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A2 noun #3,500 am häufigsten 9 Min. Lesezeit

젊은이

jeolmeuni Top 3,500

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Erklärung 젊은이 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '젊은이' (jeolmeuni) as a simple label for a person who is not old. It comes from '젊다' (to be young). In very simple sentences, you might see it when someone is pointing out a person in a crowd. Since A1 learners focus on basic nouns like 'man' (남자), 'woman' (여자), and 'student' (학생), '젊은이' is a useful addition to describe someone's age group. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just remember that it means 'young person'. For example, if you see a person running in the park, you could say '젊은이가 달려요' (The young person runs). It is a polite way to talk about someone who looks like they are in their 20s. Usually, you will learn '어린이' (child) first, and '젊은이' is the next step up. It's a very clear, easy-to-understand word because it literally breaks down into 'young' + 'one'. You can use it in basic 'Subject-Object-Verb' sentences. Just remember that it is a noun, so you can put markers like '-가' or '-는' after it. It's a friendly word that helps you describe the people you see around you in Korea.

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At the A2 level, you are beginning to understand the difference between formal and informal situations. '젊은이' is a great word because it is neutral—it's not too slangy, and it's not too stiff. You will start to see it in short stories or simple news clips. At this level, you should practice using the plural form '젊은이들' (young people) because you will often want to talk about groups. For instance, '젊은이들은 케이팝을 좋아합니다' (Young people like K-pop). You should also notice how it is used with basic adjectives. You might say '친절한 젊은이' (a kind young person) or '바쁜 젊은이' (a busy young person). A2 learners should also be aware that while they can use this word to talk about others, they shouldn't use it to refer to themselves in a casual introduction. Instead of '저는 젊은이입니다', you would say '저는 젊어요' (I am young). This distinction is a key part of moving from basic to intermediate Korean. You might also hear this word if an older person speaks to you in a market or on the street. Understanding that they are calling you 'young person' in a polite way is a great cultural milestone for an A2 learner.

At the B1 level, you can handle more complex social nuances. You'll realize that '젊은이' is often used in discussions about society. For example, you might read an article about '젊은이들의 꿈' (the dreams of young people) or '젊은이들의 고민' (the worries of young people). At this stage, you should be able to compare '젊은이' with '청년'. While '청년' often refers to the legal or sociological group of 'young adults', '젊은이' feels a bit more descriptive and can be used more broadly in literature. You will also start to encounter the word in passive listening, such as in K-dramas where a grandfather might give advice to a '젊은이'. You should practice using '젊은이' in your own writing, such as when writing a short essay about your generation. It provides a more sophisticated tone than just using '사람들' (people). You can also start using it with more advanced grammar patterns, like '젊은이답게' (like a young person/youthfully) or '젊은이치고는' (for a young person). This word becomes a tool for you to express ideas about life stages and social roles, which is a key requirement for B1 level communication.

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At the B2 level, you should be comfortable with the stylistic choice of using '젊은이' over other synonyms. You will notice that in formal speeches, editorials, and literature, '젊은이' is used to evoke a sense of potential and national future. You should be able to understand and use it in complex sentences involving nested clauses. For example: '현대 사회에서 경쟁에 내몰리는 젊은이들의 현실을 외면해서는 안 된다' (We must not turn a blind eye to the reality of young people being pushed into competition in modern society). At this level, you can also appreciate the word's etymology (the -ㄴ 이 construction) and how it relates to other words like '늙은이' (though you'll know to use the latter with extreme caution due to its potential derogatory weight). You will also encounter '젊은이' in more abstract contexts, such as '젊은이의 기상' (the spirit of youth). You should be able to discuss the pros and cons of being a '젊은이' in Korea today, using the word to anchor your arguments. Your understanding of the word should now include its historical baggage—how it has been used to inspire or criticize the younger generation throughout Korea's modern history.

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At the C1 level, your understanding of '젊은이' should be deeply rooted in sociolinguistics. You will recognize that the word is increasingly being replaced in colloquial speech by 'MZ세대' or English loanwords, but it remains the standard in high-quality prose and academic writing. You should be able to analyze how the word functions in classical literature versus modern journalism. For instance, in a C1 level discussion, you might analyze the shift in how '젊은이' is portrayed—from the 'enlightened youth' of the early 20th century to the 'N-po generation' (those giving up on marriage, kids, etc.) of today. You should be able to use the word with perfect register, knowing exactly when it adds a touch of gravitas to your speech. You might use it when delivering a formal presentation or writing a critique of a film. You should also be aware of the subtle power dynamics involved when an older person uses '젊은이' as a vocative; it can be a term of endearment, but it can also be a way of asserting seniority. Mastering these subtle 'vibes' is what defines a C1 learner. You can use the word to discuss complex philosophical concepts, like the 'existential angst of the young person' (젊은이의 실존적 고뇌), with ease and precision.

