Korean grammar — TOPIK I · Level 2
122 grammar patterns for this level, each with a full explanation and examples.
-(으)ㄴ데요
Exclaiming a surprising fact, polite (-(으)ㄴ데요)
TOPIK I
A polite ending used when the speaker exclaims about something they realize is unexpected.
사진보다 실물이 더 예쁘신데요.
You're even prettier in person than in the photo!
와! 집이 정말 넓은데요.
Wow! The house is really spacious!
이 옷이 생각보다 훨씬 편한데요.
This clothing is much more comfortable than I thought!
-(으)ㄹ 것 같다
Guessing about the future, plain form (-(으)ㄹ 것 같다)
TOPIK I
The plain dictionary-form counterpart of -(으)ㄹ 것 같아요, used to guess or predict something that hasn't happened yet.
하늘에 별이 많이 보이는 걸 보니 내일은 날씨가 맑을 것 같다.
Seeing so many stars in the sky, it seems tomorrow's weather will be clear.
이 속도라면 저녁까지 일을 다 끝낼 것 같다.
At this pace, it seems like I'll finish all the work by evening.
사람이 이렇게 많으니 표를 구하기 힘들 것 같다.
With this many people, it seems like it'll be hard to get tickets.
-던데요
Expressing wonder about the past, expecting a reaction (-던데요)
TOPIK I
An expression used, in an informal-polite register, to tell a past incident with wonder, expecting a response from the listener.
벌써 꽃이 피었던데요.
The flowers had already bloomed, you know.
그곳에는 맛있는 음식들이 많던데요.
There was a lot of delicious food there, you know.
어제 그 선수의 활약은 정말 대단하던데요.
That athlete's performance yesterday was really amazing, you know.
-(으)니까요
Because... (giving a reason, polite) (-(으)니까요)
TOPIK I
An expression used to indicate that the preceding content is the reason or basis for the speaker's statement, in a polite register.
내일 다시 올게요. 오늘은 시간이 없으니까요.
I'll come again tomorrow. Because I don't have time today.
안심하세요. 제가 있으니까요.
Don't worry. Because I'm here.
엄마 말씀 꼭 지킬 거예요. 약속했으니까요.
I'll definitely keep my promise to mom. Because I promised.
-(으)시지요
Please do... (polite honorific suggestion) (-(으)시지요)
TOPIK I
An expression used to politely order or suggest that the listener do something, showing honorific respect.
선생님께서 참으시지요.
Please be patient, teacher.
저와 함께 조금 걸으시지요.
Please walk with me for a bit.
이 자리에 앉으시지요.
Please have a seat here.
에 대한
About, concerning (에 대한)
TOPIK I
Attached to a noun with the particle 에 to modify the following noun, indicating the preceding noun is the subject/topic of the following noun.
너 오늘 야구 경기에 대한 신문 기사 봤니?
Did you see today's newspaper article about the baseball game?
정부는 물가 상승에 대한 해결책을 고심하고 있다.
The government is agonizing over a solution to rising prices.
우리 대학에서는 신체와 정신 건강의 상관관계에 대한 연구 성과를 냈다.
Our university produced research results on the correlation between physical and mental health.
에 관한
Regarding, about (에 관한)
TOPIK I
Attached to a noun with the particle 에 to modify the following noun, indicating the preceding noun is the subject/topic of the following noun.
우리나라에는 날씨에 관한 속담이 많다.
There are many proverbs about the weather in our country.
우리 연구소에서는 오랫동안 불치병에 관한 연구를 하고 있다.
Our research institute has long been researching incurable diseases.
오늘은 여러분께 별자리에 관한 이야기를 들려 드릴게요.
Today I'll tell you all a story about constellations.
-(으)ㄴ/는 적이 있다
Having once done/been (plain form) (-(으)ㄴ/는 적이 있다)
TOPIK I
Plain-form version of the 'have experienced X before' pattern — attached to a verb/adjective stem to indicate the act or state mentioned existed at some point.
너는 이 수업에 결석한 적이 있니?
Have you ever been absent from this class?
저는 중국에 가 본 적이 있습니다.
I have been to China before.
지금처럼 경제가 좋았던 적이 있었습니까?
Has the economy ever been as good as it is now?
-(으)ㄴ/는 적이 없다
Having never done/been (plain form) (-(으)ㄴ/는 적이 없다)
TOPIK I
Plain-form version of the 'never experienced X' pattern — attached to a verb/adjective stem to indicate the act or state mentioned never existed.
우리는 부모님이 다투시는 것을 본 적이 없다.
We have never seen our parents argue.
회사 사정이 어려워 최근 몇 달간 월급이 제때에 나온 적이 없다.
The company's situation is difficult, so the salary hasn't come on time in recent months.
축구 지도자로 십 년도 넘게 활약한 김 감독이지만 이번처럼 가슴이 떨린 적이 없다고 한다.
Even though coach Kim has worked as a soccer coach for over ten years, he says his heart has never trembled like this.
-았/었던
that used to be..., that was (attributive, past state recalled) (-았/었던)
TOPIK I
Used to modify a following noun, recalling a past event or state, or showing that it was interrupted without being completed.
키가 작았던 동생이 어느새 쑥 커 버렸다.
My younger sibling, who used to be short, has grown so much before I knew it.
조금 전에 승규를 만났던 지수에게 승규가 어디에 갔냐고 물었다.
I asked Jisu, who had met Seunggyu a little while ago, where Seunggyu had gone.
이 동네는 예전에 내가 살았던 때랑 별로 변한 게 없는 것 같았다.
This neighborhood didn't seem to have changed much from when I used to live here before.
을/를 가지고
using N, with N (as a tool/material) (을/를 가지고)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the preceding noun is a tool, means, method, or material for what follows.
승규는 폐휴지를 가지고 멋진 장식품을 만들어 냈다.
Seunggyu made a cool decoration using waste paper.
우리 집은 직접 키운 포도를 가지고 와인을 만들었다.
My family made wine using grapes we grew ourselves.
삼촌은 색종이를 가지고 토끼를 접어 보겠다고 했다.
My uncle said he would try folding a rabbit using colored paper.
을/를 위해서
for the sake of N, for N's benefit (을/를 위해서)
TOPIK I
Used to say that something is done to benefit the preceding noun, or to achieve a goal or purpose.
선수들은 승리를 위해 항상 최선을 다한다.
The players always do their best for the sake of winning.
아프신 저희 어머니를 위해서 모두들 기도해 주세요.
Please everyone pray for my sick mother.
지수는 뱃속의 아이를 위해서 건강 관리에 힘쓰고 있다.
Jisu is working hard on her health for the sake of the baby in her belly.
-기 때문
it's because... (giving a reason, before 이다) (-기 때문)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the preceding content is the reason or cause for what follows, usually right before 이다.
승규가 갑자기 컴퓨터를 바꾼 것은 속도가 너무 느려졌기 때문이었다.
The reason Seunggyu suddenly changed his computer was because it had gotten too slow.
지수는 항상 성적이 좋았기 때문에 성적이 떨어진 것에 크게 충격을 받았다.
Because Jisu's grades were always good, she was greatly shocked when they dropped.
모든 사람들의 생각이 똑같을 수는 없기 때문에 갈등이 일어난다.
Conflict arises because not everyone can think the same way.
-거든요
because..., you see (giving a reason, casual polite) (-거든요)
TOPIK I
Used, in a casual polite tone, to give the reason or basis for the preceding content.
