📚 Lesson 4 · vocabulary
Korean Vocabulary — 어휘
Building vocabulary is key to Korean fluency. Click any word card to hear its pronunciation. Start with the most common words and work your way up — learning just 500 words will cover about 75% of everyday Korean conversation!
👋 Greetings & Polite Phrases (인사말)
| Korean | Romanization | English | Level | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 안녕하세요 | Annyeonghaseyo アンニョンハセヨ | Hello (formal) | Beginner | |
| 안녕 | Annyeong アンニョン | Hi / Bye (casual) | Beginner | |
| 감사합니다 | Gamsahamnida カムサハムニダ | Thank you (formal) | Beginner | |
| 고마워요 | Gomawoyo コマウォヨ | Thank you (polite) | Beginner | |
| 죄송합니다 | Joesonghamnida チェソンハムニダ | I'm sorry (formal) | Beginner | |
| 미안해요 | Mianhaeyo ミアンヘヨ | Sorry (polite) | Beginner | |
| 괜찮아요 | Gwaenchanayo クェンチャナヨ | It's okay / Are you okay? | Beginner | |
| 네 / 아니요 | Ne / Aniyo ネ/アニヨ | Yes / No | Beginner | |
| 반갑습니다 | Bangapseumnida バンガプスムニダ | Nice to meet you | Beginner | |
| 잘 지냈어요? | Jal jinaesseoyo? チャル ジネッソヨ？ | How have you been? | Beginner | |
| 어서 오세요 | Eoseo oseyo オソ オセヨ | Welcome (to a store) | Beginner | |
| 화이팅! | Hwaiting! ファイティン！ | You can do it! / Fighting! | Beginner | |
| 처음 뵙겠습니다 | Cheoeum boepgesseumnida チョウム ボプゲッスムニダ | Nice to meet you (formal, first time) | Beginner | |
| 잘 부탁드립니다 | Jal butakdeurimnida チャル プタクドゥリムニダ | Please take care of me / Best regards | Beginner | |
| 안녕히 가세요 | Annyeonghi gaseyo アンニョンヒ カセヨ | Goodbye (said to person leaving) | Beginner | |
| 안녕히 계세요 | Annyeonghi gyeseyo アンニョンヒ ゲセヨ | Goodbye (said when you are leaving) | Beginner | |
| 오랜만이에요 | Oraenmanieyo オレンマニエヨ | Long time no see | Beginner | |
| 또 봐요 | Tto bwayo ト ブァヨ | See you again | Beginner | |
| 천만에요 | Cheonmaneyo チョンマネヨ | You're welcome / Not at all | Beginner | |
| 잘 먹겠습니다 | Jal meokgesseumnida チャル モクゲッスムニダ | I will eat well (said before meals) | Beginner | |
| 잘 먹었습니다 | Jal meogeosseumnida チャル モゴッスムニダ | I ate well / That was delicious (after meals) | Beginner | |
| 수고하세요 | Sugohaseyo スゴハセヨ | Good work / Take care (to someone continuing to work) | Beginner |
🔢 Numbers (숫자)
Two Number Systems
Korean has Native Korean numbers (for counting, age, hours) and Sino-Korean numbers (for money, dates, minutes, phone numbers). You need both!
Native Korean 고유어
| # | Korean | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 하나 | Hana ハナ |
| 2 | 둘 | Dul トゥル |
| 3 | 셋 | Set セッ |
| 4 | 넷 | Net ネッ |
| 5 | 다섯 | Daseot タソッ |
| 6 | 여섯 | Yeoseot ヨソッ |
| 7 | 일곱 | Ilgop イルゴプ |
| 8 | 여덟 | Yeodeol ヨドル |
| 9 | 아홉 | Ahop アホプ |
| 10 | 열 | Yeol ヨル |
Sino-Korean 한자어
| # | Korean | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 일 | Il イル |
| 2 | 이 | I イ |
| 3 | 삼 | Sam サム |
| 4 | 사 | Sa サ |
| 5 | 오 | O オ |
| 6 | 육 | Yuk ユク |
| 7 | 칠 | Chil チル |
| 8 | 팔 | Pal パル |
| 9 | 구 | Gu ク |
| 10 | 십 | Sip シプ |
Large Sino-Korean Numbers 큰 한자어 숫자
| # | Korean | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 백 | Baek ペク |
| 1,000 | 천 | Cheon チョン |
| 10,000 | 만 | Man マン |
| 100,000 | 십만 | Sipman シプマン |
| 1,000,000 | 백만 | Baekman ペンマン |
| 10,000,000 | 천만 | Cheonman チョンマン |
| 100,000,000 | 억 | Eok オク |
| 1,000,000,000 | 십억 | Sib-eok シボク |
| 10,000,000,000 | 백억 | Baek-eok ペグオク |
| 100,000,000,000 | 천억 | Cheon-eok チョノク |
| 1,000,000,000,000 | 조 | Jo チョ |
When to use each system
Native Korean: age (살), hours (시), counting items (개), floors (층) — e.g., 스물다섯 살 (25 years old). Sino-Korean: money (원), minutes (분), dates, phone numbers, addresses — e.g., 이만 원 (20,000 won).
