Explore the magic that is the Korean language! Whether it's "annyeonghaseyo" (hello) or “kamsahamnida” (thank you), understanding a bit opens up a richer experience and helps you connect with locals effortlessly. Let’s jump into the adventure of language and culture in the heart of Korea and make everyday moments unforgettable!
When diving deep into Korean, it's like having two sets of social keys: the formal one for respectful conversations with elders, strangers, or at work, and the informal one for a friendly chit-chat with family or friends. Think of the formal mode as your neat, office-ready outfit, and the informal as your cozy weekend pajama. Pay attention to who you're chatting with - elders or supervisors get the polished version, friends and siblings get the casual one. Let’s take a look at some of the most common everyday phrases and their two versions:
1. Good morning.
Formal: 좋은 아침입니다. (joheun achimimnida.)
Informal: 좋은 아침. (joheun achim.)
Use the formal version when addressing someone older or in a more official setting. You’re good to go with the casual version if it’s for friends or someone younger.
2. Good evening.
Formal: 좋은 저녁입니다. (joheun jeonyeokimnida.)
Informal: 좋은 저녁. (joheun jeonyeok.)
Similar to "Good morning," choose the formal for elders or formal occasions, and the informal for friends or casual settings.
3. Goodbye.
Formal: 안녕히 계세요. (annyeonghi gyeseyo.)
Informal: 안녕. (annyeong.)
Use the formal version when someone from the group is staying, and the informal for casual farewells. Check out some other ways to bid farewell in Korean!
4. Nice to meet you.
Formal: 만나서 반갑습니다. (mannaseo bangapseumnida.)
Informal: 만나서 반가워. (mannaseo bangawo.)
Not a surprise at this point, but the formal phrase is for new acquaintances in official settings, while the informal is suitable for friends or someone of similar age.
5. Have a nice day!
Formal: 좋은 하루 되세요. (joheun haru doeseyo.)
Informal: 좋은 하루 되. (joheun haru doe.)
Express good wishes for the day ahead, with the formal version for elders or in more official situations.
6. My name is ___.
Formal: 제 이름은 ___ 입니다. (je ireumeun ___ imnida.)
Informal: 내 이름은 ___야. (nae ireumeun ___ ya.)
Introduce yourself with the formal form in professional settings or for strangers, while using the informal one for friendly introductions.
7. I’m sorry.
Formal: 죄송합니다. (joesonghamnida.)
Informal: 미안해. (mianhae.)
If you are ever in a more serious situation or you are talking to elders, the formal version is more appropriate, but if it’s just a casual apology, then the informal one should do.
8. What did you say?
Formal: 뭐라고 하셨어요? (mworago hasyeosseoyo?)
Informal: 뭐라고 했어? (mworago haesseo?)
It is not rude to ask back, but make sure you use the formal when speaking to someone older or in a formal context. The informal version is for friends or casual situations.
9. I understand.
Formal: 이해했습니다. (ihaehaetsseumnida.)
Informal: 이해했어. (ihaehaesseo.)
The formal version is your go-to when you're in a serious nodding situation. The informal, however, has a friendly “got it!” laid-back vibe to it.
10. I don’t know.
Formal: 모르겠습니다. (moreugetseumnida.)
Informal: 몰라. (molla.)
For polished scenarios, the formal version is the best way to say “I lack the knowledge.” The informal one is more like a casual shrug when someone asks a stumper.
11. Please wait!
Formal: 기다려 주세요. (gidaryeo juseyo.)
Informal: 기다려. (gidaryeo.)
The formal form is your polished request in professional lobbies, whereas the informal one is like tapping a friend on the shoulder, saying, “Hang on a sec!”
12. Just a moment, please.
Formal: 잠시만 기다려 주세요. (jamsiman gidaryeo juseyo.)
Informal: 잠시만 기다려. (jamsiman gidaryeo.)
The formal one is your pause button for those high-stakes meetings, but the informal one could be used during a chat with pals.