오늘은 지각하면 안 돼요. 오늘 수업에서 제가 발표를 하거든요.
I can't be late today. You see, I'm giving a presentation in class today.
삼촌은 언제 오실 수 있는지 잘 모르겠어요. 연락이 아직 안 왔거든요.
I'm not sure when Uncle can come. He hasn't contacted me yet, you see.
주말에는 좀 일찍 출발해야 돼요. 길이 많이 막혀서 평소보다 시간이 더 걸리거든요.
On weekends you have to leave a bit early. Traffic is heavy, so it takes longer than usual, you see.
-아/어 버리다
to (do something) completely, end up doing (-아/어 버리다)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the preceding action has been completely finished.
지수는 자기 형편도 생각하지 않고 비싼 가방을 덜컥 사 버렸다.
Without even considering her own finances, Jisu went ahead and bought the expensive bag.
나는 급히 뛰어갔지만 열차는 떠나 버리고 난 뒤였다.
I ran there in a hurry, but the train had already left.
승규는 피곤해서 숙제도 다 하지 않은 채 자 버렸다.
Seunggyu was tired, so he went ahead and fell asleep without even finishing his homework.
-(으)ㄹ 수 있다
can... (plain/written form) (-(으)ㄹ 수 있다)
TOPIK I
Used to say that there is an ability to do the preceding action, in a plain, dictionary-form ending.
저는 영어와 한국어를 할 수 있어요.
I can speak English and Korean.
나는 백 미터를 십오 초에 뛸 수 있다.
I can run 100 meters in 15 seconds.
요즘 유행하는 노래를 부를 수 있어요?
Can you sing the song that's popular these days?
-(으)ㄹ 수 없다
cannot... (plain/written form) (-(으)ㄹ 수 없다)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the preceding content is not possible, in a plain, dictionary-form ending.
그 정도 결과에 만족할 수 없다.
I can't be satisfied with a result like that.
친한 친구의 부탁을 거절할 수 없다.
I can't refuse a request from a close friend.
눈이 부셔서 그 사람을 똑바로 볼 수 없었다.
The light was too bright, so I couldn't look at that person directly.
-는데요
huh, it's... (exclaiming over something unexpected) (-는데요)
TOPIK I
Used in a casual polite tone to exclaim over a fact that feels unexpected.
사진보다 실물이 더 예쁘신데요.
Wow, you're even prettier in person than in the photo.
이곳은 생각했던 것보다 쾌적한데요.
Huh, this place is more pleasant than I thought.
민준이가 이번 시험에서 일 등을 하다니 의외인데요.
Wow, it's surprising that Minjun got first place on this test.
-는데도
even though..., despite... (-는데도)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the following situation happens regardless of the situation expressed by the preceding content.
조금 전에 밥을 먹었는데도 또 배가 고파요.
Even though I ate just a little while ago, I'm hungry again.
밖에 눈이 많이 오는데도 거리에 사람들이 많다.
Even though it's snowing a lot outside, there are many people on the street.
그 선수는 아까 경고를 받았는데도 또 반칙을 해서 결국 퇴장을 당했어요.
Even though that player had already gotten a warning, he fouled again and ended up being sent off.
-니까요
because... (giving a reason, casual polite) (-니까요)
TOPIK I
Used to say that the preceding content is the reason or basis for a judgment, in a casual polite tone.
내일은 못 와요. 학교에 가니까요.
I can't come tomorrow. Because I'm going to school.
전 포기 안 해요. 아직 끝난 건 아니니까요.
I'm not giving up. Because it's not over yet.
지수야 인기 많죠. 예쁘니까요.
Jisu is really popular. Because she's pretty.
-(으)려는데
I was about to..., when... (background before an intended action) (-려는데)
TOPIK I
Used to state that the speaker has an intention to do something, as the background for the following content.
밖에 나가려는데 친구가 찾아왔다.
I was about to go outside when a friend came to visit.
텔레비전을 보려는데 정전이 됐어요.
I was about to watch TV when the power went out.
의자에 앉으려는데 친구가 나를 불렀다.
I was about to sit in the chair, but a friend called me.
-(으)려는
who/that is about to... (attributive) (-려는)
TOPIK I
Used to modify the following noun, showing that the subject has an intention or purpose to do the preceding action.
표를 사려는 사람으로 매표소가 붐빈다.
The ticket office is crowded with people who are trying to buy tickets.
여름에는 피서를 떠나려는 사람들이 많다.
In summer, there are many people who intend to go away for a summer vacation.
직장을 찾으려는 사람이 많다.
There are many people trying to find a job.
-(으)려고요
I'm planning to... (casual, replying to a question) (-려고요)
TOPIK I
Used to answer politely when asked about an intention or plan the speaker has.
축구공 좀 빌려주세요. 친구들이랑 지금 축구하러 가려고요.
Please lend me a soccer ball. I'm going to play soccer with my friends now.
이번 주에 날씨가 좋다고 해서 오늘은 이불을 빨려고요.
They said the weather will be nice this week, so I'm planning to wash my blankets today.
이 책을 다 읽으려고요.
I'm planning to finish reading this book.
-나요
is it...? / does it...? (a soft polite question) (-나요)
TOPIK I
(informal polite) Used to ask the listener a question about the preceding content.
저녁을 먹었나요?
Have you had dinner?
출장 가방은 다 싸셨나요?
Have you finished packing your bag for the business trip?
발표 준비는 다 하셨나요?
Have you finished preparing your presentation?
-고 싶어 하다
(someone else) wants to (do something) (-고 싶어 하다)
TOPIK I
Used to say that someone other than the speaker wants to do the preceding action.
승규는 많이 피곤한지 혼자 쉬고 싶어 했다.
Seunggyu seemed really tired and wanted to rest alone.
사람들은 누구나 인정과 칭찬을 받고 싶어 한다.
Everyone wants to receive recognition and praise.
유민이는 진취적이라 항상 새로운 일을 하고 싶어 한다.
Yumin is enterprising, so she always wants to try new things.
-는 것
the act/fact of (doing) — nominalizer (-는 것)
TOPIK I
Used to turn a verb phrase into a noun phrase, or to allow it to be used before 이다.
지금 보는 것은 가족 사진입니다.
What I'm looking at right now is a family photo.
저는 노래 부르는 것을 좋아해요.
I like singing.
출퇴근 시간에는 지하철을 타는 것이 편리하다.
Taking the subway is convenient during commute hours.
-고 계시다
to be (doing something) — honorific (-고 계시다)
TOPIK I
(honorific) Used to say that a subject the speaker respects is continuing to do the preceding action.
할아버지께서는 거실에서 신문을 읽고 계셨다.
Grandfather was reading the newspaper in the living room.
회장님께서는 지금 회의를 하고 계셔서 전화를 받기 어려우십니다.
The chairman is in a meeting right now, so it's hard for him to take your call.
선생님께서 손님과 이야기하고 계시니 잠시 후에 다시 오십시오.
The teacher is talking with a guest, so please come back in a little while.
-(으)ㄴ 뒤에
after doing (sequence, synonym of -(으)ㄴ 다음에) (-(으)ㄴ 뒤에)
TOPIK I
A synonym of -(으)ㄴ 다음에/-(으)ㄴ 후에 — used to say that something happens after a certain action or process is finished.
손을 씻은 뒤에 밥을 먹었다.
I ate after washing my hands.
회의가 끝난 뒤에 다시 연락드리겠습니다.
I'll contact you again after the meeting ends.