Large Native Numbers 큰 고유어 숫자
| # | Korean | Romanization |
|---|---|---|
| 11 | 열하나 | Yeolhana ヨルハナ |
| 20 | 스물 | Seumul スムル |
| 30 | 서른 | Seoreun ソルン |
| 40 | 마흔 | Maheun マフン |
| 50 | 쉰 | Swin スウィン |
| 60 | 예순 | Yesun イェスン |
| 70 | 일흔 | Ilheun イルフン |
| 80 | 여든 | Yeodeun ヨドゥン |
| 90 | 아흔 | Aheun アフン |
| 100 | 백 | Baek ペク |
Useful Counters 단위
| Counter | Korean | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| 개 | -gae ゲ | general objects |
| 명 | -myeong ミョン | people (formal) |
| 분 | -bun ブン | people (honorific) |
| 살 | -sal サル | age (years old) |
| 장 | -jang チャン | flat things (paper) |
| 권 | -gwon クォン | books / volumes |
| 잔 | -jan チャン | cups / glasses |
| 병 | -byeong ビョン | bottles |
| 번 | -beon ボン | times / occurrences |
| 층 | -cheung チュン | floors / stories |
🍜 Food & Drink (음식과 음료)
밥
Bap
バプ
Rice / Meal
물
Mul
ムル
Water
김치
Gimchi
キムチ
Kimchi
비빔밥
Bibimbap
ビビムバプ
Mixed rice bowl
떡볶이
Tteokbokki
トッポッキ
Spicy rice cakes
삼겹살
Samgyeopsal
サムギョプサル
Grilled pork belly
불고기
Bulgogi
プルゴギ
Korean BBQ beef
냉면
Naengmyeon
ネンミョン
Cold noodles
소주
Soju
ソジュ
Korean spirits
커피
Keopi
コピ
Coffee
차
Cha
チャ
Tea
치킨
Chikin
チキン
Korean fried chicken
순두부찌개
Sundubu jjigae
スンドゥブッチゲ
Soft tofu stew
된장찌개
Doenjang jjigae
テンジャンチゲ
Soybean paste stew
잡채
Japchae
チャプチェ
Glass noodle stir-fry
갈비
Galbi
カルビ
Grilled short ribs
파전
Pajeon
パジョン
Green onion pancake
막걸리
Makgeolli
マッコリ
Korean rice wine
호떡
Hotteok
ホットク
Sweet filled pancake
닭갈비
Dakgalbi
タッカルビ
Spicy stir-fried chicken
국밥
Gukbap
グクパプ
Rice in hot soup
보쌈
Bossam
ポッサム
Boiled pork wraps
유자차
Yuja-cha
ユジャチャ
Citrus tea
🎨 Colors (색깔)
빨간색
Ppalgansaek
パルガンセク
Red
파란색
Paransaek
パランセク
Blue
노란색
Noransaek
ノランセク
Yellow
초록색
Choroksaek
チョロクセク
Green
검은색
Geomeunsaek
コムンセク
Black
흰색
Huinsaek
フィンセク
White
주황색
Juhwangsaek
チュファンセク
Orange
보라색
Borasaek
ポラセク
Purple
분홍색
Bunhongsaek
プノンセク
Pink
갈색
Galsaek
カルセク
Brown
회색
Hoesaek
フェセク
Gray
금색
Geumsaek
クムセク
Gold
은색
Eunsaek
ウンセク
Silver
하늘색
Haneulsaek
ハヌルセク
Sky blue
연두색
Yeondusaek
ヨンドゥセク
Lime / Yellow-green
남색
Namsaek
ナムセク
Indigo / Dark navy
자주색
Jajusaek
チャジュセク
Maroon / Dark red
베이지색
Beijisaek
ベイジセク
Beige
형광색
Hyeonggwangsaek
ヒョングァンセク
Neon / Fluorescent
📅 Days & Time (날짜와 시간)
Days of the Week 요일
| Korean | Romanization | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 월요일 | Woryoil ウォリョイル | Monday |
| 화요일 | Hwaryoil ファリョイル | Tuesday |
| 수요일 | Suyoil スヨイル | Wednesday |
| 목요일 | Mogyoil モギョイル | Thursday |
| 금요일 | Geumyoil クミョイル | Friday |
| 토요일 | Toyoil トヨイル | Saturday |
| 일요일 | Iryoil イリョイル | Sunday |
Months 월
| Korean | Romanization | Month |
|---|---|---|
| 일월 | Irwol イルォル | January |
| 이월 | Iwol イウォル | February |
| 삼월 | Samwol サムウォル | March |
| 사월 | Sawol サウォル | April |
| 오월 | Owol オウォル | May |
| 유월 | Yuwol ユウォル | June |
| 칠월 | Chirwol チルォル | July |
| 팔월 | Parwol パルォル | August |
| 구월 | Guwol クウォル | September |
| 시월 | Siwol シウォル | October |
| 십일월 | Sibirwol シビルォル | November |
| 십이월 | Sibiwol シビウォル | December |
Seasons 계절
| Korean | Romanization | Season |
|---|---|---|
| 봄 | Bom ポム | Spring |
| 여름 | Yeoreum ヨルム | Summer |
| 가을 | Gaeul カウル | Autumn / Fall |
| 겨울 | Gyeoul キョウル | Winter |
Time Expressions 시간 표현
| Korean | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 오전 | Ojeon オジョン | AM / Morning |
| 오후 | Ohu オフ | PM / Afternoon |
| 아침 | Achim アチム | Morning |
| 점심 | Jeomsim チョムシム | Noon / Lunch time |
| 저녁 | Jeonyeok チョニョク | Evening / Dinner time |
| 밤 | Bam バム | Night |
| 어제 | Eoje オジェ | Yesterday |
| 그제 | Geuje クジェ | The day before yesterday |
| 그끄제 | Geuggeuje グッキョジェ | The day before the day before yesterday |
| 오늘 | Oneul オヌル | Today |
| 내일 | Naeil ネイル | Tomorrow |
