Understanding the Two Korean Counting Systems

Korean counting is unique because it uses two separate systems: the native Korean numbers and the Sino-Korean numbers. Each system has its own set of numbers and specific contexts where it is applied. Mastering both is crucial for fluency and comprehension.

Native Korean Numbers

Native Korean numbers are the original Korean numbering system and are primarily used for counting objects, age, and hours (time). These numbers are usually used when counting items or people, and they cover numbers from 1 to 99. Here are the native Korean numbers from 1 to 10:

• 1 – 하나 (hana)
• 2 – 둘 (dul)
• 3 – 셋 (set)
• 4 – 넷 (net)
• 5 – 다섯 (daseot)
• 6 – 여섯 (yeoseot)
• 7 – 일곱 (ilgop)
• 8 – 여덟 (yeodeol)
• 9 – 아홉 (ahop)
• 10 – 열 (yeol)

When counting items or people, native Korean numbers are paired with specific counters (measure words), such as 명 (myeong) for people, 개 (gae) for general objects, and 마리 (mari) for animals.

Sino-Korean Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers are derived from Chinese and are used for dates, money, phone numbers, addresses, minutes, and numbers above 99. These numbers are more versatile in formal and business contexts. Here are Sino-Korean numbers from 1 to 10:

• 1 – 일 (il)
• 2 – 이 (i)
• 3 – 삼 (sam)
• 4 – 사 (sa)
• 5 – 오 (o)
• 6 – 육 (yuk)
• 7 – 칠 (chil)
• 8 – 팔 (pal)
• 9 – 구 (gu)
• 10 – 십 (sip)

Sino-Korean numbers are often combined to form larger numbers. For example, 21 is 이십일 (i-sip-il), which literally translates to “two-ten-one.”

When to Use Native Korean vs. Sino-Korean Numbers

One of the most common challenges for learners is knowing when to use each counting system. Here is a detailed guide to help you determine the appropriate context for each:

Contexts for Native Korean Numbers

• Counting items: Use native Korean numbers with counters to count physical objects, e.g., 사과 다섯 개 (five apples).
• Age: When stating your age in casual conversation, native Korean numbers are generally used, e.g., 스물다섯 살 (25 years old).
• Hours (time): For telling time, native Korean numbers are used to indicate the hour, e.g., 세 시 (3 o’clock).
• Counting people: Use 명 after native Korean numbers to count people, e.g., 세 명 (three people).

Contexts for Sino-Korean Numbers

• Dates: Years, months, and days are expressed with Sino-Korean numbers, e.g., 2024년 6월 15일 (June 15, 2024).
• Money: Prices and amounts of money use Sino-Korean numbers, e.g., 만 원 (10,000 won).
• Phone numbers: All digits in phone numbers are said using Sino-Korean numbers.
• Minutes and seconds: Minutes and seconds in time use Sino-Korean numbers, e.g., 10분 (10 minutes).
• Addresses: Street numbers and building numbers are expressed with Sino-Korean numbers.
• Numbers above 99: Larger numbers and mathematical calculations use Sino-Korean numbers exclusively.

How to Form Larger Numbers in Korean

Forming numbers beyond ten requires combining smaller units. This process differs between native Korean and Sino-Korean counting systems.

Native Korean Numbers Beyond Ten

Native Korean numbers generally only go up to 99, and numbers beyond 20 are formed by combining the tens and units with specific words:

• 20 – 스물 (seumul)
• 30 – 서른 (seoreun)
• 40 – 마흔 (maheun)
• 50 – 쉰 (swin)
• 60 – 예순 (yesun)
• 70 – 일흔 (ilheun)
• 80 – 여든 (yeodeun)
• 90 – 아흔 (aheun)

For example, 25 in native Korean is 스물다섯 (seumul-daseot), which literally means “twenty five.”

Sino-Korean Numbers Beyond Ten

Sino-Korean numbers use a logical decimal system similar to English. They combine digits and place values for tens, hundreds, thousands, etc.

• 10 – 십 (sip)
• 20 – 이십 (i-sip)
• 100 – 백 (baek)
• 1,000 – 천 (cheon)
• 10,000 – 만 (man)

Examples:

• 56 – 오십육 (o-sip-yuk) = 5 (오) × 10 (십) + 6 (육)
• 123 – 백이십삼 (baek-i-sip-sam) = 100 (백) + 20 (이십) + 3 (삼)

Practical Tips for Learning Korean Counting

Mastering Korean counting requires consistent practice and exposure. Here are some effective strategies:

• Use Talkpal: This platform offers interactive lessons specifically focused on Korean counting, providing real-time feedback and contextual exercises.
• Practice with counters: Learn common counters like 개 (items), 명 (people), 마리 (animals), and use them in sentences.
• Memorize numbers in context: Practice telling time, stating your age, or reading prices to reinforce when to use each system.
• Listen and repeat: Use Korean dramas, podcasts, or Talkpal’s audio tools to hear native pronunciation and intonation.
• Write and speak: Regularly write numbers and speak them aloud to build muscle memory and confidence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Learning Korean Counting

Even advanced learners sometimes confuse the two systems or misuse counters. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Mixing counting systems: Do not use Sino-Korean numbers with native Korean counters or vice versa.
• Incorrect counters: Each noun requires a specific counter; using the wrong one can confuse meaning.
• Pronunciation errors: Some numbers have irregular pronunciations in compound forms (e.g., 육 is pronounced “yuk” but changes to “yuk” or “uk” in combinations).
• Ignoring context: Always consider the context—age, time, quantity, or money—to select the correct counting system.

Conclusion

Mastering Korean counting is a critical step toward fluency, as numbers appear in everyday conversation, business, and cultural contexts. Understanding the distinction between native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers, knowing when and how to use each system, and practicing consistently are key to becoming comfortable with Korean counting. Utilizing tools like Talkpal can significantly enhance your learning experience by providing structured practice and real-world examples. By dedicating time to learning Korean counting, you will improve your overall language skills and gain confidence in navigating various situations that require numerical understanding.