추구하다 in 30 Seconds
- 추구하다 means to pursue abstract goals like happiness or profit.
- It is a formal verb often used in news, business, and philosophy.
- It differs from '쫓다' which is for physical chasing.
- Commonly used with the object marker -을/를 and abstract nouns.
The Korean verb 추구하다 (chuguhada) is a sophisticated term primarily used to describe the act of seeking, pursuing, or chasing after something that is typically abstract, high-level, or long-term in nature. Unlike the verb '쫓다' (jjotda), which often implies a physical chase (like a dog chasing a cat), 추구하다 is rooted in the intellectual and spiritual realm. It is composed of the Hanja characters 追 (추 - to chase) and 求 (구 - to seek). When combined, they form a word that suggests a persistent, deliberate, and often noble endeavor to reach a certain state of being or to realize a specific value.
- Abstract Pursuits
- This word is most commonly paired with concepts like happiness (행복), truth (진리), peace (평화), and ideals (이상). It suggests that the object being sought is not something you can simply pick up, but something you must work toward over time.
- Economic Context
- In a business or economic setting, it is frequently used with 'profit' (이익). A company that '이익을 추구하다' is one that focuses its strategies and operations on maximizing its financial gain.
- Personal Growth
- It is often used in self-development contexts, describing the pursuit of a better version of oneself or a specific lifestyle, such as '워라밸을 추구하다' (pursuing work-life balance).
"현대인들은 물질적인 풍요보다 정신적인 안정을 추구하는 경향이 있습니다." (Modern people tend to pursue mental stability over material abundance.)
In academic and formal writing, this verb is indispensable. It allows writers to discuss human motivation and societal goals with precision. For instance, a political scientist might discuss how a nation 민주주의를 추구하다 (pursues democracy). This isn't just a one-time action but a continuous process of alignment with democratic values. The verb carries a weight of intentionality; you don't '추구하다' by accident. It requires a conscious decision and a sustained effort.
"우리는 모두 각자의 방식으로 행복을 추구할 권리가 있습니다." (We all have the right to pursue happiness in our own way.)
- The 'Why' Behind the Action
- When you use this word, you are highlighting the motivation. It answers the question of what drives a person or an organization at their core.
Ultimately, 추구하다 is about the journey as much as the destination. It encompasses the struggle, the planning, and the persistent desire to reach a higher state or a significant goal. Whether it is a scientist pursuing the truth of the universe or an artist pursuing aesthetic perfection, this verb captures the essence of human ambition and purpose.
Using 추구하다 correctly requires understanding its grammatical placement and the types of nouns it pairs with. As a transitive verb, it always takes an object marked by -을/를. Because it is a formal and somewhat abstract word, it is most frequently found in written documents, news reports, speeches, and serious conversations.
1. Basic Sentence Structure
The standard pattern is: [Subject] + [Abstract Noun]을/를 + 추구하다.
- 기업은 이윤을 추구합니다. (Corporations pursue profit.)
- 그는 평생 진리를 추구했다. (He pursued truth his whole life.)
2. Using the Noun Form
The noun form 추구 (pursuit) is often used in the structure [Noun]의 추구 or combined with -를 위해 (for the pursuit of...).
- 행복의 추구는 인간의 본능이다. (The pursuit of happiness is a human instinct.)
- 이익 추구를 위해 수단을 가리지 않았다. (They used any means for the pursuit of profit.)
"진정한 아름다움을 추구하는 예술가의 자세가 필요합니다." (The attitude of an artist who pursues true beauty is necessary.)
3. Common Verb Combinations
It is often used with auxiliary verbs or in complex sentences to show intent:
- -고자 하다 (Intend to)
- 새로운 가치를 추구하고자 합니다. (We intend to pursue new values.)
- -기 위해 (In order to)
- 자유를 추구하기 위해 떠났다. (Left in order to pursue freedom.)
In terms of register, while you *can* use it in casual speech, it might sound a bit overly dramatic or formal. For example, telling a friend "나는 오늘 점심으로 맛있는 것을 추구해" (I am pursuing something delicious for lunch today) would sound very strange and humorous. Instead, stick to using it for meaningful life goals or professional objectives.
You will encounter 추구하다 in specific environments where goals, values, and philosophies are discussed. It is a staple of the Korean media and academic landscape.
1. News and Documentaries
News anchors and reporters use this word when discussing government policies or social movements. You might hear about a government 경제 성장을 추구하다 (pursuing economic growth) or a social group 평등을 추구하다 (pursuing equality).
2. Business and Corporate Culture
In company mission statements (사명) or annual reports, this word is everywhere. Companies often claim to 고객 만족을 추구하다 (pursue customer satisfaction) or 혁신을 추구하다 (pursue innovation). It frames the company's existence as a noble quest rather than just a way to make money.
