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A2 noun 14 min read

고민

gomin

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 고민 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 고민 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should understand '고민' (gomin) as a simple word for 'a worry' or 'a problem.' It is often used when you have something on your mind that makes you feel a little bit stressed. Beginners usually learn the phrase '고민이 있어요' (I have a worry/problem) to tell someone they need help or advice. At this stage, don't worry too much about the deep philosophical meanings. Just think of it as a way to say 'I'm thinking hard about a problem.' You might use it when you can't decide what to eat or what to buy. It's a very useful word because it helps you start a conversation about your feelings. Even with very basic Korean, saying '고민이 있어요' will make native speakers stop and listen to you. It's an important social 'hook' in the language. You will mostly see it used with simple verbs like '있다' (to have/exist) or '많다' (to be many). For example, '고민이 많아요' (I have many worries). This is a great way to express that you are busy thinking about many things. Remember, it's a noun, so you use it like 'apple' or 'book' in a sentence. You can also see it in the form '고민하다' which means 'to worry' or 'to think hard.' As an A1 student, focus on recognizing the word in dramas or conversations when someone looks troubled. It's one of the first 'emotional' words you'll encounter that isn't just 'happy' or 'sad.' It describes a specific state of mind that is very common in Korea.

At the A2 level, you can start using '고민' (gomin) more specifically to describe dilemmas. You should move beyond just saying 'I have a worry' and start saying *what* you are worried about. The pattern '[Noun] 때문에 고민이에요' (I'm worried because of [Noun]) is very useful here. For example, '시험 때문에 고민이에요' (I'm worried because of the exam). You also learn that '고민' is different from '걱정' (geokjeong). While '걱정' is for things like being scared of getting sick, '고민' is for when you have to make a choice. At A2, you might use '고민하다' to describe the process of choosing something. '어떤 선물을 살지 고민하고 있어요' (I'm agonizing over which gift to buy). This shows you are more than just a beginner because you are using the word to describe a process. You will also hear this word a lot in the context of '고민 상담' (worry counseling), which just means talking to a friend about your problems. A2 learners should be able to ask a friend, '고민이 뭐예요?' (What is your worry?) or '무슨 고민 있어?' (Do you have some kind of worry?). This opens up your ability to interact socially in Korean. You are moving from just stating your own state to asking about others. You should also recognize the word in common places like signs or titles of advice columns. It is a very 'practical' word at this level, helping you navigate daily life choices and social interactions.

At the B1 intermediate level, '고민' (gomin) becomes a tool for expressing more complex life situations and social nuances. You should be comfortable using it to discuss career paths, relationship issues, and personal growth. At this stage, you start using more advanced collocations like '고민을 털어놓다' (to pour out/confess one's worries) or '고민을 해결하다' (to solve a worry). You understand that '고민' isn't just a momentary thought; it's often a lingering mental state. You might say, '며칠 동안 이 문제로 고민했어요' (I've been agonizing over this problem for a few days). This shows a grasp of time and duration in mental processes. B1 learners also start to see the word used in more formal settings, like a workplace or a school consultation. You can use it to sound more sincere and thoughtful. Instead of just saying 'I'm thinking,' saying '고민 중입니다' (I'm in the middle of deliberating) sounds more professional and serious. You also begin to recognize the word in literature and news, where it might refer to social issues that 'cause concern' for the public. You can distinguish between '사소한 고민' (trivial worry) and '심각한 고민' (serious worry), allowing you to categorize the intensity of your problems. B1 is where you start to feel the 'weight' of the word and use it to build deeper connections with Korean speakers by sharing more significant parts of your life. It's no longer just about lunch menus; it's about life directions.

At the B2 level, you have a nuanced understanding of '고민' (gomin) and can use it to describe abstract or collective struggles. You understand how the word functions in the 'active' sense of problem-solving. You might use it in a debate or a presentation: '우리는 이 문제에 대해 더 깊이 고민해 봐야 합니다' (We need to deliberate more deeply on this issue). Here, '고민하다' takes on a meaning closer to 'to carefully consider' or 'to brainstorm solutions for a difficult problem.' You also start to understand the cultural implications of 'gomin' in Korea—how it relates to the concept of 'Jeong' (social bonding) and the collective nature of problem-solving. You can use idiomatic expressions like '고민에 빠지다' (to fall into worry) to describe someone's state vividly. B2 learners can also distinguish '고민' from more specialized terms like '갈등' (conflict) or '번뇌' (spiritual agony). You know that '고민' is the most natural word for personal dilemmas, while '갈등' is better for clashes between people or internal values. You can also use the word to describe the 'creative struggle' of an artist or the 'strategic deliberations' of a leader. Your vocabulary around '고민' expands to include related nouns like '고민거리' (a source of worry) and you can use them fluently in complex sentences. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are using it with the correct emotional and social weight that a native speaker would.

At the C1 advanced level, your use of '고민' (gomin) is sophisticated and contextually precise. You recognize its role in philosophical and literary contexts. You might encounter the word in academic papers or high-level essays discussing '인간의 본질적인 고민' (the fundamental worries/contemplations of human beings). You understand the subtle difference between '고민' and '고뇌' (gonoe), knowing that '고뇌' is reserved for more intense, often existential suffering, while '고민' remains the standard for practical yet difficult mental labor. You can use '고민' to analyze a character's motivations in a novel or to discuss the 'societal worries' (사회적 고민) regarding aging populations or economic shifts. Your ability to use the word is now integrated with advanced grammar patterns, such as '-기 위해 치열하게 고민하다' (to agonize fiercely in order to...). You also understand the historical and etymological roots of the word (Sino-Korean 苦悶) and how those roots influence its modern usage. C1 learners can use '고민' to express empathy in a very refined way, acknowledging the complexity of someone's situation without oversimplifying it. You might say, '그분의 고민이 충분히 이해가 갑니다' (I fully understand that person's agony/dilemma). You are also aware of how the word is used in corporate 'vision statements' or 'mission statements' to show a company's commitment to solving customer problems. At this level, the word is a versatile tool for high-level communication, allowing you to discuss the intricacies of human thought and social responsibility.