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At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of '젊은이' and can use it with all its poetic and historical resonances. You can effortlessly switch between '젊은이', '청년', '청춘', and '신세대' depending on the exact nuance you wish to convey. You might use '젊은이' in a literary translation to capture a specific 'pure' or 'earnest' quality of a character. You are aware of how the word has appeared in iconic Korean poems and songs, and you can reference these in your own high-level discourse. You understand the word's place within the broader 'Pure Korean' vs. 'Sino-Korean' linguistic debate, recognizing '젊은이' as a beautiful example of a native Korean compound. In a professional or academic setting, you can use the word to discuss demographic trends, labor economics, or cultural shifts with the authority of a native speaker. You might even use it ironically or playfully in specific social circles to comment on the 'generation gap'. For a C2 learner, '젊은이' is not just a word for a young person; it is a cultural symbol that represents the ever-changing face of Korea itself. You can write entire essays on the evolving definition of what it means to be a '젊은이' in a rapidly aging society like South Korea's.

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젊은이 in 30 Sekunden

젊은이 means 'young person' and is a gender-neutral noun used in both formal and daily contexts.
It is formed from '젊다' (young) and '이' (person), making it a descriptive and polite term.
While common in news and literature, it's often used by older people to refer to the younger generation.
The plural form 젊은이들 is frequently used to discuss social trends and the youth demographic as a whole.

The Korean word 젊은이 (jeolmeuni) is a quintessential noun used to describe a young person or youth. Etymologically, it is a compound formed from the adjective 젊다 (jeomda), meaning 'to be young', and the bound noun 이 (i), which translates to 'person' or 'individual'. While it is a standard term, its usage carries a specific weight in Korean society, often reflecting a perspective from an older generation looking toward a younger one, or appearing in formal contexts like literature, news reporting, and public speeches.

Core Definition: A person who is in the stage of life between childhood and middle age, typically encompassing those in their late teens, twenties, and early thirties. It suggests vitality, potential, and the future of society.
Social Nuance: In Korea's age-hierarchical culture, 젊은이 is frequently used by elders (어르신) when addressing or referring to the younger generation. It can sound paternalistic or encouraging depending on the tone. Unlike '청년' (cheongnyeon), which has a more sociological or political 'young adult' feel, 젊은이 feels slightly more grounded in the physical state of being young.
Historical Context: Historically, this word has been used in literature to signify the 'new blood' of Korea. During the rapid modernization period, 젊은이 represented the bridge between traditional values and modern aspirations. It is a word that evokes a sense of duty and the burden of carrying the nation's future.

요즘 젊은이들은 정말 똑똑하고 창의적입니다.

Translation: Young people these days are truly smart and creative.

In modern media, you will often find 젊은이 in headlines discussing employment, social trends, or the 'MZ generation'. However, the word is increasingly competing with loanwords or more specific demographic terms. Despite this, it remains a pillar of the Korean vocabulary, essential for understanding how age groups are categorized and addressed in the Korean linguistic landscape. It is also a key word in folk songs and classic poetry, where the transience of youth is a recurring theme.

그 젊은이는 나라를 위해 큰 결심을 했습니다.

Translation: That young man made a great decision for the country.

To master 젊은이, one must understand that it is more than just a biological descriptor; it is a social label. It encapsulates the expectations of growth, the beauty of the 'prime of life', and the inevitable transition into the responsibilities of adulthood. Whether you are reading a novel set in the 1920s or watching a news report about the latest tech startups, this word will serve as a marker for the demographic that is currently shaping the world.

Using 젊은이 correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its stylistic placement. It functions like any other noun in Korean, taking subject markers (-가/-이), object markers (-를/-을), and topic markers (-는/-은). However, because it refers to people, it is often paired with verbs of action, thought, or state of being that are characteristic of youth.

Subjective Usage: When 젊은이 is the subject, it often precedes verbs that describe energetic or innovative actions. Example: 젊은이가 길을 물어보았다 (A young person asked for directions).
Pluralization: To refer to young people as a group, the plural suffix -들 is added: 젊은이들. This is the most common form used in news and social commentary. Example: 젊은이들이 광장에 모였다 (Young people gathered in the square).
Descriptive Modifiers: It is frequently modified by adjectives like 용감한 (brave), 꿈 많은 (dream-filled), or 방황하는 (wandering/lost). Example: 꿈 많은 젊은이의 도전 (The challenge of a young person full of dreams).

한 젊은이가 노인에게 자리를 양보했습니다.

