Are you interested in starting a small talk with a Korean national? One common topic that you can prepare for is the weather. Or you are probably interested in visiting Korea and know which season is the best to travel. In today’s post, we will learn about Korean weather vocabulary or 날씨 (Nalssi) so that you can easily impress them with your skills in their native language. If you are ready for that, then let the learning begin!
Visiting Korea, specifically South Korea, is one of the most incredible experiences you’ll ever have. Aside from spending time with Korean people and experiencing the Korean culture, you can do lots of adventures depending on the season and weather. You can enjoy some activities during summer, but some may say that autumn is the best. People who came from a place without snow want to experience winter.
Considering the weather conditions and seasons is important when you plan to visit this country. You should at least learn how to read the weather in Korean to prepare yourself by dressing appropriately or bringing the essential things for that day. For the rainy season, you must bring an umbrella. When it’s snowing, thick clothes should be your OOTD and more.
So, in this blog, we will learn Korean words related to weather. I know that learning Korean, especially for beginners, is somehow challenging, but you will be provided with romanizations and English translations in this post. If you are ready for that, let’s dive right into it.
What’s The Korean Word For Weather?
날씨 (Nal Ssi) – Weather
When we talk about Korean weather vocabulary, the first Korean word we must learn is “weather.” Native Koreans use the term 날씨 (Nal ssi) for the weather. Talking about the weather is a great conversation starter, especially when you’re new in South Korea. When you have a small talk about the weather, people will advise you on what to wear, what food you can eat to enjoy the weather and even the best place to visit. It’s just a two-syllable word, so it won’t be hard to remember.
Korean Vocabulary About Weather
What’s the best weather to go out and have fun with your friends? When is best to stay at home? In this part of the lesson, we will be learning about different Korean weather vocabulary. You’ll first learn the essential weather words in Korean.
In school, we learn that weather refers to the state of the atmosphere. It tells us how hot 덥다 (deobda) or cold 춥다 (chupda) it is, how wet 적시다 jeoksida or dry 건조 (geonjo) it is, how quiet 조용한 (joyonghan) or stormy 폭풍우 치는 (pogpung-u chineun) it is, and how clear 맑은 (malgeun) or foggy 안개가 끼다 (angaega kkida) it is.
So, let’s learn these Korean weather vocabulary. If you want more lessons about Korean or any other new language, check out Ling App.
맑아요 (Mal Ga Yo)
English Translation: Fine
The first Korean weather vocabulary is 맑아요 (Mal ga yo) or “fine” in English. It is one way to describe the weather in the Korean language. Fine weather is somewhat related to sunny weather where people can go out of the house and do their errands, meet with their friends, go out with their family, and more. You can enjoy Jeju Island Taxi Tour: South Day Tour, Seoraksan National Park Ulsanbawi Hiking from Seoul, and more. The clothes South Koreans usually wear are typical. Not that thick, but not too thin either, like pants and shirt.
화창한날 (Hwachanghan Nal)
English Translation: Sunny Day
The Korean weather vocabulary is, of course, sunny day 화창한날 (hwachanghan nal). When it’s a sunny day, people usually make their outside plans. It’s a perfect time to go to the beach. You can also go private hiking to Bukhansan Peak with mountain experts, UNESCO Small-Group Day Tour of Jeju Island – East Course, and more. But, since South Koreans are into skincare, do not forget to put on sunscreen or bring with you something to protect your skin from the sun.
비오는 날 (Bioneun Nal)
English Translation: Rainy Day
During rainy days 비오는 날 (bioneun nal), most people stay indoors. But, if you want to go out, make sure to bring an umbrella 우산 (usan), raincoat 레인코트 (reinkoteu) or a jacket 재킷 (jaekit) with you to protect yourself from catching colds. But, if you’re in South Korea, you can still do many things like visiting the COEX Aquarium, going shopping, watching 4D movies, experiencing Jjimjilbang, and more.
