At the A1 level, the word '동향' is generally too advanced and formal for everyday use. Beginners focus on basic survival vocabulary like greetings, numbers, and simple objects. However, if an A1 learner encounters this word, it will likely be in the context of watching Korean news or looking at formal documents where they might recognize the Hanja roots if they have a background in Chinese characters. For A1 learners, it is sufficient to know that '동향' translates to 'trend' or 'direction' and is used in serious contexts like business or news. Instead of using '동향', A1 learners are encouraged to use simpler expressions to describe changes, such as '요즘 사람들이 ~을 많이 해요' (People do ~ a lot these days). Understanding that Korean has specific formal vocabulary for news and business is a good conceptual stepping stone for future learning.
At the A2 level, learners begin to expand their vocabulary to include more descriptive words, but '동향' remains a passive vocabulary word. You might hear it when listening to a simplified news broadcast or reading a basic article about Korean society. A2 learners should focus on recognizing the word when it appears alongside familiar topics like '시장' (market) or '경제' (economy). You do not need to actively use '동향' in your own speaking or writing at this stage. If you want to talk about trends, the English loanword '트렌드' (trend) or the word '유행' (fashion/fad) are much more accessible and appropriate for A2 conversations. Recognizing that '동향' is the formal equivalent of these concepts will help you transition smoothly into intermediate Korean.
At the B1 level, '동향' becomes an important word to acquire, especially if you are preparing for the TOPIK II exam. You will start seeing this word frequently in reading comprehension passages about social changes, economic reports, and cultural shifts. B1 learners should practice understanding sentences like '시장 동향을 분석하다' (to analyze market trends). You should also begin to differentiate '동향' from '유행' (fad) and '경향' (tendency). While you might not use it in daily conversation, you should try incorporating it into formal writing exercises, such as expressing your opinion on a social issue. Learning collocations like '동향을 파악하다' (to grasp the trend) will significantly improve your reading speed and comprehension of intermediate-level texts.
At the B2 level, '동향' is a core vocabulary word that you must master for both active and passive use. You are expected to read and understand news articles, business reports, and academic abstracts where '동향' is used extensively. B2 learners should confidently use '동향' in formal presentations, professional emails, and advanced writing tasks (like TOPIK question 53 and 54). You should know how to pair it with complex verbs such as '주시하다' (to keep a close eye on), '예측하다' (to predict), and '반영하다' (to reflect). Furthermore, you should be able to discuss '국제 동향' (international trends) or '기술 동향' (technology trends) with native speakers in a professional or academic setting, demonstrating a clear understanding of its formal register and precise nuance.
At the C1 level, your use of '동향' should be indistinguishable from an educated native speaker. You should effortlessly navigate complex texts where '동향' is embedded in sophisticated grammatical structures. C1 learners use this word to articulate nuanced analyses of macroeconomic shifts, geopolitical movements, and industry-specific developments. You should be comfortable reading extensive '동향 보고서' (trend reports) and synthesizing the information. In speaking, you can smoothly transition between '동향', '추세', '기조', and '흐름' depending on the exact shade of meaning you wish to convey. Your vocabulary network around '동향' should include advanced terms like '거시적 동향' (macro trends), '동향 지표' (trend indicators), and '시장 동향의 변동성' (volatility of market trends).
At the C2 level, '동향' is utilized with absolute mastery in highly specialized and abstract contexts. You can critically evaluate the methodology behind how '동향' is measured in academic papers or government policy documents. C2 learners can debate the implications of a specific '동향' using highly formal and persuasive language. You understand the subtle rhetorical effects of choosing '동향' over its synonyms in diplomatic or high-level corporate communications. You can effortlessly draft comprehensive analytical reports, integrating '동향' with advanced Hanja-derived vocabulary to produce elegant, authoritative, and precise Korean prose that meets the standards of professional publication or executive-level discourse.

동향 in 30 Sekunden

  • Means 'trend' or 'direction of movement'.
  • Highly formal, used in news and business.
  • Often paired with '파악하다' (to grasp) or '분석하다' (to analyze).
  • Crucial vocabulary for TOPIK II (Level 4+).

The Korean word 동향 (donghyang) refers to the general direction in which a situation, market, or social phenomenon is moving or developing. It is a formal noun heavily utilized in news, business, politics, and academic contexts to describe trends, movements, or shifts.