At the C2 level, you have complete mastery over '고민' (gomin) and its entire semantic field. You can detect the slightest shift in meaning when a speaker chooses '고민' over '걱정' or '생각' and understand the psychological subtext. You can use the word in creative writing to evoke a specific mood of pensive struggle or intellectual labor. You are familiar with how the word has been used in classical Korean literature or modern poetry to signify the 'weight of the soul.' In high-level professional or political discourse, you can use '고민' to describe the 'deliberative process' of a nation or an organization, such as '국가적 고민' (a national concern/dilemma). You are also capable of playing with the word's nuances in humor or irony, much like a native speaker would. You understand the cultural 'meta-conversation' around 'gomin'—how it is commodified in media and how it functions as a social currency in building intimacy. Your pronunciation and intonation when saying the word carry the appropriate emotional weight, whether it is the light sigh of a small dilemma or the heavy tone of a life crisis. You can effectively act as a 'gomin-sangdam-ga' (worry counselor) yourself, using the word to guide others through their problems in fluent Korean. At C2, '고민' is no longer a foreign word; it is a natural part of your expressive repertoire, used with the same precision, cultural awareness, and emotional depth as a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

고민 in 30 Seconds

A noun meaning 'worry' or 'dilemma' involving a choice.
Used with '있다' (to have) or '하다' (to agonize).
Different from '걱정' (anxiety) as it is more active and decision-based.
Central to Korean social bonding through 'worry counseling' (고민 상담).

The Korean word 고민 (Gomin) is a profound noun that English speakers often translate as 'worry,' 'concern,' or 'trouble.' However, its nuance is significantly deeper and more active than the English counterparts. Derived from the Hanja 苦 (Go - suffering/bitterness) and 悶 (Min - agony/stuffy chest), it describes a state of mental distress caused by a difficult choice, a complex problem, or an internal conflict. Unlike the word '걱정' (geokjeong), which leans toward passive anxiety about things outside one's control, 고민 typically involves a situation where the individual is actively weighing options or seeking a solution. It is the mental 'weight' of decision-making. When a Korean person says they have a 'gomin,' they are usually stuck in a dilemma—perhaps choosing between two job offers, deciding whether to confess their feelings to a friend, or wondering how to resolve a conflict with a parent. This word is central to Korean social dynamics because the act of sharing your 고민 is a sign of deep trust. It is not just about complaining; it is about inviting another person into your internal struggle to seek their perspective.

The Choice Dilemma: In daily life, 고민 is most frequently used when one is undecided. For example, if you are at a restaurant and cannot decide between Kimchi stew and Soybean paste stew, you might jokingly say, '이건 정말 큰 고민이에요' (This is a really big worry/dilemma). While this is a lighthearted use, it demonstrates that the word is tied to the act of choosing.
Emotional Weight: On a deeper level, 고민 represents the burden of adulthood and responsibility. Career paths, marriage, and financial stability are common sources of 고민. It suggests a process of deep, sometimes painful, contemplation that lasts for a period of time.
Social Context: The phrase '고민 상담' (Gomin Sangdam - worry counseling/consultation) is a staple of Korean culture. From variety shows like 'Hello Counselor' to late-night drinking sessions with friends, the culture of listening to and helping solve each other's 고민 is a primary way of strengthening bonds (Jeong).

요즘 진로 때문에 고민이 정말 많아요.
— "I have so many worries lately because of my career path."

Furthermore, the word is often paired with the verb 하다 (to do) to form 고민하다, which means to agonize over something or to think deeply about a problem. It describes the action of mental deliberation. You will hear students 고민하다 over their majors, employees 고민하다 over whether to quit their jobs, and parents 고민하다 over their children's education. It is an active, ongoing process. Unlike 'thinking' (생각), which is neutral, 고민 implies that the thinking is difficult or stressful. It is the 'labor' of the mind. In terms of frequency, it is one of the top nouns used in interpersonal communication in Korea. Whether it is a small 'menu gomin' or a life-changing 'career gomin,' the word covers the entire spectrum of human decision-related stress. It is also culturally significant in that Koreans often value the process of 'deep gomin' before making a move, as it shows maturity and seriousness.

혼자서 고민하지 말고 친구한테 말해 봐.
— "Don't worry about it alone; try talking to a friend."

어떤 선물을 살지 한 참을 고민했어요.
— "I agonized for a long time over what gift to buy."

그 사람은 남의 고민을 참 잘 들어줘요.
— "That person is very good at listening to other people's worries."

밤새 고민하느라 잠을 못 잤어요.
— "I couldn't sleep because I was worrying all night."

To summarize, 고민 is the intersection of thought and emotion. It is where logic meets anxiety. It is a word that encapsulates the struggle of navigating life's choices, both big and small. By mastering this word, you gain insight into the emotional labor that Koreans acknowledge and respect in daily interactions. It is not just a vocabulary word; it is a window into the Korean psyche of deliberation and communal support.