바람 부는 날 (Ba Ram Buneun Nal)
English Translation: Windy Day
Another basic Korean weather vocabulary is 바람 부는 날 (Ba ram Buneun Nal) or windy day. It is nice to go to different parks or have a full say Nami Island and Garden of Morning Calm Tour from Seoul during a windy day. During a windy day, wearing skirts for girls is not recommendable. It is also better to tie your hair if you don’t want your hair to be all over the place. For guys, a typical outfit like shirts and pants will do. You may also bring with you a jacket, or in case you get cold.
흐린날 (Heurin Nal)
English Translation: Cloudy Day
Cloudy Day 흐린날 (Heurin Nal) is another essential Korean weather vocabulary to learn. Many people love cloudy days because it’s not that hot. People can enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about the sun. You can also wear comfortable clothes or rock your OOTDs for amazing selfies and photo opportunities.
눈 오는 날 (Nun Oneun Nal)
English Translation: Snowy Day
For people who came from a country without snow, this is the perfect Korean weather vocabulary to learn. People usually wear thick clothes, scarves, gloves, and hats. Activities that you can enjoy during snowy days are an Elysian ski day trip from Seoul, Ski Tour to Jisan Ski Resort or Yangji Ski Resort, or just enjoying a hot coffee, choco, or ramen in local shops.
폭풍우 치는 날 (Pogpung-u Chineun Nal)
English Translation: Stormy Day
Another important Korean weather vocabulary is 폭풍우 치는 날 – (Pogpung-u Chineun Nal) or Stormy Day. During stormy days, everyone should stay indoors and stack lots of food to eat. If you’re visiting South Korea, you have to check the forecast to prepare yourself regularly. You should also learn some Korean emergency vocabulary and essential words and phrases in Korean, just in case.
Seasons In Korean Language
계절 (Gyejeol) – Season
Part of learning the Korean weather vocabulary is mastering the words related to the four seasons in Korea. Knowing the different seasons in Korea will help you plan your dream South Korea travel experience. Here are some Korean weather vocabulary related to seasons.
봄 (Bom)
English Translation: Spring
The Korean word for spring is 봄 (Bom). This season is just short. Parks are painted in bright colors, and the beauty of fully-bloomed flowers and tree blossoms will amaze you. The spring season in South Korea begins in March and ends in May.
Suppose you are visiting Korea during this season. In that case, the holidays that you might be experiencing are the day of the independence movement of Korea (March 1), International women’s day (March 8), Arbor Day (April 4), Children’s Day (May 5), and Buddhas birthday (May 14).
해변 (Haebyeon)
English Translation: Summer
The summer season is another Korean weather vocabulary related to the seasons you need to learn. During this season, the weather in Korea is a little bit sultry and humid. It is crucial to remember this Korean weather vocabulary because there are many things to do during this season. You can go to seaside resorts with great beaches, shop at shopping malls, dine in different local shops that feature Korean dining food, and more. But, other tour operators do not recommend visiting South Korea during this time because this is also monsoon season.
The summer season in South Korea begins from June to August. Korean celebrations during these seasons are Day of Memory of Victims (June 6), Festival Gangneung Dano (June 9), Constitution Day (July 17).
가을 (Gaeul)
English Translation: Autumn/ Fall
The autumn/fall season 가을 (Gaeul) is also a must learn Korean weather vocabulary related to seasons. This is the most favorite season of Koreans and also the tourist. During this season, traditional Korean rituals that originated from ancient peasant rituals and customs are held during the time of harvest.
The autumn season falls from September to November. The temperature during this season is mild, that’s why people enjoy going out. The festivals during this season are Thanksgiving (September 15), National Foundation Day (October 3), and The Day of Proclamation of the Korean Alphabet.
겨울 (Gyeoul)
English Translation: Winter
The last Korean weather vocabulary related to seasons is the winter season 겨울 (Gyeoul). For the Koreans, it is the ski season because the temperature goes to freezing point. The weather during this season is cold but dry, and the precipitation is rarely rain but mostly snow.
The winter season starts from December to early March. This is a perfect time to wear thick clothes. The Winter season is also the time for different Korean celebrations like Christmas and Korean New Year.