| 모래 | More モレ | The day after tomorrow |
| 글피 | Geulpi クルピ | The day after the day after tomorrow |
| 지금 | Jigeum チグム | Now / Right now |
😊 Emotions & Feelings (감정)
행복해요
Haengbokhaeyo
ヘンボケヨ
Happy
슬퍼요
Seulpeoyo
スルポヨ
Sad
화나요
Hwanayo
ファナヨ
Angry
무서워요
Museowoyo
ムソウォヨ
Scared
기뻐요
Gippeoyo
キッポヨ
Joyful
피곤해요
Pigonhaeyo
ピゴネヨ
Tired
배고파요
Baegopayo
ベゴパヨ
Hungry
졸려요
Jollyeoyo
チョルリョヨ
Sleepy
사랑해요
Saranghaeyo
サランヘヨ
I love you
보고싶어요
Bogosipeoyo
ポゴシポヨ
I miss you
신나요
Sinnayo
シンナヨ
Excited
긴장돼요
Ginjangdwaeyo
キンジャンドェヨ
Nervous
걱정돼요
Geokjeongdwaeyo
コクジョンドェヨ
Worried
외로워요
Oerowoyo
ウェロウォヨ
Lonely
창피해요
Changpihaeyo
チャンピヘヨ
Embarrassed
실망했어요
Silmanghaesseoyo
シルマンヘッソヨ
Disappointed
감동받았어요
Gamdongbadasseoyo
カムドンパダッソヨ
Moved / Touched
억울해요
Eogurhaeyo
オグルヘヨ
Treated unfairly
홀가분해요
Holgabunhaeyo
ホルガブネヨ
Relieved / Light-hearted
👨👩👧 Family (가족)
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 아버지 / 아빠 | Abeoji / Appa アボジ/アッパ | Father / Dad | |
| 어머니 / 엄마 | Eomeoni / Eomma オモニ/オンマ | Mother / Mom | |
| 형 / 오빠 | Hyeong / Oppa ヒョン/オッパ | Older brother (male/female speaker) | |
| 누나 / 언니 | Nuna / Eonni ヌナ/オンニ | Older sister (male/female speaker) | |
| 남동생 | Namdongsaeng ナムドンセン | Younger brother | |
| 여동생 | Yeodongsaeng ヨドンセン | Younger sister | |
| 할아버지 | Harabeoji ハラボジ | Grandfather | |
| 할머니 | Halmeoni ハルモニ | Grandmother | |
| 남편 | Nampyeon ナムピョン | Husband | |
| 아내 / 부인 | Anae / Buin アネ/プイン | Wife | |
| 아들 | Adeul アドゥル | Son | |
| 딸 | Ttal タル | Daughter | |
| 삼촌 | Samchon サムチョン | Uncle (father's brother) | |
| 이모 | Imo イモ | Aunt (mother's sister) | |
| 고모 | Gomo コモ | Aunt (father's sister) | |
| 사촌 | Sachon サチョン | Cousin | |
| 조카 | Joka チョカ | Nephew / Niece | |
| 외할아버지 | Oeharabeoji ウェハラボジ | Maternal grandfather | |
| 외할머니 | Oehalmeoni ウェハルモニ | Maternal grandmother | |
| 시아버지 / 장인 | Siabeoji / Jangin シアボジ/チャンイン | Father-in-law | |
| 시어머니 / 장모 | Sieomeoni / Jangmo シオモニ/チャンモ | Mother-in-law |
🏙️ Places (장소)
집
Jip
チプ
Home / House
학교
Hakgyo
ハッキョ
School
병원
Byeongwon
ビョンウォン
Hospital
은행
Eunhaeng
ウネン
Bank
공항
Gonghang
コンハン
Airport
지하철역
Jihacheol yeok
チハチョルヨク
Subway Station
편의점
Pyeonuijeom
ピョニジョム
Convenience Store
도서관
Doseogwan
トソグァン
Library
공원
Gongwon
コンウォン
Park
시장
Sijang
シジャン
Market
영화관
Yeonghwagwan
ヨンファグァン
Cinema
호텔
Hotel
ホテル
Hotel
식당
Sikdang
シクタン
Restaurant
카페
Kape
カペ
Café
백화점
Baekhwajeom
ペクァジョム
Department store
약국
Yakguk
ヤックク
Pharmacy
우체국
Ucheoguk
ウチェグク
Post office
노래방
Noraebang
ノレバン
Karaoke room
찜질방
Jjimjilbang
チムジルバン
Korean sauna
🫁 Body Parts (신체)
머리
Meori
モリ
Head / Hair
얼굴
Eolgul
オルグル
Face
눈
Nun
ヌン
Eye(s)
코
Ko
コ
Nose
입
Ip
イプ
Mouth
귀
Gwi
クィ
Ear(s)
손
Son
ソン
Hand(s)
발
Bal
バル
Foot / Feet
다리
Dari
タリ
Leg(s)
배
Bae
ペ
Stomach / Belly
등
Deung
トゥン
Back
어깨
Eokkae
オッケ
Shoulder(s)
이마
Ima
イマ
Forehead
뺨
Ppyam
ッピャム
Cheek
턱
Teok
トク
Chin / Jaw
목
Mok
モク
Neck / Throat
가슴
Gaseum
カスム
Chest
손가락
Songarak
ソンカラク
Finger(s)
발가락
Balgarak
バルカラク
Toe(s)
손목
Sonmok
ソンモク
Wrist
발목
Balmok
バルモク
Ankle
✈️ Travel (여행)
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 여권 | Yeogwon ヨグォン | Passport | |
| 비행기 | Bihaenggi ビヘンギ | Airplane | |
| 기차 | Gicha キチャ | Train | |
| 버스 | Beoseu ボス | Bus | |
| 택시 | Taeksi テクシ | Taxi | |
| 지하철 | Jihacheol ジハチョル | Subway | |
| 표 / 티켓 | Pyo / Tiket ピョ/ティケッ | Ticket | |
| 호텔 | Hotel ホテル | Hotel | |
| 관광지 | Gwangwangji クァングァンジ | Tourist attraction | |
| 지도 | Jido ジド | Map | |
| 환전 | Hwanjeon ファンジョン | Currency exchange | |
| 입장료 | Ipjangnyo イプチャンニョ | Admission fee | |
| 예약 | Yeyak イェヤク | Reservation / Booking | |
| 취소 | Chwiso チュィソ | Cancellation | |
| 수하물 | Suhamul スハムル | Luggage / Baggage | |
| 입국 심사 | Ipguk simsa イプグク シムサ | Immigration / Passport control | |
