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Unit 13: Native Korean Numbers & Counting (하나, 둘, 셋...)

In the last unit, we learned the Sino-Korean numbers. Today, we will learn the Native Korean numbers. Unlike the math-like Sino system, these are mostly used for smaller quantities.

1. When to use Native Korean Numbers

Native Korean numbers are used for: * Counting physical objects (1 apple, 3 cars, 5 people) * Telling your age * Hours (but NOT minutes!)

2. Numbers 1 to 10

You must memorize these individually:

1 = 하나 (ha-na) 2 = 둘 (dul) 3 = 셋 (set) 4 = 넷 (net) 5 = 다섯 (da-seot) 6 = 여섯 (yeo-seot) 7 = 일곱 (il-gop) 8 = 여덟 (yeo-deol) 9 = 아홉 (a-hop) 10 = 열 (yeol)

For 11, you just say 10 + 1: 열하나 (yeol-ha-na) For 20, there is a special word: 스물 (seu-mul).

(Note: In modern Korean, people rarely use Native numbers past 60. For huge numbers, they switch back to the Sino-Korean system).

3. Counting Words (Counters)

In English, we say "two apples." We just put the number before the noun. In Korean, when you count objects using Native Korean numbers, you MUST use a "Counter" word.

The structure is: Noun + Number + Counter

Here are the two most common counters: * 개 (gae) = Counter for things/objects (apples, pens, bags) * 명 (myeong) = Counter for people (students, friends)

4. The Shape-Shifters (1, 2, 3, 4, 20)

When the numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 20 are followed by a counter, they change their shape slightly to be easier to say!

  • 1: 하나 -> 한 (한 개, 한 명)
  • 2: 둘 -> 두 (두 개, 두 명)
  • 3: 셋 -> 세 (세 개, 세 명)
  • 4: 넷 -> 네 (네 개, 네 명)
  • 20: 스물 -> 스무 (스무 개, 스무 명)

From 5 onwards, they stay the same (다섯 개, 여섯 명).

Examples: * 사과 한 개 (Apple + 1 + thing counter) = One apple * 친구 두 명 (Friend + 2 + people counter) = Two friends

Summary

  • Native Korean numbers are used for counting objects and people.
  • Noun + Number + Counter
  • 1, 2, 3, 4 change to 한, 두, 세, 네 when placed before a counter!