Understanding Korean Numbers: A Beginner’s Guide to Counting in Korean

 

Introduction

Numbers are an essential part of any language, and in Korean, they come with a unique twist: there are two number systems! Understanding when and how to use Sino-Korean (based on Chinese characters) and native Korean numbers is a fundamental skill for learners. Whether you’re buying items, telling time, or discussing your age, knowing the rules of Korean numbers is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the two systems, their uses, and practical examples. With a little practice, you’ll be counting in Korean like a pro!

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The Two Korean Number Systems

Korean uses two distinct numbering systems:

1. Sino-Korean Numbers
   Derived from Chinese, these numbers are used in formal contexts, dates, prices, phone numbers, measurements, and large numbers.

2. Native Korean Numbers
   These numbers are indigenous to Korea and are primarily used for counting small objects, people, age (in casual conversation), and hours on the clock.

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Sino-Korean Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers follow a logical and consistent pattern, making them easier for beginners to learn.

Basic Sino-Korean Numbers (1–10)

Korean	Romanization	English Translation
일	il	One
이	i	Two
삼	sam	Three
사	sa	Four
오	o	Five
육	yuk	Six
칠	chil	Seven
팔	pal	Eight
구	gu	Nine
십	sip	Ten

Forming Larger Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers build logically by combining units of ten, hundred, and beyond.

• 11: 십일 (sipil) → Ten + One
• 25: 이십오 (isipo) → Twenty + Five
• 100: 백 (baek) → One hundred
• 1,000: 천 (cheon) → One thousand

When to Use Sino-Korean Numbers

• Dates: 2023년 (i-cheon-i-sip-sam nyeon) → "Year 2023"
• Prices: 5,000원 (o-cheon won) → "5,000 won"
• Phone Numbers: 010-1234-5678 → gong-il-gong il-i-sam-sa o-yuk-chil-pal
• Measurements: 3 kilograms → 삼 킬로그램 (sam kilogram)

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Native Korean Numbers

Native Korean numbers have a distinct set of terms for numbers 1–99. Beyond this, Sino-Korean numbers are typically used.

Basic Native Korean Numbers (1–10)

Korean	Romanization	English Translation
하나	hana	One
둘	dul	Two
셋	set	Three
넷	net	Four
다섯	daseot	Five
여섯	yeoseot	Six
일곱	ilgop	Seven
여덟	yeodeol	Eight
아홉	ahop	Nine
열	yeol	Ten

Forming Larger Numbers

Numbers beyond ten are formed by combining the base numbers with yeol (ten).

• 11: 열하나 (yeolhana) → Ten + One
• 23: 스물셋 (seumulset) → Twenty + Three

When to Use Native Korean Numbers

• Counting Objects:
  • Three apples → 사과 세 개 (sagwa se gae)
• Age (Informally):
  • "I am 25 years old." → 스물다섯 살이에요 (seumul daseot sal-ieyo).
• Hours:
  • 3:00 → 세 시 (se si).

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Key Differences Between the Two Systems

Feature	Sino-Korean Numbers	Native Korean Numbers
Origin	Based on Chinese numerals	Indigenous to Korea
Usage	Formal contexts, dates	Informal contexts, counting
Range	Unlimited	Typically 1–99

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Combining Number Systems

In many cases, you’ll need to use both systems in one sentence.

Example: Telling Time

• Hours (Native Korean) + Minutes (Sino-Korean):
  • 3:15 → 세 시 십오 분 (se si sipo bun).

Example: Shopping

• Quantity (Native Korean) + Price (Sino-Korean):
  • "Two apples for 3,000 won." → 사과 두 개에 삼천 원이에요. (Sagwa du gae-e samcheon won-ieyo.)

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Common Challenges

1. Mixing the Systems

Beginners often confuse when to use each system. A helpful tip is to memorize their specific contexts: Native for counting objects, Sino for dates and measurements.

2. Remembering Large Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers for thousands and millions can be tricky. Break them into smaller units for easier recall.

• Example: 12,345 → 만 이천삼백사십오 (man icheonsambaeksasibo).

3. Native Number Variations

Native numbers 하나, 둘, 셋, and 넷 become 한, 두, 세, and 네 when used before counters.

• Example: 한 명 (han myeong, "one person"), 두 개 (du gae, "two items").

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Tips for Mastering Korean Numbers

1. Memorize Through Repetition:
   Practice saying numbers daily, focusing on different scenarios like telling time or discussing prices.

2. Use Real-Life Scenarios:
   Apply numbers when ordering food, checking the time, or talking about dates to solidify their usage.

3. Flashcards for Quick Recall:
   Create flashcards for both Sino and Native numbers to practice their forms and contexts.

4. Watch Korean Content:
   Pay attention to how numbers are used in K-dramas, variety shows, or news programs.

5. Practice with Counters:
   Learn counters for objects, people, and time to use numbers naturally.

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Fun Cultural Insights

1. Lucky Numbers:
   The number 4 (사, sa) is considered unlucky in Korea due to its similarity in pronunciation to "death" (死, sa). Buildings may skip the 4th floor or use "F" instead.

2. Significance of Age:
   Age is an essential aspect of Korean culture, influencing how people interact based on seniority. Understanding numbers helps in social settings where age matters.

3. Number Puns:
   Koreans often use numbers for playful wordplay, such as 8282 (ppali ppali, meaning "hurry up").

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Conclusion

Mastering Korean numbers is an essential step for anyone learning the language. Though juggling two number systems might seem daunting, understanding their distinct uses and practicing regularly will make counting in Korean second nature. From telling time to discussing prices, these foundational skills will open doors to more fluent conversations and deeper cultural understanding.

So, start counting, apply your knowledge in real-life contexts, and enjoy the fascinating journey of learning Korean!