"우리 회사는 지속 가능한 발전을 추구합니다." (Our company pursues sustainable development.)
3. Philosophy and Self-Help Books
Korean self-help books (자기계발서) are filled with this verb. Authors encourage readers to 자아실현을 추구하다 (pursue self-actualization) or 미니멀 라이프를 추구하다 (pursue a minimal life). It is the go-to word for discussing the 'why' of human behavior.
4. Academic Lectures
Professors use this word to describe the goals of different schools of thought. "실용주의는 실질적인 이익을 추구하는 철학입니다." (Pragmatism is a philosophy that pursues practical benefits.)
Even advanced learners sometimes stumble with 추구하다 because of its specific nuance. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.
1. Using it for Physical Objects
The biggest mistake is using it like 'look for' or 'chase' in a physical sense. You cannot 공을 추구하다 (pursue a ball) if you are playing soccer. You 쫓다 the ball. You only 추구하다 the victory (승리) or the spirit of sportsmanship (스포츠 정신).
2. Confusing with '요구하다' (To Demand)
Because both words end in '-구하다', beginners sometimes mix them up. 요구하다 is to ask someone for something (a demand), while 추구하다 is a personal or collective pursuit of an ideal.
Incorrect: "사장님께 월급 인상을 추구했습니다."
Correct: "사장님께 월급 인상을 요구했습니다."
3. Overusing in Casual Speech
As mentioned, using it for trivial things makes you sound like a textbook or a philosopher. If you say "나는 시원한 맥주를 추구해" (I pursue a cold beer), people will think you are being funny or are very serious about your beer. Use 마시고 싶다 or 찾다 for everyday desires.
Korean has several words for 'seeking' or 'pursuing'. Understanding the differences is key to reaching C1/C2 proficiency.
- 지향하다 (Jihyang-hada) - To Aim For
- This means to set a direction or a goal. While 추구하다 is the act of chasing it, 지향하다 is more about the orientation or the ideal you are pointing toward.
Example: 우리 학교는 전인 교육을 지향합니다. (Our school aims for holistic education.) - 탐구하다 (Tamgu-hada) - To Research/Explore
- This is specifically for seeking truth, knowledge, or academic understanding. It implies a deep, systematic investigation.
Example: 학자들은 우주의 기원을 탐구한다. (Scholars explore the origin of the universe.) - 쫓다 (Jjotda) - To Chase/Follow
- This can be physical (chasing a thief) or metaphorical (chasing a dream). When metaphorical, it's more common in casual speech than 추구하다.
Example: 꿈을 쫓는 청년. (A youth chasing his dreams.) - 갈구하다 (Galgu-hada) - To Yearn For
- This is a much stronger, more emotional version. It implies a desperate thirst or longing for something.
Example: 그는 사랑을 갈구했다. (He yearned for love.)
Comparison Table
| Word | Nuance | Common Object |
|---|---|---|
| 추구하다 | Active pursuit of value | 행복, 이익 |
| 지향하다 | Directional goal | 미래, 평화 |
| 탐구하다 | Intellectual search | 진리, 학문 |
How Formal Is It?
Difficulty Rating
Grammar to Know
-기 위해
-고자
-는 것
-을/를 통해
Examples by Level
저는 행복을 추구해요.
I pursue happiness.
Basic present tense.
꿈을 추구하세요.
Pursue your dream.
Imperative -세요.
우리는 평화를 추구합니다.
We pursue peace.
Formal -습니다.
그는 성공을 추구해요.
He pursues success.
Object marker -을.
돈을 추구하지 마세요.
Don't pursue money.
Negative imperative -지 마세요.
무엇을 추구합니까?
What do you pursue?
Question form.
건강을 추구하는 사람.
A person who pursues health.
Noun modifying form -는.
진리를 추구해요.
I pursue truth.
Abstract noun object.
저는 안정된 삶을 추구하고 싶어요.
I want to pursue a stable life.
-고 싶다 (want to).
그 회사는 이익을 추구합니다.
That company pursues profit.
Business context.
아름다움을 추구하는 것은 자연스러워요.
Pursuing beauty is natural.
-는 것은 (nominalization).
우리는 더 나은 미래를 추구해야 해요.
We must pursue a better future.
-아야/어야 하다 (must).
그는 명예를 추구하는 사람이에요.
He is a person who pursues honor.
Noun modifying form.
새로운 스타일을 추구해 보세요.
Try pursuing a new style.
-어 보다 (try doing).
단순한 생활을 추구하기 시작했어요.
I started pursuing a simple life.