Using 고민 correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and the root of a verb. As a noun, it often appears with particles like -이/가 (subject) or -을/를 (object). The most common construction for beginners is '고민이 있다' (to have a worry) or '고민이 많다' (to have many worries). This is the standard way to express that something is bothering you. When you want to describe the action of worrying or deliberating, you use the verb '고민하다'. It is important to note that 고민 is frequently followed by the grammar pattern -고 있다 to indicate an ongoing struggle, such as '고민하고 있어요' (I am currently worrying/agonizing).

Noun + Verb Collocations: Common verbs that follow 고민 include 털어놓다 (to confess/pour out), 해결하다 (to solve), 나누다 (to share), and 들어주다 (to listen to/hear out). For instance, '친구에게 고민을 털어놓았다' means 'I poured out my worries to a friend.'
Describing the Subject of Worry: To specify what you are worrying about, use the pattern [Noun] 때문에 고민이다 (Worried because of [Noun]) or [Verb-기] 때문에 고민하다. For example, '돈 때문에 고민이에요' (I am worried because of money).
Decisional 고민: When choosing between options, use -을까 고민하다. '갈까 말까 고민 중이에요' (I am in the middle of agonizing over whether to go or not).

새 차를 살지 중고차를 살지 고민이에요.
— "I'm worried about whether to buy a new car or a used car."

Another sophisticated way to use 고민 is with the phrase '고민에 빠지다' (to fall into worry/deep thought). This suggests a state where the person is deeply immersed in their problem and perhaps unable to think about anything else. It is often used in literature or dramatic storytelling to describe a character's internal turmoil. In professional settings, you might hear '심각한 고민' (serious worry) when discussing business strategies or project hurdles. The word can also be modified by adjectives like '사소한' (trivial) to describe small, everyday dilemmas. '사소한 고민도 들어줄게' (I'll listen even to your trivial worries).

그는 깊은 고민에 빠진 표정이었다.
— "He had a look of being lost in deep thought/worry."

In conversation, 고민 is also used to soften a request for advice. Starting a sentence with '제가 요즘 이런 고민이 좀 있는데...' (I have this kind of worry lately...) acts as a polite preamble to asking for help. It signals that the speaker has already put thought into the matter and is now looking for external input. This usage is very common in workplace mentorship or among close peers. It turns a one-sided problem into a shared conversational topic. When responding to someone's 고민, you might say '고민이 많겠네요' (You must have many worries/It must be a difficult decision), which shows empathy for their mental labor.

부모님께 이 사실을 말씀드릴지 고민 중입니다.
— "I am currently agonizing over whether to tell my parents this fact."

회사를 그만두고 유학을 갈까 고민하고 있어요.
— "I'm agonizing over whether to quit my job and go study abroad."

이 문제는 고민해 볼 가치가 있습니다.
— "This issue is worth deliberating over."

Finally, remember that 고민 can be used as an adjective-like noun in phrases like '고민거리' (a source of worry). '그 일은 저의 가장 큰 고민거리예요' (That matter is my biggest source of worry). This versatility makes it an indispensable tool for expressing the complexities of human thought and decision-making in Korean.

You will encounter the word 고민 in almost every corner of Korean life, from the most mundane interactions to high-stakes emotional dramas. It is perhaps most iconic in the realm of Korean media, particularly in 'Counseling' segments of radio shows and variety programs. Shows like '안녕하세요' (Hello Counselor) or various YouTube channels dedicated to '고민 상담' (Worry Counseling) revolve entirely around people bringing their personal, family, or social problems to a panel for advice. In these contexts, 고민 is the central theme—it represents the relatable struggles of everyday people. You'll hear phrases like '사연자의 고민을 들어보겠습니다' (Let's listen to the submitter's worry).

In K-Dramas and Movies: Dramas are fueled by 고민. Whether it's the protagonist agonizing over a love triangle or a corporate whistleblower struggling with their conscience, the word is used to signal internal conflict. A character might sit alone at a pojangmacha (street stall), sighing, and when a friend asks what's wrong, they reply, '그냥 고민이 좀 있어서...' (Just because I have some worries...).
In the Workplace: At work, 고민 is used when discussing strategy or difficult tasks. A manager might say, '이 프로젝트의 방향에 대해 고민이 많습니다' (I have many worries/thoughts about the direction of this project). It shows that the speaker is taking the matter seriously and is in a state of deep deliberation.
In Schools and Universities: Students frequently use this word regarding their future. '취업 고민' (Job-seeking worries) and '성적 고민' (Grade worries) are constant topics of conversation. It's the standard way for young people to express the pressure they feel about their life paths.

친구의 고민을 상담해주느라 늦었어요.
— "I was late because I was giving advice on a friend's worry."

Social media is another huge platform where 고민 appears. On platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Korean forums like Nate Pann or Blind, users post under hashtags like #고민상담 or #고민글. These posts are often anonymous and seek the collective wisdom of the internet. The word acts as a tag for vulnerability. In these digital spaces, you'll see people '고민하다' over everything from fashion choices ('Which dress should I buy?') to serious life crises ('Should I get a divorce?'). The word is so ubiquitous that it has even spawned slang and shortened terms in specific communities, though the root remains the same. Listening to K-pop lyrics, you will also find 고민 appearing in songs about youth, growth, and the confusion of life. For example, BTS's song 'Go Go' (고민보다 Go) plays with the word, suggesting that instead of agonizing and worrying (고민), one should just 'go' and enjoy life. This highlights the word's cultural status as something that can be burdensome and needs to be overcome.

