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I Always Visit These 5 Places When I Go To Korea

Each year I take a trip (or two) to visit Korea. These are the places that I always visit in Korea.

I always visit Namdaemun Market (남대문시장), Bukchon Hanok Village (북촌한옥마을), Korean Folk Village (한국민속촌), Suwon Fortress (수원 화성), and N Seoul Tower (N서울타워).

Do you also visit these places? Where else do you like to visit? Let me know here or in the video's comments.

The post I Always Visit These 5 Places When I Go To Korea appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

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Anyangam Hermitage – 안양암 (Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do)

Anyangam Hermitage on the Tongdosa Temple Grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do.

Hermitage History

Anyangam Hermitage is located on the Tongdosa Temple grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do. The name of the hermitage means “Peace Bright Hermitage” in English. It’s unknown as to when the hermitage was first built, but it was repaired in 1295 by the monk Chanin. Anyangam Hermitage was later repaired in 1865, as well. The view that Anyangam Hermitage enjoys of Mt. Yeongchuksan (1,081 m) to the north and Tongdosa Temple to the east is designated as one of the eight most scenic sights on the Tongdosa Temple grounds.

Anyangam Hermitage is home to two Gyeongsangnam-do Tangible Cultural Properties. The first is the Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) that dates back to 1861, while the other is the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall that dates back to the late Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910).

Hermitage Layout

You first approach Anyangam Hermitage from the temple parking lot along a beautiful, scenic trail that looks out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan. The views from here are absolutely stunning. Before making your way down the stairs that lead towards the Geukrak-jeon Hall, have a look to your right. To your right you’ll find the Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall. The exterior walls to this shaman shrine hall are adorned in traditional dancheong colours. There are two signboards above the two front entrances. The right signboard is for Dokseong (The Lonely Saint), while the left signboard is for Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit). Stepping inside the shaman shrine hall, you’ll find two paintings on the main altar. Both are modern depictions of the two shaman deities. While the mural dedicated to Sanshin has a prowling tiger next to the Mountain Spirit, a pair of magpies are perched on a red pine tree next to the head of Dokseong.

Making your way down the stairs, you’ll notice a pair of shrine halls in this area. The smaller one to your left is the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, while the larger one straight ahead of you is the Geukrak-jeon Hall. Originally, the hermitage was nothing more than the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, which means “North Pole Hall” in English. Another more common name for the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall at other temples and hermitages is the Chilseong-gak Hall, which is dedicated to the worship of Chilseong (The Seven Stars). Traditionally, the belief in Chilseong, which was adopted by Korean Buddhism, was first found in Chinese Taoism. The belief in Korea in Chilseong is related to longevity and extending one’s life. As for the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall at Anyangam Hermitage, it is quite small is size. The exterior walls to the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall are adorned with traditional dancheong colours. And hanging above the entry to the shaman shrine hall is a fierce, blue wood relief of a Gwimyeon (Monster Mask). Stepping inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall, you’ll realize that the entire interior is filled with beautiful murals. The main altar is occupied by seven representations of Chilseong. Above the central image that depicts Jeseok (Indra), you’ll find a compact canopy. And above this is beautiful pair of swirling dragons. The ceiling is adorned with images of Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities), as well as intricate lotus flower paintings. Also adorning some of the surfaces inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall are strangely painted Gwimyeon and newer paintings dedicated to the Bodhidharma and various Bodhisattvas. At the ends of the central beams inside the shrine hall are a pair of older looking wood sculptures of dragons. The interior of this shaman shrine hall is one of the most unique that I’ve seen inside a shaman shrine hall.

Just beyond the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall is the large, new Geukrak-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to the main hall are adorned with a beautiful collection of Buddhist murals that include a set of Palsang-do (The Eight Scenes from the Buddha’s Life Murals), the Shimu-do (The Ox-Herding Murals), Bicheon, Wonhyo-daesa (617-686 A.D.) and Uisang-daesa (625-702 A.D.), as well as the Bodhidharma.

Stepping inside the spacious Geukrak-jeon Hall, you’ll find a large, solitary statue of Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise) on the main altar. To the left of the main altar is a painting and statue dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife). And hanging on the far right wall is a modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural). Hanging above this large, modern painting is the older Shinjung Taenghwa from 1861 that’s a Gyeongsangnam-do Tangible Cultural Property. Rounding out the interior of the Geukrak-jeon Hall are two sets of paintings. The lower set of paintings are beautiful floral murals, while the upper set of paintings are dedicated to the Sinseon (Taoist Immortals).

To the south of the Geukrak-jeon Hall is the Yosachae (monks’ dorms), as well as the administrative office. It’s also in this area that you’ll find a trail that leads down to Tongdosa Temple.

