Understanding the Two Number Systems in Korean

One of the unique aspects of numbers in Korean is that there are two distinct number systems: the native Korean numbers and the Sino-Korean numbers. Each system has its own set of numbers and specific contexts where it is used, which can be confusing for beginners.

Native Korean Numbers

Native Korean numbers are used primarily for counting things, ages, and hours (time). They are typically used when the quantity is less than 100.

• Basic numbers 1-10: 하나 (hana), 둘 (dul), 셋 (set), 넷 (net), 다섯 (daseot), 여섯 (yeoseot), 일곱 (ilgop), 여덟 (yeodeol), 아홉 (ahop), 열 (yeol)
• Numbers 11-19: Formed by combining 열 (10) with the base numbers, e.g., 열하나 (yeolhana) for 11, 열둘 (yeoldul) for 12
• Tens: 스물 (seumul, 20), 서른 (seoreun, 30), 마흔 (maheun, 40), 쉰 (swin, 50), etc.

Native Korean numbers are irregular compared to Sino-Korean numbers, which makes memorization important.

Sino-Korean Numbers

Sino-Korean numbers come from Chinese and are used for dates, money, phone numbers, addresses, and numbers above 100.

• Basic numbers 1-10: 일 (il), 이 (i), 삼 (sam), 사 (sa), 오 (o), 육 (yuk), 칠 (chil), 팔 (pal), 구 (gu), 십 (sip)
• Forming larger numbers: Numbers are combined logically, e.g., 이십 (20), 삼십 (30), 백 (100), 천 (1000), 만 (10,000)
• Usage: Common in formal contexts and when dealing with larger numbers or measurements

Sino-Korean numbers are more regular and easier to learn for counting large quantities.

When to Use Native Korean vs. Sino-Korean Numbers

Understanding when to use each number system is crucial for speaking Korean naturally and correctly.

Common Usage of Native Korean Numbers

• Counting items: 하나, 둘, 셋, etc., are used when counting objects, but only up to 99.
• Age: When telling one’s age in casual speech, native Korean numbers are used with the word 살 (sal), e.g., 스물다섯 살 (seumul daseot sal) for 25 years old.
• Hours: Native Korean numbers are used for telling time (hours only), such as 세 시 (se si) for 3 o’clock.

Common Usage of Sino-Korean Numbers

• Dates: For months and days in a calendar, e.g., 삼월 (samwol) for March, 십오일 (siboil) for the 15th day.
• Money: Prices and amounts use Sino-Korean numbers, e.g., 만 원 (man won) for 10,000 won.
• Phone numbers: Read using Sino-Korean numbers.
• Counting units above 99: Large quantities use Sino-Korean numbers exclusively.
• Minutes and seconds: Time measurements for minutes and seconds use Sino-Korean numbers.

Pronunciation Tips for Numbers in Korean

Mastering the pronunciation of numbers in Korean is important for clear communication, especially since some numbers sound similar.

• Native Korean: Pay attention to the soft sounds of numbers like 하나 (hana) versus the more clipped sounds in Sino-Korean.
• Sino-Korean: Watch out for pronunciation changes in combination, such as 십 (sip) changing to 심 (sim) before certain consonants.
• Tone and emphasis: Korean is not a tonal language, but proper stress can help distinguish numbers, especially in rapid speech.

Practicing with Talkpal’s audio tools helps reinforce accurate pronunciation and listening skills.

Practical Examples of Using Numbers in Korean

Understanding the theory of numbers is one thing, but applying them in everyday situations is key to fluency.

Counting Objects and People

When counting objects, Korean uses counters that depend on the type of object, combined with native Korean numbers.

• 한 명 (han myeong) – one person
• 두 권 (du gwon) – two books
• 세 개 (se gae) – three items (general counter)

Talking About Age

A common phrase is to state someone’s age using native numbers:

• 저는 스물다섯 살입니다. (Jeoneun seumul daseot salimnida.) – I am 25 years old.

Telling Time

Hours use native Korean numbers, while minutes use Sino-Korean:

• 지금 세 시 십오 분입니다. (Jigeum se si sibo bunimnida.) – It is 3:15 now.

Handling Money and Prices

Prices are expressed with Sino-Korean numbers:

• 이것은 만 원입니다. (Igeoseun man wonimnida.) – This is 10,000 won.

Using Dates

Dates combine Sino-Korean numbers with specific words for year, month, and day:

• 2024년 6월 15일 (Icheon isibo nian yukwol siboil) – June 15, 2024

Tips to Master Numbers in Korean Efficiently

Learning numbers in Korean may seem challenging at first due to the two systems and usage rules, but with consistent practice, it becomes second nature.

• Practice daily: Use Talkpal’s interactive quizzes and flashcards to reinforce your memory.
• Use real-life contexts: Practice telling time, counting objects, or discussing prices in Korean daily.
• Listen actively: Engage with Korean media such as dramas, music, and podcasts to hear numbers in natural speech.
• Speak with natives: Conversing with native speakers on Talkpal will help you apply numbers fluidly.
• Memorize counters: Learn the common counters used with native Korean numbers to sound more natural.

Conclusion

Mastering numbers in Korean is a foundational step toward fluency and effective communication. By understanding the differences between native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers, knowing when to use each system, and practicing pronunciation and application in real-life contexts, learners can confidently navigate everyday conversations, from telling time to discussing prices. Talkpal offers an excellent platform to practice and perfect these skills through immersive lessons and native speaker interactions. With dedication and the right tools, numbers in Korean will soon become an effortless part of your language journey.