 10bun (sipbun) | “Ten minutes” |
| 20분 (이십분) | 20bun (isipbun) | “Twenty minutes” |
| 35분 (삼십오분) | 35bun (samsibobun) | “Thirty-five minutes” |
| 42분 (사십이분) | 42bun (sasibibun) | “Forty-two minutes” |
| 51분 (오십일분) | 51bun (osibilbun) | “Fifty-one minutes” |
| 59분 (오십구분) | 59bun (osipgubun) | “Fifty-nine minutes” |
Examples:
- A: 몇시에 도착할 것 같아?
A: Myeotsie dochakal geot gata?
A: “When do you think you will arrive?”B: 10분안에 도착할께.
B: Sipbunane dochakalkke.
B: “I will be there in ten minutes.” - A: 휴, 캐런은 약속 시간에 맨날 10분 이상 늦더라.
A: Hyu, kaereoneun yaksok sigane maennal 10bun isang neutdeora.
A: “Phew, Karen is always late for at least ten minutes.”B: 야, 내 친구는 한시간이나 늦을때도 있어.
B: Ya, nae chinguneun hansiganina neujeulttaedo isseo.
B: “Hey, my friend sometimes is late for one hour.”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you say “ten minutes” in Korean?
- 삼십오분 (samsibobun)
- 십분 (sipbun)
- 사십이분 (sasibibun)
- 오십구분 (osipgubun)
Q2. How do you say “fifty-nine minutes” in Korean?
- 오분 (obun)
- 십분 (sipbun)
- 오십구분 (osipgubun)
- 사십이분 (sasibibun)
Q3. How do you say “minute(s)” in Korean?
- 년 (nyeon)
- 일 (il)
- 시간 (sigan)
- 분 (bun)
Answers:
Q1. -> 2
Q2. -> 3
Q3. -> 4
7. How to Say the Seconds in Korean
“Second” is 초 (cho) in Korean. Let’s have a look at the table below to practice how to say different “second(s)” in Korean.
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1초 (일초) | ilcho | “One second” |
| 5초 (오초) | ocho | “Five seconds” |
| 13초 (십삼초) | sipsamcho | “Thirteen seconds” |
| 26초 (이십육초) | isibyukcho | “Twenty-six seconds” |
| 30초 (삼십초) | samsipcho | “Thirty seconds” |
| 37초 (삼십칠초) | samsipchilcho | “Thirty-seven seconds” |
| 44초 (사십사초) | sasipsacho | “Forty-four seconds” |
| 52초 (오십이초) | osibicho | “Fifty-two seconds” |
| 59초 (오십구초) | osipgucho | “Fifty-nine seconds” |
Examples:
- A: 1분은 총 몇 초게?
A: Ilbuneun chong myeot choge?
A: “How many seconds in one minute?”B: 60초!
B: Yuksipcho!
B: “Sixty seconds!” - A: 10 초안에 이 문제 풀 수 있겠어?
A: Sip choane i munje pul su itgesseo?
A: “Can you solve this problem in ten seconds?”B:뭐라고? 말도 안돼!
B: Mworago? Maldo andwae!
B: “What? That’s nonsense!”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you write “second(s)” in Korean?
- 분 (bun)
- 년 (nyeon)
- 초 (cho)
- 일 (il)
Q2. How do you write “one minute” in Korean?
- 일초 (ilcho)
- 이초 (icho)
- 삼초 (samcho)
- 사초 (sacho)
Q3. How do you say “sixty seconds” in Korean?
- 오십육초 (osibyukcho)
- 십오초 (sibocho)
- 이십이초 (isibicho)
- 육십초 (yuksipcho)
Answers:
Q1. -> 3
Q2. -> 1
Q3. -> 4
8. How to Say Other Time-related Words
| Korean | Romanization | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 평일 | pyeongil | “Weekdays” |
| 주말 | jumal | “Weekend(s)” |
| 골든위크 | goldeunwikeu | “Golden Week” |
| 샌드위치 데이* | saendeuwichi dei | “Sandwich Day” |
| 어제 | eoje | “Yesterday” |
| 오늘 | oneul | “Today” |
| 내일 | naeil | “Tomorrow” |
| 엊그저께 | eotgeujeokke | “A few days ago” |
| 그저께 | geujeokke | “The day before yesterday” |
| 내일모레 | naeilmore | “The day after tomorrow” |
Examples:
- A: BTS 콘서트 언제였지? 갑자기 기억이 안나네.
A: Bitieseu konseoteu eonjeyeotji? Gapjagi gieogi annane.
A: “When was the BTS concert? I can’t remember suddenly.”B: 잠깐만… 8월8일이니깐… 어머, 내일모레네!
B: Jamkkanman… parwolparirinikkan… eomeo, naeilmorene!
B: “Hold on… It’s on the 8th of August…oh my goodness, it’s in two days!” - A: 나 엊그저께 친구 결혼식 갔다 왔는데, 둘이 너무 행복해 보였어.
A: Na eotgeujeokke chingu gyeolhonsik gatda wanneunde, duri neomu haengbokae boyeosseo.
A: “I went to my friend’s wedding a few days ago and they both looked really happy.”B: 난 주말에 결혼식 가야 해.
B: Nan jumare gyeolhonsik gaya hae.
B: “I have to go to a wedding this weekend.”
Quiz:
Q1. How do you say “yesterday” in Korean?