Translation: A young person gave up their seat to an elderly person.

In formal speeches, you might hear the phrase 젊은이 여러분 (Young people, everyone/you all). This is a standard way for a speaker (often a politician or professor) to address a young audience. It conveys respect while maintaining the age hierarchy. In contrast, in a casual setting, one might use '너희들' (you guys) or '애들' (kids/youngsters), but 젊은이 adds a layer of dignity to the subjects.

이곳은 많은 젊은이들이 즐겨 찾는 명소입니다.

Translation: This place is a famous spot that many young people enjoy visiting.

When writing, especially in essays or reports, 젊은이 serves as a neutral and professional term. It avoids the potentially overly-formal '청년' (which can sound like a census category) and the overly-casual '청소년' (which specifically means teenagers). It is the 'Goldilocks' word for referring to anyone who isn't a child but isn't yet considered 'middle-aged' (중년).

Understanding where 젊은이 appears in real life is crucial for developing natural-sounding Korean. While you might not use it to call your friend at a cafe, you will encounter it in specific cultural and social environments. It is a word of the public sphere, the literary world, and the intergenerational dialogue.

News and Media: Broadcasters use 젊은이 when discussing demographic shifts, such as '젊은이들의 취업난' (The employment difficulties of young people). It sounds objective and respectful in a journalistic context.
Traditional Markets and Public Transport: If you are a foreigner in your 20s or 30s visiting a traditional market (재래시장), an elderly vendor might call out to you: "젊은이, 이것 좀 먹어봐!" (Young person, try some of this!). Here, it is warm and welcoming.
Literature and K-Dramas: In historical dramas (사극), you will hear this word constantly. In modern dramas, a CEO might use it to refer to a promising young employee. It carries a sense of 'the next generation'.

요즘 젊은이들은 우리 때와는 많이 달라요.

Translation: Young people these days are very different from our time.

Another interesting place you'll find this word is in the titles of books or movies. For example, '젊은이의 양지' (A Sunny Place for the Young) was a very famous Korean drama in the 90s. The word evokes a sense of nostalgia for those who have passed that stage of life and a sense of ambition for those currently in it. In religious settings, pastors or monks often address the 'young people' of the congregation using this term to impart wisdom.

대한민국의 젊은이로서 긍지를 가집시다.

Translation: Let's have pride as young people of the Republic of Korea.

Finally, in the context of global culture, when Korean media talks about young people in the US or Europe, they use 젊은이. It is the universal translation for 'the youth' of any nation. If you are participating in a language exchange or a formal meeting in Korea, using this word when discussing social issues will make your Korean sound more sophisticated and appropriately formal.

While 젊은이 is a common word, learners often trip up on its register and specific connotations. Because Korean has many words for 'person' and 'young', choosing the wrong one can lead to awkward or even unintentionally rude situations. Let's break down the most frequent errors.

Using It for Oneself: Mistake: "저는 젊은이입니다." (I am a young person). While grammatically correct, it sounds very strange and robotic. Koreans rarely use 젊은이 to describe themselves. Instead, they might say "저는 아직 젊어요" (I am still young) or "저는 20대입니다" (I am in my 20s).
Confusing with '청소년': Mistake: Using 젊은이 to refer to middle schoolers. 젊은이 usually implies someone who has reached a certain level of maturity or legal adulthood. For teenagers, '청소년' (adolescent) is the correct term.
The 'Old Man' Vibe: Because 젊은이 is so often used by older people to address younger ones, if a 20-year-old calls another 20-year-old 젊은이, it sounds like a joke or like they are pretending to be an old grandfather. Use '친구' (friend) or their name instead.

X 저기 젊은이, 같이 밥 먹을래? (To a peer)
O 친구야, 같이 밥 먹을래? / [Name]씨, 같이 밥 먹을래?

Note: Avoid using '젊은이' to address peers casually.

Another mistake is overestimating the age range. While 'young' is relative, calling a 45-year-old a 젊은이 in Korea might be seen as a bit mocking, even if they look young. The social cutoff for this word usually ends around 35. After that, terms like '중년' (middle-aged) or specific titles (Manager, Mister, etc.) are used. Also, be careful with the antonym 늙은이 (old person); while 젊은이 is neutral/positive, 늙은이 can be quite offensive. Use 어르신 instead for elders.

X 저 젊은이는 제 아버지입니다. (My father is that young person.)
O 저희 아버지는 아직 젊어 보이십니다. (My father still looks young.)

Lastly, don't confuse 젊은이 with 젊음 (youth - the concept). You can 'have youth' (젊음을 유지하다), but you cannot 'have a young person' in the same abstract sense. 젊은이 is always a concrete human being.