요즘 제 최대 고민은 다이어트예요.
— "My biggest worry these days is dieting."

진로 고민 때문에 잠이 안 와요.
— "I can't sleep because of worries about my career path."

그 영화는 인간의 존재에 대한 고민을 담고 있다.
— "That movie contains contemplations/worries about human existence."

선생님과 진학 고민을 나눴어요.
— "I shared my worries about further education with my teacher."

In summary, 고민 is the soundtrack of Korean decision-making. You hear it in the quiet whispers of friends, the loud debates of TV panels, and the internal monologues of drama protagonists. It is the word that validates that life is full of difficult choices and that it is okay to be troubled by them. Whether you are in a boardroom or a classroom, 'gomin' is the bridge that connects personal struggle to social support.

For English speakers, the most common mistake when using 고민 is confusing it with other words for 'worry' or 'thought,' specifically 걱정 (geokjeong) and 생각 (saenggak). While they all overlap, using them interchangeably can lead to unnatural or even confusing sentences. The primary distinction lies in the agency and nature of the mental activity. 고민 is about a problem that requires a decision or a solution you are actively working through. 걱정 is more about feeling anxious or fearful about something that might happen, often something you cannot control. For example, you '걱정' about a typhoon, but you '고민' about whether to cancel your outdoor event because of the typhoon.

Misusing '고민' for '걱정': Mistake: '내일 비가 올까 봐 고민이에요.' (Incorrect for 'I'm worried it might rain'). Correct: '내일 비가 올까 봐 걱정이에요.' You don't 'deliberate' or 'agonize over the choice' of it raining. You just feel anxious about it.
Misusing '고민' for '생각': Mistake: '친구 고민을 하고 있어요.' (If you mean 'I am thinking about my friend'). 고민 implies the friend is a problem or you are in a dilemma regarding them. If you just have them in your mind, use '생각'.
Particle Errors: Learners often forget that '고민' is a noun. Saying '많이 고민해요' is okay (verb form), but when using the noun form, many forget the particle: '고민 있어요' (Natural) vs '고민을 있어요' (Incorrect - should be 고민이).

건강이 걱정돼요. (O) / 건강이 고민이에요. (X - Unless you are choosing a health plan)
— "I'm worried about my health vs. I'm agonizing over my health (choices)."

Another nuance mistake is using 고민 for very simple, non-conflicting thoughts. If you are just wondering what time it is, you are '궁금하다' (curious), not '고민하다'. 고민 always requires a level of mental effort or friction. Overusing it for every small thought can make you sound overly dramatic. Conversely, using '걱정' when you should use '고민' can make you sound passive. If you have a career problem and say '취업 걱정이에요,' it sounds like you are just worried you won't get a job. If you say '취업 고민이에요,' it sounds like you are struggling with which jobs to apply for or how to prepare. Understanding this 'active vs. passive' distinction is key to sounding like a native speaker. Furthermore, be careful with the phrase '고민이 많다'. While it means 'I have many worries,' in some contexts, it can imply that you are an indecisive person (우유부단한 사람). If you want to sound decisive but thoughtful, you might say '충분히 고민하고 결정했습니다' (I decided after sufficient deliberation).

점심 메뉴 고민 중이에요.
— "I'm in the middle of agonizing over the lunch menu (Active choice)."

시험을 잘 못 볼까 봐 걱정이에요.
— "I'm worried I might not do well on the exam (Fear of outcome)."

어떤 전공을 선택할지 고민이에요.
— "I'm agonizing over which major to choose (Active dilemma)."

이 옷을 살까 말까 고민 중입니다.
— "I'm currently agonizing over whether to buy these clothes or not."

Lastly, avoid using 고민 in highly formal, academic contexts where '고찰' (consideration/contemplation) or '검토' (review) might be more appropriate. 고민 retains a personal, emotional quality. While a CEO might '고민' about a company's future in a private interview, a formal report would likely use '전략적 검토' (strategic review). Keeping the register in mind will help you use the word naturally in both casual and semi-formal settings.

To truly master the semantic field of 'worry' and 'thought' in Korean, you must be able to distinguish 고민 from its synonyms and related terms. Each word carries a specific weight and situational appropriateness. While 고민 is the most versatile 'utility' word for mental struggle, others like 갈등 (galdeung), 걱정 (geokjeong), 번뇌 (beonnoe), and 고뇌 (gonoe) offer more specialized nuances.

고민 (Gomin) vs. 걱정 (Geokjeong): 고민 is internal, active, and decision-oriented. 'Which one should I buy?' 걱정 is external, passive, and anxiety-oriented. 'I hope it doesn't break.' If you have a problem you need to solve, it's 고민. If you have a fear about the future, it's 걱정.
고민 (Gomin) vs. 갈등 (Galdeung): 갈등 literally means 'complication' or 'conflict' (derived from the words for arrowroot and wisteria vines tangling). It is often used for interpersonal conflicts (내적 갈등 - internal conflict, 대인 갈등 - interpersonal conflict). While 고민 is the state of being troubled, 갈등 is the clash of opposing forces or choices.
고민 (Gomin) vs. 고뇌 (Gonoe): 고뇌 is a much heavier, more literary term. It refers to deep, agonizing mental suffering, often of a philosophical or existential nature. You wouldn't use 고뇌 for choosing a lunch menu; you would use it for a character in a novel struggling with the meaning of life.
고민 (Gomin) vs. 번뇌 (Beonnoe): 번뇌 is a Buddhist term referring to the worldly desires and attachments that cause mental suffering. It is used in spiritual or highly formal contexts to describe the 'anguish' of the human condition.