13. Bon appétit! (before a meal)
Formal: 잘 먹겠습니다. (jal meokgetseumnida.)
Informal: 잘 먹을게. (jal meogeulge.)
When you are ever in a posh dining setting, use the formal form, and the informal one, when you want to casually say “Let’s dig in!”
1. Hello/Hi
Formal: 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo)
Informal: 안녕 (annyeong)
The situation makes the difference here again. The formal version is like a polite wave to someone you've just met, and the informal one works as a friendly nod to a buddy. Learn more about how to say "hi" in Korean here!
2. Yes
Formal / Informal: 네 (ne)
"네" is the key to the door of agreement. It opens both the formal and casual gates. There are, of course, more informal versions of how to say yes in, but always make sure you use them with people who are lower in the social hierarchy than you are. With them, instead of “네”, you can say “응” (eung) as well.
3. No
Formal / Informal: 아니요 (aniyo)
You can use 아니요 (aniyo) for all occasions. This is the most basic form of saying “no” and can be used by itself. If you want to go super informal, just drop the 요 (yo) from the end of the word and say 아니 (ani).
4. Okay/Alright
Formal: 알겠습니다 (algesseumnida)
Informal: 알았어 (alasseo)
The formal version is like saying, "I understand, sir/madam!", while the casual one is more like a chill "Got it!"
5. Thank you
Formal: 고맙습니다 (gomapseumnida)
Informal: 고마워 (gomawo)
The formal form is your go-to for official gratitude, while the informal is like a warm hug of thanks. 감사합니다 (kamsahamnida) is another well-known way of saying “thank you” in Korean. It uses formal and polite language, so it can be used in a formal setting or with strangers and people older than you. You can casually use this version of “thanks” for everyday life in Korea.
6. I'm sorry
Formal: 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)
Informal: 미안해 (mianhae)
Whether you accidentally stepped on toes or forgot a friend's birthday, use these to sprinkle a little apology magic.
7. Excuse me/Hey (to get someone's attention)
Formal: 저기요 (jeogiyo)
Informal: 저기 (jeogi)
When you're in a crowded place and need to navigate through or speak to someone without being overly familiar, "저기요" is a courteous way to do so. Think of it as a refined excuse-me in a bustling space.
8. Me
Formal: 저 (jeo)
Informal: 나 (na)
The formal version, "저," is a refined introduction, reserved for official or formal occasions when you want to make a neat first impression. On the other side, "나" is your easygoing entrance to a casual conversation—a laid-back choice for friendly chats and informal settings.
9. You
Formal: 당신 (dangsin)
Informal: 너 (neo)
"당신" is akin to addressing someone with "sir" or "ma'am," ideal for more formal or respectful conversations. "너" is a go-to for casual chats among friends.
10. South Korea - 대한민국 (daehan minguk)
This term, meaning "The Republic of Korea," is your all-access pass to a world of sizzling street food, ancient palace tales, and the busting vibes of K-pop.
11. Korean language - 한국어 (hangugeo)
"한국어" is your magic wand for understanding K-dramas without the need for subtitles. Embrace it formally for language classes or casually when diving into linguistic adventures with Korean friends. It's the key to unlocking a world of communication in Korean!
Exploring new places in Korea can be an exciting adventure if you know the right way. To ensure seamless navigation and interactions with locals, here are seven essential Korean phrases to assist you along your way:
1. Here - 여기 (yeogi)
Example: 여기에 앉아도 돼요. (yeogie anjado dwaeyo.) -You can sit here.
"여기" is a simple and essential term for indicating a location. Use it when pointing to or referring to a specific place that is close to you as the speaker.
2. Place - 장소 (jangso)
Example: 이곳은 아주 평화로운 장소에요. (igoseun aju pyeonghwaroun jangsoeyo.) -This place is a very peaceful location.
"장소" is a versatile term for any location or venue. It's commonly used when describing or referring to different places.