Korean has a rich tapestry of words to describe people at different stages of life. Choosing between 젊은이 and its synonyms depends on the level of formality, the specific age, and the social context. Let's compare 젊은이 with its most common alternatives.

청년 (Cheong-nyeon): Comparison: This is the most direct synonym. However, '청년' has a stronger Sino-Korean (Hanja) feel. It is used in legal terms (청년 기본법), in church groups (청년부), and in political discourse. It sounds a bit more 'official' than 젊은이.
청춘 (Cheong-chun): Comparison: While 젊은이 is the person, '청춘' is the *state* of youth or the springtime of life. It is very poetic. You'll hear it in song lyrics like "아프니까 청춘이다" (It hurts, because it's youth). You don't call someone a '청춘', but you say they are *in* their '청춘'.
총각 / 처녀 (Chong-gak / Cheo-nyeo): Comparison: These are older terms for an unmarried young man and an unmarried young woman, respectively. They are becoming less common in urban settings but are still used by elders in the countryside. They are much more gender-specific than the gender-neutral 젊은이.
MZ세대 (MZ Sedae): Comparison: This is the modern, buzzword-heavy way to refer to 'young people' (Millennials and Gen Z). If you are talking about digital trends, workplace changes, or social media, 'MZ세대' is currently more common in the news than 젊은이.

그 젊은이는 참 성실해요. (General/Warm)
그 청년은 참 성실해요. (Slightly more formal/masculine)

In summary, use 젊은이 when you want to sound natural and slightly descriptive. Use '청년' for official contexts. Use '청소년' for minors. And use 'MZ세대' when you want to sound like you've been reading the latest Korean lifestyle magazines. Each word has its own 'flavor' of youth!

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The suffix '-이' is one of the oldest ways in the Korean language to turn a description into a person. You can see this same pattern in '어린이' (child), which was famously promoted by the children's rights activist Bang Jeong-hwan to give children more respect.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /t͡ɕʌlmɯni/

US /dʒʌlmuni/

In Korean, syllables generally have equal weight, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '젊' (jeol).

Reimt sich auf

어린이 (eorini - child) 글쓴이 (geulsseuni - writer) 지은이 (jieuni - author) 늙은이 (neulgeuni - old person) 어머니 (eomeoni - mother) 바구니 (baguni - basket) 아주머니 (ajumeoni - aunt/lady) 할머니 (halmeoni - grandmother)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'l' and 'm' separately with a vowel between them (e.g., 'jeol-eu-muni').
Making the 'j' sound too sharp like a 'z'.
Shortening the final 'i' so it sounds like 'in'.
Replacing the 'eo' sound with an 'o' sound (e.g., 'jol-muni').
Failing to pronounce the bottom consonant 'ㄹ' (l) clearly.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Easy to read as it follows standard phonetic rules. Recognizable root '젊다'.

Schreiben 3/5

The consonant cluster 'ㄻ' in '젊' can be tricky for beginners to remember.

Sprechen 3/5

Pronouncing the 'lm' cluster smoothly requires practice.

Hören 2/5

Very common in media, so it's easy to pick out in a sentence.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

젊다 (to be young) 사람 (person) 아이 (child) 남자 (man) 여자 (woman)

Als Nächstes lernen

청년 (young adult) 청춘 (youth) 늙은이 (old person) 어르신 (elder)

Fortgeschritten

기성세대 (older generation) 세대교체 (generational shift) 가치관 (values)

Wichtige Grammatik

Adnominal suffix -ㄴ/은

젊다 -> 젊은 (young)

Bound noun '이'

글쓴이, 지은이, 어린이

Plural suffix -들

젊은이들

Noun + -답다 (To be like...)

젊은이답다 (to be like a young person)

Honorifics with '이'

Note: '이' is neutral. For elders, use '분' (e.g., 어르신분).

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Beispiele nach Niveau

그 젊은이는 키가 커요.

That young person is tall.

Subject marker '는' is used for the topic.

젊은이가 웃어요.

The young person laughs.

Subject marker '가' is used for a specific action.

젊은이 두 명이 있어요.

There are two young people.

Using the counter '명' for people.

저는 젊은이를 만나요.

I meet a young person.

Object marker '를' is used.

젊은이가 공부해요.

The young person is studying.

Simple present tense.

저 젊은이는 누구예요?

Who is that young person?

Interrogative '누구예요' (Who is it?).

젊은이가 친절해요.

The young person is kind.

Adjective '친절하다' in polite form.

젊은이가 노래해요.

The young person sings.

Action verb '노래하다'.

많은 젊은이들이 축구장에 갔어요.

Many young people went to the soccer stadium.

Plural marker '들' and past tense '갔어요'.