숙제를 다 한 뒤에 놀러 나갔다.
I went out to play after finishing all my homework.
-(으)ㄴ 다음에
after doing (sequence) (-(으)ㄴ 다음에)
TOPIK I
Used to say that something happens after a certain action or process is finished.
승규는 대학을 졸업한 다음에 군대에 갔다.
Seunggyu went into the military after graduating from university.
전자 제품을 살 때에는 가격과 성능을 꼼꼼히 비교해 본 다음에 사야 한다.
When buying electronics, you should carefully compare price and performance before buying.
지수는 여행을 갈 때 여권부터 챙긴 다음에 옷이나 그 외에 필요한 것들을 챙긴다.
When Jisu travels, she packs her passport first, then packs clothes and other things she needs.
만
Only (만)
TOPIK I
Attach 만 directly to a noun to mean 'only' — it often replaces 은/는/이/가/을/를 when used this way.
물만 마셔요
I only drink water.
오늘만 시간이 있어요
I only have time today.
(으)로
Direction / method / tool ((으)로)
TOPIK I
Attach 로 to a noun ending in a vowel or ㄹ, and 으로 to one ending in another consonant. It marks direction ('toward'), the method by which something is done, or the tool/material used.
학교로 가요
I'm going to (toward) school.
젓가락으로 먹어요
I eat with chopsticks.
에게/한테
To (a person) (에게/한테)
TOPIK I
Attach 에게 or the more casual/spoken 한테 to a person or animal (not a place) to mean 'to' them — used with verbs like give, send, or tell. Use 에 instead for places and times.
친구에게 선물을 줘요
I give a gift to my friend.
동생에게 이야기했어요
I told my younger sibling.
못
Cannot (못)
TOPIK I
Place 못 directly before a verb to say you cannot do it due to lack of ability or an external circumstance — different from 안, which is a simple negation ('don't/doesn't') regardless of reason.
오늘은 못 가요
I can't go today.
매운 음식을 못 먹어요
I can't eat spicy food.
-고 있어요
Currently doing / progressive (-고 있어요)
TOPIK I
Attach -고 있어요 to a verb stem to say the action is currently in progress, like the English '-ing'. It can also describe a state that resulted from an action and continues (e.g. wearing clothes).
지금 밥을 먹고 있어요
I am eating right now.
친구를 기다리고 있어요
I am waiting for a friend.
음악을 듣고 있어요
I am listening to music.
-지만
But / however (-지만)
TOPIK I
Attach -지만 to a verb or adjective stem (after the tense marker, if needed) to connect two contrasting clauses, meaning 'but'.
한국어는 어렵지만 재미있어요
Korean is difficult, but fun.
배고프지만 시간이 없어요
I'm hungry, but I don't have time.
어제는 바빴지만 오늘은 괜찮아요
Yesterday I was busy, but today I'm fine.
-(으)면
If / when (-(으)면)
TOPIK I
Attach -면 to a stem ending in a vowel, and -으면 to one ending in a consonant, to mean 'if' or 'when' — introducing a condition for the following clause.
시간이 있으면 전화해 주세요
If you have time, please call me.
비가 오면 집에 있어요
If it rains, I stay home.
돈이 많으면 여행을 갈 거예요
If I have a lot of money, I'll travel.
-아서/어서
Because / and then (-아서/어서)
TOPIK I
Same vowel-harmony rule as -아요/어요: attach -아서 to stems whose last vowel is ㅏ or ㅗ, and -어서 to all others. It links a reason to a result, or two sequential actions — but unlike -고, it implies the second action depends on or follows from the first. Quick way to tell it apart from -(으)니까: -아/어서 can NEVER be followed by a command, suggestion, or request (use -(으)니까 for those), and it doesn't combine with the past-tense -았/었- before it — it only expresses 'and then'/'because' for the present situation.
배가 고파서 밥을 먹어요
I'm hungry, so I eat.
비가 와서 우산을 써요
It's raining, so I use an umbrella.
학교에 가서 친구를 만나요
I go to school and (then) meet a friend.
-(으)니까
Because / since (-(으)니까)
TOPIK I
Attach -니까 to a stem ending in a vowel, and -으니까 to one ending in a consonant, to give a reason — often used before a suggestion, command, or request in the second clause (unlike -아/어서, which can't be followed by these). It also freely combines with the past tense (-았/었으니까) and never means 'and then' the way -아/어서 sometimes can — it's reason/cause only.
비가 오니까 우산을 가져가세요
Since it's raining, please take an umbrella.
시간이 없으니까 빨리 가요
Since there's no time, let's go quickly.
배고프니까 먼저 먹을게요
Since I'm hungry, I'll eat first.
-(으)ㄹ 수 있어요/없어요
Can / cannot (-(으)ㄹ 수 있어요/없어요)
TOPIK I
Attach -ㄹ 수 있어요 (vowel-ending stem) or -을 수 있어요 (consonant-ending stem) to express ability or possibility ('can'); swap 있어요 for 없어요 to say 'cannot'.
한국어를 할 수 있어요
I can speak Korean.
내일 만날 수 있어요?
Can we meet tomorrow?
-아/어 주세요
Please do (for me) (-아/어 주세요)
TOPIK I
Same vowel-harmony rule as -아요/어요: attach -아 주세요 or -어 주세요 to a verb stem to politely ask someone to do something for you.
창문 좀 열어 주세요
Please open the window.
이름을 써 주세요
Please write your name.
사진을 보내 주세요
Please send the photo.
-아/어야 돼요/해요
Must / have to (-아/어야 돼요/해요)
TOPIK I
Same vowel-harmony rule as -아요/어요: attach -아야 or -어야 to a verb/adjective stem, then add 돼요 or 해요, to say something must be done.
매일 공부해야 돼요
I have to study every day.
일찍 일어나야 해요
I have to wake up early.
약을 먹어야 돼요
I have to take medicine.
-아/어도 돼요
May / is allowed to (-아/어도 돼요)
TOPIK I
Same vowel-harmony rule: attach -아도 or -어도 to a verb stem, then add 돼요, to ask or grant permission ('may I...', 'you may...').
여기 앉아도 돼요?
May I sit here?
사진을 찍어도 돼요?
May I take a photo?
이거 먹어도 돼요
You may eat this.
-(으)면 안 돼요
Must not / not allowed (-(으)면 안 돼요)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)면 (see the 'if' pattern) before 안 돼요 to say something is not allowed — literally 'if you do X, it's not okay'.
여기서 담배를 피우면 안 돼요
You must not smoke here.
수업 시간에 늦으면 안 돼요
You must not be late for class.
여기에 주차하면 안 돼요
You can't park here.
-지 마세요
Don't (prohibition) (-지 마세요)
TOPIK I
Attach -지 마세요 to a verb stem to politely tell someone not to do something — a direct command, stronger than -(으)면 안 돼요.
여기서 사진을 찍지 마세요
Don't take photos here.
-는/-(으)ㄴ/-(으)ㄹ
Modifying a noun (verb/adjective + noun)
TOPIK I
To use a verb or adjective like an adjective before a noun ('the book I read', 'a pretty flower'), change its ending: verbs take -는 (present), -(으)ㄴ (past), or -(으)ㄹ (future); most adjectives simply take -(으)ㄴ.
읽는 책이 재미있어요
The book I'm reading is fun.
예쁜 꽃이에요
It's a pretty flower.
어제 만난 친구예요
(This is) the friend I met yesterday.