3. Right - 오른쪽 (oreunjjok)
Example: 오른쪽으로 돌아주세요. (oreunjjogeuro dorajuseyo.) - Please turn to the right.
"오른쪽" is used to indicate the right side or direction. It comes in handy for giving or following directional instructions.
4. Left - 왼쪽 (oenjjok)
Example: 왼쪽에 꽃이 있어요. (oenjjoge ggoci isseoyo.) -There is a flower on the left.
"왼쪽" is used to indicate the left side or direction. It's a practical term for providing directions or describing locations.
5. Forward - 앞으로 (apuro)
Example: 앞으로 나아가세요. (apuro naagaseyo.) - Move forward.
"앞으로" is a directional term indicating forward or ahead. Use it when instructing someone to proceed in a forward direction.
6. City - 도시 (dosi)
Example: 서울은 큰 도시에요. (Seoul-eun keun dosieyo.) -Seoul is a big city.
"도시" is commonly used to refer to a city. It's an essential term for discussing urban areas.
7. Country - 나라 (nara)
Example: 한국은 아름다운 나라에요. (hanguk-eun areumdaun naraeyo.) - Korea is a beautiful country.
"나라" is used to denote a country. It's a fundamental term for talking about different nations.
8. Train station / Metro Station - 기차역 (gichayeog) / 지하철역 (jihacheol yeok)
Example: 기차역에서 택시를 탈 거예요. (gichayeogeseo taeksireul tal geoyeyo.) - I will take a taxi from the train station.
"기차역" specifically refers to a train station, a crucial term when discussing transportation.
9. Bathroom - 화장실 (hwajangsil)
Example: 화장실 어디에요? (hwajangsil eodieyo?) - Where is the bathroom?
"화장실" is the term for a bathroom or restroom. It's a practical term for daily use.
10. How do I get here? - 여기 어떻게 가요? (yeogi eotteoke gayo?)
This question is your golden ticket to local insights. Perfect for engaging locals and getting the best tips on navigating Korean streets or finding hidden gems.
11. I'm looking for……찾고 있어요. (chatgo isseoyo.)
A useful phrase when you're on a mission, whether it's hunting down a cafe, finding a landmark, or searching for that perfect souvenir.
12. Where is the metro station? - 지하철역 어디에요? (jihacheollyeok eodieyo?)
This short but useful sentence will help you ask for directions to the nearest metro station, supermarket, or even the hospital. Use it when you need directions to key locations in the city.
13. I am lost. - 길을 잃었어요. (gireul ireosseoyo.)
Translating as “I lost my way”, this phrase can help you express your confusion or seek assistance when you're unsure of your location.
14. Turn right/left. - 오른쪽/왼쪽으로 돌아요. (oreunjjok/oenjjogeuro dorayo.)
Provide or follow directions by indicating the direction to turn when navigating streets or pathways. Whether you're directing a friend to the nearest cafe or following a local's instructions, this phrase is your guide to seamless navigation.
These practical Korean phrases will not only guide you on your journey but also enhance your interactions with locals, making your experience more engaging and enjoyable.
Prepare for a shopping spree in Korea! Whether you're exploring souvenirs, updating your wardrobe, or looking for local delicacies, arm yourself with these must-know shopping phrases. They're your ticket to navigating the shopping scene like a pro!
1. Shop - 가게 (gage)
Example: 이 가게에서 신발을 살 거예요. (i gageseo sinbaleul sal geoyeyo.) - I will buy shoes at this shop.
"가게" is a versatile term for any kind of shop or store. It can refer to a clothing store, grocery store, or any retail establishment.
2. Cash - 현금 (hyeongeum)
Example: 현금으로 결제할게요. (hyeongeumeuro gyeoljehalgeyo.) -I will pay with cash.
"현금" refers to physical currency or cash. It's a common term used when dealing with transactions involving paper money or coins.
3. Credit card - 신용카드 (sinyongkadeu)
Example: 신용카드는 여기서 사용할 수 있어요. (sinyongkadeuneun yeogiseo sayonghal su iteoyo.) -You can use a credit card here.