How To Get There

From Busan, you’ll first need to get to the Nopo subway stop, which is stop #134. From there, go to the intercity bus terminal. From the intercity bus terminal get a bus bound for Tongdosa Temple. The ride should last about 25 minutes. The buses leave every 20 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. From where the bus drops you off at the Tongdosa Temple bus stop, you’ll need to walk an additional 10 minutes to the temple grounds west of the bus stop.

From Tongdosa Temple park lot, you’ll need to continue walking up the road to your left. Follow this road for about a kilometre. Instead of heading straight towards Seounam Hermitage, you’ll need to hang a right. Heading uphill, you’ll first pass by Sudoam Hermitage along this road. Continue up this road until you get to the turn-off for Anyangam Hermitage. The road leading into Anyangam Hermitage winds and turns, but eventually you’ll arrive at the hermitage.

Overall Rating: 5/10

There are a few highlights to this Tongdosa Temple hermitage. The first of which are the views from Anyangam Hermitage out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan. As for shrine halls at Anyangam Hermitage, the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall is a must-see, especially the interior of the shaman shrine hall with various 19th century murals. Another beautiful highlight at Anyangam Hermitage are the murals that surround the interior of the Geukrak-jeon Hall, as well as the 19th century Shinjung Taenghwa housed inside the main hall. Anyangam Hermitage is one of the top five hermitages at Tongdosa Temple.

The view at Anyangam Hermitage out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan.
The trail leading up to the hermitage.
A statue of Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) as you near the hermitage grounds.
The painting of Dokseong (The Lonely Saint) inside the Sanshin/Dokseong-gak Hall.
Joined by this beautiful painting dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit).
A look towards the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
The signboard and fierce Gwimyeong (Monster Mask) above the entry to the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
Inside the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
A look up at the ceiling of the Bukgeuk-jeon Hall.
And a rather strangely painted Gwimyeon (Monster Mask).
A look towards the Geukrak-jeon Hall (right) and the Yosachae (left).
One of the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
The Geukrak-jeon Hall is also adorned with this mural of Wonhyo-daesa (left) and Uisang-daesa (right)
As well as this beautiful painting of a Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deity).
A look inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall.
Inside the Geukrak-jeon Hall is this painting dedicated to Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife).

Why Koreans Don’t Ask “How Are You?” | Cultural Differences Explained

Koreans don't usually ask "How are you?" (e.g. 어떻게 지내요?) Instead, it's more common to ask someone you know if they've eaten. (e.g. 밥 먹었어요?) There are a few reasons for this, but I wanted to ask Koreans what they thought. "Why don't you ask people how they're doing?"

What do you think is the biggest reason?

The post Why Koreans Don’t Ask “How Are You?” | Cultural Differences Explained appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

Botaam Hermitage – 보타암 (Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do)

Botaam Hermitage on the Tongdosa Temple Grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do.

Hermitage History

Botaam Hermitage is located on the Tongdosa Temple grounds in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do. There is one story about the founding of the hermitage that states that it was created by the monk Yeongchun in 1927. And later, the nuns Jaedeok and Hojeon moved to Botaam Hermitage from a cave in Wondong. Another story states that it was simply created by the nuns Jaedeok and Hojeon in 1927. And yet another story states that while Yeongchun was residing at Tongdosa Temple, he moved to the location of Botaam Hermitage under the recommendation of the monk Gyeongbong. It was after this that Yeongchun called the newly built hermitage Botaam Hermitage. As a result, there’s a distinct possibility that Yeongchun called the hermitage Botaam Hermitage after the nuns Jaedeok and Hojeon had already built the hermitage.

Whatever might be true, the hermitage was later expanded in 1935 by the nuns Hojeon and Jeongun. And since then, Botaam Hermitage has continued to be expanded and reconstructed to its present size and layout.

Hermitage Layout

Of all the hermitages at Tongdosa Temple, Botaam Hermitage is geographically the closest. Botaam Hermitage is just 300 metres south of the main temple. As you approach the hermitage grounds, you’ll notice that the hermitage is divided into two areas. The area to the left is the off-limits area reserved for nuns at Botaam Hermitage. A little further to the right, and you’ll find a beautiful entry gate that frames the main hall. The courtyard out in front of the Daeung-jeon Hall is filled with beautiful flowers like tulips and magnolia trees during the springtime.

