Download the article Learn how to use this viral Korean phrase correctly
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer Bailey Cho. Bailey Cho is a contributing editor at wikiHow, based in Dallas, TX. He has more than 2 years of editorial experience, with works published in student magazines and lifestyle publications. Bailey holds a bachelor’s degree in advertising and a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of Texas at Austin. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of all facts cited and confirming the authority of its sources. Find out more…
Whether you’re just casually interested in the Korean language or working your way up to fluency, “gwenchana” is a common phrase you’ll need to learn. It means “it’s okay” or “I’m fine”, depending on the context of the conversation. In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about “gwenchana,” including what it means, how to respond to it, and why it’s popular on TikTok. We will also provide other Korean expressions to expand your vocabulary.
“Gwenchana” (괜찮아) means “it’s okay” or “I’m fine” in Korean. If you say it with a rising intonation, it turns into the question “are you okay?” (“gwencha-na?”). Answer with “no, gwenchana” to say “yes, I’m fine” or “ani, an gwenchana” to say “no, I’m not fine.”
“No, gwenchana” (네, 괜입아) This phrase means “yes, I’m fine” in Korean. Use this answer if someone asks “are you okay?” in an informal setting and you want to reassure them that you are fine. If someone older or of higher authority asks you, answer with the official version of this phrase, which is “no, gwenchanayo” (네, 괜찮아요).
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “No, Gwenchana.” (Yes, I’m fine.)
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “No, Gwenchana. Hwaginhae jusyeoseo gomawo.” (Yes, I’m fine. Thanks for checking up on me.)
“Eung, gwenchana” In a casual setting, you can respond with “eung, gwenchana,” which is another way of saying “yeah, I’m fine.” The term “eung” is a casual exclamation meaning “yes”, it is best to reserve this response for informal gatherings with friends and family.
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “Eung, gwenchana.” (Yes, I’m fine.)
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “Eung, gwenchana. Muleobwajwoseo gomawo.” (Yes, I’m fine. Thanks for asking.)
“Ani, an gwenchana” (아니, 안 괜윰아) The phrase “ani, an gwenchana” translates as “no, I’m not well”. Use it if you are going through a difficult time or need help. If you are talking to someone older or in higher authority, “ani, an gwenchanayo” (아니, 안 괜윰아요) is a formal and polite way to say you are not well.
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “Anni, Gwenchana. Jogeum apa.” (No, I’m not well. I’m a little sick.)
- Them: “Gwenchan?” (Are you okay?)Your: “Anni, Gwenchana. Nae gaega jugeosseo.” (No, I’m not well. My dog died.)
“Jeongmal?” (정말?) If someone uses “gwenchan” to reassure you that they’re fine, you can respond with “jeongmal?” say “really?” It’s a casual way to double check that they’re being honest and don’t need help with anything.
- Them: “Gwenchan!” (I’m fine!)Your: “Jeongmal?” (Really?)
- Them: “Gwenchan.” (I’m fine.)Your: “Jeongmal? Naega dowajul are isseo.” (Really? I can help you.)
“Geurae, araso” This is another way of saying “okay, I understand.” You can use this response if someone says “gwenchana” to reassure you that they are fine. It’s similar to saying “I got you” in English, so reserve it for casual conversations with friends and family.
- Them: “Gwenchan!” (I’m fine!)Your: “Geurae, araso.” (Okay, I get it.)
- Them: “Gwenchan.” (I’m fine.)Your: “Geurae, araso! Pilyohan ge isseumyeon allyeajwo.” (Okay, I get it! Let me know if you need anything.)
Categories: How to
Source: HIS Education