Etymology
The word is derived from the Hanja characters 動 (동 - meaning 'movement' or 'action') and 向 (향 - meaning 'direction' or 'heading'). Together, they literally mean 'the direction of movement'.

최근 경제 동향을 분석하고 있습니다.

We are analyzing recent economic trends.

Understanding this word is crucial for anyone looking to achieve a B2 or higher level in Korean, as it frequently appears in the TOPIK II exam, particularly in reading and listening sections that deal with news reports, economic forecasts, and sociological studies.

Nuance
Unlike '유행' which refers to a popular fad or fashion trend, '동향' implies a more structural, serious, or macro-level shift in a system or society.

국제 사회의 동향에 주목해야 합니다.

We must pay attention to the trends of the international community.

In business contexts, professionals constantly monitor the '시장 동향' (market trends) to make informed decisions. This involves looking at consumer behavior, competitor actions, and overall economic indicators.

소비자 동향 파악이 우선입니다.

Grasping consumer trends is the priority.
Usage Scope
It is rarely used in casual conversation about personal matters. You wouldn't use it to describe a friend's changing mood, but rather the changing mood of an entire demographic.

부동산 시장의 동향이 심상치 않습니다.

The trends in the real estate market are unusual.

Politicians and analysts also use this term to describe voter behavior or geopolitical shifts. For instance, '북한의 군사 동향' refers to North Korea's military movements or activities. It encompasses not just a single action, but a pattern of actions indicating a specific direction or intent.

최신 기술 동향 보고서를 작성하세요.

Please write a report on the latest technology trends.

Using 동향 correctly requires an understanding of its formal register and typical collocations. It is almost exclusively used with descriptive or analytical verbs.

Collocation 1: 파악하다
'동향을 파악하다' means to grasp, figure out, or identify the trend. This is perhaps the most common verb paired with this noun in business.

경쟁사의 동향을 파악하는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to grasp the trends of our competitors.

When writing reports, you will often use compound nouns like '시장 동향' (market trend), '업계 동향' (industry trend), or '인구 동향' (demographic trend). These function as standalone concepts in professional Korean.

Collocation 2: 분석하다
'동향을 분석하다' means to analyze the trend. This goes a step further than just grasping it; it involves breaking down the data.

전문가들이 주식 시장의 동향을 분석했습니다.

Experts analyzed the trends of the stock market.

You can also use verbs that describe the state of the trend itself, such as '변화하다' (to change) or '이어지다' (to continue). For example, '이러한 동향이 계속될 것으로 보입니다' (It seems this trend will continue).

새로운 소비 동향이 나타나고 있습니다.

A new consumption trend is appearing.
Collocation 3: 주시하다
'동향을 주시하다' means to keep a close eye on the trend. It implies vigilance and careful observation, often used in political or economic contexts.

정부는 물가 상승 동향을 예의 주시하고 있습니다.

The government is keeping a close watch on inflation trends.

해외 시장의 동향 변화에 신속히 대응해야 합니다.

We must respond swiftly to changes in overseas market trends.

The word 동향 is ubiquitous in formal Korean media. If you turn on a Korean news channel like KBS, MBC, or YTN, you are almost guaranteed to hear this word during the economic or political segments.

News Broadcasts
Anchors frequently introduce segments with phrases like '오늘의 증시 동향입니다' (Here are today's stock market trends) or '정치권 동향을 알아보겠습니다' (Let's look at the political trends).

다음은 날씨와 교통 동향입니다.

Next is the weather and traffic trends.

In the corporate world, it is a staple of meetings, emails, and official reports. Employees are often tasked with creating a '동향 보고서' (trend report) to summarize what competitors are doing or how a specific industry is evolving.

Academic Papers
Researchers use this term to describe literature reviews ('연구 동향' - research trends) or shifts in societal behavior observed through data.

본 논문은 인공지능 기술의 최근 연구 동향을 살펴본다.

This paper examines the recent research trends in artificial intelligence technology.

You will also encounter it in government press releases. Ministries publish documents outlining '수출입 동향' (import/export trends) or '고용 동향' (employment trends) to inform the public about the state of the nation.

통계청에서 3월 고용 동향을 발표했습니다.

Statistics Korea announced the employment trends for March.
TOPIK Examinations
In TOPIK II, particularly from level 4 upwards, reading passages frequently feature graphs and charts where you must interpret the '동향' of a given variable over time.