Just before mounting the stairs that lead up to the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find a raised relief stone in a lotus flower design. Climbing the stairs, you’ll find a vibrantly painted main hall. The exterior walls are adorned with two sets of murals. The upper set consists of the Shimu-do (The Ox-Herding Murals), while the lower set consists of Buddhist-motif murals dedicated to Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion). Stepping inside the Daeung-jeon Hall, you’ll find the main altar occupied by a triad of statues. In the centre rests Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha), who is joined on either side by Jijang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of the Afterlife) and Gwanseeum-bosal. Rather uniquely, the canopy overtop of the main altar looks like one large floral bouquet with its intricate floral designs. And hanging on the far left wall is a modern Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural).

To the right of the Daeung-jeon Hall is the Yaksa-jeon Hall. The exterior walls to this shrine hall are adorned with murals dedicated to Yaksayeorae-bul (The Buddha of Medicine, and the Buddha of the Eastern Paradise) alleviating the pain and suffering of those in need. There are also murals of Bicheon (Flying Heavenly Deities), as well as a beautiful triad painting of Yaksayeorae-bul being joined by Wolgwang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Moonlight) and Ilgwang-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Sunlight). Stepping inside the Yaksa-jeon Hall, you’ll notice a solitary image on the main altar. This is Yaksayeorae-bul. Joining Yaksayeorae-bul inside the Yaksa-jeon Hall are a pair of shaman paintings. The painting to the left is dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), while the painting to the right is dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint). Both are modern in composition.

To the right of the Yaksa-jeon Hall is a newly built Yosachae (dorms). And if you look back from where you first entered the hermitage grounds, you’ll notice the beautiful peaks of Mt. Yeongchuksan (1,082 m) off in the distance.

How To Get There

From Busan, you’ll first need to get to the Nopo subway stop, which is stop #134. From there, go to the intercity bus terminal. From the intercity bus terminal get a bus bound for Tongdosa Temple. The ride should last about 25 minutes. The buses leave every 20 minutes from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. From where the bus drops you off at the Tongdosa Temple bus stop, you’ll need to walk an additional 10 minutes to the temple grounds west of the bus stop.

From Tongdosa Temple, you’ll need to continue up the main road for another 200 metres. Botaam Hermitage is just to the south and is well-marked by a large stone with the name of the hermitage on it.

Overall Rating: 4/10

The highlight of Botaam Hermitage, at least in my mind, is the beautifully manicured courtyard and the flowers that were in full bloom. Added to this are the beautiful murals that adorn the exterior walls of both the Daeung-jeon Hall and the Yaksa-jeon Hall. Another added bonus is its close proximity to Tongdosa Temple. So when you’re finished with the main temple, perhaps a nice little stroll down to Botaam Hermitage is what you’ll want and need next.

A look through the entry gate at Botaam Hermitage towards the Daeung-jeon Hall.
Some of the beautiful flowers at the hermitage.
The stone relief of a lotus flower in front of the main hall.
One of the Shimu-do (Ox-Herding Murals) that adorns the Daeung-jeon Hall.
And one of the Gwanseeum-bosal (The Bodhisattva of Compassion) murals that also adorns the exterior of the main hall.
The view from the main hall out towards Mt. Yeongchuksan.
A look inside the Daeung-jeon Hall at Botaam Hermitage.
The Shinjung Taenghwa (Guardian Mural) inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
A closer look at the main altar triad inside the Daeung-jeon Hall.
The main altar inside the neighbouring Yaksa-jeon Hall.
The painting of Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit) inside the Yaksa-jeon Hall.
Joined by this mural dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
One of the Yaksa-jeon Hall exterior wall paintings dedicated to Yaksayeorae-bul.
Another of the beautiful paintings.
Someone in need of Yaksayeorae-bul’s aid.
And some children cleaning up.
One last look up at Mt. Yeongchuksan from the Daeung-jeon Hall at Botaam Hermitage.

“Brother” in Korean – Ways to address a male sibling

Today, we wanted to take a deeper dive into the word for “brother” in Korean.

Two guys pointing at each other with their arms over each other's shoulders

There are more Korean terms related to “brother” than you think, and we’ll go over each of them in this article.

If you have a male sibling or you know someone who is a brother, you’ll find learning this new vocabulary useful. Here we go!

How to say “brother” in Korean

First of all, you need to understand that there is a difference depending on if you are a female or a male speaker.

If you are a female speaker, the word to use for big brother is 오빠 (oppa). But if you are a male speaker, the word for older brother is 형 (hyeong). However, the word for younger brother 남동생 (namdongsaeng) can be used by both genders. So, what determines which word you will use?

Sample sentence:

우리 오빠를 벌써 만났어요? (uri oppareul beolsseo mannasseoyo?)

Did you already meet my brother?

Now, what if you want to get formal with this word? The formal way to use this word, if you are male, is to call out your older brother with 형님 (hyeongnim). And, if you are female, you would call out your older brother with 오라버니 (orabeoni). These words are rarely used in everyday conversations, but you may hear them occasionally in drama or movies.