Other Korean Words And Phrases Related To Weather
Words
| Hangul (Korean) | Romanization | English Translation |
| 기압 | giap | air pressure |
| 영상 | yeongsang | above zero |
| 영하 | yeongha | below zero |
| 기후 | gihu | climate |
| 기후 변화 | gihu byeonhwa | climate change |
| 맑은 하늘 | malgeun haneul | clear sky |
| 구름 | gureum | cloud |
| 쌀쌀하다 | ssalssalhada | chilly |
| 춥다 차갑다 | chupda chagapda | cold weather |
| 한랭 전선 | hallaeng jeonseon | cold front |
| 덥다 | deopda | hot weather |
| 쌀쌀하다 | ssalssalhada | heat |
| 폭염 | pongnyeom | heatwave |
| 폭우 | pogu | downpour |
| 건조 | geonjo | dry |
| 가뭄 | gamum | drought |
| 보슬보슬 내리다 | boseulboseul naerida | drizzle |
| 예보 | yebo | forecast |
| 얼어붙은 | eoreobuteun | freezing |
| 안개 | angae | fog |
| 안개가 끼다 | angaega kkida | foggy |
| 서리 | seori | frost |
| 돌풍 | dolpung | gust |
| 습하다 습해요 | seupada seup hae yo | humid weather |
| 우박 | ubak | hail |
| 얼음 폭풍 | eoreum pokpung | ice storm |
| 남실바람 경풍 | namsilbaram gyeongpung | light breeze |
| 번개 | bun gae | lightning |
| 저압 | jeoap | low pressure |
| 장마 | jangma | monsoon |
| 조용한 | joyonghan | quiet |
| 비 | bi | rain |
| 소나기 | sonagi | rain shower |
| 동틀녘 일출 | dongteullyeok ilchul | sunrise |
| 노을 일몰 석양 해질녘 | noeul ilmol seongnyang haejillyeok | sunset |
| 눈 | nun | snow |
| 진눈깨비 | jinnunkkaebi | sleet |
| 폭풍 | pokpung | storm |
| 연무 | yeonmu | smog |
| 눈보라 | nunbora | snowstorm, blizzard |
| 강설 강설량 | gangseol gangseollyang | snowfall |
| 열대의 | yeoldaeui | tropical |
| 온화하다 | onhwahada | temperate |
| 온도 | ondo | temperature |
| 천둥 | cheondung | thunder |
| 뇌우 | noeu | thunderstorm |
| 따뜻하다 포근하다 | ttatteuthada pogeunhada | warm |
| 온난 전선 | onnan jeonseon | warm front |
| 돌개바람 | dolgaebaram | a whirlwind |
| 바람 | baram | wind |
| 풍속 냉각 | pungsok naenggak | wind chill |
| 적시다 | jeoksida | wet |
Phrases
| Hangul (Korean) | Romanization | English Translation |
| 솜털 같은 구름 | somteol gateun gureum | fluffy cloud |
| 아름다운 무지개 | areumdaun mujigae | scenic rainbow |
| 눈이 내리다 | nuni naerida | to snow |
| 비가 내리다 | bi-ga naerida | to rain |
| 예측하다 | yecheukada | to forecast |
| 피다 | pida | for a flower to bloom |
| 지다 | jida | for the sun to set |
| 뜨다 | tteuda | for the sun to rise |
| 불다 | bulda | for the wind to blow |
| 치다 | chida | for lightning/thunder to strike |
| 오다 | oda | for rain/snow to come |
Sentences
| Hangul (Korean) | Romanization | English Translation |
| 오늘 날씨가 좋아요 | oneul nalssi-ga joayo | The weather is nice today. |
| 오늘 날씨가 어때요? | oneul nalssi-ga eottaeyo? | How’s the weather today? |
| 오늘은 화창해요 | oneureun hwachanghaeyo | It’s sunny. |
| 오늘은 바람이 불어요 | oneureun barami bureoyo | It’s windy. |
| 비 와요. | oneureun bi wa yo. | It’s raining. |
| 오늘은 시원해요 | oneureun siwonhaeyo | It’s cold today. |
| 오늘은 더워요 | oneureun deowoyo | It’s hot today. |
| 비가 내려요 | bi-ga naeryeoyo | It rains. |
| 비가 내릴 거예요 | bi-ga naeril geoyeyo | It’s going to rain. |
| 눈이 내릴 거예요 | nuni naeril geoyeyo | It’s going to snow. |
| 눈이 내리기 시작했어요 | nuni naerigi sijakaesseoyo | It is starting to snow. |
| 오늘은 얼어붙을 거예요 | oneureun eoreobuteul geoyeyo | It will be freezing today. |
| 비가 곧 멈출 거예요 | bi-ga got meomchul geoyeyo | The rain is going to stop soon |