두 가지 선택 사이에서 갈등하고 있어요.
— "I am experiencing a conflict between two choices."

When you want to sound more casual, you might use 생각 (saenggak). For example, '생각 좀 해볼게요' (I'll think about it) is less heavy than '고민 좀 해볼게요'. If you want to emphasize that you are 'troubled' specifically by a difficult question, you could use 의문 (uimun - doubt/question). However, 고민 remains the most common and naturally fitting word for 90% of everyday dilemmas. Another interesting alternative is '머리가 아프다' (my head hurts), which is an idiomatic way to say a problem is causing you 고민. '그 일 때문에 아주 머리가 아파요' (That matter is giving me a real headache/worry). In professional settings, 현안 (hyeonan) refers to a 'pending issue' or 'current concern' that needs resolution. While a business meeting might focus on '현안,' the individuals involved are likely experiencing '고민' about how to solve them. Understanding these layers allows you to choose the exact level of intensity and formality required for your situation.

예술가의 창작에 대한 고뇌가 느껴집니다.
— "I can feel the artist's agony over creation."

내적 갈등을 겪고 있습니다.
— "I am experiencing internal conflict."

세상 모든 번뇌를 잊고 싶어요.
— "I want to forget all the worldly agonies/desires."

그 문제는 생각을 더 해봐야겠어요.
— "I'll have to think more about that problem."

In conclusion, while 고민 is your 'go-to' word, being aware of 걱정, 갈등, and 고뇌 will make your Korean sound more precise and emotionally resonant. You aren't just 'worrying' in Korean; you are navigating a rich landscape of mental and emotional states.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 悶 (min) shows a heart (心) inside a gate (門), visually representing the feeling of one's heart being trapped or stifled.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡo.min/

US /ɡoʊ.mɪn/

In Korean, stress is generally even, but a slight emphasis may fall on the first syllable '고'.

Rhymes With

도민 (domin - provincial resident) 시민 (simin - citizen) 농민 (nongmin - farmer) 국민 (gungmin - nation's people) 난민 (nanmin - refugee) 서민 (seomin - common people) 주민 (jumin - resident) 이민 (imin - immigration)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'min' like 'mine' (English). It should be a short 'i' sound.
Aspirating the 'g' too much. It should be a soft, unaspirated 'g' or 'k' sound.
Stretching the 'o' into 'ow' like in 'glow'.
Making the 'n' too heavy at the end.
Confusing it with 'gomin' (cumin) in some English contexts.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize in text, often appearing in titles and dialogue.

Writing 3/5

Requires understanding the difference between noun and verb forms.

Speaking 2/5

Simple pronunciation, but requires nuance in usage.

Listening 2/5

Very common in dramas and daily speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

걱정 생각 문제 있다 하다

Learn Next

갈등 고뇌 상담 해결 결정

Advanced

번뇌 심려 염려 성찰 고찰

Grammar to Know

~을지 고민하다 (Agonizing over whether to...)

갈지 말지 고민하고 있어요.

~ 때문에 고민이다 (Worried because of...)

돈 때문에 고민이에요.

~기 위해 고민하다 (To deliberate in order to...)

문제를 해결하기 위해 고민했습니다.

고민 끝에 ~ (After agonizing...)

고민 끝에 이직을 결정했어요.

고민에 빠지다 (To fall into worry)

그는 깊은 고민에 빠졌어요.

Examples by Level

고민이 있어요.

I have a worry.

고민 (noun) + 이 (subject particle) + 있어요 (have/exist).

무슨 고민이에요?

What is your worry?

무슨 (what kind of) + 고민 (worry) + 이에요 (is).

고민이 많아요.

I have many worries.

많아요 (many) describes the quantity of '고민'.

혼자 고민해요.

I worry alone.

고민하다 (to worry) in the present tense.

작은 고민이에요.

It is a small worry.

작은 (small) modifies the noun 고민.

친구와 고민을 나눠요.

I share my worries with a friend.

나눠요 (share) takes 고민을 as an object.

고민이 없어요.

I have no worries.

없어요 (don't have/not exist) is the opposite of 있어요.

이거 고민이에요.

This is a worry/dilemma.

이거 (this) + 고민 (worry) + 이에요 (is).

시험 때문에 고민이에요.

I'm worried because of the exam.

때문에 (because of) indicates the cause of the 고민.

어떤 선물을 살지 고민이에요.

I'm agonizing over what gift to buy.

-을지 (whether to) indicates the choice being deliberated.

어제 잠시 고민했어요.

I worried/agonized for a bit yesterday.

고민했다 is the past tense of 고민하다.

제 고민 좀 들어주세요.

Please listen to my worries.

-어/아 주세요 (please do for me) with 들어주다 (to listen).

돈이 없어서 고민이에요.

I'm worried because I have no money.

-어서 (because) explains the reason for the 고민.

너무 고민하지 마세요.

Don't worry too much.

-지 마세요 (don't do) is a polite prohibition.

친구 고민을 들어줬어요.

I listened to my friend's worry.

들어주다 indicates doing the action of listening as a favor.

이 문제는 고민이 필요해요.

This problem needs some thought/worry.

필요해요 (to be needed) with 고민이.

취업 고민 때문에 스트레스를 받아요.

I'm stressed because of job-seeking worries.

취업 고민 (job-seeking worry) acts as a compound noun.

친구에게 제 고민을 털어놓았어요.

I poured out my worries to my friend.

털어놓다 (to pour out/confess) is a common collocation.