Korean words related to “brother”

Below, we will go over some related words. This will also help you understand the point made in the above paragraph.

“Younger brother” in Korean

The word for “younger brother” in the Korean language is 남동생 (namdongsaeng). As you may notice, in this case, it doesn’t matter if the speaker is male or female. The word remains the same.

The word 동생 (dongsaeng) expresses younger sibling, while 남 (nam) designates it as a boy. The word 동생 (dongsaeng) can be also used for a younger person that you are very close to, even if you are not related to.

If you are talking to your younger brother directly, you may choose to use their name instead, though the word 동생 (dongsaeng) is also not incorrect. Most Koreans use their younger brother’s name when calling them directly. The words 동생 (dongsaeng) or 남동생 (namdongsaeng) are usually for when talking about one’s younger brother to someone else.

Sample sentence:

내 남동생이 미국으로 유학을 갈 때가 그리울 거야. (nae namdongsaengi migugeuro yuhageul gal ttaega geuriul geoya.)

I will miss my little brother when he goes to study in the United States.

“Older brother” in Korean

Based on the above, you can perhaps already guess that the word for “older brother” in Korean is 오빠 (oppa) when the speaker is female and 형 (hyeong) when the speaker is male. You can use it with people who are not related to you, as well.

Indeed, it is also common for men to call male friends older than them 형 (hyeong), while women call male friends older than them 오빠 (oppa). It is also not uncommon for women to call their significant others 오빠 (oppa), although other terms of endearment exist for that, as well.

“Stepbrother” in Korean

For stepbrother, too, there are a few different words you can use. If they are older than you and you are male, you may use 의붓형 (uibutyeong). If they are older than you and you are female, you may use 의붓오빠 (uibudoppa). If they are younger than you, you may use 의붓동생 (uibutdongsaeng), regardless of gender.

Sample sentence:

일 년에 한 번씩 의붓오빠를 방문한다. (il nyeone han beonssik uibut oppareul bangmunhanda.)

I visit my stepbrother once a year.

“Half-brother” in Korean

If they are older than you and you are male, you may use 이복형 (ibokyeong). If they are older than you and you are female, you may use 이복오빠 (ibokoppa). If they are younger than you, you may use 이복동생 (ibokdongsaeng), regardless of gender.

Sample sentence:

이 사람은 제 이복동생이에요 (i sarameun je ibokdongsaengieyo.)

This person is my half-brother.

“Brothers” in Korean

Now, if you want to speak of more than one brother at a time, the word to use is 형제 (hyeongje).

“Brother-in-law” in Korean

Now, here is where it gets a little more complicated. But we will try to make it as simple as possible! In short, there are 11 different words for brother-in-law in Korean, based on age, gender, and even marital status.

English meaningKorean
Husband's older brother아주버님 (ajubeonim)
Husband's older brother형님 (hyeongnim)
Husband's younger brother시동생 (sidongsaeng)
Husband's married younger brother서방님 (seobangnim)
Husband's unmarried younger brother도련님 (doreyonnim)
Wife's older brother형님 (hyeongnim)
Wife's younger brother처남 (cheonam)
Older sister's husband (for men)매형 (maehyeong)
Older sister's husband (for women)형부 (hyeongbu)
Younger sister's husband (for men)매제 (maeje)
Younger sister's husband (for women)제부 (jebu)

Sample sentence:

오늘은 처남과 저녁을 먹어. (oneureun cheonamgwa jeonyeogeul meogeo.)

Today, I have dinner with my brother-in-law.

Wrap Up

And there you go, we have finished learning how to say brother in Korean! Were you surprised to find out there were so many different words to know for it? For more similar content, read our article on 형 (hyeong), 언니 (eonni), 선배 (seonbae) and so on!

And if you’d like to know the terms for other immediate family members, like your older and younger siblings, parents, and grandparents, head on to our article on Korean Family Terms!

The post “Brother” in Korean – Ways to address a male sibling appeared first on 90 Day Korean.

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Korean Speech Levels – Be polite without sounding outdated

Early in your Korean studies, you will learn that there are different Korean speech levels.

A talking man facing a woman

But what do the different Korean speech levels look like? Why and how are they used?

In this article, we will cover that and even more!

What are different Korean Speech Levels?

You may be surprised to learn that the Korean language actually has 7 different speech levels. These levels are called as follows:

  1. 하소서체 (hasoseoche)
  2. 하십시오체 (hasipsioche)
  3. 하오체 (haoche)
  4. 하게체 (hageche)
  5. 해라체 (haerache)
  6. 해요체 (haeyoche)
  7. 해체 (haeche)

These speech levels can be further divided into formal and informal categories of speech. Of them, 해요체 (haeyoche) and 해체 (haeche) are informal levels of speech, while all of the other ones land under the umbrella of formal speech level.