| 눈이 멈췄어요 | nuni meomchwosseoyo | The snow has stopped. |
| 하늘이 매우 맑아요. | haneul imaeu malgayo. | The sky is clear. |
| 태풍이 오는 것처럼 보여요 | taepungi oneun geotcheoreom boyeoyo | It looks like the typhoon is coming. |
| 폭풍이 오는 것처럼 보여요 | pokpungi oneun geotcheoreom boyeoyo | It looks like the storm is coming. |
| 비가 올 것으로 예측돼요 | bi-ga ol geoseu-ro yecheukdwaeyo | It’s forecast to rain. |
| 거리에 비가 내리고 있습니다 | georie biga naerigo itseumnida | The rain is falling on the street. |
| 눈이 모든 것을 덮었습니다 | nuni modeun geoseul deopeotsseumnida | The snow has covered everything. |
| 물이 유리 위에서 얼었습니다 | muri yuri wieseo eoreotsseumnida | The water froze on the glass. |
| 이 폭우는 갑작스런 홍수를 일으킬 수 있습니다 | i poguneun gapjjakseureon hongsureul ireukil ssu itsseumnida | The heavy rain could cause flash flooding. |
| 배를 타기 전에 일기 예보를 체크하세요 | baereul tagi jeone ilgi yeboreul chekeuhaseyo | Check the weather report before going sailing. |
| 습도가 낮은 공기는 건조함을 느끼게 합니다 | seupttoga najeun gonggineun geonjohameul neukkige hamnida | With low humidity, the air feels dry. |
| 바람이 정말 강합니다 | barami jeongmal ganghamnida | The wind is really strong. |
| 오늘은 후덥지근하겠습니다 | oneureun hudeopjjigeunhageosseumnida | Today is very muggy. |
| 겨울 날씨가 어때요 ? | gyeoul nalssiga eottaeyo ? | What’s the winter weather like? |
Korean Idioms Related To Weather
바람을 맞다 (Ba Ram Eul Matda) — Run Into The Wind.
This Korean idiom means “to be stood up.” The word 바람 ba ram (wind) represents your date did not show up.
가랑비에 옷 젖는 줄 모른다. (Ga Rang Bie Otjeot Neun Julmoreunda.) -You Don’t Realize Your Clothes Are Getting Wet In A Drizzle.
If you know the English idiom “A little leak will sink a great ship” or “Many drops make a flood,” this is the Korean equivalent for that. This Korean idiom simply says that little things add up to a lot.
꽃샘추위. (Kkot Saem Chu Wi.) — The Cold Envies The Flowers.
This is another Korean idiom that you can add to your Korean weather vocabulary. As the flowers start to bloom, there’s a cold snap or spring frost every once in a while, as if winter is about to return. This is what this Korean idiom means.
This Is The Perfect Season To Learn Korean!
After learning the Korean weather vocabulary, wouldn’t it be better to make it a “learning Korean” season? With the emergence of K-waves like K-dramas, K-pop music, and K-food, it is nice to learn how to speak the Korean language. To do that, Ling App will be your language learning buddy.
If you’re used to the same old ways to learn a language, you can take a break from that. In Ling App, you can have a meaningful but fun language learning experience whenever and wherever you want. Backed with linguistic research, Ling App will develop the essential skill you need to build. You can also enjoy chatting with chatbots and learning dialogues to help you use what you have learned in conversational ways. Grammar tips and cultural relevance are also available to deepen your knowledge about the grammar and culture of the language you are learning.
Why not turn your rainy days into sunny days and start learning Korean now? Through Ling App, you can learn in whatever season you want. Just download the app or go to the site and start your free Korean lesson right away!