그래프는 지난 10년간의 인구 변화 동향을 보여줍니다.

The graph shows the demographic change trends over the past 10 years.

글로벌 환경 정책의 동향을 파악하는 세미나가 열렸습니다.

A seminar was held to grasp the trends of global environmental policies.

While 동향 translates to 'trend', learners often confuse it with other Korean words for trend, such as 유행 (fad/fashion) or 추세 (tendency). Using them interchangeably can lead to awkward phrasing.

Mistake 1: Using it for Fashion or Pop Culture
Do not use '동향' to describe what clothes are popular or what music is trending among teenagers. For that, use '유행'. '동향' sounds far too academic and serious for pop culture.

요즘 10대들의 패션 유행 (Not 동향).

The recent fashion trends among teenagers.

Another common error is using '동향' with inappropriate verbs. Because it represents an abstract direction or movement, you cannot 'make' a 동향 (동향을 만들다 - incorrect). Instead, you observe, analyze, or follow it.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 추세
While '추세' and '동향' are very similar, '추세' often implies a continuous, somewhat inevitable momentum in a specific direction (e.g., an upward trend), whereas '동향' is more neutral, simply describing the current state of movement, whatever it may be.

인구가 감소하는 추세입니다. (Better than 동향 here)

The population is in a declining trend.

Learners also sometimes mispronounce it. The '향' has a clear 'h' sound followed by a 'ya' and 'ng'. Ensure you don't drop the 'h', making it sound like '동양' (the Orient/East), which is a completely different word.

정확한 발음은 [동향]이며, [동양]과 혼동하지 마세요.

The correct pronunciation is [dong-hyang], do not confuse it with [dong-yang].
Mistake 3: Overusing in Casual Speech
Using '동향' when talking to friends about weekend plans or personal habits sounds extremely robotic and overly formal. Stick to simpler words like '요즘 분위기' (recent atmosphere) or '요즘 사람들이 많이 하는 것' (what people do a lot these days).

친구들의 동향 (Awkward) -> 친구들의 근황 (Natural).

Friends' trends (awkward) -> Friends' recent updates (natural).

시장 동향을 주도하다. (Possible, but '트렌드를 주도하다' is more common for 'leading a trend').

To lead the market trend.

To truly master 동향, it helps to compare it with its synonyms. Korean has a rich vocabulary for describing trends, each with its own specific nuance and appropriate context.

추세 (Trend / Tendency)
Focuses on the momentum or the continuous direction of a phenomenon. If something is consistently increasing or decreasing, it is a '추세'. It feels slightly more dynamic and inevitable than '동향'.

물가가 오르는 추세입니다.

There is an upward trend in prices.

Another very common word is '경향' (tendency/inclination). While '동향' looks at the movement of a group or market, '경향' is often used to describe the internal inclination or habit of an individual or a specific group's mindset.

경향 (Tendency / Inclination)
Used to describe a disposition or a leaning towards a certain behavior or thought process. E.g., '그는 과장하는 경향이 있다' (He has a tendency to exaggerate).

현대인들은 개인주의적인 경향을 보입니다.

Modern people show individualistic tendencies.

We also have '유행' (fad/fashion) and the English loanword '트렌드' (trend). '트렌드' is widely used in marketing, fashion, and lifestyle contexts, often replacing '동향' when the speaker wants to sound more modern, casual, or focused on consumer tastes.

트렌드 (Trend)
An English loanword used heavily in business and pop culture. It implies something is currently popular or stylish. '최신 트렌드' (latest trend) is very common.

올해 봄 패션 트렌드는 무엇인가요?

What is the spring fashion trend this year?

사회 전반의 흐름을 읽어야 합니다.

You need to read the flow (trend) of society as a whole.

적군의 동태를 살피다.

To observe the movements of the enemy forces. (동태 is similar but focuses on physical movement/status).

How Formal Is It?

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + 에 따르면 (According to ~)

Verb + (으)ㅁ에 따라 (As ~ happens)

Noun + 을/를 반영하다 (To reflect ~)

Verb + 는 추세이다 (It is a trend that ~)

Noun + (으)로 인해 (Due to ~)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

이것은 시장 동향입니다.

This is the market trend.

Noun + 입니다 (formal copula).

2

경제 동향을 봅니다.