| 도착 | Dochak トチャク | Arrival | |
| 출발 | Chulbal チュルバル | Departure | |
| 탑승구 | Tapseunggu タプスンググ | Boarding gate |
🛒 Shopping (쇼핑)
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 얼마예요? | Eolmayeyo? オルマイェヨ？ | How much is it? | |
| 비싸요 | Bissayo ビッサヨ | Expensive | |
| 싸요 | Ssayo サヨ | Cheap / Inexpensive | |
| 할인 | Harin ハリン | Discount | |
| 계산해 주세요 | Gyesanhae juseyo ゲサンヘ ジュセヨ | Please check out / bill me | |
| 카드로 할게요 | Kadeuro halgeyo カドゥロ ハルゲヨ | I'll pay by card | |
| 영수증 주세요 | Yeongsucheung juseyo ヨンスジュン ジュセヨ | Please give me a receipt | |
| 교환할게요 | Gyohwanhalgeyo ギョファンハルゲヨ | I'd like to exchange | |
| 품절이에요 | Pumjeorieyo プムジョリエヨ | It's sold out | |
| 봉투 주세요 | Bongtu juseyo ボンツ ジュセヨ | Please give me a bag | |
| 재고 있어요? | Jaego isseoyo? チェゴ イッソヨ？ | Is it in stock? | |
| 입어봐도 될까요? | Ibeobwado doelkkayo? イボブァド ドェルカヨ？ | May I try this on? | |
| 사이즈 | Saijeu サイジュ | Size | |
| 포장해 주세요 | Pojangae juseyo ポジャンヘ ジュセヨ | Please wrap it / gift wrap | |
| 배송 | Baesong ベソン | Delivery / Shipping |
🌤️ Weather (날씨)
맑아요
Malgayo
マルガヨ
Clear / Sunny
흐려요
Heuryeoyo
フリョヨ
Cloudy
비가 와요
Biga wayo
ビガ ワヨ
It's raining
눈이 와요
Nuni wayo
ヌニ ワヨ
It's snowing
더워요
Deowoyo
トウォヨ
Hot
추워요
Chuwoyo
チュウォヨ
Cold
따뜻해요
Ttatteutaeyo
タトゥテヨ
Warm
바람이 불어요
Barami bureoyo
バラミ ブロヨ
It's windy
안개가 껴요
Angaega kkyeoyo
アンゲガ キョヨ
It's foggy
습해요
Seupaeyo
スペヨ
Humid
천둥이 쳐요
Cheondungi chyeoyo
チョンドゥンイ チョヨ
Thundering
태풍이에요
Taepungieyo
テプンイエヨ
Typhoon
무더워요
Mudeowoyo
ムドウォヨ
Sweltering / Very hot
쌀쌀해요
Ssalssalhaeyo
サルサルヘヨ
Chilly / Cool
건조해요
Geonjohaeyo
コンジョヘヨ
Dry
번개가 쳐요
Beongaega chyeoyo
ポンゲガ チョヨ
Lightning
소나기예요
Sonagieyeyo
ソナギエヨ
Shower rain
⚡ Verbs & Actions (동사) Intermediate
Korean verbs always end in 다 in dictionary form. They conjugate based on formality and tense.
| Korean (Dict.) | Romanization | English | Example use | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 가다 | Gada カダ | To go | 학교에 가요 (go to school) | |
| 오다 | Oda オダ | To come | 여기 와요 (come here) | |
| 먹다 | Meokda モクダ | To eat | 밥을 먹어요 (eat rice) | |
| 마시다 | Masida マシダ | To drink | 커피를 마셔요 (drink coffee) | |
| 자다 | Jada チャダ | To sleep | 일찍 자요 (sleep early) | |
| 일어나다 | Ireonada イロナダ | To wake up / get up | 아침에 일어나요 (wake up in the morning) | |
| 일하다 | Ilhada イルハダ | To work | 회사에서 일해요 (work at a company) | |
| 공부하다 | Gongbuhada コンブハダ | To study | 한국어를 공부해요 (study Korean) | |
| 보다 | Boda ポダ | To see / watch | 영화를 봐요 (watch a movie) | |
| 듣다 | Deutda ドゥッダ | To listen / hear | 음악을 들어요 (listen to music) | |
| 말하다 | Malhada マルハダ | To speak / say | 한국어로 말해요 (speak in Korean) | |
| 읽다 | Ikda イクダ | To read | 책을 읽어요 (read a book) | |
| 쓰다 | Sseuda スダ | To write | 일기를 써요 (write a diary) | |
| 사다 | Sada サダ | To buy | 옷을 사요 (buy clothes) | |
| 팔다 | Palda パルダ | To sell | 물건을 팔아요 (sell goods) | |
| 만들다 | Mandeulda マンドゥルダ | To make / create | 음식을 만들어요 (make food) | |
| 주다 | Juda ジュダ | To give | 선물을 줘요 (give a gift) | |
| 받다 | Batda バッダ | To receive / get | 선물을 받아요 (receive a gift) | |
| 도와주다 | Dowajuda ドワジュダ | To help | 친구를 도와줘요 (help a friend) | |
| 생각하다 | Saenggakhada センガカダ | To think | 많이 생각해요 (think a lot) | |
| 느끼다 | Neukkida ヌッキダ | To feel | 행복을 느껴요 (feel happiness) | |
| 좋아하다 | Joahada チョアハダ | To like | 음악을 좋아해요 (like music) | |
| 싫어하다 | Sireohada シロハダ | To dislike / hate | 거짓말을 싫어해요 (dislike lying) | |
| 알다 | Alda アルダ | To know | 그 사람을 알아요 (I know that person) | |
| 모르다 | Moreuda モルダ | To not know | 잘 몰라요 (I don't really know) |
✨ Adjectives (형용사) Intermediate
Korean adjectives conjugate just like verbs. The forms shown below are in polite present (해요 form).
