📘 Advanced Verb Conjugation for Writing in Korean (문어체)

Have you ever noticed how written Korean in books, news articles, or essays looks different from what you hear in K-dramas or everyday conversations? That’s because of 문어체, or "written/formal style" Korean. 📝

In this post, we’ll explore how advanced verb conjugation changes when writing in formal Korean. If you're preparing for TOPIK II, writing an academic essay, or just want to sound more polished in writing, this guide is for you!

📚 What is 문어체?

문어체 (literary or written style) is used in formal texts like reports, academic writing, news, and books. It’s more structured, objective, and polite than the spoken style, which is called 구어체.

🔍 Common Verb Endings in 문어체

Verb Ending	Usage	Example
-는다 / -ㄴ다 / -다	Plain statement (present tense)	학생이 도서관에 간다. (The student goes to the library.)
-았다 / -었다	Plain past tense	그는 책을 읽었다. (He read a book.)
-겠다	Future tense / intention / assumption	나는 열심히 공부하겠다. (I will study hard.)
-자	Propositive (Let’s)	지금 시작하자. (Let’s start now.)
-라	Imperative (Do...)	조용히 하라. (Be quiet.)

✏️ Practice Challenge

Convert the following informal sentences into 문어체:

1. 너 뭐 해? → 너는 무엇을 하고 있는가?
2. 지금 갈게. → 지금 가겠다.
3. 이거 진짜 맛있어! → 이것은 정말 맛있다.

🗣 Spoken vs. Written: Side-by-Side

• Spoken: 오늘 뭐 해? / Written: 오늘 무엇을 하고 있는가?
• Spoken: 이거 봤어? / Written: 이것을 보았는가?
• Spoken: 같이 가자! / Written: 함께 가자.

📌 Did You Know?

The Korean government publishes a yearly report on language use, and in recent years, 문어체 usage is declining among younger people online. However, it's still essential in professional, academic, and official contexts. If you ever want to publish a book, submit an article, or take TOPIK II, mastering this style is a must! 📘

💌 Final Thoughts

Learning how to write in 문어체 may feel unfamiliar at first, but with practice, it becomes a valuable skill. If you dream of writing in Korean or understanding formal documents more clearly, don’t skip this part of your journey. I’ll be here to guide you through every expression and nuance. 🇰🇷

I hope that while reading various posts on my blog, you’ll learn Korean and grow to love Korea. As a Korean, I sincerely wish for that. Please come back anytime to discover new expressions and cultural insights! 😊