어떻게 하면 고민을 해결할 수 있을까요?

How can I solve my worries?

해결하다 (to solve) + -을 수 있다 (can).

진로 문제로 고민 중이에요.

I'm in the middle of agonizing over my career path.

중 (in the middle of) indicates an ongoing process.

누구나 말 못 할 고민이 있어요.

Everyone has worries they can't talk about.

말 못 할 (cannot speak) modifies 고민.

고민 끝에 결정을 내렸어요.

I made a decision after much agonizing.

고민 끝에 (at the end of agonizing) is a set phrase.

그 일은 저의 가장 큰 고민거리예요.

That matter is my biggest source of worry.

고민거리 (source of worry) is a noun.

부모님께 말씀드릴지 고민하고 있어요.

I'm agonizing over whether to tell my parents.

-을지 (whether to) with 고민하다.

심각한 고민에 빠져 있는 것 같아요.

It seems like they are lost in serious worry.

고민에 빠지다 (to fall into worry) is an idiomatic expression.

충분히 고민한 후에 다시 이야기합시다.

Let's talk again after you've deliberated enough.

-ㄴ 후에 (after doing) with 고민하다.

이 프로젝트의 방향에 대해 고민이 많습니다.

I have many worries about the direction of this project.

에 대해 (about) specifies the topic of 고민.

그의 고민은 단순한 문제가 아니었다.

His worry was not a simple problem.

단순한 (simple) modifies 문제.

사소한 고민도 정성껏 들어드립니다.

We listen carefully even to trivial worries.

정성껏 (with all one's heart/carefully).

결혼을 앞두고 여러 가지 고민이 생겼어요.

Before getting married, various worries arose.

생기다 (to arise/be created) with 고민.

그 영화는 청춘들의 고민을 잘 담아냈다.

That movie captured the worries of youth well.

담아내다 (to capture/contain).

고민을 해결하기 위해 전문가를 찾아갔어요.

I went to see an expert to solve my worries.

-기 위해 (in order to) with 해결하다.

인간의 본질적인 고민에 대해 성찰해 봅시다.

Let's reflect on the fundamental worries of human beings.

본질적인 (fundamental/essential) and 성찰하다 (to reflect).

그 작가는 창작의 고민을 작품에 투영했다.

The author projected the agony of creation into the work.

투영하다 (to project) is a high-level verb.

시대적 고민을 외면해서는 안 됩니다.

We must not turn away from the worries of our time.

시대적 (of the times) and 외면하다 (to look away/ignore).

그의 결정에는 오랜 고민의 흔적이 묻어 있었다.

His decision bore the traces of long-standing agonizing.

흔적이 묻어 있다 (traces are embedded/evident).

철학적인 고민은 삶을 더욱 풍요롭게 만든다.

Philosophical contemplations/worries make life richer.

풍요롭게 (richly) and 철학적인 (philosophical).

고민의 깊이만큼 성숙해지는 법이다.

One matures as much as the depth of one's worries.

-는 법이다 (it is the law/it is naturally so).

기업은 소비자들의 고민을 해결할 혁신적인 제품을 내놓았다.

The company released an innovative product to solve consumers' worries.

혁신적인 (innovative) and 내놓다 (to put out/release).

사회의 구조적 모순에 대한 고민이 깊어지고 있다.

Worries about the structural contradictions of society are deepening.

구조적 모순 (structural contradiction) and 깊어지다 (to deepen).

존재론적 고민은 유한한 인간이 피할 수 없는 숙명이다.

Ontological agony is an unavoidable fate for finite humans.

존재론적 (ontological) and 숙명 (fate/destiny).

그의 문체에는 지식인으로서의 고뇌와 고민이 치열하게 얽혀 있다.

In his writing style, the agony and worry of an intellectual are fiercely intertwined.

치열하게 (fiercely) and 얽혀 있다 (to be intertwined).

국가적 난제를 해결하기 위해 범정부 차원의 고민이 계속되고 있다.

To solve national challenges, government-wide deliberations are continuing.

국가적 난제 (national challenge) and 범정부 차원 (government-wide level).

예술가는 미적 가치와 대중성 사이에서 끊임없이 고민한다.

Artists constantly agonize between aesthetic value and popularity.

대중성 (popularity/public appeal) and 미적 가치 (aesthetic value).

현대인의 고독과 소외에 대한 깊은 고민이 담긴 시입니다.

It is a poem containing deep contemplations on the loneliness and alienation of modern people.

소외 (alienation) and 담긴 (contained).

윤리적 고민 없이 기술의 발전만을 추구하는 것은 위험하다.

It is dangerous to pursue only technological progress without ethical consideration/worry.

윤리적 (ethical) and 추구하다 (to pursue).

그 정치가의 연설에는 민생에 대한 진정성 있는 고민이 느껴졌다.

In that politician's speech, one could feel a sincere worry for the people's livelihood.

민생 (people's livelihood) and 진정성 있는 (sincere).

인간 소외라는 보편적 고민을 다각도로 조명한 작품이다.

It is a work that sheds light on the universal worry of human alienation from various angles.

보편적 (universal) and 다각도로 조명하다 (to shed light from various angles).

Common Collocations

고민을 털어놓다

고민에 빠지다

고민을 해결하다

고민이 많다

고민을 들어주다

고민을 나누다

고민 끝에

고민거리

고민 상담

심각한 고민

Common Phrases

무슨 고민 있어?

— Used to ask a friend if something is bothering them.

안색이 안 좋아 보이는데, 무슨 고민 있어?

