~또한

The Korean word 또한 (ttohan) is a versatile adverb and particle that translates primarily to 'also,' 'too,' 'as well,' or 'furthermore' in English. While it shares semantic space with the common particle '-도,' 또한 carries a significantly more formal and literary tone. It is used to add information to a previously mentioned subject or to introduce a new fact that supports or expands upon an existing statement. In the hierarchy of Korean additive markers, 또한 sits comfortably in the middle-to-high register, making it a staple of news broadcasts, academic writing, legal documents, and formal speeches. When you use 또한, you are not just adding information; you are structuring your discourse in a way that suggests logical progression and professional polish. It functions in two primary ways: as a post-positional particle attached directly to a noun (e.g., '그 또한' - he also) and as a standalone adverb that can start a sentence or appear within a clause to connect ideas. Understanding 또한 is essential for any learner moving into the B1 level and beyond, as it marks the transition from simple conversational Korean to more sophisticated, structured expression.

Grammatical Category

Adverb and Particle (Post-positional). It can modify nouns or entire clauses.

Register

Formal, Written, and Professional. Rarely used in casual spoken Korean between close friends.

Nuance

Implies a logical addition or a secondary point that reinforces the primary subject.

The usage of 또한 often appears when listing qualities or requirements. For instance, in a job description, one might see '영어 능통자 우대, 또한 관련 분야 경력자 우대' (Preference for those fluent in English, and also preference for those with experience in the related field). Here, 또한 acts as a logical bridge. It suggests that the second point is distinct but equally valid. This differs from '그리고' (and), which is a simple conjunction, and '-도' (also), which is more integrated into the noun it follows. 또한 provides a rhythmic pause in the sentence, allowing the listener or reader to prepare for the next piece of relevant information. Its presence often signals that the speaker is speaking thoughtfully or that the text is of a serious nature. In historical contexts, 또한 has been used to convey a sense of inevitability or universality, as seen in the famous phrase '이 또한 지나가리라' (This, too, shall pass). This phrase highlights how the word can elevate a simple concept into a profound philosophical statement.

Furthermore, 또한 is frequently paired with connective endings like '-며' or '-고'. This combination creates a powerful 'Not only A, but also B' structure. For example, '기술은 발전하고 있으며, 그에 따른 책임 또한 커지고 있습니다' (Technology is developing, and the responsibility following it is also growing). In this sentence, 또한 is attached to the noun '책임' (responsibility), emphasizing that the growth of responsibility is a direct and significant addition to the growth of technology. This usage is common in editorials and debate settings where building a cumulative argument is necessary. By using 또한, the speaker demonstrates a mastery of Korean sentence structure, showing they can link complex ideas without relying on repetitive, basic connectors. It provides a sense of balance and symmetry to the sentence, which is highly valued in formal Korean rhetoric.

Historical Context

Derived from '또' (again/also) and the fossilized particle '한'. It has been used for centuries to denote addition in formal documents.

In summary, 또한 is more than just a synonym for 'also.' It is a tool for professional communication. Whether you are writing an essay for the TOPIK exam, delivering a presentation at work, or reading a Korean newspaper, you will encounter 또한 as a key connective element. It allows for the layering of facts and the expansion of arguments in a way that feels natural yet authoritative. Its ability to function as both a particle and an adverb makes it uniquely flexible, allowing it to fit into various positions within a sentence to provide emphasis where it is most needed. For English speakers, think of it as the difference between saying 'Me too' (나도) and 'I, furthermore, concur' (저 또한 동의합니다). The meaning is similar, but the social and linguistic impact is entirely different.

Mastering the placement of 또한 is the key to using it correctly. Unlike simple particles that must follow a noun, 또한 can move around a bit, though it has preferred 'homes' depending on its function. When acting as a particle, it attaches directly to the noun it is modifying. In this role, it replaces the subject markers (-이/가) or object markers (-을/를). For example, instead of '사과가 맛있어요' (The apple is delicious), you might say '배 또한 맛있어요' (The pear also is delicious) in a formal context. Notice how 또한 replaces the marker to emphasize the pear's inclusion in the 'delicious' category. This usage is very common when comparing two similar items or adding a second subject to a verb.

Structure 1: Noun + 또한

[Noun] + 또한 + [Verb/Adjective]. Used to indicate that the noun also performs an action or has a quality.

Structure 2: Adverbial Placement

[Sentence A]. 또한, [Sentence B]. Used to connect two independent thoughts or sentences.