I look at the economic trends.

Object particle 을/를 + 봅니다.

3

동향이 변합니다.

The trend changes.

Subject particle 이/가 + 변합니다.

4

최신 동향을 알아요?

Do you know the latest trend?

알다 (to know) conjugated to 알아요.

5

좋은 동향입니다.

It is a good trend.

Adjective modifier 좋은 + Noun.

6

나쁜 동향이 아닙니다.

It is not a bad trend.

Noun + 이/가 아닙니다 (negative copula).

7

동향 뉴스를 들어요.

I listen to the trend news.

듣다 (to listen) irregular conjugation 들어요.

8

한국의 동향입니다.

It is Korea's trend.

Possessive particle 의.

1

요즘 시장 동향이 어때요?

How are the market trends these days?

어떻다 conjugated to 어때요.

2

새로운 동향을 파악하고 싶어요.

I want to grasp the new trends.

Verb + 고 싶다 (want to).

3

이 책은 경제 동향에 대한 책입니다.

This book is about economic trends.

Noun + 에 대한 (about).

4

인터넷에서 최신 동향을 찾았어요.

I found the latest trends on the internet.

Past tense 찾았어요.

5

동향이 너무 빨리 변해서 어려워요.

The trends change too fast, so it's difficult.

Verb + 아/어서 (reason).

6

우리는 소비자 동향을 알아야 합니다.

We must know the consumer trends.

Verb + 아/어야 하다 (must).

7

세계 동향을 배우는 것은 재미있습니다.

Learning about world trends is interesting.

Verb + 는 것 (gerund).

8

다음 주에 동향 보고서를 발표할 거예요.

I will present the trend report next week.

Verb + ㄹ/을 거예요 (future tense).

1

최근 스마트폰 시장의 동향을 분석해 보았습니다.

I tried analyzing the recent trends in the smartphone market.

Verb + 아/어 보다 (to try doing).

2

이 그래프는 지난 5년간의 수출 동향을 보여줍니다.

This graph shows the export trends over the past 5 years.

보여주다 (to show).

3

경쟁사의 동향을 파악하는 것이 회사의 성공에 중요합니다.

Grasping the trends of competitors is important for the company's success.

Noun + 에 중요하다 (important for).

4

국제 사회의 동향에 따라 우리 정책도 바뀌어야 합니다.

Our policies must also change according to the trends of the international community.

Noun + 에 따라 (according to).

5

전문가들은 내년 부동산 동향을 긍정적으로 예측하고 있습니다.

Experts are predicting next year's real estate trends positively.

Verb + 고 있다 (present continuous).

6

최신 기술 동향을 알기 위해 세미나에 참석했습니다.

I attended a seminar to learn about the latest technology trends.

Verb + 기 위해 (in order to).

7

소비자들의 구매 동향이 온라인으로 이동하고 있습니다.

Consumers' purchasing trends are shifting online.

이동하다 (to move/shift).

8

정부는 물가 상승 동향을 예의 주시하고 있다고 발표했습니다.

The government announced that it is keeping a close watch on inflation trends.

Quote + 고 발표하다.

1

급변하는 시장 동향에 신속하게 대처하지 않으면 도태될 수밖에 없습니다.

If we do not respond swiftly to rapidly changing market trends, we have no choice but to fall behind.

Verb + ㄹ/을 수밖에 없다 (have no choice but to).

2

본 보고서는 2024년 하반기 거시경제 동향과 전망을 다루고 있습니다.

This report covers the macroeconomic trends and forecasts for the second half of 2024.

다루다 (to cover/deal with).

3

인구 고령화라는 사회적 동향은 다양한 산업에 지대한 영향을 미칩니다.

The social trend of population aging has a profound impact on various industries.

영향을 미치다 (to have an impact).

4

해외 바이어들의 동향을 면밀히 분석하여 새로운 수출 전략을 수립해야 합니다.

We must establish a new export strategy by closely analyzing the trends of overseas buyers.

Verb + 아/어서 (sequential action).

5

최근 환경 보호에 대한 소비자들의 관심이 높아지는 동향이 뚜렷하게 나타납니다.

A trend of increasing consumer interest in environmental protection is clearly emerging recently.

뚜렷하게 나타나다 (to clearly appear).

6

정치권의 동향을 살펴보면, 다가오는 선거의 결과를 어느 정도 예측할 수 있습니다.