How to say “formal speech” in Korean

The word for “formal speech level” is 격식체 (gyeoksikche).

How to say “informal speech” in Korean

On the other hand, the word for “informal speech level” is 비격식체 (bigyeoksikche).

In the sections below, we will cover each speech level in more detail.

The 7 Korean Speech Levels

Here, we will quickly overview the 7 Korean speech levels.

하소서체 (hasoseoche)

This is the most formal Korean speech level. This was commonly used in the past when addressing members of the royal family, the king, and the queen, or other high officials. Today, it mostly only appears in historical dramas and the Bible. The declarative form is stems + –나이다, and the interrogative form is stem + –나이까.

하십시오체 (hasipsioche)

This is an incredibly respectful and polite speech that is still in use today. You may hear it commonly used in broadcasts and public speeches, as well as in the service industry and other business situations. It is also the level of speech used when speaking to elders, those of higher rank, and strangers.

하오체 (haoche)

Also considered the formal level of speech, this is used specifically when addressing those of similar or lower social status. You’ll be more likely to hear it in a historical drama rather than in real life. Its declarative form is stem + –소/-오, and its interrogative form is stem + –오?.

하게체 (hageche)

This formal type of speech is also used with those of similar or lower rank. It is considered somewhat outdated, so typically, you would only see older people using it. Its declarative form is stem + –네, and its interrogative form is stem + –ㄴ/는가?. These structures are still sometimes taught in Korean classes.

해라체 (haerache)

This is considered the plain style or formally impolite. This is common in writings such as newspapers, magazines or grammar books. In spoken Korean, this is used between close friends or family of similar age. It is also commonly used in exclamations.

해요체 (haeyoche)

Although this is an informal level of speech, it is still deemed quite polite. It is the speech style Koreans use in everyday life and situations.

해체 (haeche)

This is a casual form of informal speech. Its use is restricted to siblings, close friends, relatives, and people younger than the speaker.

Commonly-used Korean Speech Levels

As you may have noticed, not all of these speech levels are still in active use, at least not regularly. So, let’s go over in a little more detail the four ones that are, so you can gain a better understanding of them.

Formal Speech Level

하십시오체 (hasipsioche) is the most respectful level of speech still used today. You’ll notice that its structure is really familiar, as it is often the first piece of grammar taught in Korean classes. However, it is only used in public speeches and business conversations, as well as by service industry workers. Its declarative form is stem + –ㅂ니다, and its interrogative form is stem + –ㅂ니까?

For example, it may be used in a sentence such as :

오늘 저희 행사에 와주셔서 감사합니다. 즐거운 시간 되십시오. (oneul jeohi haengsae wajusyeoseo gamsahamnida. jeulgeoun sigan doesipsio.)

Thank you for coming to our event today. Have a great time.

Most Commonly-used Speech Level

해라체 (haerache) is one that you definitely must become familiar with, as it is the most common speech level used. It is the plain form of formal speech used with those who are of the same status or lower rank. It doesn’t include any added respect, so it shouldn’t be used with those who rank above you or are much older than you.

This is the form of speech you will most often see in use in textbooks, newspapers, and even dictionaries, as well as indirect quotations. With this form of speech, you can casually express your present state in spoken language.

The declarative form is stem + ㄴ다/-는다, and the interrogative form is + –냐?

For example, it may be used in the following manner:

형태소는 의미를 가진 언어의 가장 작은 단위이다. (hyeongtaesoneun uimireul gajin eoneoui gajang jageun danwiida.)

Morphem is the smallest unit of language with meaning.

난 도착했다. 너는 어디냐? (nan dochakaetda. neoneun eodinya?)

I’m here. Where are you?

Informal Speech Levels

해요체 (haeyoche): As haeyoche is described as an informal level of speech, you may be surprised to learn this is the structure you are most likely to use while conversing in the Korean language.

It is regarded as quite polite, so it can be used with strangers, colleagues, and even those of higher rank or older age than you. Provided, of course, the situation doesn’t specifically require honorifics to be used. Thus, if you are not entirely sure which level of speech to use, this is the one you should choose.

Both the declarative form and the interrogative form end with stem + –요. Meanwhile, its imperative form ends with stem + –세요.

To refresh your memory, here is an example of a sentence using this speech level:

이 비빔밥은 맛있어요. (i bibimbabeun masisseoyo.)

This bibimbap is delicious.