젊은이에게 길을 물어봤어요.

I asked a young person for directions.

Dative marker '에게' (to).

그 젊은이는 아주 성실해 보여요.

That young person looks very sincere.

'-어 보이다' (to look like/appear).

젊은이들이 카페에서 이야기해요.

Young people are talking in the cafe.

Location marker '에서'.

요즘 젊은이들은 스마트폰을 많이 써요.

Young people these days use smartphones a lot.

'요즘' (these days) as a temporal adverb.

그 젊은이는 꿈이 의사예요.

That young person's dream is to be a doctor.

Possessive structure without '의'.

젊은이들이 공원에서 운동하고 있어요.

Young people are exercising in the park.

Progressive form '-고 있다'.

어떤 젊은이가 가방을 찾아주었어요.

Some young person found and returned my bag.

Benefactive form '-아/어 주다'.

젊은이들이 사회 문제에 관심이 많아지고 있다.

Young people are becoming more interested in social issues.

'-아/어지다' indicates a change in state.

그는 젊은이답게 패기가 넘친다.

He is full of spirit, like a young person.

'-답게' means 'suitably' or 'like'.

도서관은 미래를 준비하는 젊은이들로 가득했다.

The library was full of young people preparing for the future.

Noun + '-로 가득하다' (full of).

젊은이치고는 예의가 아주 바르군요.

For a young person, they are very polite.

'-치고는' means 'for a...' or 'considering...'.

많은 젊은이가 고향을 떠나 서울로 향한다.

Many young people leave their hometowns and head for Seoul.

Directional marker '-로'.

정부는 젊은이들을 위한 새로운 정책을 발표했다.

The government announced new policies for young people.

'-을 위한' (for the sake of).

젊은이의 열정은 무엇보다 소중하다.

A young person's passion is more precious than anything.

'무엇보다' (more than anything).

그 영화는 젊은이들의 사랑과 고민을 담고 있다.

That movie contains the love and worries of young people.

'-를 담고 있다' (to contain/embody).

급변하는 시대에 젊은이들의 역할이 중요하다.

The role of young people is important in a rapidly changing era.

Present participle '급변하는' (rapidly changing).

그 젊은이는 실패를 두려워하지 않고 도전했다.

That young person challenged themselves without fearing failure.

'-지 않고' (without doing).

젊은이들 사이에서 유행하는 옷차림이다.

It is a clothing style popular among young people.

'-들 사이에서' (among...).

고령화 사회에서 젊은이들의 부담이 커지고 있다.

In an aging society, the burden on young people is increasing.

Noun '부담' (burden/responsibility).

그는 젊은이의 시각에서 세상을 바라본다.

He looks at the world from a young person's perspective.

'시각' (perspective/viewpoint).

젊은이들이 모여 새로운 문화를 만들어낸다.

Young people gather and create a new culture.

Compound verb '만들어내다' (to create/produce).

한 젊은이의 용기 있는 행동이 많은 이들을 감동시켰다.

A young person's courageous action moved many people.

Causative verb '감동시키다' (to move/touch someone).

젊은이들의 창의성이 기업의 경쟁력이다.

The creativity of young people is a company's competitiveness.

Noun '경쟁력' (competitiveness).

젊은이들의 탈종교화 현상이 가속화되고 있다.

The phenomenon of secularization among young people is accelerating.

Advanced noun '탈종교화' (secularization).

그 소설은 방황하는 젊은이의 내면을 섬세하게 묘사한다.

The novel delicately describes the inner world of a wandering youth.

Adverb '섬세하게' (delicately/finely).

시대적 아픔을 온몸으로 겪어낸 젊은이들이었다.

They were young people who experienced the pain of the era with their whole bodies.

'-아/어 내다' indicates completing a difficult task.

젊은이들의 정치적 무관심에 대한 우려의 목소리가 높다.

There are loud voices of concern regarding young people's political indifference.

'-에 대한' (regarding/about).

현대 사회는 젊은이들에게 끊임없는 자기계발을 요구한다.

Modern society demands constant self-development from young people.

Noun '자기계발' (self-development).

젊은이의 순수한 열정이 기성세대의 고정관념을 깼다.

The pure passion of a young person broke the stereotypes of the older generation.

Noun '기성세대' (older/established generation).

그 젊은이는 자신의 신념을 굽히지 않았다.

That young person did not bend their beliefs.

Idiom '신념을 굽히다' (to compromise one's beliefs).

젊은이들이 겪는 심리적 박탈감은 심각한 수준이다.

The psychological sense of deprivation experienced by young people is at a serious level.

Noun '박탈감' (sense of deprivation).

젊은이의 표상으로 여겨지는 인물을 조명해 보자.

