33. Idioms in Korean

Idioms are a crucial part of any language. In Korean, they are known as 속담 (sokdam) and are used frequently in everyday conversation. In this chapter, we're going to explore 33 Korean idioms that can enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more authentically.

1. 가는 날이 장날 (Ganeun nari jangnal): This expression literally means "the day you go is market day". It is used to describe an unexpected coincidence or an unexpectedly lucky situation.

2. 개구리 올챙이적 생각 못한다 (Gaeguri olchaengijeok saenggak motanda): Literally, "a frog forgets he was a tadpole". It is used to describe someone who has forgotten his humble or modest origins after achieving success or wealth.

3. 고래 싸움에 새우등 터진다 (Gorae ssawume saewudeong teojinda): This idiom literally means "when whales fight, shrimp's backs break". This is used to describe situations where the small suffer when the mighty fight.

4. 그림의 떡 (Geurimui tteok): Literally, "a cake in a picture". This expression is used to describe something you cannot have, even if you can see it.

5. 금강산도 식후경 (Geumgangsando sik hukyeong): Literally, "Even Mount Geumgang must be seen after the meal". This means that basic needs like food come before anything else.

6. 낮말은 새가 듣는다 (Natmareun saega deunda): Literally, "birds hear the words spoken during the day". This means you have to be careful what you say, as you never know who might be listening.

7. 누워서 떡 먹기 (Nu woseo tteok meokgi): Literally, "eat cake while lying down". This expression is used to describe a situation that is very easy or comfortable.

8. 등잔 밑이 어둡다 (Deungjan miti eodubda): Literally, "it is dark under the lamp". This means people often don't see what's right under their noses.

9. 말이 살이다 (Mari salida): Literally, "words are meat". This means that words have power and can have real consequences.

10. 배보다 배꼽이 더 크다 (Baeboda baegobi deo keuda): Literally, "the navel is bigger than the belly". This is used to describe situations where the solution or effort is greater than the original problem.

Continuing the list, we have expressions such as 소 잃고 외양간 고친다 (So ilko oeyanggan gochinda), which means "close the barn after the horse has run away", used to indicate actions taken too late. 아는 길도 물어가라 (Aneun gildo mureogara), which means "ask even the way you know", advising verification and caution. 원숭이도 나무에서 떨어진다 (Wonsungido namueseo tteoreojinda), which means "even a monkey can fall from a tree", indicating that everyone can make mistakes.

These are just a few of the many Korean idioms you can learn to improve your Korean communication skills. Remembering these expressions and using them correctly can help you express yourself in a more authentic and understandable way for native Korean speakers. Keep practicing, and you'll soon feel more comfortable using these and other idioms in your Korean conversations.

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