If we observe the trends in the political sphere, we can predict the results of the upcoming election to some extent.

Verb + (으)면 (if/when).

7

빅데이터를 활용하여 고객의 소비 동향을 실시간으로 파악하는 시스템을 구축했습니다.

We built a system that grasps customers' consumption trends in real-time using big data.

활용하여 (utilizing).

8

글로벌 금융 시장의 불안정한 동향으로 인해 투자자들의 심리가 위축되고 있습니다.

Due to the unstable trends in the global financial market, investor sentiment is shrinking.

Noun + (으)로 인해 (due to).

1

이러한 일련의 사태는 향후 국제 정세의 동향을 가늠해 볼 수 있는 중요한 시금석이 될 것입니다.

This series of events will serve as an important touchstone by which we can gauge the future trends of international affairs.

가늠해 보다 (to gauge/estimate).

2

4차 산업혁명 기술의 발전 동향을 벤치마킹하여 자사의 핵심 역량을 강화하는 방안을 모색해야 합니다.

We must seek ways to strengthen our core competencies by benchmarking the development trends of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

방안을 모색하다 (to seek a plan/method).

3

통계청이 발표한 고용 동향 지표에 따르면, 청년층의 체감 실업률은 여전히 심각한 수준에 머물러 있습니다.

According to the employment trend indicators released by Statistics Korea, the perceived unemployment rate among the youth remains at a severe level.

Noun + 에 따르면 (according to).

4

경영진은 업계 전반의 구조조정 동향을 예의 주시하며 선제적인 리스크 관리 체계를 가동했습니다.

The management kept a close watch on the restructuring trends across the industry and activated a preemptive risk management system.

예의 주시하다 (to watch closely/vigilantly).

5

해당 논문은 지난 20년간의 기후 변화 관련 연구 동향을 메타 분석 기법을 통해 종합적으로 고찰하였습니다.

The paper comprehensively examined the research trends related to climate change over the past 20 years through meta-analysis techniques.

고찰하다 (to consider/examine).

6

소비 양극화 동향이 고착화됨에 따라, 프리미엄 시장과 초저가 시장으로의 시장 재편이 가속화되고 있습니다.

As the trend of consumption polarization becomes entrenched, the market restructuring into premium and ultra-low-cost segments is accelerating.

Verb + (으)ㅁ에 따라 (as [something happens]).

7

북한의 최근 군사적 동향은 한반도를 둘러싼 지정학적 긴장감을 고조시키는 주요 요인으로 작용하고 있습니다.

North Korea's recent military trends are acting as a major factor escalating the geopolitical tension surrounding the Korean Peninsula.

요인으로 작용하다 (to act as a factor).

8

글로벌 공급망 재편 동향에 발맞추어, 정부는 핵심 광물의 안정적인 확보를 위한 다각적인 외교 노력을 전개하고 있습니다.

In step with the trend of global supply chain restructuring, the government is deploying multifaceted diplomatic efforts to stably secure critical minerals.

발맞추어 (in step with).

1

거시경제적 관점에서 볼 때, 현재의 인플레이션 고착화 동향은 단순한 경기 순환적 현상을 넘어 구조적 모순에 기인한 것으로 분석됩니다.

From a macroeconomic perspective, the current trend of entrenched inflation is analyzed as stemming from structural contradictions rather than a simple cyclical phenomenon.

기인하다 (to stem from/be caused by).

2

해당 정책 입안자들은 글로벌 규제 환경의 변화 동향을 선제적으로 반영하여, 국내 산업계의 충격을 최소화할 수 있는 연착륙 방안을 강구해야 마땅합니다.

The relevant policymakers must preemptively reflect the changing trends in the global regulatory environment and devise soft-landing measures to minimize the shock to domestic industries.

강구해야 마땅하다 (must devise/it is right to devise).

3

문화 자본의 축적과 소비 양태의 변화 동향을 추적함으로써, 우리는 현대 자본주의 사회의 계급 재생산 메커니즘을 보다 심층적으로 이해할 수 있습니다.

By tracking the accumulation of cultural capital and the changing trends in consumption patterns, we can gain a deeper understanding of the class reproduction mechanisms in modern capitalist society.

Verb + (으)ㅁ으로써 (by doing).