-(으)ㄹ 때
When (-(으)ㄹ 때)
TOPIK I
Attach -ㄹ 때 to a vowel-ending stem, and -을 때 to a consonant-ending one, to mean 'when' — describing the time during which something happens.
시간이 있을 때 전화해요
I'll call when I have time.
한국에 갈 때 선물을 사요
When I go to Korea, I buy gifts.
어렸을 때 여기 살았어요
When I was young, I lived here.
-(으)ㄴ 적이 있어요/없어요
Have / haven't done before (experience) (-(으)ㄴ 적이 있어요/없어요)
TOPIK I
Attach -ㄴ 적이 있어요 to a vowel-ending verb stem, and -은 적이 있어요 to a consonant-ending one, to say you have experienced doing something before; swap 있어요 for 없어요 to say you never have.
한국에 간 적이 있어요
I have been to Korea.
김치를 먹은 적이 없어요
I have never eaten kimchi.
그 영화를 본 적이 있어요?
Have you seen that movie?
-(으)ㄹ게요
I will (promise / intention) (-(으)ㄹ게요)
TOPIK I
Attach -ㄹ게요 to a vowel-ending stem, and -을게요 to a consonant-ending one, to announce your own intention or make a small promise to the listener — more personal/commitment-focused than -(으)ㄹ 거예요.
제가 계산할게요
I'll pay (the bill).
조금 이따가 전화할게요
I'll call a little later.
다음에 또 올게요
I'll come again next time.
-(으)ㄹ까요?
Shall we / shall I? (-(으)ㄹ까요?)
TOPIK I
Attach -ㄹ까요? to a vowel-ending stem, and -을까요? to a consonant-ending one, to suggest doing something together or ask what the listener thinks/wants.
같이 점심 먹을까요?
Shall we eat lunch together?
창문을 열까요?
Shall I open the window?
우리 어디 갈까요?
Where shall we go?
-네요
Oh, I see / exclamation (-네요)
TOPIK I
Attach -네요 to a verb or adjective stem (or after the tense marker) to express noticing or realizing something in the moment — like saying 'oh, it's ___!' in reaction to what you observe.
날씨가 좋네요
Oh, the weather is nice!
정말 크네요
Wow, it's really big!
벌써 열두 시네요
Oh, it's already 12 o'clock!
-기 전에 / -(으)ㄴ 후에
Before / after (-기 전에 / -(으)ㄴ 후에)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 전에 to a plain verb stem to say 'before doing ___', and -(으)ㄴ 후에 to say 'after doing ___'. Both attach directly to the dictionary-style stem, not a conjugated form.
밥을 먹기 전에 손을 씻어요
I wash my hands before eating.
숙제를 한 후에 텔레비전을 봐요
I watch TV after doing homework.
자기 전에 이를 닦아요
I brush my teeth before sleeping.
-죠/지요?
Right? / I assume so (-죠/지요?)
TOPIK I
Attach -죠 (the short, spoken form of -지요) to a verb/adjective stem to soften a statement, ask for agreement ('right?'), or say something you assume to be true.
오늘 날씨가 좋죠?
The weather's nice today, right?
이거 비싸죠?
This is expensive, isn't it?
내일 시험이 있죠
There's a test tomorrow, I believe.
밖에
Only, nothing but (밖에 + negative)
TOPIK I
밖에 attaches to a noun and is always paired with a negative verb ending, meaning 'nothing but ___' or 'only ___' — emphasizing that there isn't more than the stated amount.
돈이 천 원밖에 없어요
I only have 1,000 won.
한 시간밖에 안 걸려요
It only takes one hour.
저밖에 몰라요
Only I know. / Nobody but me knows.
(이)나
Or / about, as many as ((이)나)
TOPIK I
이나 follows a noun ending in a consonant, 나 follows one ending in a vowel. Between two nouns it means 'or'; after a number it means 'about/as many as', often showing surprise at the quantity.
커피나 차를 마셔요
I drink coffee or tea.
열 시간이나 잤어요
I slept for a whole 10 hours!
사과나 바나나 주세요
Please give me an apple or a banana.
-군요/-는군요/구나
Oh, I see! / realization (-군요/-는군요/구나)
TOPIK I
Attach -군요 (polite) or -구나 (casual) to a stem to express a fresh realization or mild surprise at something you've just noticed — similar to -네요 but a bit stronger, often reacting to new information rather than something directly observed.
아, 비가 오는군요
Oh, it's raining!
진짜 맛있군요
Wow, it's really delicious!
오늘이 생일이구나
Oh, today's your birthday!
-는 동안
While, during (-는 동안)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 동안 to a verb stem to say 'while ___ing' — two things happening over the same span of time. It can also follow a duration noun + 동안 to mean 'for (that length of time)'.
제가 요리하는 동안 텔레비전을 보세요
Watch TV while I cook.
방학 동안 여행을 했어요
I traveled during vacation.
아이가 자는 동안 청소를 했어요
I cleaned while the child was sleeping.
-게
-ly, in a way that... (-게)
TOPIK I
Attach -게 to a descriptive verb (adjective) stem to turn it into an adverb, similar to adding '-ly' in English — describing HOW an action is done. It's also common right before 만들다/하다 to mean 'make (something) ___'.
글씨를 크게 써 주세요
Please write in big letters.
방을 깨끗하게 청소했어요
I cleaned the room thoroughly.
아이를 행복하게 해 주고 싶어요
I want to make the child happy.
-아/어지다
To become ___ (adjective + -아/어지다)
TOPIK I
Attach -아지다 (if the stem's last vowel is ㅏ or ㅗ) or -어지다 (everything else) to a descriptive verb (adjective) stem to say something is becoming/turning that way — a gradual change over time, not a fixed state. Different from -게 되다, which usually marks a change due to outside circumstances rather than a gradual shift.
날씨가 추워졌어요
The weather got cold.
한국어가 재미있어졌어요
Korean became fun (to me).
요즘 바빠졌어요
I've gotten busy lately.
(이)라서
Because it's (noun) — (이)라서
TOPIK I
Attach 이라서 to a noun ending in a consonant, or 라서 to one ending in a vowel, to give a reason built on the noun copula 이다 ('to be') — like -아/어서, but for nouns instead of verbs/adjectives. Also like -아/어서, it can't be followed by a command or suggestion.
오늘은 일요일이라서 학교에 안 가요
Since today is Sunday, I'm not going to school.
학생이라서 할인 받았어요
Since I'm a student, I got a discount.
주말이라서 사람이 많아요
Since it's the weekend, there are a lot of people.
께
To (honorific) (께)
TOPIK I
Attach 께 to an honored person (elders, teachers, superiors) instead of 에게/한테, as the honorific version of 'to' — used with honorific verbs like 드리다 (give, humble/honorific) or 말씀드리다.
할머니께 선물을 드렸어요
I gave a gift to my grandmother (honorific).
선생님께 여쭤봤어요
I asked my teacher (honorific).
부모님께 편지를 썼어요
I wrote a letter to my parents (honorific).
께서
Subject marker (honorific) (께서)
TOPIK I
Attach 께서 instead of 이/가 to mark the subject when that subject is someone you owe respect to (grandparents, teachers, bosses) — typically paired with an honorific verb ending like -(으)세요/-셨어요.
아버지께서 오셨어요
Father came (honorific).
선생님께서 말씀하셨어요
The teacher said (honorific).
할아버지께서 신문을 읽으세요
Grandfather reads the newspaper (honorific).