"신용카드" specifically denotes a credit card. It's a widely accepted form of payment in various establishments.
4. How much is it? - 이거 얼마에요? (igeo eolmaeyo?)
Use this friendly and commonly used phrase when inquiring about the price of an item. It is a polite way to ask, suitable for both formal and informal settings.
5. Can I try this on? - 이거 입어봐도 돼요? (igeo ibeobwado dwaeyo?)
Employ this phrase when you want to try on a piece of clothing. It's a polite and versatile expression suitable for both formal and informal situations, making it handy for shopping.
6. Can you give me a discount? - 할인해 주실 수 있을까요? (harinhae jusil su isseulkkaoyo?)
When you're feeling a bit savvy and want to negotiate the price, use this polite expression to ask for a discount. It's appropriate for formal settings and may be used in certain informal situations.
7. Do you accept cards? - 카드로 결제할 수 있어요? (kadeuro gyeoljehal su isseoyo?)
In a world where cards are often more convenient than cash, this question is perfect for checking if card payment is accepted. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
8. This one, please. - 이거 주세요. (igeo juseyo.)
When you've found the item you want to purchase, use this polite expression to ask for it. It's a courteous and versatile phrase suitable for various shopping situations, whether formal or informal.
These sentences cover common shopping scenarios, making them useful for navigating stores and making transactions as a beginner Korean learner. Remember to use polite language, as it is customary in Korean culture, especially when interacting in commercial settings!
The vibrant Korean social scene is definitely a fun one to immerse yourself in. With these essential phrases for going out, you can make the most of your time:
1. Pub - 술집 (suljib)
Example: 이 근처에 좋은 술집이 있나요? (i geuncheoe joeun suljibi innayo?) - Is there a good pub around here?
When exploring the local nightlife or looking for a place to unwind with pals, "술집" is your go-to term, as it can refer to a cozy spot for a casual drink or a lively pub atmosphere too.
2. Party - 파티 (pati)
Example: 오늘 저녁에 파티가 있어요. (oneul jeonyeoge patiga isseoyo.) - There's a party tonight.
The term "파티" captures the spirit of joyous occasions, whether it's a birthday celebration, a festive event, or a casual get-together with friends.
3. Restaurant - 식당 (sikdang)
Example: 이 식당의 음식은 맛있어요. (i sikdang-ui eumsigeun masisseoyo.) - The food at this restaurant is delicious.
When discussing dining options, "식당" refers to a restaurant where you can sit down and enjoy a meal. It's a versatile term covering anything from casual eateries to fine dining places.
4. Friends - 친구 (chingu)
Example: 친구들과 함께 외식하고 싶어요. (chingudeulgwa hamkke oesikago sipoyo.) - I want to eat out with friends.
"친구" is a warm term for friends, and when combined with activities like dining out, it signifies socializing and spending quality time together.
5. Dance - 춤 (chum)
Example: 이 노래에 춰볼래요. (i norae-e chwobolllaeyo.) -I want to dance to this song.
When the music moves you, "춤" is the term for expressing that rhythm through dance.
6. Music - 음악 (eumak)
Example: 어떤 음악을 좋아하세요? (eotteon eumageul johahaseyo?) - What kind of music do you like?
Use the term "음악" when discussing musical preferences, sharing favorite tunes, or exploring the diverse landscape of melodies and rhythms.
7. I'd like a drink. - 술 좀 주세요. (sul jom juseyo.)
Whether you're at a bar, restaurant, or social gathering, use this phrase to order a drink in a casual way.
8. I'm hungry. - 배고파요. (baegopayo.)
When your stomach is growling and it's time to refuel, "배고파요" is the phrase to let others know you're ready for a delicious meal.
9. Is this seat taken? - 여기 자리 비었어요? (yeogi jari bieosseoyo?)
Whether you're at a cafe, restaurant, or any public space, this question helps you politely check if a seat is occupied before settling in.