Let's shed light on a figure considered the epitome of youth.

Noun '표상' (epitome/representation).

그의 문체는 젊은이 특유의 날카로움과 감수성을 지니고 있다.

His writing style possesses the sharpness and sensitivity unique to the young.

'-특유의' (unique to/characteristic of).

젊은이들이 주도하는 담론이 사회의 패러다임을 바꾸고 있다.

The discourse led by young people is changing the paradigm of society.

Noun '담론' (discourse).

치열한 삶의 현장에서 고군분투하는 젊은이들을 응원한다.

I cheer for the young people who are struggling lonely in the fierce field of life.

Idiom '고군분투' (fighting a lonely battle).

젊은이의 고뇌는 인류 역사의 영원한 테마이다.

The agony of youth is an eternal theme in human history.

Noun '고뇌' (agony/anguish).

기성세대의 잣대로 젊은이들을 재단해서는 안 된다.

We should not judge young people by the standards of the older generation.

Idiom '잣대로 재단하다' (to judge/evaluate strictly).

젊은이들의 역동성은 국가 발전의 원동력이다.

The dynamism of young people is the driving force of national development.

Noun '원동력' (driving force).

그 시인은 젊은이의 상실감을 시적 언어로 승화시켰다.

The poet sublimated the young person's sense of loss into poetic language.

Verb '승화시키다' (to sublimate/elevate).

Häufige Kollokationen

젊은이의 꿈

꿈 많은 젊은이

방황하는 젊은이

젊은이의 패기

유망한 젊은이

젊은이의 특권

시골 젊은이

똑똑한 젊은이

젊은이의 고뇌

젊은이의 양지

Häufige Phrasen

요즘 젊은이들

— Young people these days. Often used to start a comparison between generations.

요즘 젊은이들은 개성이 뚜렷해요.

젊은이 여러분

— Young people! (Addressing an audience). Used in speeches.

젊은이 여러분, 미래는 여러분의 것입니다.

대한의 젊은이

— The youth of Korea. A patriotic or formal way to address young citizens.

대한의 젊은이로서 자부심을 가집시다.

젊은이의 기상

— The spirit/vigor of youth. Used to describe high energy and ambition.

젊은이의 기상을 보여주자!

한 젊은이가

— A certain young person... (Used as a storytelling opener).

어느 날 한 젊은이가 저를 찾아왔어요.

젊은이의 도전

— The challenge of a young person. Often used in motivational contexts.

젊은이의 도전은 아름답습니다.

평범한 젊은이

— An ordinary young person. Used to describe typical citizens.

그는 그저 평범한 젊은이였다.

젊은이의 거리

— The street of youth. Refers to places like Hongdae or Sinchon.

홍대는 젊은이의 거리로 유명하다.

젊은이의 열정

— The passion of youth. A very common collocation in media.

젊은이의 열정은 식지 않는다.

젊은이답다

— To be like a young person. Used to praise energy or modern thinking.

생각이 참 젊은이답네요.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

젊은이 vs 어린이

Means 'child'. Don't confuse the 'young' (젊은) with 'small/little' (어린).

젊은이 vs 늙은이

Means 'old person'. While '젊은이' is polite, '늙은이' can be rude.

젊은이 vs 청소년

Means 'teenager'. '젊은이' is usually older than a '청소년'.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"젊은이가 늙은이보다 낫다"

— A young person is better than an old one (in terms of energy/future).

역시 젊은이가 늙은이보다 낫구먼.

Casual/Proverbial

"젊은이의 피는 끓는다"

— Young blood boils (young people are full of passion and energy).

젊은이의 피가 끓는 법이지.

Literary

"젊은이의 고생은 사서도 한다"

— Hardships in youth are worth paying for (experience is valuable).

젊은이의 고생은 사서도 한다니 힘내세요.

Encouraging

"젊은이의 눈은 보배다"

— A young person's eyes are treasures (they see things clearly/newly).

젊은이의 눈은 보배라더니 정말 그렇네.

Complimentary

"젊은이가 기둥이다"

— The youth are the pillars (of a nation or family).

우리 집은 이 젊은이가 기둥이야.

Metaphorical

"젊은이의 패기 하나로"

— With nothing but the spirit of youth.

젊은이의 패기 하나로 사업을 시작했다.

Neutral

"젊은이의 앞길"

— The future path of a young person.

젊은이의 앞길을 막지 마라.

Formal

"젊은이의 숨결"

— The breath of youth (the vibe or influence of the young).

도시 곳곳에서 젊은이의 숨결이 느껴진다.

Poetic

"젊은이의 표상"

— The symbol/icon of youth.

그는 이 시대 젊은이의 표상이다.