- 골든위크 (goldeunwikeu)
- 어제 (eoje)
- 샌드위치 데이 (saendeuwichi dei)
- 엊그저께 (eotgeujeokke)
Q2. How do you say “the day before yesterday” in Korean?
- 내일모레 (naeilmore)
- 어제 (eoje)
- 그저께 (geujeokke)
- 오늘 (oneul)
Q3. How do you say “today” in Korean?
- 오늘 (oneul)
- 엊그저께 (eotgeujeokke)
- 어제 (eoje)
- 그저께 (geujeokke)
Answers:
Q1. -> 2
Q2. -> 3
Q3. -> 1
9. Interesting Korean Celebration Days
Did you know that every month there’s at least one event happening? Korea has many interesting days of celebration and they’re fun to participate in, especially if you’re in a relationship or dating someone. Let’s have a look at some of the most popular celebration days in South Korea:
| Korean | Romanization | Translation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 다이어리 데이 (1월 14일) | daieori dei | “Diary Day” | It’s the day that couples give each other their diaries. |
| 발렌타인 데이 (2월 14일) | ballentain dei | “Valentine’s Day” | It’s the day that couples give each other chocolate. |
| 삼겹살 데이 (3월3일) | samgyeopsal dei | “Samgyeopsal Day” | It’s the day to eat Samgyupsal with someone you like. |
| 화이트 데이 (3월 14일) | hwaiteu dei | “White Day” | It’s the day that couples give each other candy. |
| 블랙 데이 (4월 14일) | beullaek dei | “Black Day” | It’s the day to eat Jjajang noodles if you haven’t received any chocolates or candies from anyone. |
| 로즈 데이 (5월 14일) | rojeu dei | “Rose Day” | It’s the day to give a rose to your gf/bf. |
| 키스 데이 (6월 14일) | kiseu dei | “Kiss Day” | It’s the day to give a kiss to your gf/bf. |
| 실버 데이 (7월 14일) | silbeo dei | “Silver Day” | It’s the day to exchange a silver ring with your gf/bf. |
| 그린 데이 (8월 14일) | geurin dei | “Green Day” | It’s the day to walk through the woods with your gf/bf. |
| 치킨 데이 (9월 9일) | chikin dei | “Chicken Day” | It’s the day to eat some fried chicken with someone you like. |
| 포토 데이 (9월 14일) | poto dei | “Photo Day” | It’s the day to take pictures with your gf/bf. |
| 와인 데이 (10월 14일) | wain dei | “Wine Day” | It’s the day to drink some wine with your gf/bf. |
| 무비 데이 (11월 14일) | mubi dei | “Movie Day” | It’s the day to watch a film with your gf/bf. |
| 허그 데이 (12월 14일) | heogeu dei | “Hug Day” | It’s the day to give a hug to your gf/bf. |
10. Let’s Practice
Knowing how to discuss various time frames is important when making a reservation. Let’s imagine that you’re trying to make a reservation at a fancy restaurant to celebrate your engagement with your fiance.
Situation:
- Concierge: 한국호텔입니다. 무엇을 도와드릴까요?
Concierge: Hangukoterimnida. Mueoseul dowadeurilkkayo?
Concierge: “This is a Korean hotel. How may I help you?” - You: 여보세요, 예약하고 싶은데요.
You: Yeoboseyo, yeyakago sipeundeyo.
You: “Hello, I would like to make a reservation please.” - Concierge: 네, 언제로 해드릴까요?
Concierge: Ne, eonjero haedeurilkkayo?
Concierge: “Sure, when would you like to come?” - You: 12월 25일 오후 7시 가능한가요?
You: Sibiwol isiboiril ohu ilgopsi ganeunghangayo?
You: Is it possible on the 25th of December at seven o’clock in the evening?” - Concierge: 확인해보겠습니다. 죄송하지만 12월 25일은 예약이 꽉 차 있습니다. 다른 날은 어떠신가요.
Concierge: Hwaginhaebogetseumnida. Joesonghajiman 12wol 25ireun yeyagi kkwak cha itseumnida. Dareun nareun eotteosingayo.
Concierge: “Let me check it now. I am sorry but it’s full. How about other dates?” - You: 아 그래요? 그럼 12월 26일 오후 7시는 가능한가요?
You: A geuraeyo? Geureom sibiworwol isibyugil ohu ilgopsineun ganeunghangayo?
You: “Oh really? How about on the 26th of December at seven in the evening?” - Concierge: 네 가능합니다. 예약 잡아 드릴까요?
Concierge: Ne ganeunghamnida. Yeyak jaba deurilkkayo?
Concierge: “Yes you can. Do you want me to save the room for you?” - You: 네, 잡아주세요.
You: Ne, jabajuseyo.
You: “Yes please.” - Concierge: 성함과 전화번호 알려주시겠습니까?
Concierge: Seonghamgwa jeonhwabeonho allyeojusigetseumnikka?
Concierge: “May I have your name and your number please?”
11. How KoreanClass101 Can Help You with Korean
We hope you found this blog very informative, and that we helped you learn Korean dates and time! KoreanClass101 has many free online classes and even on online forum to discuss lessons with fellow students. You’ll also find an array of blog posts like this one, and can even learn Korean with your own personal Korean teacher by upgrading your account to Premium Plus. So do check out our website, and have a great day!
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