에게서/한테서
From (a person) (에게서/한테서)
TOPIK I
Attach 에게서 or the more casual/spoken 한테서 to a person to mean 'from' them — the person-counterpart of 에서 (from a place). Often shortened to just 에게/한테 in casual speech, but 에게서/한테서 makes the 'from' meaning explicit.
친구에게서 편지를 받았어요
I received a letter from my friend.
엄마한테서 전화가 왔어요
A call came from mom.
선생님에게서 좋은 소식을 들었어요
I heard good news from my teacher.
마다
Every, each (마다)
TOPIK I
Attach 마다 directly to a noun (often a time word) to mean 'every' or 'each' — it emphasizes that something happens without exception, at every instance of that unit.
저는 아침마다 운동해요
I exercise every morning.
주말마다 친구를 만나요
I meet my friends every weekend.
사람마다 생각이 달라요
Every person thinks differently.
처럼
Like, similar to (처럼)
TOPIK I
Attach 처럼 to a noun to compare something to it — 'like ~' or 'similar to ~.' Very close in meaning to 같이, and the two are largely interchangeable.
그는 가수처럼 노래를 잘해요
He sings well, like a singer.
오늘은 여름처럼 더워요
Today is hot like summer.
저도 언니처럼 되고 싶어요
I want to become like my older sister too.
-(으)ㄹ까 하다
I'm thinking of ~ing (-(으)ㄹ까 하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)ㄹ까 하다 to a verb stem to express a loose, not-yet-decided intention — 'I'm thinking I might ~.' Softer and less certain than -(으)려고 하다, which states a firmer plan.
주말에 영화를 볼까 해요
I'm thinking of watching a movie this weekend.
이번 방학에 여행을 갈까 해요
I'm thinking of taking a trip this vacation.
저녁에는 집에서 쉴까 해요
I'm thinking of resting at home this evening.
-(으)ㄹ까 봐
Worried that ~ might happen (-(으)ㄹ까 봐)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)ㄹ까 봐 to a verb/adjective stem to express worry that something might happen, and often explain an action taken because of that worry — 'because I'm worried ~ might happen.'
비가 올까 봐 우산을 가져왔어요
I brought an umbrella because I was worried it might rain.
늦을까 봐 택시를 탔어요
I took a taxi because I was worried I'd be late.
시험에 떨어질까 봐 걱정돼요
I'm worried I might fail the exam.
-(으)ㄹ래요
I'll ~ / Want to ~? (-(으)ㄹ래요)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)ㄹ래요 to a verb stem to state your own casual intention ('I'll ~,' 'I want to ~') or, as a question, to casually ask the listener what they want to do. More casual and personal than -(으)ㄹ 거예요.
저는 커피 마실래요
I'll have coffee.
같이 영화 볼래요?
Do you want to watch a movie together?
오늘은 집에 있을래요
I want to stay home today.
-(으)러 가다/오다
Go/come in order to ~ (-(으)러 가다/오다)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)러 to a verb stem, followed by 가다 or 오다, to say you're going or coming somewhere in order to do that action — 'go/come to ~.' Only used with movement verbs like 가다/오다, unlike the broader -(으)려고.
밥을 먹으러 식당에 가요
I'm going to the restaurant to eat.
친구를 만나러 왔어요
I came to meet my friend.
책을 빌리러 도서관에 가요
I'm going to the library to borrow a book.
-(으)면서
While ~ing (-(으)면서)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)면서 to a verb stem to say two actions happen at the same time, by the same subject — 'while ~ing.' The two verbs must share the same subject; if the subjects differ, another connector is needed.
음악을 들으면서 공부해요
I study while listening to music.
걸어가면서 이야기했어요
We talked while walking.
텔레비전을 보면서 밥을 먹어요
I eat while watching TV.
-(으)십시오
Please ~ (very formal) (-(으)십시오)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)십시오 to a verb stem to make a very formal, polite command or request — heard in announcements, on signs, from newscasters, or in formal speeches. Higher formality than -(으)세요, and rarely used in everyday casual conversation.
안전벨트를 착용하십시오
Please wear your seatbelt.
여기에 이름을 써 주십시오
Please write your name here.
잠시만 기다려 주십시오
Please wait just a moment.
-거나
Or (-거나)
TOPIK I
Attach -거나 between two verbs/adjectives to connect them as alternatives — 'either ~ or ~.' Both verbs take their own -거나, and only one of the two actions actually happens.
주말에는 책을 읽거나 영화를 봐요
On weekends I either read books or watch movies.
시간이 있으면 걷거나 자전거를 타요
If I have time, I either walk or ride a bike.
피곤하거나 아프면 집에서 쉬세요
If you're tired or sick, rest at home.
-는 게 좋겠다
It would be better to ~ (-는 게 좋겠다)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 게 좋겠다 to a verb stem to gently suggest or recommend a course of action — 'it would be better to ~,' 'I think you should ~.' Softer and more indirect than a direct command.
오늘은 일찍 자는 게 좋겠어요
It would be better to go to sleep early today.
병원에 가는 게 좋겠어요
It would be better to go to the hospital.
우산을 가져가는 게 좋겠어요
It would be better to bring an umbrella.
-았/었/였으면 좋겠다
I wish ~ (-았/었/였으면 좋겠다)
TOPIK I
Attach the past-tense -았/었/였으면 to a verb/adjective stem, followed by 좋겠다, to express a wish or hope, including for things that aren't true right now — 'I wish ~,' 'I hope ~.' The past-tense form is used even though the wish is about the present or future, similar to the English subjunctive ('if only it were').
돈이 많았으면 좋겠어요
I wish I had a lot of money.
빨리 여름이 왔으면 좋겠어요
I wish summer would come soon.
시험에 합격했으면 좋겠어요
I hope I pass the exam.
-지 못하다
Cannot ~ (-지 못하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -지 못하다 to a verb stem to say you're unable to do something, due to ability or circumstance — the long-form equivalent of 못 + verb, meaning the same thing but usable with longer/compound verbs where 못 alone would sound awkward in front.
어제 잠을 자지 못했어요
I couldn't sleep last night.
바빠서 연락하지 못했어요
I was busy so I couldn't contact you.
매운 음식을 먹지 못해요
I can't eat spicy food.
-는 것 같아요
It seems / I think (verb + -는 것 같아요)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 것 같아요 to a verb stem to say it seems like something is happening, softening a statement into an impression rather than a fact. For adjectives use -(으)ㄴ 것 같아요 instead, and for nouns use 인 것 같아요.
비가 오는 것 같아요
It seems like it's raining.
그 사람은 바쁜 것 같아요
That person seems busy.
오늘은 좀 추운 것 같아요
It seems a bit cold today.
-(으)ㄹ 것 같아요
I think it will / It looks like it will (verb/adj + -(으)ㄹ 것 같아요)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)ㄹ 것 같아요 to a verb or adjective stem to guess about something in the future or give a tentative opinion — add ㄹ 것 같아요 after a vowel-ending stem, or 을 것 같아요 after a consonant-ending stem.
내일은 비가 올 것 같아요
I think it will rain tomorrow.
이 영화는 재미있을 것 같아요
This movie looks like it will be fun.
시험이 어려울 것 같아요
I think the exam will be difficult.
-기로 하다
To decide to do something (verb + -기로 하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -기로 하다 to a verb stem to say you've decided or agreed to do something. Commonly used in the past tense -기로 했어요 to describe a plan or promise already made.