Formal

"젊은이의 전유물"

— The exclusive property of the young (something only they do).

도전은 젊은이의 전유물이 아니다.

Rhetorical

Leicht verwechselbar

젊은이 vs 청년

Both mean 'young person'.

청년 is more formal/Sino-Korean; 젊은이 is more descriptive/Pure Korean.

청년 실업 (Youth unemployment) vs. 꿈 많은 젊은이 (A dream-filled young person).

젊은이 vs 청춘

Both relate to youth.

청춘 is the *concept* or *period* of youth; 젊은이 is the *person*.

나의 청춘 (My youth) vs. 저 젊은이 (That young person).

젊은이 vs 신세대

Both refer to the young.

신세대 focuses on being 'new' and 'different' from the old generation.

신세대의 감각 (Sense of the new generation).

젊은이 vs 학생

Most young people are students.

학생 is a role; 젊은이 is an age category. A 25-year-old worker is a 젊은이 but not a 학생.

공부하는 학생 vs. 일하는 젊은이.

젊은이 vs 미성년자

Refers to young people.

미성년자 is a legal term for 'minor'. 젊은이 usually implies an adult.

미성년자 관람 불가 (No minors allowed).

Satzmuster

N은/는 젊은이예요.

그는 젊은이예요.

Adj-ㄴ 젊은이

친절한 젊은이

젊은이들 사이에서 V-는 것

젊은이들 사이에서 유행하는 것

젊은이로서의 N

젊은이로서의 책임

젊은이의 N을/를 V-게 묘사하다

젊은이의 심리를 섬세하게 묘사하다.

젊은이의 N이/가 V-는 원동력이다

젊은이의 열정이 세상을 바꾸는 원동력이다.

젊은이답게 V

젊은이답게 생각하다.

많은 젊은이들이 V

많은 젊은이들이 모였어요.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

젊음 (youth/the state of being young)

청년 (young adult)

청춘 (youth/prime of life)

Verben

젊어지다 (to become younger)

젊다 (to be young - adjective used as verb root)

Adjektive

젊디젊다 (to be very young)

젊은 (young - modifier form)

Verwandt

나이 (age)

세대 (generation)

인생 (life)

미래 (future)

성장 (growth)

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So verwendest du es

frequency

Very High in written Korean and media; Moderate in casual spoken Korean.

Häufige Fehler

저는 젊은이입니다. → 저는 젊어요. / 저는 20대입니다.
Koreans don't typically use '젊은이' to describe themselves in a personal introduction.
젊은이, 안녕하세요! → 안녕하세요! (To a peer)
Don't use '젊은이' to greet someone your own age. It sounds like you are an old man.
늙은이와 젊은이 → 어르신과 젊은이
While '젊은이' is polite, '늙은이' is often derogatory. Use '어르신' for a more balanced, respectful tone.
젊은이는 스마트폰을 좋아해요. → 젊은이들은 스마트폰을 좋아해요.
When making a generalization about a group, the plural '-들' is necessary.
그 젊은이는 10살이에요. → 그 어린이는 10살이에요.
A 10-year-old is a child (어린이), not a young person (젊은이).

Tipps

Use the Plural

When talking about 'the youth' as a general concept, always use '젊은이들'. It sounds much more natural in Korean discourse.

The 'L' Sound

Make sure to pronounce the 'ㄹ' in '젊은이' [jeol-meun-i]. Unlike the root '젊다', the 'ㄹ' is clearly heard here because a vowel follows.

Root Recognition

Whenever you see '젊-', think 'young'. This will help you understand words like '젊음' (youth) and '젊어지다' (to get younger) instantly.

Respect the Hierarchy

If you are young, don't use this word to address people your own age. It's best used when you are talking *about* young people in a group or as a demographic.

Switch to 청년

If you are filling out an official form or writing a formal report, '청년' is often the better, more professional choice.

Learn the Antonym

Learn '어르신' alongside '젊은이'. This gives you the two main polite poles of the age spectrum in Korea.

Watch the News

Korean news often uses '젊은이' in segments about culture and society. It's a great way to hear the word used in a high-level, clear context.

Storytelling

Use '한 젊은이가...' as a classic way to start a fable or a modern story about a protagonist whose name isn't yet known.

Modifier Form

Remember that '젊은' is the modifier form of '젊다'. So '젊은 사람' and '젊은이' are very similar, but '젊은이' is a single noun.

Address with Care

Only use '젊은이' as a direct address if you are significantly older (50+). Otherwise, it can sound arrogant.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Jeol' (젊) as 'Jol-ly' and 'muni' (은이) as 'Money'. A 'Jolly Young Person with Money' (or looking for it!).

