Learning a new language is not only about grasping grammar and vocabulary but also diving into the unique expressions that give it charm and character. Korean, in particular, is full of funny and intriguing idioms that will not only enhance your language skills but also give you a chuckle. Let’s explore some of these expressions and their origins, along with their meanings and example sentences.

개구리 올챙이 적 생각 못 한다 (gaeguri olchaeng-i jeok saeng-gag mot handa)
Literally translated, this expression means “The frog forgets the time when he used to be a tadpole.” It’s used to describe someone who has forgotten their humble beginnings after finding success or improving their situation.
요즘 성공한 그 친구는 예전 힘들었던 시절을 잊은 것 같아. 개구리 올챙이 적 생각을 못 한다니까.

등잔 밑이 어둡다 (deungjan mit-i eodubda)
This idiom translates to “It’s dark under the oil lamp,” which is akin to saying that sometimes the most obvious things are the hardest to see. It can be used when someone has missed something in plain sight.
걔는 자기가 찾던 안경이 코 위에 있었다는 걸 눈치채지 못했어. 정말 등잔 밑이 어둡더라고.

벼는 익을수록 고개를 숙인다 (byeoneun ik-eulsurok gogaeleul sug-inda)
A beautiful expression meaning “The rice stalks bow lower the fuller they become,” suggesting that the wiser or more learned a person becomes, the more humble they should be.
진짜 현명한 사람일수록 겸손해. 벼는 익을수록 고개를 숙이니까.

고양이 목에 방울 달기 (goyangi mog-e bang-ul dalgi)
Directly translating to “Tying a bell on a cat’s neck,” this expression is used when you’re tasked with a particularly difficult or nearly impossible job, much like trying to place a bell on a cat.
새로운 프로젝트를 시작하는 것은 고양이 목에 방울 달기 같아.

해가 서쪽에서 뜬다 (haega seojjog-eseo tteunda)
This literally means “The sun rises from the west,” and is used to express a situation that is very unlikely to happen. It’s similar to when English speakers say “when pigs fly.”
네가 청소를 한다고? 해가 서쪽에서 뜨겠네.

눈에서 멀어지면 마음에서도 멀어진다 (nun-eseo meol-eojimyeon ma-eum-eseodo meol-eojinda)
“The far from the eyes, the far from the heart” is what this expression says, describing how people can lose affection or interest when separated from each other or from something they love.
지훈이는 해외로 이사간 후로 친구들과 점점 멀어지고 있어. 눈에서 멀어지면 마음에서도 멀어진다니까.

Korean expressions are more than just words strung together; they are a window into the culture’s values, humor, and collective wisdom. Engaging with these idioms not only brings a smile but also deepens your understanding of the language and the people who speak it. Whether you’re studying Korean for fun or to connect on a deeper level with Korean friends or culture, peppering your conversations with these idioms will show your appreciation for the nuances of the language. Happy learning, and don’t forget to enjoy the linguistic journey with all of its humorous twists and turns!