크다
Keuda
クダ
Big / Large
작다
Jakda
チャクダ
Small / Little
좋다
Jota
チョタ
Good / Nice
나쁘다
Nappeuda
ナップダ
Bad
예쁘다
Yeppeuda
イェップダ
Pretty / Beautiful
잘생겼다
Jalsaenggyeotda
チャルセンギョッタ
Handsome
빠르다
Ppareuda
ッパルダ
Fast / Quick
느리다
Neurida
ヌリダ
Slow
쉽다
Swipda
スィプタ
Easy
어렵다
Eobyeopda
オリョプタ
Difficult / Hard
재미있다
Jaemiitda
チェミイッタ
Interesting / Fun
재미없다
Jaemieopda
チェミオプタ
Boring / Not fun
맛있다
Masitda
マシッタ
Delicious
맛없다
Maseopda
マソプタ
Tasteless / Bad tasting
무겁다
Mugeobda
ムゴプタ
Heavy
가볍다
Gabyeopda
カビョプタ
Light (weight)
길다
Gilda
キルダ
Long
짧다
Jjalda
チャルダ
Short
넓다
Neolda
ノルダ
Wide / Spacious
좁다
Jopda
チョプタ
Narrow / Cramped
💼 Workplace & Office (직장) Intermediate
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 회사 | Hoesa フェサ | Company / Firm | |
| 사무실 | Samusil サムシル | Office | |
| 직원 | Jikwon ジクォン | Employee / Staff | |
| 상사 | Sangsa サンサ | Boss / Superior | |
| 부하직원 | Buhajikwon ブハジクォン | Subordinate / Junior staff | |
| 동료 | Dongnyo ドンニョ | Colleague / Coworker | |
| 회의 | Hoeuui フェウィ | Meeting | |
| 보고서 | Bogoseo ボゴソ | Report / Document | |
| 프로젝트 | Peurojekteu プロジェクトゥ | Project | |
| 마감 | Magam マガム | Deadline | |
| 출근 | Chulgeun チュルグン | Going to work / Clocking in | |
| 퇴근 | Toegeun テグン | Leaving work / Clocking out | |
| 야근 | Yageun ヤグン | Overtime / Night work | |
| 월급 | Wolgeup ウォルグプ | Monthly salary | |
| 연봉 | Yeonbong ヨンボン | Annual salary | |
| 면접 | Myeonjjeop ミョンジョプ | Job interview | |
| 이력서 | Ireogseo イリョクソ | Resume / CV | |
| 계약서 | Gyeyakseo ゲヤクソ | Contract | |
| 부서 | Buseo ブソ | Department / Division | |
| 인사부 | Insabu インサブ | HR / Human Resources | |
| 업무 | Eommu オムム | Work tasks / Duties | |
| 협력 | Hyeomnyeok ヒョムニョク | Cooperation / Collaboration |
🏥 Health & Medicine (건강과 의학) Intermediate
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 의사 | Uisa ウィサ | Doctor / Physician | |
| 간호사 | Ganhosa カンホサ | Nurse | |
| 약 | Yak ヤク | Medicine / Medication | |
| 처방전 | Cheobangjeon チョバンジョン | Prescription | |
| 증상 | Jeungsang ジュンサン | Symptom | |
| 두통 | Dutong トゥトン | Headache | |
| 발열 | Baryeol バリョル | Fever | |
| 기침 | Gichim ギチム | Cough | |
| 콧물 | Konmul コンムル | Runny nose | |
| 배탈 | Baetal ベタル | Upset stomach | |
| 알레르기 | Allereugi アルレルギ | Allergy | |
| 수술 | Susul ススル | Surgery / Operation | |
| 검사 | Geomsa コムサ | Medical examination / Test | |
| 혈압 | Hyeorap ヒョラプ | Blood pressure | |
| 혈액형 | Hyeoraenghyeong ヒョレンヒョン | Blood type | |
| 예방접종 | Yebang jeopjeong イェバン ジョプジョン | Vaccination / Immunization | |
| 응급실 | Eunggeumil ウングムシル | Emergency room | |
| 입원 | Ibwon イブォン | Hospitalization | |
| 퇴원 | Toewon テウォン | Hospital discharge | |
| 건강 보험 | Geongang bohom コンガン ボホム | Health insurance |
🎬 Media & K-Culture (미디어와 한류) Intermediate
드라마
Deurama
トゥラマ
K-Drama
아이돌
Aidol
アイドル
K-Pop idol
팬덤
Paendeom
ペンドム
Fandom
콘서트
Konseoteu
コンソトゥ
Concert
뮤직비디오
Myujik bidio
ミュジクビディオ
Music Video (MV)
앨범
Aelbeom
エルボム
Album
데뷔
Debwi
デブィ
Debut
연예인
Yeonye-in
ヨニェイン
Celebrity / Entertainer
배우
Baeu
ベウ
Actor / Actress
감독
Gamdok
カムドク
Director
영화
Yeonghwa
ヨンファ
Movie / Film
예능
Yeneung
イェヌン
Variety show
방송
Bangsong
バンソン
Broadcast / Airing
스트리밍
Seuteurimming
ストゥリミン
Streaming
구독
Gudok
クドク
Subscribe / Subscription
댓글
Daetgeul
テックル
Online comment
공연
Gongyeon
コンヨン
Performance / Show
한류
Hallyu
ハルリュ
Korean Wave
OST
O-E-S-Ti
オーエスティー
Original Soundtrack
인플루언서
Inpeulluonseo
インプルルオンソ
Influencer
먹방
Meokbang
モクバン
Eating broadcast
브이로그
Beuirogeu
ブイロク
Vlog
📜 Proverbs & Idioms (속담과 관용어) Advanced
Korean proverbs (속담) reflect centuries of wisdom. Understanding them gives deep insight into Korean culture and values.