4

인공지능의 윤리적 쟁점에 관한 국제적 논의 동향을 살펴보면, 기술적 효용성과 규범적 통제 사이의 아포리아적 긴장이 여실히 드러납니다.

Examining the international discussion trends regarding the ethical issues of artificial intelligence clearly reveals the aporic tension between technological utility and normative control.

여실히 드러나다 (to be clearly revealed).

5

금융 당국은 섀도우 뱅킹 시스템의 팽창 동향이 시스템 리스크로 전이될 가능성을 차단하기 위해 미시건전성 규제를 대폭 강화하는 추세입니다.

Financial authorities are in the trend of significantly strengthening microprudential regulations to block the possibility of the expansion trend of the shadow banking system transferring into systemic risk.

전이될 가능성 (possibility of transferring).

6

이념적 양극화와 확증 편향이 심화되는 작금의 미디어 소비 동향은 숙의 민주주의의 근간을 위협하는 심대한 도전 과제로 부상하였습니다.

The current media consumption trends, where ideological polarization and confirmation bias are deepening, have emerged as a profound challenge threatening the foundations of deliberative democracy.

도전 과제로 부상하다 (to emerge as a challenge).

7

다자주의 무역 체제의 약화와 보호무역주의의 대두라는 통상 환경의 구조적 변동 동향 속에서, 수출 주도형 경제 모델의 근본적인 체질 개선이 시급히 요망됩니다.

Amidst the structural fluctuation trends in the trade environment, characterized by the weakening of the multilateral trading system and the rise of protectionism, a fundamental structural improvement of the export-led economic model is urgently required.

시급히 요망되다 (to be urgently required).

8

인류세의 도래와 함께 가속화되는 생태계 파괴 동향은 단선적인 진보 사관에 대한 근본적인 성찰을 촉구하며, 새로운 문명사적 패러다임의 전환을 요구하고 있습니다.

The trend of ecological destruction accelerating with the advent of the Anthropocene urges a fundamental reflection on the linear view of progress and demands a shift to a new civilizational paradigm.

성찰을 촉구하다 (to urge reflection).

Synonyme

Gegenteile

정체 고착

Häufige Kollokationen

동향을 파악하다
동향을 분석하다
동향을 주시하다
시장 동향
최신 동향
국제 동향
경제 동향
소비자 동향
업계 동향
동향 보고서

Häufige Phrasen

동향을 예의 주시하다
최신 동향을 반영하다
동향이 변화하다
동향을 살피다
동향을 예측하다
정치권 동향
수출입 동향
고용 동향
인구 동향
기술 동향

Wird oft verwechselt mit

동향 vs 유행 (Fad/Fashion - used for pop culture, clothes, music)

동향 vs 추세 (Tendency - implies a continuous momentum)

동향 vs 경향 (Inclination - used for personal or psychological tendencies)

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"시대의 동향을 읽다"
"동향에 발맞추다"
"동향을 주도하다"
"동향을 거스르다"
"동향에 민감하다"
"동향을 파악하는 눈"
"동향의 흐름을 타다"
"동향을 꿰뚫어 보다"
"동향의 변화를 감지하다"
"동향을 좌우하다"

Leicht verwechselbar

동향 vs

동향 vs

동향 vs

동향 vs

동향 vs

Satzmuster

So verwendest du es

restrictions

Do not use for personal habits or pop culture fads.

nuance shifts

Can shift from purely descriptive (what is happening) to predictive (what will happen) depending on the verb used.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using '동향' to describe fashion or pop culture fads (use 유행 instead).
  • Pronouncing it as '동양' (dong-yang) instead of '동향' (dong-hyang).
  • Using '동향' to describe an individual's personal habit or psychological tendency (use 경향 instead).
  • Saying '동향을 만들다' (to make a trend) instead of '동향을 파악하다' (to grasp a trend).
  • Using '동향' in casual, everyday conversation with friends.

Tipps

Business Essential

If you work in Korea, memorize '시장 동향' (market trend) and '업계 동향' (industry trend). You will use them constantly in reports and meetings.

The Perfect Pair

Always pair '동향' with '파악하다' (to grasp). '동향을 파악하다' is the most natural and professional way to say 'figure out the trend'.

Don't Drop the H

Practice saying '동-향' slowly. If you say '동-양', people will think you are talking about Eastern philosophy or Asian geography.