말 못 할 고민

— A worry or secret that is too difficult or sensitive to share.

누구에게나 말 못 할 고민이 하나쯤은 있죠.

고민 중이에요

— A common way to say 'I'm still deciding' or 'I'm thinking about it.'

메뉴를 고르는 중이에요. 아직 고민 중이에요.

고민도 아니야

— Used to say that something is not a problem at all or is an easy choice.

그 정도는 고민도 아니야. 당연히 해야지.

고민할 필요도 없어

— Used when a decision is very obvious or doesn't require much thought.

이건 고민할 필요도 없이 A가 더 좋아.

혼자 고민하지 마

— A warm phrase used to encourage someone to share their problems.

힘들면 혼자 고민하지 말고 나한테 말해.

고민 해결!

— Exclamation used when a problem is finally solved.

드디어 방법이 생각났어. 고민 해결!

밤새 고민하다

— To agonize over something all night long.

그 문제로 밤새 고민하느라 한숨도 못 잤어.

사소한 고민

— A small, relatively unimportant worry.

사소한 고민들 때문에 에너지를 낭비하지 마세요.

인생 최대의 고민

— The biggest dilemma or worry of one's life.

지금 제 인생 최대의 고민은 진로입니다.

Often Confused With

고민 vs 걱정

걱정 is passive anxiety/fear; 고민 is active dilemma/deliberation.

고민 vs 생각

생각 is neutral thinking; 고민 involves stress or a problem.

고민 vs 궁금

궁금 is curiosity about a fact; 고민 is being troubled by a choice.

Idioms & Expressions

"머리를 싸매고 고민하다"

— To worry or think extremely hard about a problem while 'wrapping one's head'.

수학 문제를 풀려고 머리를 싸매고 고민했어요.

Neutral/Informal

"가슴앓이를 하다"

— To suffer internally with a worry or heartache, often in secret.

짝사랑 때문에 혼자 가슴앓이를 하고 있어요.

Informal

"속을 태우다"

— To be very worried or anxious about something (burning one's insides).

아들이 연락이 안 돼서 속을 태우고 있어요.

Neutral

"골머리를 앓다"

— To have a severe headache from worrying about a difficult problem.

이 프로젝트 때문에 골머리를 앓고 있습니다.

Neutral

"끙끙 앓다"

— To groan or suffer silently under the weight of a worry or illness.

혼자 고민하며 끙끙 앓지 마세요.

Informal

"눈앞이 캄캄하다"

— To feel hopeless and worried because the future looks 'dark'.

직장을 잃으니 눈앞이 캄캄해요.

Neutral

"발을 동동 구르다"

— To stamp one's feet in anxiety or worry.

아이가 길을 잃어 엄마가 발을 동동 굴렀어요.

Neutral

"잠을 설치다"

— To sleep fitfully or poorly because of worries.

고민 때문에 밤새 잠을 설치고 말았어요.

Neutral

"애가 타다"

— To be extremely anxious or worried (one's 'ae' or intestines are burning).

결과를 기다리느라 애가 타요.

Neutral

"입술이 바짝바짝 마르다"

— One's lips getting dry due to extreme worry or nervousness.

발표를 앞두고 입술이 바짝바짝 말라요.

Neutral

Easily Confused

고민 vs 걱정

Both translate to 'worry'.

걱정 is emotional anxiety about future risks. 고민 is mental labor regarding choices or solutions.

비가 올까 봐 걱정이에요 (I'm worried it'll rain). vs. 비가 오는데 갈지 말지 고민이에요 (I'm agonizing over whether to go or not since it's raining).

고민 vs 갈등

Both involve internal struggle.

갈등 specifically highlights the clash between two options or people. 고민 is the general state of being troubled.

내적 갈등 (internal conflict).

고민 vs 고뇌

Both mean mental agony.

고뇌 is much more intense and literary. You don't '고뇌' over a menu.

철학적 고뇌 (philosophical agony).

고민 vs 번뇌

Both mean suffering.

번뇌 is specifically related to Buddhist concepts of desire and attachment.

백팔번뇌 (the 108 agonies/desires).

고민 vs 의문

Both involve the mind.

의문 is a question or doubt about the truth. 고민 is a trouble regarding action.

그의 말에 의문이 생겼어요 (I have doubts about his words).

Sentence Patterns

고민이 있어요.

선생님, 고민이 있어요.

N 때문에 고민이에요.

돈 때문에 고민이에요.

V-을지 고민 중이에요.

어디로 갈지 고민 중이에요.

고민을 털어놓다.

친구에게 고민을 털어놓았어요.

고민 끝에 결정을 내리다.

오랜 고민 끝에 결정을 내렸습니다.

고민에 빠지다.

그는 깊은 고민에 빠졌습니다.

시대적 고민을 담다.

그 책은 시대적 고민을 담고 있다.

존재론적 고민을 하다.

인간은 누구나 존재론적 고민을 한다.

Word Family

Nouns

고민거리 (source of worry)

고민 상담 (worry counseling)

Verbs

고민하다 (to worry/agonize)

고민시키다 (to make someone worry)

걱정

생각

갈등

고뇌

번민

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely common in daily conversation, media, and literature.

Common Mistakes

Using 고민 for the weather. → 걱정
You can't control the weather, so you '걱정' (worry) about it, you don't '고민' (deliberate) about it.
Saying '고민을 있어요'. → 고민이 있어요
'있다' takes the subject particle -이/가, not the object particle -을/를.
Using 고민 for simple thoughts. → 생각
If you are just thinking about a friend, use 생각. 고민 implies the friend is a problem or you have a dilemma.
Using 고민 in a very formal report. → 검토/고찰
In formal documents, use 'review' or 'consideration' instead of the more personal 'worry'.
Confusing 고민 with curiosity. → 궁금하다
If you want to know a fact, use 궁금하다. If you are troubled by a choice, use 고민하다.