-기 시작하다 (start to).
효율성을 추구하는 것이 중요합니다.
It is important to pursue efficiency.
Formal sentence.
개인의 자유를 추구하는 것은 헌법적 권리입니다.
Pursuing individual freedom is a constitutional right.
Formal academic tone.
기업은 사회적 가치도 함께 추구해야 합니다.
Companies should also pursue social values.
Adverb '도' (also).
그는 평생 동안 예술적 완성을 추구했다.
He pursued artistic perfection throughout his life.
Past tense.
현대인들은 워라밸을 추구하는 경향이 있다.
Modern people tend to pursue work-life balance.
-는 경향이 있다 (tend to).
우리는 지속 가능한 발전을 추구하고자 합니다.
We intend to pursue sustainable development.
-고자 하다 (intend to).
무조건적인 성공만을 추구해서는 안 됩니다.
You should not pursue only unconditional success.
-어서는 안 된다 (should not).
자신의 신념을 추구하는 모습이 보기 좋다.
It looks good to see you pursuing your beliefs.
Expressing opinion.
어떤 가치를 추구하며 살고 싶나요?
What kind of values do you want to live pursuing?
-하며 (while doing).
그 철학자는 인간 존재의 의미를 추구했다.
The philosopher pursued the meaning of human existence.
Philosophical context.
공익을 추구하는 정책이 필요합니다.
Policies that pursue the public interest are needed.
Political context.
지나치게 이윤만을 추구하면 부작용이 생깁니다.
If you pursue only profit excessively, side effects occur.
-면 (if).
그녀는 학문적 진실을 추구하기 위해 유학을 떠났다.
She went abroad to study in order to pursue academic truth.
-기 위해 (in order to).
다양성을 추구하는 사회가 건강한 사회입니다.
A society that pursues diversity is a healthy society.
Social commentary.
우리는 혁신을 통해 새로운 시장을 추구합니다.
We pursue new markets through innovation.
Business strategy.
현실에 안주하지 않고 이상을 추구하세요.
Do not settle for reality; pursue your ideals.
-지 않고 (without doing).
그 작가는 독창적인 표현 방식을 추구한다.
The writer pursues an original way of expression.
Artistic context.
자본주의 사회에서 기업이 이윤을 추구하는 것은 당연한 논리다.
In a capitalist society, it is natural logic for companies to pursue profit.
Complex sentence structure.
그는 권력 추구의 허망함을 깨닫고 산으로 들어갔다.
Realizing the futility of pursuing power, he went into the mountains.
Noun form '추구'.
법치주의는 정의의 실현을 추구하는 시스템이다.
The rule of law is a system that pursues the realization of justice.
Legal definition.
인간은 본능적으로 자아실현을 추구하는 존재이다.
Humans are beings who instinctively pursue self-actualization.
Psychological context.
시대적 흐름에 따라 추구하는 가치도 변하기 마련이다.
Values pursued are bound to change according to the trends of the times.
-기 마련이다 (bound to).
그는 절대적인 미를 추구하는 탐미주의자였다.
He was an aesthete who pursued absolute beauty.
Specific terminology (탐미주의자).
국가는 국민의 안녕과 복지 증진을 추구해야 할 의무가 있다.
The state has an obligation to pursue the promotion of the people's well-being and welfare.
Constitutional language.
과학적 객관성을 추구하는 과정에서 오류가 발견되었다.
An error was discovered in the process of pursuing scientific objectivity.
Academic process.
형이상학적 진리를 추구하는 고독한 여정.
A lonely journey pursuing metaphysical truth.
Literary style.
그의 삶은 오로지 무소유의 가치를 추구하는 데 바쳐졌다.
His life was dedicated solely to pursuing the value of non-possession.
-는 데 바쳐지다 (dedicated to).
권력의 정점에서 그가 추구했던 바는 무엇인가?
What was it that he pursued at the pinnacle of power?
-는 바 (the thing that).
보편적 인권의 추구는 국경을 초월한 인류의 과제이다.
The pursuit of universal human rights is a task for humanity that transcends borders.
Global discourse.
그 영화는 인간 내면의 심연을 추구하는 실험적인 작품이다.
The film is an experimental work that pursues the abyss of the human inner self.
Art criticism.
맹목적인 성장을 추구하기보다 질적인 삶을 고민해야 할 때다.
It is time to contemplate a qualitative life rather than pursuing blind growth.
-기보다 (rather than).
진정한 자유란 타인의 자유를 침해하지 않는 범위 내에서 추구되어야 한다.
True freedom must be pursued within the scope of not infringing on the freedom of others.
Passive voice '추구되다'.