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a bright green sprout (representing '젊' - youth) growing out of a person's head (representing '이').

Word Web

젊다 젊음 어린이 늙은이 청년 사람 인생 꿈

Herausforderung

Try to use '젊은이' in a sentence describing yourself to an older person, then ask them if it sounds natural. (They will likely correct you to say '저는 젊어요', which is a great learning moment!)

Wortherkunft

The word is a native Korean (Pure Korean) compound. It consists of the adjective stem '젊-' (jeolm-) from '젊다' (to be young) and the adnominal suffix '-ㄴ' which turns it into a modifier, combined with the bound noun '이' (i) meaning 'person'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: A person who is young.

Koreanic

Kultureller Kontext

Never use '젊은이' to address someone much older than you, even if they look young; it will be taken as an insult to their authority. Also, while you can call a group '젊은이들', don't call a single person '젊은이' unless you are significantly older than them.

In English, we might say 'youngster' or 'young person'. 'Youngster' can sometimes sound slightly patronizing, whereas '젊은이' is generally more neutral or respectful.

젊은이의 양지 (A Sunny Place for the Young) - A legendary 1995 K-Drama. Goethe's 'The Sorrows of Young Werther' is translated as '젊은 베르테르의 슬픔' in Korean. The term 'MZ Generation' is the modern cultural rival to the word '젊은이'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

In a News Report

젊은이들의 취업난
젊은이들의 주거 문제
젊은이들의 투표 참여
젊은이들의 소비 트렌드

In a Speech

젊은이 여러분
미래를 이끌 젊은이
젊은이의 열정으로
젊은이로서의 책임

At a Traditional Market

젊은이, 이것 좀 봐
젊은이가 참 싹싹하네
젊은이, 많이 줄게
잘생긴 젊은이

In a Novel

방황하는 젊은이
한 젊은이의 고뇌
젊은이의 사랑
꿈을 좇는 젊은이

In a Job Interview

패기 있는 젊은이
성실한 젊은이
준비된 젊은이
창의적인 젊은이

Gesprächseinstiege

"요즘 한국 젊은이들 사이에서 뭐가 유행이에요? (What's popular among Korean young people these days?)"

"젊은이들이 가장 가고 싶어 하는 여행지는 어디인가요? (Where is the travel destination young people want to go most?)"

"젊은이로서 가장 큰 고민이 무엇입니까? (As a young person, what is your biggest worry?)"

"그 젊은이는 어떤 일을 하나요? (What kind of work does that young person do?)"

"젊은이들이 모이는 핫플레이스를 추천해 주세요. (Please recommend a hot place where young people gather.)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

내가 생각하는 '젊은이'의 정의는 무엇인가? (What is my definition of a 'young person'?)

오늘 길에서 본 인상 깊은 젊은이에 대해 써보세요. (Write about an impressive young person you saw on the street today.)

젊은이들이 기성세대에게 하고 싶은 말은 무엇일까? (What do young people want to say to the older generation?)

내가 젊은이로서 이루고 싶은 꿈은 무엇인가? (What is the dream I want to achieve as a young person?)

한국의 젊은이들과 우리 나라의 젊은이들은 어떻게 다른가? (How are Korean young people different from the young people in my country?)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is grammatically correct but culturally unusual. In a self-introduction, it's better to say '저는 20대입니다' (I'm in my 20s) or '저는 아직 젊습니다' (I'm still young). Calling yourself '젊은이' sounds like you are looking at yourself from the outside.

It is completely gender-neutral. It applies to both young men and young women.

There is no strict rule, but it generally refers to people from 19 to 35. Once someone reaches their late 30s or 40s, they are usually called '중년' (middle-aged).

No, '청년' is actually slightly more formal because it is a Sino-Korean word. '젊은이' is a native Korean word, making it feel a bit more natural and descriptive in daily life.

If you are much older, you can use '젊은이'. If you are of a similar age, use '저기요' (Excuse me) or a title like '학생' (if they look like a student) or '선생님' (in a very formal setting).

Not really. K-pop lyrics usually use '청춘', '소년' (boy), '소녀' (girl), or English words like 'Youth'. '젊은이' sounds a bit too 'plain' for pop lyrics.

It's possible, but '청소년' or '학생' is much more common for those in middle or high school.

The direct opposite is '늙은이', but since that can be rude, '어르신' or '노인' are the preferred opposites in polite conversation.

In the adjective '젊다', the 'ㄹ' is often silent before a consonant (pronounced '점다'). However, in '젊은이', the 'ㄹ' is followed by a vowel, so it is pronounced: [절므니].

In business, specific job titles (Manager, Assistant, etc.) are used. However, a CEO might use '젊은이' when giving a general speech to new recruits.

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