When used as an adverb, 또한 often appears at the beginning of a sentence to mean 'Furthermore' or 'In addition.' In this case, it is usually followed by a comma in written Korean: '또한, 우리는 새로운 시장을 개척해야 합니다' (Furthermore, we must pioneer new markets). This usage is crucial for structuring paragraphs. It signals to the reader that the previous point has been concluded and a new, related point is being introduced. It provides a logical transition that '그리고' (and) lacks. '그리고' is purely additive, while 또한 suggests a deeper connection or a reinforcement of the previous argument. In academic writing, using 또한 at the start of a sentence helps build a cohesive narrative, guiding the reader through the author's logic step by step.

Another sophisticated use of 또한 is within a clause, often after a verb ending in '-기도 하다'. For example, '그는 영어를 잘하기도 하고, 프랑스어 또한 유창하게 합니다' (He is good at English, and also speaks French fluently). Here, 또한 is placed before the adverb '유창하게' (fluently) to add emphasis. This flexibility allows speakers to highlight specific parts of the sentence. It can also follow other particles like '-에게' (to) or '-에서' (at/in). For instance, '서울에서뿐만 아니라 부산 또한 축제가 열립니다' (Festivals are held not only in Seoul but also in Busan). By combining 또한 with other grammatical structures, you can create nuanced sentences that express complex relationships between ideas. This is particularly useful in business reports where you need to detail multiple outcomes or conditions.

Finally, consider the rhythm of your sentence. 또한 is a two-syllable word that provides a slight beat. In poetic or oratorical contexts, this beat is used for dramatic effect. '그의 눈빛은 차가웠고, 목소리 또한 냉담했다' (His gaze was cold, and his voice, as well, was frigid). The placement of 또한 after '목소리' (voice) creates a parallel structure with the first half of the sentence, making the description more vivid and impactful. This rhetorical use is why you see 또한 so often in literature. It’s not just about adding info; it’s about how that info is delivered. For a B1 learner, practicing these different placements—as a particle after a noun, as a sentence-starter, and as an internal adverb—will greatly enhance your ability to express yourself with variety and precision.

If you are walking down a street in Hongdae or chatting with friends at a cafe, you might not hear 또한 very often. In casual, everyday speech, Koreans overwhelmingly prefer the simpler particle '-도' or the conjunction '그리고'. However, the moment you turn on the television to watch the news, open a newspaper like the Chosun Ilbo, or attend a university lecture, 또한 becomes ubiquitous. It is the language of authority and information. News anchors use it to transition between related facts: '정부는 이번 대책을 발표했습니다. 또한, 추가적인 지원 방안도 검토 중입니다' (The government announced these measures. Furthermore, they are reviewing additional support plans). In this context, 또한 sounds professional and objective, fitting the persona of a journalist.

News & Media

Used to link related news items or provide additional details in a report.

Literature & Poetry

Used for emphasis and to create a formal, reflective tone.

Business & Law

Found in contracts, terms of service, and corporate presentations to list conditions.

In the world of K-Dramas and movies, 또한 is often heard in historical dramas (Sa-geuk) or in scenes involving professional characters like lawyers, doctors, or CEOs. A king in a Joseon-era drama might say, '백성의 고통은 나의 고통이며, 그들의 기쁨 또한 나의 기쁨이다' (The people's suffering is my suffering, and their joy is also my joy). The use of 또한 here reinforces the king's dignity and the gravity of his words. Similarly, in a modern legal drama, a prosecutor might use it during a closing argument to pile on evidence against a defendant. Hearing 또한 in these contexts helps define the character's status and the formality of the situation. It’s a linguistic marker of seriousness.

Furthermore, you will see 또한 in written instructions and official notices. If you are reading the terms and conditions of a Korean app or a notice at a public library, 또한 will be used to list prohibitions or requirements. For example, '도서관 내에서는 정숙해야 하며, 음식물 반입 또한 금지됩니다' (You must be quiet in the library, and bringing in food is also prohibited). The word lends an air of non-negotiable authority to these rules. It is also a favorite in song lyrics, especially in ballads or older pop songs, where it adds a touch of poetic melancholy or grandiosity. Even in K-Pop, you might find it in the rap verses or bridges when the artist wants to emphasize a secondary theme or emotion. Understanding where 또한 appears helps you adjust your own language to match the context, whether you're writing a formal email or just trying to sound more sophisticated in a debate.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 또한 is using it in overly casual situations. Imagine telling a close friend, '나 사과 먹었어. 또한 배도 먹었어' (I ate an apple. Furthermore, I also ate a pear). While grammatically correct, it sounds incredibly stiff and unnatural, like you're reading a police report about your snack. In casual speech, you should almost always use '-도' or '그리고'. Using 또한 with friends can sometimes be seen as a joke or 'acting smart' (jalnan-cheok), so be mindful of the social context. Reserve 또한 for essays, presentations, or formal letters.