내일 만나기로 했어요
We decided to meet tomorrow.
운동을 매일 하기로 했어요
I decided to exercise every day.
다시는 늦지 않기로 했어요
I decided not to be late again.
-는데/-(으)ㄴ데
Background / contrast connector (verb/adj + -는데/-(으)ㄴ데)
TOPIK I
Attach -는데 to a verb stem (or -(으)ㄴ데 to an adjective stem) to give background information before a related statement, or to softly contrast two ideas — similar to 'so' or 'but' depending on context.
비가 오는데 우산이 없어요
It's raining, but I don't have an umbrella.
이 식당은 유명한데 좀 비싸요
This restaurant is famous, but it's a bit expensive.
지금 가는데 같이 갈래요?
I'm going now — want to come along?
-(으)려고 하다
To intend to / be about to (verb + -(으)려고 하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -려고 하다 to a vowel-ending verb stem, or -으려고 하다 to a consonant-ending stem, to say you intend to do something or are about to do it. Often used in the past tense -(으)려고 했어요 to say what you were planning to do.
저녁을 먹으려고 해요
I'm planning to eat dinner.
일찍 자려고 했어요
I was planning to sleep early.
한국어를 배우려고 해요
I'm planning to learn Korean.
-기 때문에
Because (formal, cites a reason) (verb/adj + -기 때문에)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 때문에 to a verb or adjective stem, or 때문에 directly to a noun, to give a formal reason — more common in writing and explanations than -아서/어서 or -(으)니까.
길이 막히기 때문에 늦을 것 같아요
Because traffic is bad, I think I'll be late.
비가 오기 때문에 우산을 챙겼어요
Because it's raining, I brought an umbrella.
바쁘기 때문에 전화를 못 받았어요
Because I was busy, I couldn't answer the phone.
-게 되다
To come to, to end up (change of state/circumstance) (verb + -게 되다)
TOPIK I
Attach -게 되다 to a verb stem to describe a change that happened due to circumstances, not necessarily your own choice — 'it came about that...', 'I ended up...' Common when explaining how a situation developed.
우연히 그 사람을 다시 만나게 됐어요
I ended up meeting that person again by chance.
회사를 옮기게 됐어요
I ended up changing companies.
한국에서 살게 됐어요
I ended up living in Korea.
-(으)ㄴ 지
Since, how long it's been (verb + -(으)ㄴ 지 + time + 되다/지나다)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)ㄴ 지 to a verb stem, followed by a length of time and 됐어요/지났어요, to say how much time has passed since that action happened — 'it's been [time] since I ~.'
한국에 온 지 3년 됐어요
It's been 3 years since I came to Korea.
그를 만난 지 오래됐어요
It's been a long time since I met him.
이 일을 시작한 지 얼마 안 됐어요
It hasn't been long since I started this job.
-아/어 보다
To try doing something (verb + -아/어 보다)
TOPIK I
Attach -아 보다 or -어 보다 to a verb stem (based on vowel harmony) to say you're trying something out or suggest someone try it — often used as 아/어 봤어요 (tried) or 아/어 보세요 (please try).
이 옷을 입어 보세요
Please try on this clothing.
김치를 먹어 봤어요
I've tried eating kimchi.
한번 해 보세요
Please give it a try.
-기 위해(서)
In order to ~ (-기 위해(서))
TOPIK I
Attach -기 위해(서) to a verb stem to state a purpose or goal — 'in order to ~,' 'for the purpose of ~.' Similar to -(으)려고, but usable with nouns too (noun + 을/를 위해서) and slightly more formal.
건강을 지키기 위해서 매일 운동해요
I exercise every day in order to stay healthy.
시험에 합격하기 위해서 열심히 공부했어요
I studied hard in order to pass the exam.
가족을 위해서 열심히 일해요
I work hard for my family.
-기 쉽다
Easy to ~ (-기 쉽다)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 쉽다 to a verb stem to say something is easy to do, or likely to happen — 'easy to ~,' 'prone to ~.' Can describe either literal ease or a tendency toward something (often something undesirable, like making mistakes).
이 단어는 외우기 쉬워요
This word is easy to memorize.
밤에는 길을 잃기 쉬워요
It's easy to get lost at night.
서두르면 실수하기 쉬워요
If you rush, it's easy to make mistakes.
-기 어렵다
Difficult to ~ (-기 어렵다)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 어렵다 to a verb stem to say something is difficult to do — 'difficult to ~,' 'hard to ~.' The direct opposite of -기 쉽다, often used politely to decline or express doubt.
그 사람 마음을 이해하기 어려워요
It's hard to understand that person's feelings.
이 문제는 풀기 어려워요
This problem is difficult to solve.
그날은 시간을 내기 어려울 것 같아요
It seems hard for me to make time that day.
-고 나서
After (finishing) ~ (-고 나서)
TOPIK I
Attach -고 나서 to a verb stem to say one action is fully completed before the next one begins — 'after (finishing) ~.' Stronger emphasis on completion than plain -고, which can just mean 'and.'
숙제를 하고 나서 게임을 했어요
After finishing homework, I played games.
밥을 먹고 나서 이를 닦아요
After eating, I brush my teeth.
샤워를 하고 나서 자요
After showering, I go to sleep.
-자마자
As soon as ~ (-자마자)
TOPIK I
Attach -자마자 to a verb stem to say the second action happens immediately after the first, with almost no gap — 'as soon as ~.' The two actions must have the same subject or a closely related one.
집에 도착하자마자 잠들었어요
As soon as I got home, I fell asleep.
눈을 뜨자마자 핸드폰을 봐요
As soon as I open my eyes, I look at my phone.
수업이 끝나자마자 친구를 만났어요
As soon as class ended, I met a friend.
-다가
While ~ing (then something else happens) (-다가)
TOPIK I
Attach -다가 to a verb stem to say an action is interrupted or switched to another action — 'while ~ing (then ~),' 'in the middle of ~ing.' The first action stops before the second one begins, unlike -(으)면서 where both happen at once.
텔레비전을 보다가 잠들었어요
I fell asleep while watching TV.
길을 걷다가 친구를 만났어요
I ran into a friend while walking down the street.
공부하다가 배가 고파서 뭘 먹었어요
I got hungry while studying, so I ate something.
-아/어 보이다
Look/seem ~ (-아/어 보이다)
TOPIK I
Attach -아/어 보이다 to an adjective stem to describe how something visually appears — 'look ~,' 'seem ~ (based on appearance).' A common way to comment on someone's appearance or mood.
오늘 피곤해 보여요
You look tired today.
이 옷을 입으니까 날씬해 보여요
I look slim wearing this outfit.
그는 화가 나 보였어요
He looked angry.
-아/어도
Even if/though ~ (-아/어도)
TOPIK I
Attach -아/어도 to a verb/adjective stem to say that even under a certain condition, the outcome won't change — 'even if ~,' 'even though ~.' The most basic, everyday version of this concessive meaning, less formal than -더라도/-(으)ㄹ지라도.
아무리 배가 고파도 그건 안 먹어요
No matter how hungry I am, I won't eat that.
돈이 많아도 행복하지 않을 수 있어요
Even with a lot of money, you might not be happy.
늦어도 괜찮으니까 꼭 오세요
It's fine even if you're late, so please come.
-아/어라
Do ~! (plain command) (-아/어라)
TOPIK I
Attach -아/어라 to a verb stem to give a direct, plain-style command — 'do ~!' Used with close friends, younger people, or in writing (novels, lyrics); too blunt for strangers or superiors, where -(으)세요 or -(으)십시오 are used instead.