해체 (haeche): Finally, we have the other casual speech level, haeche. This is a level of speech that can be used between friends as well as with those younger than you. This is also the same type of speech that you may have heard being referred to as 반말 (banmal). If you have studied Korean for some time already, this pattern of speech may already be familiar to you.

Its declarative form is stem + –아/어/지, and its interrogative form is stem + –냐/니?

For example, it can be used in a sentence like this:

나는 지금 책을 읽고 있어. 스티븐 킹의 책을 아니? (naneun jigeum chaegeul ilkko isseo. seutibeun kingui chaegeul ani?)

I’m reading a book now. Do you know Stephen King’s books?

Speech levels vs politeness level

Here is a good point to note that a speech level does not automatically determine the level of politeness of what you are about to say or write. As we have noted above, 하십시오체 (hasipsioche) is highly formal (and polite) to use, but it is not that common for regular spoken communication.

Thus, if you want to make sure you are being polite, use the polite form instead. This can be done by adding the -시 (-si) conjugation to your sentences. Most likely, you have already seen it in use by combining it with the verb 주다 (juda), which on its own means “to give.” In action, it shows the phrase 주세요 (juseyo), which translates as “please give.”

Additionally, there are some Korean verbs and nouns that have another, specifically honorific form for the situations that call for their use. Here is a list of honorifics that you should be aware of.

You can also add the -시 (-si) conjugation to a verb in the middle of a sentence. That is to say, you can use whichever level of speech, as long as you add 시 (si) to specifically show your politeness towards the person in question.

To a foreigner, this Korean system may sound odd at first. In many other languages, there may not be such a distinction between formality and politeness.

So, why is there one in the Korean language, and how will you be able to differentiate between the two? Well, here it is: formal/informal refers to the situation you are in, e.g., you are in a business meeting or enjoying dinner with your best friend. Meanwhile, how polite/impolite you need to be or can be is dependent on the person you are speaking to or about.

Explanation of how a sentence changes depending on the speech level used

One of the most obvious changes that appear depending on the speech level is how the speaker refers to themselves. For more formal situations, “me” is always 저 (jeo). However, if you want to speak casually, you can switch up to the more casual 나 (na).

Another easy example is the way you address others. When you use 하십시오체 (hasipsioche), you will address and refer to others by their title. This is also the level of language that Koreans refer to as 존댓말 (jondaenmal).

해요체 (haeyoche) is the other one that is considered as 존댓말 (jondaenmal), although you can drop most titles at this level. With 해라체 (haerache) and 해체 (haeche), you can get casual enough to use 너 (neo) when talking to someone. However, you will want to keep in mind that 너 (neo) is quite rarely used, as it can easily be deemed as a disrespectful way of addressing someone.

Here are some more concrete examples that illustrate these differences:

  • When you meet your friends, you can casually greet them with 안녕 (annyeong). However, when meeting with your teacher, grandparents, boss, or a stranger, you should say 안녕하세요 (annyeonghaseyo).
  • Sometimes, the word used may change entirely depending on the speech level used. For example, with your friend, you can ask 밥 먹었어? (bap meogeosseo?), which means “Did you eat?”. However, with your grandparents or boss, you will use 식사하다 (siksahada) and add -시 when conjugating like this, 식사하셨어요? (siksahasyeosseoyo?). It is the shortened version of 식사하시었어요 (siksahasieosseoyo?).
  • Similarly, to a friend, you can simply say “잘 자 (jal ja)” when you want to wish them goodnight. But to your grandparents, you would instead say “안녕히 주무세요! (annyeonghi jumuseyo!)”. Which has its own verb, 주무시다 (jumusida), in use but also requires the greeting 안녕하다 (annyeonghada).

There are also some nouns that change depending on the formality of the situation. Our list of honorifics covers many of those, as well. Formal verbs to use are included in that list, too.

Why learning Korean Speech Levels is important

Shortly put, learning these speech levels is important because they are an important aspect of Korean society and language. Also, you need to know these if you ever plan to converse with a Korean person. You absolutely do not want to offend the person you are speaking to, and thus, you want to be aware of the correct level of formality and politeness.

However, you will also want to be able to get casual with your close friends. Thankfully, in this guide, you’ve learned a lot about which speech level to use in different scenarios.

Sample words and sentences that use each speech level

Finally, let’s go over some examples with each speech level to make it easier to understand and notice the differences.

1. “Have a meal.”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 식사하십시오 (siksahasipsio)

해라체 (haerache): 밥 먹어라 (bap meogeora)

해요체 (haeyoche): 식사해요 (siksahaeyo)

해체 (haeche): 밥 먹어 (bap meogeo)

2. “Glad to meet you.”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 만나서 반갑습니다 (mannaseo bangapseumnida)

해라체 (haerache): 만나서 반갑다 (mannaseo bangapda)

해요체 (haeyoche): 만나서 반가워요 (mannaseo bangawoyo)

해체 (haeche): 만나서 반가워 (mannaseo bangawo)

3. “How are you?”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 어떻게 지내십니까? (eotteoke jinaesimnikka?)

