Korean Number Converter

Korean Numbers to English Numbers: A Detailed Conversion Guide

Korean numbers can be quite tricky for those new to the language, especially when it comes to converting them into English. In Korean, there are two systems for counting: native Korean numbers and Sino-Korean numbers. Understanding the differences between these two systems is essential for accurate conversion.

Native Korean Numbers

The native Korean numbering system is primarily used for counting objects, age, and when telling time. Below is a table showing the native Korean numbers from one to ten along with their English equivalents:

Korean	English
하나 (hana)	One
둘 (dul)	Two
셋 (set)	Three
넷 (net)	Four
다섯 (daseot)	Five
여섯 (yeoseot)	Six
일곱 (ilgop)	Seven
여덟 (yeodeol)	Eight
아홉 (ahop)	Nine
열 (yeol)	Ten

For numbers beyond ten, native Korean numbers can be combined. For instance, twenty-one is 스물하나 (seumul-hana) which directly translates to "twenty-one" in English.

Sino-Korean Numbers

The Sino-Korean system is derived from Chinese and is generally used for dates, money, addresses, and phone numbers. Here’s a similar table for Sino-Korean numbers:

Korean	English
일 (il)	One
이 (i)	Two
삼 (sam)	Three
사 (sa)	Four
오 (o)	Five
육 (yuk)	Six
칠 (chil)	Seven
팔 (pal)	Eight
구 (gu)	Nine
십 (sip)	Ten

When you combine Sino-Korean numbers, the structure changes slightly. For example, twenty-one in Sino-Korean is 이십일 (isibil), which directly translates to "two-ten-one".

Examples of Conversion

1. Counting Objects:

   • 한국어: 사과 세 개 (sagwa se gae)
   • English: Three apples

2. Buying:

   • 한국어: 이천 원 (icheon won)
   • English: Two thousand won (Sino-Korean)

3. Age:

   • 한국어: 열다섯살 (yeoldaseot sal)
   • English: Fifteen years old (native Korean)

4. Dates:

   • 한국어: 2023년 10월 25일 (2023-nyeon 10-wol 25-il)
   • English: October 25, 2023

When converting numbers, it’s essential to understand the context you are using them in—some are distinctly different whether you’re using native or Sino-Korean.

FAQs

What are the differences between native Korean and Sino-Korean numbers?

Native Korean numbers are typically used for counting and expressing age, while Sino-Korean numbers are used for dates and transactions. It's crucial to use the appropriate number system based on the context.

How do I convert larger numbers?

For larger numbers, both systems involve some rules:

• Native Korean: Combine numbers logically (e.g., sixty-one is 여든하나 - yeodeun-hana).
• Sino-Korean: Use a base ten system (e.g., one hundred fifty is 백오십 - baeg-osip).

Are there exceptions in usage?

Yes, certain contexts restrict the use of either native or Sino-Korean numbers. For instance, telling age often defaults to native numbers despite the general rule being to use Sino-Korean for counting.

What about decimal numbers?

Decimal numbers often lean towards Sino-Korean, especially in mathematical and scientific contexts, e.g., 3.14 would be 삼점일사 (samjeom ilsa).

Understanding these number systems is key to effective communication and comprehension in Korean. Practice regularly, and soon you'll convert numbers from Korean to English with confidence!