30 Beautiful
Korean Proverbs
Discover the wisdom of Korean language through beautiful proverbs and their English equivalents.
Life & Wisdom
4 items
Even monkeys fall from trees
원숭이도 나무에서 떨어진다Even experts make mistakes sometimes
Similar to "Nobody's perfect." Used to console someone who made an unexpected error.
A rolling stone gathers no moss
구르는 돌에는 이끼가 끼지 않는다Staying active prevents stagnation
In Korean culture, this is positive — keep moving, keep growing.
After hardship comes sweetness
고진감래 (苦盡甘來)When all the bitterness ends, sweetness arrives
One of the most-used Korean idioms. Perfect for encouraging someone going through tough times.
Words become seeds
말이 씨가 된다What you say may actually come true — speak carefully
Be careful what you say. In Korean culture, words carry real power.
Relationships
3 items
Heart to heart
이심전심 (以心傳心)Understanding each other without words
When two people understand each other without speaking. From Buddhist philosophy.
Blood is thicker than water
피는 물보다 진하다Family bonds are the strongest of all
Same proverb exists in Korean. Family is paramount in Korean culture.
A match made in heaven
천생연분 (天生緣分)A destined bond from birth — fate brought you together
The ultimate Korean compliment for couples. Often said at weddings.