📘 가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 곱다
가는 말이 고와야 오는 말이 곱다
Ganeun mari gowaya oneun mari gopda
Literal: "Outgoing words must be beautiful for incoming words to be beautiful" → What goes around, comes around.
直訳：「出る言葉が美しければ、返る言葉も美しい」→ 情けは人のためならず。
📘 고생 끝에 낙이 온다
고생 끝에 낙이 온다
Gosaeng kkeute nagi onda
Literal: "At the end of hardship, pleasure comes" → No pain, no gain.
直訳：「苦労の末に楽が来る」→ 苦あれば楽あり。
📘 시작이 반이다
시작이 반이다
Sijagi banida
Literal: "The start is half" → Well begun is half done.
直訳：「始まりは半分」→ 始めよければ半ばなり。
📘 원숭이도 나무에서 떨어진다
원숭이도 나무에서 떨어진다
Wonsungido namueseo tteoreojinda
Literal: "Even monkeys fall from trees" → Anyone can make mistakes, even experts.
直訳：「猿でも木から落ちる」→ 猿も木から落ちる。
📘 세 살 버릇 여든까지 간다
세 살 버릇 여든까지 간다
Se sal beoreus yeodeunkkaji ganda
Literal: "Habits at age three last until eighty" → Bad habits are hard to break.
直訳：「3歳の習慣は80歳まで続く」→ 三つ子の魂百まで。
📘 뛰는 놈 위에 나는 놈 있다
뛰는 놈 위에 나는 놈 있다
Ttwineun nom wie naneun nom itda
Literal: "Above those who run, there are those who fly" → There's always someone better. Stay humble.
直訳：「走る者の上に、飛ぶ者がいる」→ 上には上がある。謙虚でいよう。
📘 낮말은 새가 듣고 밤말은 쥐가 듣는다
낮말은 새가 듣고 밤말은 쥐가 듣는다
Nanmareun saega deutgo bammareun jwiga deutneunda
Literal: "Birds hear daytime words, mice hear nighttime words" → Walls have ears. Be careful what you say.
直訳：「昼の言葉は鳥が聞き、夜の言葉はネズミが聞く」→ 壁に耳あり。言葉には気をつけよう。
📘 금강산도 식후경
금강산도 식후경
Geumgangsan do sikhuyeong
Literal: "Even Diamond Mountain (Korea's most beautiful) is better after eating" → Even beauty is better on a full stomach.
直訳：「金剛山も食後の方が美しく見える」→ 花より団子。満腹の後が一番。
📘 소 잃고 외양간 고친다
소 잃고 외양간 고친다
So ilko oeyanggan gochinda
Literal: "Fixing the barn after losing the cow" → Shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted.
直訳：「牛を失ってから牛小屋を直す」→ 泥棒を見て縄を綯う。後の祭り。
📘 하늘이 무너져도 솟아날 구멍이 있다
하늘이 무너져도 솟아날 구멍이 있다
Haneuri muneojeodo sosannal gumeong-i itda
Literal: "Even if the sky falls, there is a hole to escape through" → There's always a way out. Don't give up.
