Learn Korean: Numbers 1–20

Learning Korean numbers is a unique challenge because the language uses two distinct systems: Native Korean and Sino-Korean. This lesson covers numbers 1 through 20 in both sets, which is a vital foundation for daily conversation. Native Korean numbers like 하나 (hana), 둘 (dul), and 셋 (set) are primarily used for counting physical items, counting people, and expressing your age. On the other hand, Sino-Korean numbers such as 일 (il), 이 (i), and 삼 (sam) are used for things like dates, minutes, money, and phone numbers. Understanding when to use each system is crucial for basic communication and navigating life in Korea.

You will notice logical patterns in how higher numbers are built in both systems. In the Native system, numbers 11 through 19 combine the word for ten, 열 (yeol), with the single digits, making 11 열하나 (yeol-hana). In the Sino-Korean system, the same additive logic applies using 십 (sip), so 11 becomes 십일 (sip-il). Interestingly, the number 20 differs between the two. The Native system uses a unique word, 스물 (seumeul), while the Sino-Korean system uses a multiplicative structure, 이십 (i-sip), which literally translates to "two-ten." Mastering these foundations will allow you to handle everything from shopping at a market to telling the time or reading price tags.