In our daily life we often use time as a reference when talking to others that is why time expressions are important to learn; even in Korean.

Fluid Time

In our everyday life we often use two things as points of reference: time and place. It is so important that it will come to no surprise of anyone to know there are quite a lot of ways to express time in Korean. When I say express time I do not just mean telling what time it is right now. No, that is but the beginning, because there are so many ways to express time. Time is fluid you know.

For those of my readers who have yet to master Korean numbers, both Sino-Korean and native Korean numbers: While numbers will not be omnipresent in this upcoming series, they will be frequent guest. It might be a good idea to start mastering them.

Time series

Please mind you there are far more time expressions in Korean than I will discuss in this “short” series. However, I need to start somewhere and it is best I also stop somewhere. I consulted some textbooks and I think the time expressions I selected are perfect for my level which is upper beginner/early intermediate (I am being generous though).

My series will go as follows:

  • Time basics
  • 전에 / -기 전에
  • 후에 / -(으)ㄴ 후에
  • -고 나서
  • -아/어서
  • 때 / -(으)ㄹ 때
  • -(으)면서 and 동안 / -는 동안
  • 중 / -는 중
  • -자마자
  • -(으)ㄴ 지

I will be on it after chuseok since I will be celebrating chuseok this year with my Korean roommate. You can expect some pictures of the food on Instagram. I hope you enjoy Korean and Chinese food since I am going to keep eating until I drop!

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Nick is a someone who enjoys exploring new and different things. 2 years ago when he met his Korean friends he decided to go for it and learn Korean. Now he is struggling with the language while sharing an apartment with his Korean roomie.

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