TOPIK Writing Gold

In TOPIK Task 53, start your graph analysis with '최근 [Topic]의 동향을 살펴보면...' to instantly sound like an advanced speaker.

동향 vs 유행

Use '유행' for short-term, fun things (fashion, memes). Use '동향' for serious, long-term shifts (economy, demographics).

News Cue

When watching Korean news, listen for the anchor saying '동향입니다'. It signals that a summary of data or recent events is coming up.

Hanja Roots

Remember 動 (Move) + 向 (Direction). This will help you guess the meaning of other words with these characters, like 동력 (motive power) or 향상 (improvement).

No Space Needed

When combining '동향' with another noun (like 시장, 경제), you don't need a space or particle. '시장동향' or '시장 동향' are both fine, but '시장의 동향' is often unnecessarily wordy in titles.

Use with '따르면'

A great sentence structure for essays is '최근 보고된 동향에 따르면...' (According to recently reported trends...).

Keep it Formal

Never use '동향' to ask your friends what they are up to. It will sound like you are a news anchor reporting on their lives.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a DONG (bell) ringing, and people HYANG (heading) in that direction. The DONG-HYANG (trend) is where everyone is moving when the bell rings.

Wortherkunft

Sino-Korean

Kultureller Kontext

Carries an objective, analytical, and serious tone. Not used for trivial or personal matters.

Formal/Professional

Using this word correctly signals high education and professional competence.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Gesprächseinstiege

"최근 당신의 업계에서 가장 주목받는 동향은 무엇인가요?"

"한국의 부동산 동향에 대해 어떻게 생각하십니까?"

"새로운 기술 동향이 우리 삶을 어떻게 바꿀까요?"

"요즘 소비자 동향의 가장 큰 특징은 무엇입니까?"

"국제 정세 동향을 파악하기 위해 주로 어떤 뉴스를 보시나요?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

내가 일하는(또는 공부하는) 분야의 최근 동향에 대해 써보세요.

앞으로 10년 후, 한국 사회의 인구 동향은 어떻게 변할 것인가?

최근 가장 흥미롭게 지켜보고 있는 세계적 동향은 무엇이며 그 이유는?

과거의 동향과 현재의 동향이 가장 크게 달라진 산업은 무엇이라고 생각하는가?

개인의 삶이 거대한 사회적 동향에 의해 어떻게 영향을 받는지 서술하시오.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is generally not recommended. '동향' is very formal and analytical. For K-pop, fashion, or pop culture, '유행' (fad) or '트렌드' (trend) is much more natural. You might see 'K-pop 산업 동향' in a serious business report about the music industry's economics, but not in a casual conversation about what songs are popular.

They are very similar and often interchangeable in business contexts. However, '추세' (tendency/momentum) often implies a continuous movement in a specific direction (like an upward trend). '동향' (trend/direction) is slightly more neutral and focuses on the current state of movement or the overall landscape of changes.

It is pronounced [동향] (dong-hyang). The most common mistake for learners is dropping the 'ㅎ' (h) sound, making it sound like '동양' (dong-yang), which means 'the Orient' or 'East Asia'. Make sure to articulate the 'h' clearly.

Yes, but primarily in formal spoken Korean, such as news broadcasts, business presentations, academic lectures, or professional meetings. It sounds very unnatural if used in casual conversation with friends about everyday topics.

The most common verbs are analytical or observational. '파악하다' (to grasp/identify), '분석하다' (to analyze), '살피다' (to observe), '주시하다' (to keep an eye on), and '보고하다' (to report) are all excellent choices.

Usually no. '동향' describes macro-level movements of a group, market, or society. If you want to describe a single person's tendency or inclination, use '경향' (e.g., 그는 늦는 경향이 있다 - He has a tendency to be late).

It means 'Trend Report'. It is a very common type of document in Korean companies and government agencies, summarizing recent developments, competitor activities, or market shifts in a specific industry.

Yes. It comes from the Hanja 動 (동 - to move) and 向 (향 - direction). Knowing these roots helps you understand other words like 운동 (exercise - moving) and 방향 (direction).

It frequently appears in TOPIK II (Levels 3-6) reading and listening sections, especially in news reports or passages about economics and sociology. In the writing section (Task 53), it is a great word to use when summarizing the overall trend of a graph.

No, this is awkward. '동향' is treated as an abstract phenomenon that you observe or analyze, not something you physically create. If you want to say 'lead a trend', use '트렌드를 주도하다' or '유행을 선도하다'.