-아/어야
Only if ~, only when ~ (-아/어야)
TOPIK I
Attach -아/어야 to a verb/adjective stem to state a necessary condition — 'only if ~,' 'only when ~.' The second clause won't happen unless this condition is met. The base connector behind -아/어야 돼요/해요 (must) and -아/어야겠다 (should).
열심히 해야 성공할 수 있어요
Only if you work hard can you succeed.
직접 가 봐야 알 수 있어요
You can only know by going yourself.
티켓이 있어야 들어갈 수 있어요
You can only enter if you have a ticket.
-았/었으면 하다
I wish ~ (softer) (-았/었으면 하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -았/었으면 하다 to a verb/adjective stem to express a mild wish or hope — 'I wish ~,' 'I hope ~.' Similar to -았/었으면 좋겠다, but slightly softer and more understated, ending in 하다 (think/feel) instead of 좋겠다 (would be good).
네가 행복했으면 해
I wish you were happy.
모두가 건강했으면 해요
I hope everyone is healthy.
이 순간이 계속됐으면 해요
I wish this moment would continue forever.
-에다(가)
Onto, into ~ (-에다가)
TOPIK I
Attach -에다(가) to a noun to emphasize the specific spot something is placed onto or into — 'onto ~,' 'into ~,' 'right there at ~.' A more emphatic, spoken-leaning version of the location particle 에.
책상에다가 책을 놓았어요
I put the book on the desk.
가방에다 지갑을 넣었어요
I put my wallet in my bag.
벽에다가 그림을 걸었어요
I hung the picture on the wall.
만큼
As much as ~ (noun particle) (만큼)
TOPIK I
Attach 만큼 directly to a noun to compare a degree or amount to it — 'as much as ~,' 'to the same extent as ~.' The noun-particle version of the verb-attached -는 만큼 already covered.
저도 당신만큼 힘들어요
I'm having as hard a time as you are.
이 가방은 제 몸만큼 커요
This bag is as big as my body.
가족만큼 소중한 건 없어요
Nothing is as precious as family.
아무 -(이)나
Any ~ (whichever) (아무 -(이)나)
TOPIK I
Attach 아무 before a noun, followed by (이)나, to say any option is fine, without a specific preference — 'any ~,' 'whichever ~.' Casual and common in everyday conversation.
아무 데나 앉으세요
Please sit anywhere.
아무 거나 다 좋아요
Anything is fine with me.
아무 색이나 골라도 돼요
You can pick any color.
아무 -도
No ~ at all (아무 -도)
TOPIK I
Attach 아무 before a noun, followed by 도 and a negative verb, to say there's absolutely none of something — 'no ~ at all,' 'not any ~.' Always used with a negative predicate.
아무 문제도 없어요
There's no problem at all.
오늘은 아무것도 하기 싫어요
I don't want to do anything today.
-는 중이다
In the middle of ~, on the way to ~ (-는 중이다)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 중이다 to a verb stem to say an action is currently ongoing — 'in the middle of ~ing,' 'currently ~ing.' A common, everyday way to describe what you're in the process of doing right now.
지금 밥을 먹는 중이에요
I'm eating right now.
저는 지금 회사로 가는 중이에요
I'm on my way to the office right now.
그는 아직 이야기하는 중이에요
He's still in the middle of talking.
-대로
As, according to (-대로)
TOPIK I
Attach -대로 directly to a noun (or -는 대로/-(으)ㄴ 대로 to a verb) to say something follows exactly a certain standard, instruction, or pattern — 'as ~,' 'according to ~,' 'just like ~.'
계획대로 진행했어요
It proceeded according to plan.
제 생각대로 그가 옳았어요
Just as I thought, he was right.
말씀하신 대로 할게요
I'll do it just as you said.
-아/어 있다
To be in a state of (resultant state) (verb + -아/어 있다)
TOPIK I
Attach -아 있다 or -어 있다 to certain verb stems (mainly ones describing a change of position or state, like 앉다, 서다, 눕다, 열리다) to describe the ongoing RESULT of that action, not the action itself — 'is sitting (as a result of having sat down)', not 'is sitting down (right now)'.
의자에 앉아 있어요
I'm sitting in the chair (already seated).
문이 열려 있어요
The door is open.
그는 침대에 누워 있어요
He's lying on the bed.
-(으)려면
If you want to ~ (-(으)려면)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)려면 to a verb stem to introduce a condition needed to achieve a goal stated in the first clause — 'if you want to ~,' 'in order to ~.' The second clause usually gives the requirement or method.
한국어를 잘하려면 매일 연습해야 해요
If you want to be good at Korean, you have to practice every day.
기차를 타려면 지금 출발해야 해요
If you want to catch the train, you need to leave now.
살을 빼려면 운동을 꾸준히 해야 해요
If you want to lose weight, you have to exercise consistently.
-(으)면 되다
It's fine/okay if ~ (-(으)면 되다)
TOPIK I
Attach -(으)면 되다 to a verb stem to say that doing something is sufficient or all that's needed — 'it's fine if ~,' 'you just need to ~.' Often used to reassure someone that a simple action is enough.
여기에 이름만 쓰면 돼요
You just need to write your name here.
내일까지 제출하면 돼요
It's fine if you submit it by tomorrow.
조금만 더 기다리면 돼요
You just need to wait a little longer.
-지 않아도 되다
Don't have to (-지 않아도 되다)
TOPIK I
Attach -지 않아도 되다 to a verb stem to say something isn't necessary — 'you don't have to do it, and it's fine.' The negative counterpart of -아/어야 되다/하다 (must).
오늘은 일찍 오지 않아도 돼요.
You don't have to come early today.
숙제를 다 하지 않아도 돼요.
You don't have to finish all the homework.
걱정하지 않아도 돼요, 다 잘될 거예요.
You don't have to worry, everything will be fine.
-(으)시-
Honorific verb infix (-(으)시-)
TOPIK I
Insert -(으)시- into a verb/adjective stem when talking ABOUT someone you should show respect to (a parent, teacher, elder, customer, etc.) — not about yourself. It shows up in many forms you already know, like -(으)세요, but this is the base building block: 가다 → 가시다, 읽다 → 읽으시다.
선생님께서 지금 오세요.
The teacher is coming now.
아버지는 신문을 읽으세요.
My father reads the newspaper.
할머니께서 요리를 하세요.
My grandmother cooks.
-는 게 어때요?
How about (doing)? (-는 게 어때요?)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 게 어때요? to a verb stem to suggest doing something — a friendly, casual way to propose an idea, similar to 'how about we...?' in English.
우리 같이 저녁 먹는 게 어때요?
How about we eat dinner together?
주말에 영화 보는 게 어때요?
How about watching a movie this weekend?
이 색깔로 사는 게 어때요?
How about buying it in this color?
-기(가) 좋다/나쁘다/편하다
Good/bad/comfortable to do (-기(가) 좋다/나쁘다/편하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -기(가) to a verb stem, then follow with 좋다 (good), 나쁘다 (bad), or 편하다 (comfortable/convenient) to say how it feels to do that action — 'good/bad/convenient to do X.'
이 신발은 걷기가 편해요.
These shoes are comfortable to walk in.
이 길은 밤에 걷기 나빠요.
This road is bad to walk on at night.
이 공원은 산책하기 좋아요.
This park is nice to take a walk in.