10. I'm here with friends. - 친구들이랑 여기 왔어요. (chingudeulirang yeogi wasseoyo.)
When joining a social gathering or event, this phrase helps you convey that you're not alone but are accompanied by friends.
11. The food is delicious. - 음식 정말 맛있어요. (eumsik jeongmal masisseoyo.)
When the flavors delight your taste buds, "음식 정말 맛있어요" is the perfect way to compliment the chef and share your satisfaction.
12. It's so much fun! - 정말 재미있어요! (jeongmal jaemiisseoyo.)
Whether you're at a party, or any engaging event, this exclamation captures the thrill and enjoyment of the moment, adding positive energy to the atmosphere.
These versatile Korean phrases will help you navigate social situations, create connections, and make the most of your time out on the town!
Sometimes travel comes with unexpected twists. Be prepared for unforeseen situations with these essential Korean phrases that can be your lifeline in times of need:
1. Doctor - 의사 (uisa)
Example: 의사를 만나야 해요. (uisareul mannaya haeyo.) - I need to see a doctor.
"의사" is the term for a medical professional, specifically a doctor. When you're discussing health matters, scheduling an appointment, or want to consult with a healthcare expert, feel free to use this term.
2. Ambulance - 구급차 (gugeupcha)
Example: 구급차를 불러주세요. (gugeupchareul bulleojuseyo.) - Please call an ambulance.
In emergencies, "구급차" refers to an ambulance. Use this term when urgently requesting medical assistance, especially in cases of accidents or sudden illnesses.
3. Hospital - 병원 (byeongwon)
Example: 병원에 가야 해요. (byeongwone gaya haeyo.) - I need to go to the hospital.
When you're discussing healthcare and medical facilities, "병원" is the term for a hospital. Use it in need of medical attention or when referring to a healthcare institution.
4. Insurance - 보험 (boheom)
Example: 여행 보험을 가입했어요. (yeohaeng boheomeul gaeiphaesseoyo.) - I have travel insurance.
When discussing risk coverage, "보험" is the to-go term for insurance. It can refer to various types of insurance, such as health insurance, travel insurance, or any other form of risk protection.
5. Police - 경찰 (gyeongchal)
Example: 경찰을 불러주세요. (gyeongchareul bulleojuseyo.) - Please call the police.
Use the term "경찰" when reporting a crime, seeking assistance in emergencies, or interacting with law enforcement authorities.
6. Help me! - 도와주세요! (dowajuseyo!)
If you find yourself in an urgent or distressing situation and need help, this phrase is a direct and powerful way to seek immediate assistance from those around you.
7. Call 119. -119에 전화하세요. (119e jeonhwahaseyo.)
119 is the emergency number in Korea for fire, ambulance, and rescue services, so memorize and use this number when reporting fires, medical emergencies, accidents, or when rescue services are required.
8. Can you help me? - 도와줄 수 있어요? (dowajul su isseoyo?)
When you need assistance and want to ask someone politely, this phrase is a courteous way to seek help.
9. It hurts. -아파요. (apayo.)
Use this phrase to express experiencing physical pain or discomfort, "아파요" is the easiest way to communicate your condition to others, especially when seeking help or medical attention.
10. I lost my passport. - 제 여권을 잃어버렸어요. (je yeogwoneul ilheobeoryeosseoyo.)
In situations where you've lost crucial documents, especially a passport, this phrase is essential when reporting the incident or seeking assistance in the process, so remember it well!
These crucial Korean phrases can be invaluable in critical moments, ensuring you can communicate effectively and easily access the help you need.
1. Amazing / That’s crazy - 대박 (daebak)
Example: 이 음악은 대박이야! (i eumageun daebak iya!) - This music is amazing!
"대박" is a versatile phrase used to express amazement or excitement about something extraordinary or impressive.
2. The best, awesome - 짱 (jjang)
Example: 이 음식 정말 짱이에요! (i eumsik jeongmal jjangieyo!) - This food is really awesome!
