Korean culture is rich with a variety of hobbies and leisure activities, and learning the language can greatly enhance your experience and understanding of these cultural practices. In this article, we’ll explore some common expressions used in hobbies and leisure in Korean, providing you with essential vocabulary to discuss your interests and engage with others.
취미 (Chwimi) – Hobby
This term is used to refer to a hobby or a pastime activity that one enjoys doing during their leisure time.
저는 독서를 취미로 즐깁니다.
여가 (Yeoga) – Leisure
Often used to denote free time or leisure time, where no work-related activities are involved.
여가 시간에 무엇을 하고 싶어요?
그림 그리기 (Geurim Geurigi) – Painting/Drawing
This expression refers to the activity of painting or drawing as a hobby.
저는 주말마다 그림 그리기를 해요.
등산 (Deungsan) – Hiking
A popular outdoor activity in Korea, especially given the country’s mountainous terrain.
이번 주말에 등산 갈래?
낚시 (Naksi) – Fishing
Fishing is a leisure activity enjoyed by many, particularly in the rivers and coastal areas of Korea.
아버지와 낚시를 자주 갑니다.
요리 (Yori) – Cooking
Refers to the activity of preparing food. Cooking can be both a daily necessity and an enjoyable hobby.
요리하는 것을 정말 좋아해요.
음악 감상 (Eumak Gamsang) – Listening to music
This phrase is used when talking about listening to music as a leisure activity.
저는 운전할 때 음악 감상을 해요.
독서 (Dokseo) – Reading
Reading, whether it be books, magazines, or online articles, is a common leisure activity.
독서는 제가 가장 좋아하는 취미예요.
사진 찍기 (Sajin Jjikgi) – Photography
Taking photos as a hobby, particularly popular during travels and special events.
여행 갈 때마다 사진 찍기를 즐깁니다.
영화 관람 (Yeonghwa Gwanram) – Watching movies
This expression is used when describing the activity of watching movies, either at home or in a theater.
주말에는 친구와 영화 관람을 해요.
스포츠 경기 관람 (Seupocheu Gyeonggi Gwanram) – Watching sports games
Many people enjoy watching various sports games, whether live or on television.
아버지는 야구 경기 관람을 좋아하세요.
수영 (Suyeong) – Swimming
Swimming is not only a competitive sport but also a common leisure activity in Korea.
여름에는 수영을 자주 해요.
게임 (Geim) – Gaming
Playing video games or mobile games is a popular hobby among all age groups.
저녁에는 친구들과 게임을 합니다.
뜨개질 (Tteugaejil) – Knitting
Knitting is a creative and relaxing hobby enjoyed by many, particularly during the colder months.
할머니는 뜨개질을 하시면서 텔레비전을 보세요.
정원 가꾸기 (Jeongwon Gakkugi) – Gardening
Gardening involves cultivating plants and flowers, often seen as a therapeutic hobby.
우리 집 정원을 가꾸는 일은 제 책임이에요.
요가 (Yoga) – Yoga
Practicing yoga is a popular way to relax and stay fit, both physically and mentally.
매일 아침 요가를 합니다.
Understanding and using these expressions can significantly improve your ability to communicate about hobbies and leisure activities in Korean. Whether you’re discussing your own hobbies or asking others about theirs, these phrases will surely come in handy. Keep practicing, and don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the language by engaging in activities that interest you!
