Korean Words Every Korean-American Child Should Know

미국에서 자란 아이들이 꼭 알아야 할 한국어 단어들

Learn Korean for Korean Americans class #1

Many Korean-American children grow up speaking mostly English. That is completely natural when living in the United States. However, learning even a few Korean words can help children connect with their parents, grandparents, family traditions, and cultural heritage.

You do not need to become fluent overnight. Every Korean word you learn is another step toward understanding where your family came from and the stories that shaped previous generations.

Here are some Korean words that every Korean-American child should know.

1. 엄마 (Eomma) Mom
One of the first Korean words many children learn is 엄마. Even children who mostly speak English often continue calling their mother “엄마” at home.

Example:
엄마, 사랑해요.
Eomma, saranghaeyo.
I love you, Mom.

2. 아빠 (Appa) Dad
Another important family word is 아빠.

Example:
아빠, 도와주세요.
Appa, dowajuseyo.
Dad, please help me.

3. 할머니 (Halmeoni) Grandmother
Many Korean-American children have special memories of visiting their 할머니 or talking with her on video calls.

Example:
할머니 보고 싶어요.
Halmeoni bogo sipeoyo.
I miss Grandma.

4. 할아버지 (Harabeoji) Grandfather
Grandparents play an important role in Korean families.

Example:
할아버지 감사합니다.
Harabeoji gamsahamnida.
Thank you, Grandpa.

5. 사랑 (Sarang) Love
One of the most beautiful Korean words is 사랑.

Example:
가족 사랑.
Gajok sarang.
Family love.

6. 가족 (Gajok) Family
Korean culture places great importance on family relationships.

Example:
우리 가족.
Uri gajok.
Our family.

7. 안녕하세요 (Annyeonghaseyo) Hello
The most common and polite greeting in Korean.

Example:
안녕하세요!
Annyeonghaseyo!
Hello!

8. 감사합니다 (Gamsahamnida) Thank you
Showing gratitude is an important part of Korean culture.

9. 밥 (Bap) Rice / Meal
In Korean culture, asking “Did you eat?” often means “How are you?”

Example:
밥 먹었니?
Bap meogeonni?
Did you eat?

10. 정 (Jeong) Affection, warmth, human connection
There is no perfect English translation for 정. It describes the special bond people develop through caring, sharing, and spending time together.

Many people believe that 정 is one of the most important ideas in Korean culture.