해라체 (haerache): 어떻게 지내냐? (eotteoke jinaenya?)

해요체 (haeyoche): 어떻게 지내요? (eotteoke jinaeyo?)

해체 (haeche): 어떻게 지내? (eotteoke jinae?)

4. “Thank you.”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 감사합니다 (gamsahamnida)

해라체 (haerache): 고맙다 (gomapda)

해요체 (haeyoche): 감사해요 (gamsahaeyo)

해체 (haeche): 고마워 (gomawo)

5. “Sorry.”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 죄송합니다 (joesonghamnida)

해라체 (haerache): 미안하다 (miannhnda)

해요체 (haeyoche): 죄송해요 (joesonghaeyo)

해체 (haeche): 미안해 (mianhae)

6. “I’ll call you.”

하십시오체 (hasipsioche): 제가 전화드리겠습니다 (jega jeonhwa deurigetseumnida)

해라체 (haerache): 내가 전화할 거다 (naega jeonhwahal geoda)

해요체 (haeyoche): 내가 전화할게요 (naega jeonhwahalgeyo)

해체 (haeche): 내가 전화할게 (naega jeonhwahalge)

Wrap Up

Wow, we learned so much about Korean speech levels today! Was this already a familiar topic to you or something entirely new? Do you think it will be easy to start using these different speech levels in your communication from now on? Let us know below in the comments! Now, how about Korean etiquette as your next lesson?

The post Korean Speech Levels – Be polite without sounding outdated appeared first on 90 Day Korean.

Flavors in Korean – Sweet, Sour, Salty, Spicy, Bitter, and WAY MORE | Korean FAQ

There are so many ways to describe FLAVORS in Korean, so I made a complete guide with all of the essentials.

This video covers how to use the words 달다, 시다, 맵다, 짜다, 쓰다, 달콤하다, 매콤하다, 새콤하다, 짭짤하다, 쌉싸름하다, 고소하다, 싱겁다, 느끼하다, and more!

The post Flavors in Korean – Sweet, Sour, Salty, Spicy, Bitter, and WAY MORE | Korean FAQ appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

Jijokam Hermitage – 지족암 (Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do)

Jijokam Hermitage on the Haeinsa Temple Grounds in Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do.

Hermitage History

Jijokam Hermitage is located on the Haeinsa Temple grounds in Hapcheon, Gyeongsangnam-do in Gayasan National Park. Originally, Jijokam Hermitage was first named Dosolam Hermitage. The word “Jijok” is an abbreviation of the Sanskrit transliteration of the word “Tusita,” which is the Pure Land of Mireuk-bul (The Future Buddha). Originally, the hermitage was nothing more than a solitary hut for the monk Huirang-josa, who was a monk that was active during the late Silla Dynasty (57 B.C. – 935 A.D.) and the start of the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392). Although there are no specific records indicating how the hermitage was maintained throughout the centuries, we do have several pieces of writing by outside sources about the existence of the hermitage like a Confucian scholar’s writing in the “Yugayasannok” from the “Hangangjip.” We also have the war diary of Do Sesun. As a result, it can be assumed that the hermitage was rebuilt before the reconstruction of the hermitage by the monk Gwansu in 1796.

After 1796, various monks have called Jijokam Hermitage home like Chu Dam, who lived at the hermitage until 1850. A few years later, and in 1856, the hermitage was restored by Park Munhwan. In 1893, the hermitage was restored, once more, by the monk Hwanun. Unfortunately, in 1913, severe flooding caused significant damage to the hermitage buildings; so in 1915, the hermitage was repaired, once more. During the 20th century, the hermitage underwent numerous rebuilds and repairs, until 1999, when Seon Master Hyangjeok became the abbot of the hermitage. From 2010 to 2013, several buildings were added including the Sanshin-gak Hall, the Jinnyeong-gak Hall, and the main hall.

Hermitage Layout

You first pass through a narrow gate and up a set of stone stairs to come to the lower courtyard at the hermitage. Straight ahead of you is a modern three-story pagoda. Close by is a smaller sized Sanshin-gak Hall. The location of the shaman shrine hall is rather peculiar because it’s near the entry of the hermitage grounds. But with the hermitage precariously placed on the side of the mountain, it might have been the only place for it at Jijokam Hermitage. The exterior walls are adorned in traditional dancheong colours. Looking inside the Sanshin-gak Hall, you’ll find a pair of paintings. The painting to the right is dedicated to Sanshin (The Mountain Spirit), while the painting to the left is dedicated to Dokseong (The Lonely Saint). Both are quite simplistic in their overall compositions.