"짱" is a slang term indicating that something is the best or awesome. It's often used informally among friends to express enthusiasm and praise for an outstanding event.
3. OMG/ No way - 헐 (heol)
Example: 헐, 진짜? (heol, jinjja?) - OMG, really?
"헐" is basically an exclamation you can say to express surprise, shock, or disbelief. This informal expression is often used in casual conversations to convey amazement or astonishment.
4. Haha or “LOL” (Only used in text) - ㅋㅋ (kk)
Example: 오늘 너무 재밌었어 ㅋㅋ (oneul neomu jaemisseosseo kk) - Today was so fun, haha.
"ㅋㅋ" is the Korean equivalent of "haha" or "LOL" in text messages. It represents laughter and is commonly used in online chats to express a lighthearted tone.
5. I love you - 사랑해 (saranghae) - informal / 사랑해요 (saranghaeyo) - formal
Example: 사랑해요, 내 친구. (saranghaeyo, nae chingu.) - I love you, my friend.
"사랑해" and "사랑해요" are expressions of love, with the former being casual and the latter formal. Use these phrases to express affection towards friends, family, or a romantic partner, depending on the level of formality.
6. Well, I don’t know - 글쎄요
Example: 글쎄요, 난 이번 주말에 뭐 할지 모르겠어. (geulsseoyo, nan ibeon jumale mwo halji moreugesseo.) - Well, I don't know what to do this weekend.
"글쎄요" is another casual expression, used in times of uncertainty. It's a versatile phrase suitable for both casual and more formal situations.
7. Really? - 그래? (geurae) / 진짜? (jinjja) / 정말? (jeongmal)
Example: 정말? (jeongmal?) -Really?
All of these words mean “really?” in English and are all used in the same context, so learn them all and use them to sound more natural. You might also hear them with a 요 (yo) at the end, such as, “진짜요” (jinjjayo).
8. How / What to do? - 어떻게? (eotteoke)
Example: 어떻게 해야 돼? (eotteoke haeya dwae?) - What should I do?
“어떻게" can be used when seeking advice, expressing confusion, or asking for solutions in various situations. It's an essential phrase for navigating uncertainties.
9. Like this - 이렇게 (ireoke)
Example: 이렇게 해 봐. (ireoke hae bwa.) - Try it like this.
When suggesting a particular way of doing something, "이렇게" is the word to go with. It's a handy phrase when providing guidance or instructions.
10. It’s a lie - 거짓말이야 (geojinmariya)
Example: 너 거짓말이야! (neo geojinmariya!) - You're lying!
"거짓말이야" is used to express disbelief or accuse someone of lying. It's a direct and straightforward way to address situations where truthfulness is in question.
11. Are you crazy? - 너 미쳤어 (neo michyeosseo)
Example: 너 미쳤어, 그런 짓을 왜 해? (neo michyeosseo, geureon jiteul wae hae?) - Are you crazy, why would you do that?
If you want to express shock or disapproval, "너 미쳤어" is a useful phrase to know. It's a colloquial way to convey strong emotions in response to surprising or irrational behavior.
12. Hey! - 야 (ya)
Example: 야, 여기와! (ya, yeogiwa!) - Hey, come here!
This informal word can help you get someone's attention and is often used among friends or in casual settings. It adds a friendly and direct tone to your communication.
13. Please - 제발 (jaebal)
Example: 제발 도와주세요. (jaebal dowajuseyo.) - Please help.
"제발" is used when making a polite request or pleading for assistance. By using it, you can add a sense of urgency and politeness to your appeal.
14. Fighting! - 화이팅 (hwaiting)
Example: 시험 잘 볼 수 있을 거야, 화이팅! (hiheom jal bol su isseul geoya, hwaiting!) - You can do well on the exam, fighting!
"화이팅" is a positive and motivational phrase, commonly used in various situations, from exams to challenging tasks.
