How to Count in Korean

Korean is unique because it uses two entirely different number systems: the Native Korean system and the Sino-Korean system (derived from Chinese). The numbers listed above are the Native Korean numbers.

Native Korean numbers (hana, dul, set...) are used for counting physical objects, people, and age. When counting objects, these numbers are paired with specific "counters" (e.g., gae for items, myeong for people). Note that numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, and 20 change their form slightly when attached to a counter (hana becomes han, dul becomes du, set becomes se, net becomes ne).

The Sino-Korean numbers (il, i, sam, sa...) are used for dates, money, addresses, phone numbers, and minutes/seconds. It is essential to learn both systems to fully navigate daily life in Korea.

Pronunciation Tips

Korean pronunciation relies heavily on the position of the tongue and the shape of the mouth. Here are tips for the Native Korean numbers 1-10:

• Set (3), Net (4), Daseot (5), Yeoseot (6): The final consonant 'ㅅ' (s) is pronounced as an unreleased 't' sound when it appears at the end of a syllable. Do not release a puff of air; just stop the sound abruptly.
• Dul (2), Yeol (10): The Korean 'ㄹ' (l/r) at the end of a syllable sounds closer to an English 'l', but the tongue touches the roof of the mouth slightly further back.
• Yeodeol (8): This word has a double final consonant (ㄼ). In standard pronunciation, only the 'ㄹ' (l) is pronounced, making it sound like "yeo-deol". The 'ㅂ' (b/p) is silent unless followed by a vowel.
• Ilgop (7), Ahop (9): The final 'ㅂ' (p) is also unreleased. Stop the sound with your lips closed without letting air escape.