Tips

Active Worry

Use 고민 when you are trying to find a solution or make a choice. It's an active process.

Sharing is Caring

Sharing a 고민 is a great way to make Korean friends. It shows you trust them.

Gomin-geori

Use 고민거리 to describe the 'thing' that is bothering you. '나의 고민거리는...' (My source of worry is...).

Particle Check

Remember: 고민이 있다 (Subject particle) but 고민을 하다 (Object particle).

Listening

In Korea, being a good 'gomin' listener is a highly valued trait in a friend.

Vs. Geokjeong

If you can't control it, it's probably 걱정. If you can decide something about it, it's 고민.

Softening

Start with '제가 고민이 좀 있는데요...' to politely ask for advice or a favor.

Sighs

When you hear a Korean person sigh and say '고민이네...', they are likely stuck on a decision.

Ending

Use '고민 끝에' to introduce a final decision in a story or essay.

Hashtags

Look for #고민 on social media to see real-life examples of what Koreans worry about.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'GO' (고) + 'MEAN' (민). When you have a 'Gomin,' you are trying to decide where to GO or what something MEANS.

Visual Association

Imagine a person standing at a crossroads (GO) with a heavy cloud (MIN) over their head, trying to decide which path to take.

Word Web

Decision Worry Choice Agony Counseling Problem Dilemma Deliberation

Challenge

Try to use '고민 중이에요' next time you are at a cafe and can't decide what to order.

Word Origin

Sino-Korean word derived from the Hanja characters 苦 (고) and 悶 (민).

Original meaning: 苦 (go) means 'bitter' or 'suffering,' and 悶 (min) means 'agony' or 'stuffy chest.' Together, they describe a bitter agony that feels like a heavy weight in the chest.

Sino-Korean (Hanja)

Cultural Context

While sharing worries is common, be careful not to burden strangers with very heavy '고민' too early in a relationship.

In English, 'worry' is often something we try to avoid or hide. In Korean, '고민' is seen as a natural part of growth and decision-making.

BTS - 'Go Go' (고민보다 Go) - A song about spending money rather than worrying. Variety Show: 'Hello Counselor' (안녕하세요) - A show centered on public '고민'. Webtoon: '고민 해결사' (Worry Solver) - Common trope in Korean webtoons.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Eating out

뭐 먹을지 고민이에요.
메뉴 고민 중이에요.
고민할 필요도 없이 치킨이죠.
고민되네...

Career

이직을 할지 고민입니다.
진로 고민이 많아요.
취업 고민 때문에 힘들어요.
고민 끝에 결정했어요.

Relationships

친구랑 싸워서 고민이에요.
고백할까 고민 중이야.
연애 고민 좀 들어줘.
말 못 할 고민이 있어.

Shopping

이 옷 살까 말까 고민돼.
색깔 때문에 고민이에요.
한 참 고민하다가 샀어요.
고민은 배송만 늦출 뿐!

Education

전공 선택이 고민이에요.
시험 성적 때문에 고민입니다.
유학 갈지 고민하고 있어요.
선생님과 고민 상담을 했어요.

Conversation Starters

"요즘 무슨 고민 있어요? (Do you have any worries lately?)"

"이거랑 저거 중에 뭐가 더 좋을지 고민이에요. (I'm agonizing over which is better, this or that.)"

"제 고민 좀 들어주실 수 있나요? (Can you listen to my worries?)"

"고민 끝에 내린 결정입니다. (This is a decision made after much agonizing.)"

"혼자 고민하지 말고 같이 이야기해요. (Don't worry alone, let's talk together.)"

Journal Prompts

오늘 가장 많이 고민했던 일은 무엇인가요? (What was the thing you agonized over most today?)

당신의 가장 큰 고민거리를 적어보세요. (Write down your biggest source of worry.)

고민을 해결했던 경험에 대해 써보세요. (Write about an experience where you solved a worry.)

친구의 고민을 들어준 적이 있나요? (Have you ever listened to a friend's worry?)

10년 후의 당신은 어떤 고민을 하고 있을까요? (What kind of worries will you have 10 years from now?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, it is very common to use '고민' for small things like choosing a lunch menu ('메뉴 고민'). It adds a bit of playful drama or shows you are really thinking hard.

'고민하다' is the verb (to worry/agonize), while '고민이다' is the noun + copula (it is a worry). Use '고민하다' for the action and '고민이다' for the state.

Not necessarily. While it involves stress, '고민' is seen as a necessary part of making good decisions. It shows that you are taking a situation seriously.

If you mean 'don't agonize over a choice,' say '고민하지 마세요.' If you mean 'don't be anxious,' say '걱정하지 마세요.'

Yes, you can say '그의 고민' (his worry) or '친구의 고민을 들어주다' (listen to a friend's worry).

It means 'worry counseling' or 'advice-seeking.' It's when you tell someone your problems to get their opinion.

Yes, it is used to show that you are deeply considering a project or strategy. It sounds more sincere than just 'thinking.'

The suffix '-거리' means 'material' or 'source.' So '고민거리' is a specific thing that causes you to worry.

Yes, it is polite and common to express that you have many things to consider or solve.

It is 苦 (고 - bitter) and 悶 (민 - agony). It literally means 'bitter agony.'