Proceeding straight ahead, and up another set of stairs, you’ll find a collection of buildings in this area. They include the monks’ dorms and the hermitage’s kitchen and administrative office. To the left of the monks’ dorms, you’ll find a flight of stairs that lead you up towards the upper courtyard, where you’ll find both the Seokgyeong-dang Hall, as well as the Jinnyeong-gak Hall, which is dedicated to Ven. Ilta. Of the two, the building to the right is the Jinnyeong-gak Hall. Housed inside this atypical shrine hall is a mural of the monk for whom the shrine hall was built. Below the main altar painting is the monks’ memorial tablet. To the right of the main altar are the monks’ sari (crystallized remains), while to the left is the monks’ former walking stick. This shrine hall is more like a museum than it is a shrine hall. It’s reminiscent of the shrine hall at neighbouring Baengryeonam Hermitage dedicated to the monk Seongcheol (1912-1993).

To the left of the Jinnyeong-gak Hall is the Seokgyeong-dang Hall, which is the hermitage’s main hall. Again, this is a rather peculiar name for a main hall at any temple or hermitage throughout Korea. Also unusual for a shrine hall, instead of having the main altar located in the centre of the building, the main altar is located to the far left and facing eastward. The main altar consists of a solitary statue of Seokgamoni-bul (The Historical Buddha). Joining this statue inside the main altar is a mural dedicated to Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise) on one of the interior walls. As for the exterior, the main hall is adorned in some unusual floral patterns, as well as a diminutive bronze bell just outside the entry to the main hall. The bell is beautifully crowned by an image of Poroe (The Dragon that Adorns the Top of the Temple Bell).

How To Get There

To get to Jijokam Hermitage, you’ll first need to get to Haeinsa Temple. And to get to Haeinsa Temple, you’ll first need to get to the Seobu Bus Terminal in Daegu. From here, you can catch an express bus to Haeinsa Temple. This express bus departs every 40 minutes, and the bus ride lasts about an hour and a half. After arriving at Haeinsa Temple, you’ll need to head south from the Iljumun Gate. You’ll pass by a collection of biseok (stele) and budo (stupa). There is a mountain road with a large rock and sign markers that point you towards the four hermitages in this area of the Haeinsa Temple grounds. You’ll first pass Gukilam Hermitage along the way, until you eventually come to a road to your left. This is the road that leads up to Jijokam Hermitage. In total, the walk from Haeinsa Temple to Jijokam Hermitage takes about 25 minutes, or 1.1 km, up a mountainside road.

Overall Rating: 3.5/10

Jijokam Hermitage is beautifully located in the foothills of the towering Mt. Gayasan (1,432.6 m). As for the hermitage itself, there are only a couple highlights. The first are the views out towards the neighbouring Huirangdae Hermitage. The paintings inside the Sanshin-gak Hall are rather odd as is the Jinnyeong-gak Hall. To the rear of the hermitage grounds looks to be a structure for the abbot of Jijokam Hermitage; unfortunately, this is off-limits to the general public.

A look up towards Jijokam Hermitage.
Entering the lower courtyard at the hermitage with the three-story pagoda and the Sanshin-gak Hall.
A look inside the Sanshin-gak Hall at the Mountain Spirit.
As well as Dokseong (The Lonely Saint).
Making your way up towards the monks’ dorms and the hermitage’s kitchen.
The Seokgyeong-dang Hall (left) and the Jinnyeong-gak Hal (centre) with the monks’ dorms (bottom right).
One of the atypical paintings that adorns the exterior of the Seokgyeong-dang Hall.
The ceremonial bronze bell outside the main hall.
A look inside the Seokgyeong-dang Hall at the main altar.
The painting dedicated to Amita-bul (The Buddha of the Western Paradise) inside the main hall.
A look down from the main hall towards the lower courtyard at the hermitage.
A look out towards Mt. Gayasan and the neighbouring Huirangdae Hermitage.
And the off-limits abbots quarters.

We Tried the WEIRDEST Korean Snacks We've Ever Seen

I've seen a LOT of weird snacks in Korea over the past 18 years, but this time I decided to start collecting them to try in a video. So for a couple of months, I sought out the weirdest snacks I could find at convenience stores I visited around Seoul, and brought them all together to try on camera with my 7-year old son, Jeremy.
Which of these would you consider trying?

The post We Tried the WEIRDEST Korean Snacks We've Ever Seen appeared first on Learn Korean with GO! Billy Korean.

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