(이)라고 하다
Is called / named (N(이)라고 하다)
TOPIK I
Attach (이)라고 하다 to a noun to say that's what something is called or named — 'it's called X.' Very useful for asking the name of something: '이게 뭐라고 해요?' (What is this called?).
이 음식은 김밥이라고 해요.
This food is called gimbap.
이게 한국어로 뭐라고 해요?
What is this called in Korean?
저 꽃은 무궁화라고 해요.
That flower is called mugunghwa.
-기 시작하다
Start to do (-기 시작하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 시작하다 to a verb stem to say something started happening — 'started to do X.'
갑자기 비가 오기 시작했어요.
It suddenly started to rain.
작년부터 한국어를 배우기 시작했어요.
I started learning Korean last year.
아이가 걷기 시작했어요.
The baby started walking.
-는 데 (시간이) 걸리다/필요하다
It takes (time) to do (-는 데 걸리다/필요하다)
TOPIK I
Attach -는 데 to a verb stem, then say how much time 걸리다 (it takes) or what 필요하다 (is needed) to do that action.
학교에 가는 데 삼십 분 걸려요.
It takes 30 minutes to get to school.
이 요리를 만드는 데 재료가 많이 필요해요.
You need a lot of ingredients to make this dish.
한국어를 잘하는 데 시간이 좀 걸려요.
It takes some time to get good at Korean.
아무리 -아/어도
No matter how much (아무리 -아/어도)
TOPIK I
Put 아무리 before a verb/adjective ending in -아/어도 to emphasize 'no matter how much' — the result doesn't change even if the action or degree is extreme.
아무리 바빠도 밥은 먹어야 해요.
No matter how busy you are, you have to eat.
아무리 연습해도 실력이 늘지 않아요.
No matter how much I practice, my skills don't improve.
아무리 피곤해도 숙제를 끝내야 해요.
No matter how tired you are, you have to finish your homework.
-지 말고
Instead of doing... (-지 말고)
TOPIK I
Attach -지 말고 to a verb stem to say 'don't do X, and instead...' — used to redirect someone from one action to another, usually followed by a suggestion or command.
택시를 타지 말고 버스를 타세요.
Don't take a taxi, take the bus instead.
혼자 고민하지 말고 저한테 말해 주세요.
Don't worry alone, tell me instead.
집에 있지 말고 밖에 나가요.
Don't stay home, let's go outside instead.
N 중에서
Among (N 중에서)
TOPIK I
Attach 중에서 to a noun (often a plural group or category) to mean 'among N' — used to pick out one thing from a group.
이 음식들 중에서 뭐가 제일 맛있어요?
Among these foods, which is the most delicious?
친구들 중에서 그가 제일 키가 커요.
Among my friends, he's the tallest.
이 색깔들 중에서 하나를 고르세요.
Choose one among these colors.
-지 그래요?
Why don't you...? (-지 그래요?)
TOPIK I
Attach -지 그래요? to a verb stem to gently suggest what someone should do — 'why don't you...?' A softer, more casual way to give advice than a direct command.
피곤하면 좀 쉬지 그래요?
If you're tired, why don't you rest a bit?
그렇게 걱정되면 전화해 보지 그래요?
If you're that worried, why don't you try calling?
모르면 선생님한테 물어보지 그래요?
If you don't know, why don't you ask the teacher?
-았/었었어요
Had done (remote/completed past) — -았/었었어요
TOPIK I
Attach -았/었었어요 to a verb/adjective stem for a past event that's more distant or clearly finished, often implying things are different now — a bit stronger than the simple past -았/었어요.
어릴 때 이 동네에 살았었어요.
I used to live in this neighborhood when I was young.
예전에는 매운 음식을 잘 먹었었어요.
I used to be able to eat spicy food well.
작년에는 키가 더 작았었어요.
I was shorter last year.
-기
Verb noun form (-기)
TOPIK I
Attach -기 to a verb stem to turn it into a noun — 'the act of doing X.' Common in lists, titles, and simple statements about hobbies or activities, like 취미가 요리하기예요 (my hobby is cooking).
제 취미는 사진 찍기예요.
My hobby is taking photos.
쓰기는 어렵지만 읽기는 쉬워요.
Writing is hard, but reading is easy.
듣기와 말하기를 다 연습해요.
I practice both listening and speaking.
-아/어 가지고
And so (colloquial) — -아/어 가지고
TOPIK I
Attach -아/어 가지고 to a verb stem, a casual, spoken-Korean way to connect two clauses — similar to -아서/어서, meaning 'and so' or 'and then.' Very common in everyday conversation, less common in writing.
버스를 놓쳐 가지고 늦었어요.
I missed the bus, so I was late.
너무 배고파 가지고 빨리 먹었어요.
I was so hungry that I ate quickly.
친구를 만나 가지고 같이 커피를 마셨어요.
I met my friend, and we had coffee together.
N 때문에
Because of N (N 때문에)
TOPIK I
Attach 때문에 directly to a noun to mean 'because of N' — the basic particle form, distinct from the verb-attached -기 때문에. One of the most common ways to give a reason in Korean.
너 때문에 늦었어요.
I'm late because of you.
날씨 때문에 여행을 취소했어요.
We canceled the trip because of the weather.
시험 때문에 스트레스를 많이 받아요.
I'm very stressed because of the exam.
N 덕분에
Thanks to N (N 덕분에)
TOPIK I
Attach 덕분에 directly to a noun to mean 'thanks to N' — used for a positive reason or cause, the friendly counterpart of N 때문에.
선생님 덕분에 한국어 실력이 늘었어요.
Thanks to my teacher, my Korean has improved.
친구 덕분에 좋은 일자리를 찾았어요.
Thanks to my friend, I found a good job.
맑은 날씨 덕분에 소풍이 즐거웠어요.
Thanks to the clear weather, the picnic was fun.
N 탓에
Because of N (blaming) — N 탓에
TOPIK I
Attach 탓에 directly to a noun to mean 'because of N,' placing blame for a negative result — the noun-attached counterpart of N 때문에, but always negative in tone.
폭우 탓에 도로가 막혔어요.
The road was jammed because of the heavy rain.
실수 탓에 회의가 늦게 시작됐어요.
The meeting started late because of a mistake.
높은 물가 탓에 생활이 힘들어요.
Life is hard because of high prices.
-(으)ㄴ 것
the thing that (nominalizer, past/state) (-(으)ㄴ 것)
TOPIK I
Turns a verb or adjective clause into a noun phrase, or lets it come right before 이다 — used for something completed or in a certain state.
승규가 빌려 간 것은 소설책이다.
What Seunggyu borrowed was a novel.
이 편지는 젊은 시절 아버지께서 어머니께 쓰신 것이다.
This letter is one my father wrote to my mother when he was young.
담배는 건강에 해로운 것이니 끊는 것이 좋습니다.
Cigarettes are something harmful to your health, so it's best to quit.
-(으)ㄴ 것 같다
seems like (guess, past) (-(으)ㄴ 것 같다)
TOPIK I
Used to guess that something already happened or is already true, based on what you notice.
차 소리가 들리는 걸 보니 아버지께서 오신 것 같아요.
I hear a car, so I think Dad has arrived.
어제 무리하셔서 피곤한 것 같은데 오늘은 일찍 쉬세요.
You seem tired from overdoing it yesterday, so please rest early today.
설렁탕이 싱거운 것 같은데 소금을 조금 더 넣을까요?
The seolleongtang seems a bit bland — should I add a little more salt?
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