Understanding the Korean Numbering Systems

Unlike many languages that use a single counting system, Korean uses two distinct sets of numbers: native Korean numbers and Sino-Korean numbers. Each has its specific applications and contexts, making it important to know when and how to use them correctly.

Native Korean Numbers

Native Korean numbers are the original counting system of the Korean language, used primarily for counting items, age (in some cases), hours on the clock, and sometimes for ordinal numbers. The native Korean numbers run from 1 to 99, after which Sino-Korean numbers are preferred.

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)

Sino-Korean Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers are derived from Chinese and are used for dates, money, addresses, phone numbers, minutes, and numbers above 99. They are also commonly used in academic and formal contexts.

Here are the 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)

How to Use Native Korean Numbers Effectively

Native Korean numbers have unique applications that differ from Sino-Korean numbers. Here’s how you can use them in everyday Korean:

Counting Objects and People

When counting objects or people, Korean often uses counters called “measure words” that follow the number. For example:

• 한 명 (han myeong) – one person
• 두 개 (du gae) – two items
• 세 마리 (se mari) – three animals

It’s important to pair the native Korean number with the appropriate counter word to form grammatically correct expressions.

Telling Time

Native Korean numbers are used for telling hours on the clock:

• 한 시 (han si) – 1 o’clock
• 두 시 (du si) – 2 o’clock
• 세 시 (se si) – 3 o’clock

Minutes, however, are typically counted using Sino-Korean numbers.

Counting Age in Informal Contexts

In casual speech, native Korean numbers can sometimes be used to state age, especially when combined with the counter 살 (sal), meaning “years old.”

Example: 열아홉 살 (yeolahop sal) – 19 years old

However, the traditional Korean age system is more complex and often uses native Korean numbers differently.

Mastering Sino-Korean Numbers for Formal and Complex Counting

Sino-Korean numbers are used in a wide range of contexts that demand precision and formality.

Dates and Money

– Dates: When saying dates, Sino-Korean numbers are used for the year, month, and day.
– Example: 2024년 6월 15일 (2024 nyeon 6 wol 15 il) – June 15, 2024
– Money: Prices and monetary amounts are always expressed with Sino-Korean numbers.
– Example: 오천 원 (ocheon won) – 5,000 won

Phone Numbers and Addresses

Phone numbers and addresses exclusively use Sino-Korean numbers for clarity and consistency.

Example: 010-1234-5678 would be read using Sino-Korean number pronunciations.

Counting Minutes, Seconds, and Larger Numbers

Minutes and seconds are counted using Sino-Korean numbers.

• 삼십 분 (samsip bun) – 30 minutes
• 오십 초 (osip cho) – 50 seconds

For numbers beyond 99, Sino-Korean numbers are necessary because native Korean numbers are not used above this range.

Combining Korean Numbers with Counters

Korean counting often requires counters or measure words, which change depending on what is being counted. Using the correct counter is essential for natural and accurate Korean.

Common Korean Counters

• 개 (gae) – general counter for objects
• 명 (myeong) – people
• 마리 (mari) – animals
• 권 (gwon) – books
• 병 (byeong) – bottles
• 장 (jang) – flat objects like paper or tickets

Example Sentences Using Counters

• 사과 세 개 주세요. (Sagwa se gae juseyo.) – Please give me three apples.
• 학생 다섯 명이 있습니다. (Haksaeng daseot myeongi itseumnida.) – There are five students.
• 강아지 두 마리를 키워요. (Gangaji du marireul kiwoyo.) – I raise two puppies.

Tips for Learning to Count in Korean

Mastering counting in Korean can be challenging due to the dual number system and use of counters. Here are some effective tips to help you learn count in Korean more efficiently:

• Practice with Talkpal: Use language apps like Talkpal that provide interactive lessons and real-life conversation practice focusing on numbers.
• Memorize Both Number Sets: Learn native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers side by side to understand their usage contexts.
• Use Flashcards: Create flashcards with numbers and counters to reinforce memory.
• Incorporate Numbers into Daily Life: Count objects around you in Korean to build familiarity.
• Listen and Repeat: Listen to Korean audio resources that emphasize numbers, such as podcasts or language videos.
• Practice with Native Speakers: Engage in conversations with native speakers, focusing on numbers and counting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Counting in Korean

Learning to count in Korean involves avoiding some typical pitfalls:

• Mixing Number Systems Incorrectly: Avoid using native Korean numbers where Sino-Korean numbers are required and vice versa.
• Forgetting Counters: Numbers alone are rarely used without the appropriate counter in Korean.
• Incorrect Pronunciation: Pay attention to subtle pronunciation differences, especially in Sino-Korean numbers.
• Using Native Korean Numbers for Large Quantities: Native Korean numbers are usually limited to below 100.

Conclusion

Counting in Korean is a vital skill that unlocks a wide range of everyday communication abilities. Understanding the differences between native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers, learning the appropriate contexts for each, and mastering counters are essential steps. Using resources like Talkpal can significantly accelerate your learning process by providing structured lessons and practice opportunities. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you can confidently count in Korean and enhance your overall language proficiency. Whether you are learning for travel, study, or personal interest, mastering Korean numbers will deepen your connection to the language and culture.