Learning animal names in a new language can be a fun way to expand your vocabulary and practice pronunciation. Today, we’ll explore various animal names in Korean, giving you a broad spectrum of commonly used terms along with their definitions. This will not only boost your vocabulary but also enhance your understanding of Korean culture, as animals play significant roles in folklore and everyday life.
개 (Gae) – Dog
저는 개를 두 마리 키웁니다.
Dogs are popular pets worldwide, and Korea is no exception. The term “개” is used broadly, while specific breeds have their own unique names.
고양이 (Goyangi) – Cat
우리 집 고양이는 정말 귀여워요.
Cats are another common pet in Korea. The word “고양이” covers all breeds and sizes.
말 (Mal) – Horse
그는 말을 타는 것을 좋아합니다.
Horses, known as “말” in Korean, hold significant historical importance in Korea, often associated with royalty and traditional ceremonies.
소 (So) – Cow
목장에는 많은 소가 있습니다.
Cows, or “소,” are vital in agricultural sectors, especially in rural Korea, where farming is prevalent.
돼지 (Dwaeji) – Pig
그 농장에는 돼지가 많이 있어요.
Pigs, referred to as “돼지,” are another farm animal essential to Korean cuisine, especially in dishes like samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly).
닭 (Dak) – Chicken
닭은 매일 아침에 울어요.
Chickens, or “닭,” are common both in households and in commercial poultry farms in Korea.
양 (Yang) – Sheep
양은 풀을 먹고 있습니다.
Sheep, known as “양,” are less common in Korea but can still be found in rural areas and in cultural stories and children’s tales.
토끼 (Tokki) – Rabbit
토끼는 정원에서 뛰어노는 것을 좋아해요.
Rabbits, or “토끼,” are popular as both pets and characters in Korean folklore.
여우 (Yeo-u) – Fox
여우는 숲속에 살고 있어요.
Foxes, called “여우” in Korean, are often depicted in traditional tales and are known for their cunning nature.
곰 (Gom) – Bear
곰은 겨울에 잠을 자요.
Bears, or “곰,” appear in many Korean stories and are associated with strength and resilience.
사슴 (Saseum) – Deer
사슴은 숲에서 조용히 걸어 다닙니다.
Deer, known as “사슴,” are graceful creatures frequently found in Korean mountainous regions and folklore.
늑대 (Neukdae) – Wolf
늑대는 무리 지어 다닙니다.
Wolves, referred to as “늑대,” though not as common in modern Korea, hold a place in traditional stories as symbols of loyalty and guardianship.
호랑이 (Horangi) – Tiger
호랑이는 한국의 전통 문양에 자주 등장합니다.
The tiger, or “호랑이,” is a powerful cultural symbol in Korea, representing courage and protection.
기린 (Girin) – Giraffe
기린은 목이 아주 길어요.
Giraffes, called “기린” in Korean, though not native, can be seen in zoos and are popular among children due to their unique appearance.
판다 (Panda) – Panda
판다는 대나무를 먹고 삽니다.
Pandas, referred to as “판다” in Korean, are beloved globally and recognized for their distinctive black and white coloring.
코끼리 (Kokkiri) – Elephant
코끼리는 물을 좋아해요.
Elephants, or “코끼리,” are admired for their size and intelligence and are often featured in Korean educational materials.
캥거루 (Kaengeoru) – Kangaroo
캥거루는 호주에 살아요.
Kangaroos, known as “캥거루” in Korean, are intriguing due to their unique method of movement and maternal pouch.
하마 (Hama) – Hippopotamus
하마는 물가에서 많은 시간을 보내요.
Hippopotamuses, or “하마,” are known for their large size and semi-aquatic lifestyles, often a subject of curiosity in Korean documentaries.
Each of these animal names not only enriches your Korean vocabulary but also provides a glimpse into the cultural significance and the natural diversity appreciated in Korea. Whether discussing pets, wildlife, or mythical creatures, knowing these terms can enhance your understanding and conversations when engaging with Korean speakers.