Mistake 1: Casual Overuse

Using '또한' in daily conversations where '-도' or '그리고' would be more appropriate.

Mistake 2: Double Markers

Incorrectly combining it with subject/object markers like '이/가 또한' or '을/를 또한' in ways that sound repetitive.

Mistake 3: Confusing with '또'

Using '또한' when you actually mean 'again' (repetition of an action), which should be '또'.

Another common error is the confusion between 또한 and '또'. While they share the same root, they are not interchangeable. '또' primarily means 'again' or 'once more,' referring to the repetition of an event. 또한 means 'also' or 'in addition,' referring to the inclusion of another item or fact. For example, '그는 또 왔다' means 'He came again,' whereas '그 또한 왔다' means 'He also came (along with someone else).' Using 또한 when you mean 'again' will lead to significant confusion. Always ask yourself: Am I talking about a repeat performance, or am I adding a new item to a list? If it's a list, 또한 might be right; if it's a repeat, use '또'.

Placement errors are also frequent. Some learners try to use 또한 at the very end of a sentence like 'too' in English. In Korean, 또한 must come before the verb or immediately after the noun it modifies. You cannot say '나는 학생이에요 또한' (I am a student also). It must be '저 또한 학생입니다' or '또한, 저는 학생입니다'. This reflects the SOV (Subject-Object-Verb) nature of Korean. Additionally, be careful with the combination '-도 또한'. While this is technically possible for extreme emphasis ('even also'), it is often redundant and can make your sentence feel cluttered. In most cases, pick one and stick with it. Generally, 또한 is strong enough on its own to convey the intended meaning without needing extra particles to back it up.

Korean has a rich variety of words to express the concept of 'also' or 'addition.' Choosing the right one depends entirely on the context and the level of formality you wish to achieve. The most common alternative is the particle -도. This is the 'Swiss Army knife' of addition. It is used in almost all conversational settings and is the first one learners should master. While 또한 is formal and often starts a sentence, -도 is always attached to a noun and is neutral in tone. If 또한 is 'furthermore,' -도 is simply 'too.'

-도 (Particle)

The most common way to say 'also/too.' Attached to nouns. Neutral formality.

역시 (Adverb)

Means 'as expected' or 'also.' Often used when confirming a suspicion or reinforcing a known fact.

게다가 (Adverb)

Means 'on top of that' or 'what's more.' Usually used to add a negative or positive point that intensifies the situation.

Another similar word is 역시 (yeoksi). While it can mean 'also,' it often carries a nuance of 'just as I thought' or 'as expected.' For example, '역시 그도 왔군요' (As expected, he came too). 또한 is purely additive and logical, whereas 역시 has an emotional or predictive component. If you want to say someone is 'also' a certain way because it fits their character, 역시 is a better choice. In contrast, 게다가 (gedaga) is used when you are 'piling on' information. If you say a restaurant is expensive and 게다가 the food is bad, you are emphasizing the accumulation of negative traits. 또한 would sound too clinical in that context. 게다가 is more common in spoken storytelling.

For even higher levels of formality, such as in academic papers or legal statutes, you might encounter 아울러 (aulleo) or 더욱이 (deougi). 아울러 is often used at the end of a speech or document to mean 'at the same time' or 'along with.' It’s very formal and polite. 더욱이 is similar to 'moreover' or 'furthermore' but with a stronger emphasis on the increasing importance of the added point. It's like 또한 but with extra weight. Finally, '그뿐만 아니라' (not only that) is a very common phrase that functions similarly to 또한 but provides a clearer 'Not only A but also B' structure. It's a great alternative when you want to be very explicit about the relationship between two points.

아울러 (Aulleo)

Very formal. Means 'at the same time' or 'in addition.' Often used in official announcements.

더욱이 (Deougi)

Means 'moreover' or 'all the more.' Adds a point that is even more significant than the previous one.

In conclusion, while 또한 is a powerful and necessary word for B1 learners, it is part of a larger family of additive markers. By learning when to use 또한 versus 역시, 게다가, or the simple -도, you will be able to express yourself with much greater nuance. You'll sound more like a native speaker who understands the subtle social and logical cues that dictate Korean word choice. Practice switching between these words in your writing to see how they change the 'feel' of your sentences. You'll soon find that 또한 is your best friend when you need to sound organized, professional, and intellectually rigorous.