한국어를 배우고 있어요
hangugeo-reul baeugo isseoyo
To say "I am learning Korean" in Korean, use 한국어를 배우고 있어요 (hangugeo-reul baeugo isseoyo).
This phrase is used to inform someone that you are currently in the process of studying the Korean language.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of 한국어 (Korean language), the object marker 를, the verb 배우다 (to learn) and the progressive form 고 있어요 (am/is/are doing), which translates literally to "Korean language (object) learning am doing".
Which one should you use?
The default form 한국어를 배우고 있어요 uses the progressive form to emphasize the continuous process of studying. In contrast, you can also use 한국어를 배워요, which is a simpler present tense form that can also mean "I am learning Korean".
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form uses the polite ending -어요, making it appropriate for speaking to strangers, acquaintances or people older than you.
How do you pronounce it?
hangugeo-reul baeugo isseoyo
Did you know?
- When talking about the language, using 한국말 specifically refers to the spoken word, whereas 한국어 encompasses the entire linguistic system including writing.
- In Korean culture, the act of learning 배우다 is often viewed as a relationship between a student and a mentor rather than a solitary academic pursuit.
- Korean grammar allows the speaker to omit the word 'I' entirely, meaning the sentence begins with the object 한국어 instead of the subject.
Examples in context
- 한국 드라마를 보면서 한국어를 배우고 있어요I am learning Korean while watching Korean dramas
- 핸드폰 어플을 이용해서 한국어를 배우고 있어요I am learning Korean using a mobile app
- 요즘 한국어를 배우고 있어요.yojeum hangugoreul baeugo isseoyo.I am learning Korean these days.
- 혼자서 한국어를 배우고 있어요.honjaseo hangugoreul baeugo isseoyo.I am learning Korean by myself.
- 집에서 한국어를 배우고 있어요.jibeseo hangugoreul baeugo isseoyo.I am learning Korean at home.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their recent activities.
- 서연 Seo-yeon도현 씨, 요즘 뭐 해요?dohyeon ssi, yojum mwo haeyo?Dohyun, what are you doing these days?
- 도현 Do-hyeon저는 한국어를 배우고 있어요.jeoneun hangugeoreul baeugo isseoyo.I am learning Korean.
- 서연 Seo-yeon와, 정말 멋지네요!wa, jeongmal meotjineyo!Wow, that's really cool!
- 도현 Do-hyeon감사합니다. 조금 어려워요.gamsahamnida. jogeum eoryeowoyo.Thank you. It's a bit difficult.