直訳：「空が崩れても抜け出る穴がある」→ 必ず出口はある。諦めないで。
🎓 Academic Korean (학문 어휘) Advanced
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 논문 | Nonmun ノンムン | Thesis / Academic paper | |
| 연구 | Yeongu ヨング | Research | |
| 분석 | Bunseok ブンソク | Analysis | |
| 이론 | Iron イロン | Theory | |
| 가설 | Gaseol カソル | Hypothesis | |
| 실험 | Sirhom シルホム | Experiment | |
| 결론 | Gyeollon キョルロン | Conclusion | |
| 참고 문헌 | Chamgo munheon チャムゴ ムノン | References / Bibliography | |
| 인용 | Inyong インヨン | Citation / Quotation | |
| 출처 | Chulcheo チュルチョ | Source / Origin | |
| 발표 | Balpyo バルピョ | Presentation / Announcement | |
| 토론 | Toron トロン | Discussion / Debate | |
| 개념 | Gaenyeom ゲニョム | Concept / Notion | |
| 정의 | Jeongui ジョンウィ | Definition | |
| 원칙 | Wonchik ウォンチク | Principle | |
| 방법론 | Bangbeomron バンボムロン | Methodology | |
| 통계 | Tonggye トンゲ | Statistics | |
| 데이터 | Deiteo データ | Data | |
| 학위 | Hagwi ハグィ | Academic degree | |
| 전공 | Jeongong ジョンゴン | Major / Academic specialization |
📰 News & Society (뉴스와 사회) Advanced
| Korean | Romanization | English | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 정치 | Jeongchi ジョンチ | Politics | |
| 경제 | Gyeongje キョンジェ | Economy | |
| 사회 | Sahoe サフェ | Society | |
| 국회 | Gukhoe グクフェ | National Assembly (Parliament) | |
| 선거 | Seongeo ソンゴ | Election | |
| 정부 | Jeongbu ジョンブ | Government | |
| 대통령 | Daetongnyeong テトンニョン | President | |
| 국무총리 | Gungmuchongni グンムチョンニ | Prime Minister | |
| 외교 | Oegyo ウェギョ | Diplomacy | |
| 무역 | Muyeok ムヨク | Trade | |
| 환율 | Hwanyul ファニュル | Exchange rate | |
| 물가 | Mulga ムルガ | Prices / Cost of living | |
| 실업률 | Sirobnyul シロムニュル | Unemployment rate | |
| 인플레이션 | Inpeulleisyeon インプルレイション | Inflation | |
| 환경 | Hwangyeong ファンギョン | Environment | |
| 기후 변화 | Gihu byeonhwa ギフ ビョンファ | Climate change | |
| 인권 | Ingwon イングォン | Human rights | |
| 사건 | Sageon サゴン | Incident / Case / Event | |
| 수사 | Susa スサ | Investigation | |
| 판결 | Pan-gyeol パンギョル | Verdict / Court ruling |
🌐 Konglish (콩글리시)
🌐 What is Konglish? 콩글리시란?
콩글리시 (Konglish)
한국어(Korean) + 영어(English) = 콩글리시
Words that look and sound like English — but carry completely different meanings in Korea. Koreans borrowed English words and gave them new Korean lives!
Warning for English Speakers
Using these words with their original English meanings in Korea will cause confusion! For example, saying "컨센트" (consent) in a hardware store means you need an electrical outlet — not that you're agreeing to something.
| Korean | Romanization | Source / Korean meaning | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 컨센트 | Konsenteu コンセントゥ | "Consent" Electrical outlet / Socket英語 "consent" より 電気のコンセント・ソケット | |
| 컨닝 | Keoning ケオニング | "Cunning" Cheating on a test英語 "cunning" より テストでのカンニング・不正行為 | |
| 원 플러스 원 | Won peulleoseu won ウォン プルロスウォン | "One plus one" Buy one get one free (BOGO)英語 "one plus one" より 1つ買うと1つ無料（BOGO） | |
| 러닝머신 | Reoningmeoshin ロニングモシン | "Running machine" Treadmill英語 "running machine" より トレッドミル | |
| 프리사이즈 | Peuri saijeu プリ サイジュ | "Free size" One size fits all英語 "free size" より フリーサイズ（ワンサイズ） | |
| 원샷 | Wonsyat ウォンシャット | "One shot" Bottoms up! / Drink in one go英語 "one shot" より 一気飲み・乾杯で一気に飲む | |
| 오픈카 | Oppeunka オプンカ | "Open car" Convertible car英語 "open car" より コンバーチブル（オープンカー） | |
| 사인 | Sain サイン | "Sign" Autograph / Signature英語 "sign" より サイン・直筆サービス | |
| 핸들 | Haendeul ヘンドゥル | "Handle" Steering wheel英語 "handle" より ステアリングホイール（ハンドル） | |
| 노트북 | Noteubok ノトゥボク | "Notebook" Laptop computer英語 "notebook" より ノートパソコン | |
| 컨디션이 안 좋다 | Keondisyeoni an jota コンディションイ アン ジョタ | "Condition is bad" I'm not feeling well英語 "condition" より 体調が悪い・気分が優れない | |
| 커피숍 | Keopi syop コピ ショプ | "Coffee shop" Cozy sit-in café (more specific than in English)英語 "coffee shop" より 落ち着いた雰囲気の喫茶店・カフェ | |
| 아르바이트 | Areubaiteu アルバイトゥ | "Arbeit" (German for work) Part-time jobドイツ語 "Arbeit"（仕事）より アルバイト・パートタイムの仕事 | |
| 매니저 | Maenijeo メニジョ | "Manager" Restaurant floor staff / Head waiter英語 "manager" より 飲食店のフロアスタッフ・ウェイターリーダー | |
| 1회용 비닐봉지 | Ilhoeyong binyilbongji イルホエヨン ビニルボンジ | "Vinyl bag" Disposable plastic bag英語 "vinyl bag" より 使い捨てのビニール袋 | |
| 핸드폰 | Haendeupon ヘンドゥポン | "Hand phone" Mobile phone / Cell phone英語 "hand phone" より 携帯電話・スマートフォン | |