Teste dich selbst 185 Fragen

writing

To analyze market trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

To grasp the latest trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

To keep a close watch on economic trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Trend report.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

International trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Consumer trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Industry trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Employment trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Import and export trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Technology trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Political trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Demographic trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

To reflect the trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

The trend is changing.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

To predict the trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

To observe the trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Stock market trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Real estate trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Research trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Military trends.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

최근 스마트폰 시장의 동향을 분석해 보았습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

이 그래프는 지난 5년간의 수출 동향을 보여줍니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

경쟁사의 동향을 파악하는 것이 중요합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

국제 사회의 동향에 따라 정책도 바뀌어야 합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

전문가들은 내년 부동산 동향을 긍정적으로 예측합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

최신 기술 동향을 알기 위해 세미나에 참석했습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

소비자들의 구매 동향이 온라인으로 이동하고 있습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

정부는 물가 상승 동향을 예의 주시하고 있습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

급변하는 시장 동향에 신속하게 대처해야 합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

본 보고서는 거시경제 동향을 다루고 있습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

인구 고령화 동향은 다양한 산업에 영향을 미칩니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

해외 바이어들의 동향을 면밀히 분석해야 합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

환경 보호에 대한 관심이 높아지는 동향이 뚜렷합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

정치권의 동향을 살펴보면 결과를 예측할 수 있습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

빅데이터를 활용하여 소비 동향을 파악합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

금융 시장의 불안정한 동향으로 심리가 위축됩니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

국제 정세의 동향을 가늠해 볼 수 있습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

기술의 발전 동향을 벤치마킹해야 합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

고용 동향 지표에 따르면 실업률이 심각합니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

업계 전반의 구조조정 동향을 주시했습니다.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 시장 동향을 분석하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 최신 동향을 파악하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 경제 동향을 예의 주시하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 동향 보고서를 작성하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 국제 동향에 발맞추다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 소비자 동향이 변화하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 업계 동향을 살피다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 고용 동향 지표를 발표하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 수출입 동향을 예측하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 기술 동향 세미나에 참석하다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 정치 동향을 분석한 결과]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 인구 동향이 뚜렷하게 나타나다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 동향을 반영하여 정책을 세우다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 증시 동향이 심상치 않다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

[Audio: 부동산 동향을 주시하고 있다]

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

Verwandte Inhalte

Mehr economics Wörter

풍요

B2

Ein Zustand großer Fülle an Ressourcen oder Reichtum; eine Fülle. (A state of great abundance of resources or wealth; an abundance.) Das Land strebt nach wirtschaftlicher 풍요 für seine Bürger. (The country strives for economic 풍요 for its citizens.)

동반하다

B2

Wirtschaftswachstum geht oft mit Inflation einher.

부가가치

B1

Die Wertschöpfung ist der zusätzliche Wert, der auf jeder Stufe der Produktion geschaffen wird.

여파

B2

Die verbleibenden Auswirkungen oder Folgen eines Ereignisses; Nachwirkungen. Die Wellen, die nach einem großen Ereignis weiterschlagen.

보조

B1

Die Tätigkeit, eine Hauptfunktion oder -einheit zu unterstützen. Es bezieht sich oft auf finanzielle Unterstützung (Subventionen) oder sekundäre Hilfe zur Erledigung einer Aufgabe.

혜택

B2

Ein Vorteil oder eine Vergünstigung, die man von einer Institution oder Situation erhält.

편익

B2

Der Nutzen und die Bequemlichkeit, die aus einer bestimmten Sache oder Handlung resultieren. Oft im Kontext von Kosten-Nutzen-Analysen verwendet.

호황

B2

Eine Periode wirtschaftlicher Prosperität und schnellen Wachstums, gekennzeichnet durch hohe Produktion, niedrige Arbeitslosigkeit und erhöhte Konsumausgaben. Deutschland erlebt in der Automobilindustrie einen Boom.

산정하다

B1

Einen numerischen Wert oder Betrag auf der Grundlage bestimmter Kriterien berechnen oder festsetzen. 'Die Versicherungsprämien wurden neu berechnet.'

자본

B1

Kapital ist das Geld oder die Vermögenswerte, die für Investitionen verwendet werden.

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!