Korean mixes native words (고유어) and Sino-Korean words (한자어). Understanding both origins speeds up vocab and numbers.
Example: numbers
Native: 하나둘셋 (age, hours). Sino: 일이삼 (dates, money, minutes). Same idea “counting,” two tools.
Formality & precision
한자어 often sound more formal/written (신문, 문제, 경제). 고유어 feel more concrete/everyday (밥, 집, 마음).
Key vocabulary
| Word | Romanization | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 한자어 | hanjaeo | Sino-Korean word |
| 고유어 | goyueo | Native word |
| 한자 | hanja | Chinese characters |
Tip
When learning a word, note Sino vs native. It helps predict compounds (학교, 학생…).
Go further
Find these words in the Seonsaengnim dictionary and practice them in lessons / flashcards with native audio.