| 리모컨 | Rimokeon リモコン | "Remote control" TV remote (any remote)英語 "remote control" より テレビのリモコン（あらゆるリモコン） | |
| 에어컨 | Eeokon エオコン | "Air con" Air conditioner / AC unit英語 "air conditioner" より エアコン・冷暖房機 | |
| 빽미러 | Bbaengmileo ベングミロ | "Back mirror" Rearview mirror英語 "back mirror" より バックミラー・ルームミラー | |
| 파이팅 | Paiting パイティング | "Fighting" Cheer meaning "You can do it!" / Go for it!英語 "fighting" より 「頑張れ！」「行くぞ！」を意味する応援の言葉 | |
| 서비스 | Seobiseu ソビスウ | "Service" Free extra item given by a store / Complimentary英語 "service" より おまけ・お店が無料でくれる追加品 | |
| 스킨십 | Seukinship スキンシプ | "Skinship" Casual physical affection between close friends英語 "skin" + "ship" より 親しい友人間の軽い身体的接触・スキンシップ | |
| 아이쇼핑 | Ai syoping アイ ショピング | "Eye shopping" Window shopping (browsing without buying)英語 "eye shopping" より ウィンドウショッピング（買わずに見て回る） | |
| 스펙 | Seupek スペク | "Spec" Academic/career qualifications on a resume英語 "spec" より 履歴書の学歴・職歴などの資格・スペック | |
| 셀카 | Selka セルカ | "Self camera" Selfie photo英語 "self camera" より 自撮り・セルフィー写真 | |
| 원룸 | Wonrum ウォンルム | "One room" Studio apartment英語 "one room" より ワンルームマンション | |
| 맨션 | Maensyeon メンション | "Mansion" Mid-rise apartment building (not a luxury home!)英語 "mansion" より 中層マンション（豪邸ではない！） | |
| 바바리코트 | Babari koteu ババリ コトゥ | "Burberry coat" Any trench coat (not just Burberry brand)ブランド名 "Burberry" より トレンチコート全般（バーバリーに限らない） | |
| 개그맨 | Gaegeumaen ゲグメン | "Gag man" Male comedian / Stand-up comic英語 "gag man" より 男性コメディアン・お笑い芸人 | |
| 탤런트 | Taelleonteu テルロントゥ | "Talent" TV actor / actress英語 "talent" より テレビ俳優・女優・タレント | |
| 헬스장 | Helseujangg ヘルスジャング | "Health center" Gym / Fitness center英語 "health center" より ジム・フィットネスセンター | |
| 스타킹 | Seutaking スタキング | "Stocking" Pantyhose / Tights (not just stockings)英語 "stocking" より パンティーストッキング・タイツ全般 | |
| 마트 | Mateu マトゥ | "Mart" Supermarket / Large grocery store英語 "mart" より スーパーマーケット・大型食料品店 | |
| 인터폰 | Inteopon インテポン | "Interphone" Intercom / Door buzzer / Door phone英語 "interphone" より インターホン・ドアフォン | |
| 오토바이 | Otobai オトバイ | "Auto bike" Motorcycle / Scooter英語 "auto bike" より オートバイ・スクーター | |
| 본드 | Bond ボンドゥ | "Bond" (adhesive) Any glue / Strong adhesive英語 "bond"（接着剤）より あらゆる接着剤・強力糊 | |
| 클랙션 | Keulraeksyeon クルレクション | "Klaxon" Car hornブランド名 "Klaxon" より クラクション・車のホーン | |
| 오바이트 | Obaeiteu オバイトゥ | "Overeat" To vomit / Throw up英語 "overeat" より 嘔吐する・吐く | |
| 포켓볼 | Pocketbol ポケットボル | "Pocket ball" Pool / Billiards英語 "pocket ball" より ビリヤード・プール | |
| 빌라 | Billa ビラ | "Villa" Small 2-4 story apartment building (not a villa!)英語 "villa" より 2〜4階建ての小さなマンション（豪邸ではない！） | |
| 오피스텔 | Opiseutel オピストゥル | "Officetel" (office + hotel) Studio apartment in a commercial/office building"office" + "hotel" より ビルに入ったワンルームマンション | |
| 치킨 | Chikin チキン | "Chicken" Specifically Korean fried chicken (an entire food category!)英語 "chicken" より 韓国式フライドチキン（一つの食文化カテゴリー！） | |
| 아파트 | Apateu アパトゥ | "Apartment" High-rise apartment complex (the dominant housing type)英語 "apartment" より 高層マンション（韓国で最も一般的な住宅形態） | |
| 먹방 | Meokbang モクバン | 먹다 (eat) + 방송 (broadcast) Eating broadcast; watching someone eat live online먹다（食べる）+ 방송（放送）より 食事配信・オンラインでの食事ライブ配信 | |
| 눈치 | Nunchi ヌンチ | Native Korean (no English equivalent!) The art of reading the room / social awareness純粋な韓国語（英語に相当表現なし！） 空気を読む力・社会的気遣い |
Did you know?
Konglish evolves constantly! New words appear as Korean pop culture spreads globally. 눈치 (nunchi) is the reverse — a Korean word with no English equivalent that English speakers are now borrowing!
📇 Quick Review Flashcards (핵심 단어 복습)
Click a card to flip it and reveal the Korean. Click 🔊 to hear pronunciation.
사랑
Sarang
サラン
Love
행복
Haengbok
ヘンボク
Happiness
꿈
Kkum
クム
Dream
희망
Huimang
フィマン
Hope
자유
Jayu
チャユ
Freedom
평화
Pyeonghwa
ピョンファ
Peace
용기
Yonggi
ヨンギ
Courage
아름다움
Areundaum
アルンダウム
Beauty
감사
Gamsa
カムサ
Gratitude
인생
Insaeng
インセン
Life
음악
Eumak
ウマク
Music
자연
Jayeon
チャヨン
Nature
시간
Sigan
シガン
Time
세계
Segye
セゲ
World
하늘
Haneul
ハヌル
Sky
바다
Bada
バダ
Sea / Ocean
별
Byeol
ビョル
Star
마음
Maeum
マウム
Heart / Mind
힘
Him
ヒム
Strength / Power
행운
Haengun
ヘングン
Good luck
추억
Chueok
チュオク
Memory / Nostalgia
친구
Chingu
チング
Friend
인연
Inyeon
インヨン
Fate / Destined connection