In Korean dramas, when somebody finds out some exciting gossip, he or she will almost certainly say one of these three Korean words.
In Korean you have not only one, but two counting systems: Native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers. Each system is used in different contexts, so understanding both is essential for smooth communication. Here's a brief intro to each:
Native Korean numbers are the traditional Korean counting system, and they are mainly used for counting items and age, whereas Sino-Korean numbers are derived from Chinese characters and are commonly used for counting money, telling time, and expressing dates, among many other things.
1 하나 (hana)
2 둘 (dul)
3 셋 (set)
4 넷 (net)
5 다섯 (daseot)
6 여섯 (yeoseot)
7 일곱 (ilgop)
8 여덟 (yeodeol)
9 아홉 (ahop)
10 열 (yul)
1 일 (il)
2 이 (i)
3 삼 (sam)
4 사 (sa)
5 오 (o)
6 육 (yuk)
7 칠 (chil)
8 팔 (pal)
9 구 (gu)
10 십 (ship)
For example, 3 o'clock is 세 시 (se shi), so you use native Korean numbers to express the hours, but the date March 1st is 삼월 일일 (samwol iril), which uses the Sino-Korean system. Fun, isn’t it?
Understanding when to use each counting system is crucial for clear communication in Korean. So, whether you're counting apples or discussing the time, having both sets of numbers in your linguistic toolkit will serve you well!
Rooted in hanja characters from China, each day of the week in Korean has its unique meanings like moon, fire, and water. Beyond mere weekdays, mastering these words is your key to planning reservations, meetings, and understanding the rhythm of everyday life.
1. Monday - 월요일 (woryoil).
The first 월 (wol) in Monday means “moon.” Guess what, the word 월 (wol) is also used as the nominator for each month in Korean!
Example: 월요일에 학교에 갑니다. (wollyoire hakgyoe gamnida) - I go to school on Monday.
2. Tuesday - 화요일 (hwayoil).
The syllable 화 (hwa) means “fire” and is shortened from the word 화재 (hwajae) meaning “fire” and “blaze” in Korean.
Example: 화요일에 친구를 만납니다. (hwayoire chingureul mannamnida.) - I meet my friends on Tuesday.
3. Wednesday - 수요일 (suyoil).
The first syllable 수 (su) means “water.” You can see it, for example, in words such as 수영 (suyeong), which means “swimming,” and 생수 (saengsu), which means “drinking water.”
Example: 이번주 수요일에 새로운 책을 읽어요. (ibeonju suyoire saeroun chaegeul ilgeoyo.) - I will read a new book this Wednesday.
4. Thursday - 목요일 (mogyoil).
For “Thursday,” it’s 목 (mok) which means means “wood.” Related to this is the word 목재 (mokjae) which means “lumber” or “timber.”
Example: 목요일에 운동을 합니다. (mokyoile undongeul hamnida.) - I exercise on Thursday.
5. Friday - 금요일 (geumyoil).
금 (geum) means “gold,” and it is also popular to refer to Friday nights as 불금 (bulgeum), which translates to “Fire Friday” as 불 (bul) means “flame.” 불금 (bulgeum) is a popular Korean slang term similar to TGIF in English.
Example: 금요일에 영화를 보러 갑니다. (geumyoile yeonghwareul boreo gamnida.) - I go to watch a movie on Friday.
6. Saturday - 토요일 (toyoil).
The first syllable 토 (to) means “soil.” You can apply the same “Fire Friday” slang to Saturday as well. To say “Fire Saturday,” you can say 불토 (bulto).
Example: 토요일에 가족과 시간을 보냅니다. (toyoire gajokgwa siganeul bonaemnida.) - I spend time with my family on Saturday.
7. Sunday - 일요일 (iryoil).
Did you know? The syllable 일 (il) means “day” but can also mean “sun.”
Example: 오늘 일요일 이죠? (oneul illyoil ijyo?) - Today is Sunday, right?
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Zita Palik is our Hungary based Language Content Manager and an 80's music maniac.