그는 일평생 학문적 엄밀성을 추구하며 후학 양성에 힘썼다.
He spent his whole life pursuing academic rigor and striving to nurture younger scholars.
Honorific context.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
Often Confused With
Idioms & Expressions
Easily Confused
Focuses on the direction/aim.
Means to avoid/refrain from (sounds similar!).
Sentence Patterns
Word Family
Related
How to Use It
Implies a high level of commitment and a non-physical target.
Very high in written Korean, medium-high in formal spoken Korean.
- Using it for physical objects (e.g., 추구하는 지갑 X)
- Confusing with 지양하다 (avoid)
- Using without an object marker
- Using in very casual slang contexts
- Confusing with 요구하다 (demand)
Tips
Hanja Power
Remember 追 (추) means chase. It's in '추격' (chase) too.
Object Marker
Always use -을 or -를 before 추구하다.
Essay Writing
Use this word to sound more academic in your TOPIK II essay.
Interviews
Say '저는 성장을 추구합니다' to impress your interviewer.
Values
Koreans value '안정' (stability), so '안정을 추구하다' is a common phrase.
News Keywords
When you hear '추구', the speaker is talking about a goal.
Context Clues
If you see '이익', '행복', or '진리', '추구하다' is likely nearby.
Abstract vs Physical
Never use it for your lost keys!
Visualization
Imagine a scholar reaching for a star labeled 'Truth'.
Daily Life
Use '찾다' for lunch, '추구하다' for your life's purpose.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
CHASE (추) + GO (구) -> You CHASE and GO after your goals.
Word Origin
追 (추) - to chase, follow + 求 (구) - to seek, ask for.
Cultural Context
Korean companies emphasize '이윤 추구' (profit pursuit) but recently focus on 'ESG 경영' (ESG management).
Students are often told to '꿈을 추구하라' (pursue your dreams) despite the competitive environment.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Conversation Starters
"당신이 인생에서 가장 중요하게 추구하는 가치는 무엇인가요?"
"요즘 한국 청년들이 추구하는 삶의 방식은 무엇이라고 생각하세요?"
"기업이 이익만 추구하는 것에 대해 어떻게 생각하시나요?"
"행복을 추구하는 것이 인생의 목표가 될 수 있을까요?"
"예술가가 추구해야 할 가장 중요한 것은 무엇일까요?"
Journal Prompts
내가 현재 추구하고 있는 목표 세 가지 쓰기.
10년 전의 나와 지금의 내가 추구하는 가치의 차이점.
진정한 성공을 추구한다는 것은 무엇을 의미하는가?
사회가 추구해야 할 정의란 무엇인가?
내가 추구하는 완벽함이 나를 힘들게 한 적이 있는가?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, '이익을 추구하다' (pursue profit) is very common in business.
No, dreaming is '꿈꾸다'. '추구하다' is the active effort to reach that dream.
Usually no. You don't 'pursue a person' with this word; use '쫓다' or '구애하다' (woo).
Yes, it is quite formal. In casual talk, people might use '찾다' or '바라다'.
The noun form is '추구' (pursuit).
Usually positive or neutral, but '이익만 추구하다' (pursuing *only* profit) can be negative.
Yes, if the hobby is about reaching a high level, like '완벽한 스윙을 추구하다'.
The most direct opposite is '포기하다' (to give up).
Yes, it is a standard Hanja-based word used in both Koreas.
It is '행복 추구' (haeng-bok chu-gu).
Test Yourself 180 questions
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Perfect score!
Summary
Use '추구하다' when you are talking about the long-term, intentional pursuit of values, ideals, or professional goals. It elevates your speech from simple 'wanting' to a more sophisticated 'striving'.
- 추구하다 means to pursue abstract goals like happiness or profit.
- It is a formal verb often used in news, business, and philosophy.
- It differs from '쫓다' which is for physical chasing.
- Commonly used with the object marker -을/를 and abstract nouns.
Hanja Power
Remember 追 (추) means chase. It's in '추격' (chase) too.
Object Marker
Always use -을 or -를 before 추구하다.
Essay Writing
Use this word to sound more academic in your TOPIK II essay.
Interviews
Say '저는 성장을 추구합니다' to impress your interviewer.
Example
모든 인간은 행복을 추구할 권리가 있다.
Related Content
More general words
몇몇
A2An unspecified small number of; some or a few.
조금
A1A little/a bit
적게
A1A little / Few
약간
A2A little; slightly; somewhat.
많이
A1A lot/much
잠시
A2For a moment; briefly.
잠깐
A2For a short time; a moment.
아까
A2A little while ago, earlier.
대해
A2About, concerning.
~에 대해서
A2Concerning or regarding a particular subject; about.
