Essential Korean Phrases

Korean Alphabet (한글 Hangeul): Korean uses its own alphabet with 14 consonants and 10 vowels. Unlike Chinese or Japanese, Korean letters represent sounds (phonetic), making it one of the most logical writing systems. You can learn to read Hangeul in just a few hours.

Key Vowel Sounds: ㅏ (a) = "ah", ㅓ (eo) = "uh", ㅗ (o) = "oh", ㅜ (u) = "oo", ㅡ (eu) = between "uh" and "oo" (no English equivalent), ㅣ (i) = "ee". Double vowels: ㅐ (ae) = "eh", ㅔ (e) = "eh" (nearly the same in modern Korean).

Consonant Tips: Korean has aspirated (strong breath) and tense (tight throat) consonants. ㄱ (g/k), ㅋ (k with strong breath), ㄲ (kk tight). Similarly: ㄷ/ㅌ/ㄸ (d/t/tt), ㅂ/ㅍ/ㅃ (b/p/pp), ㅈ/ㅊ/ㅉ (j/ch/jj), ㅅ/ㅆ (s/ss).

Speech Levels: Always use polite endings (-요 or -ㅂ니다) with strangers and elders. 해요체 (informal polite with -요) is safe for most situations. Never use 반말 (casual speech) with people older than you or strangers.

Tips for Learning: Use Naver Dictionary (en.dict.naver.com) for accurate translations. Install the Papago translation app. Watch Korean content with subtitles. Practice at convenience stores and restaurants where interactions are short and predictable. Koreans appreciate any attempt to speak Korean, even if imperfect.

Numbers System: Korea uses two number systems. Native Korean (하나, 둘, 셋) is used for counting items, hours, and age. Sino-Korean (일, 이, 삼) is used for money, phone numbers, dates, minutes, and addresses. This is one of the most confusing aspects for learners but becomes natural with practice.