Welcome, K-pop lovers and Korean language enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a vibrant list of hobbies and activities that not only enrich our lives but also give us a fantastic opportunity to expand our Korean vocabulary. Whether you’re a fan of BTS’s artistic pursuits or BLACKPINK’s adventures around the globe, there’s a word here that’ll help you connect even more with your favorite idols and their interests. Let’s get started!

1. 독서 (dokseo) – Reading

Imagine cozying up with a book recommended by RM of BTS, known for his love of literature. In Korean, you’d say, “저는 RM이 추천한 책을 독서하고 있어요 (Jeoneun RM-i chucheonhan chaegeul dokseohago isseoyo)” meaning “I am reading a book recommended by RM.”

If you’re sharing your reading list with friends, you might say, “이번 달의 독서 목록에 무엇이 있나요? (Ibeon darui dokseo mokroke mueosi issnayo?)” asking “What’s on your reading list this month?”

2. 요리 (yori) – Cooking

Whether you’re trying to recreate a dish from a Korean drama or something you’ve seen on a variety show, cooking is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Korean culture. “저는 한국 요리를 배우고 싶어요 (Jeoneun hangung yorireul baeugo sipeoyo)” translates to “I want to learn Korean cooking.”

When you’re cooking with friends, you could say, “오늘 저녁에 무엇을 요리할까요? (Oneul jeonyeoge mueoseul yorihalkkayo?)” which means “What shall we cook for dinner tonight?”

3. 그림 그리기 (geurim geurigi) – Drawing

Drawing is a hobby that many K-pop idols enjoy in their downtime. “저는 그림 그리기를 통해 스트레스를 해소해요 (Jeoneun geurim geurigireul tonghae seuteureseureul haesohaeyo)” means “I relieve stress through drawing.”

If you’re drawing with a group of friends, you might say, “같이 그림을 그려보자 (Gachi geurimeul geuryeoboja)” suggesting “Let’s draw together.”

4. 운동 (undong) – Exercise

Many idols share their exercise routines on social media. “저는 건강을 위해 매일 운동해요 (Jeoneun geongangeul wihae maeil undonghaeyo)” translates to “I exercise daily for my health.”

Joining a friend for a workout, you could say, “함께 운동하러 갈래? (Hamkke undonghareo gallae?)” asking “Want to go exercise together?”

5. 여행 (yeohaeng) – Travel

Travel opens up new worlds, just like exploring the international tours of K-pop groups. “저는 새로운 문화를 경험하기 위해 여행을 좋아해요 (Jeoneun saeroun munhwareul gyeongheomhagi wihae yeohaengeul joahaeyo)” means “I love traveling to experience new cultures.”

Planning a trip, you might discuss, “다음 여행지는 어디가 좋을까요? (Daeum yeohaengjineun eodiga joeulkkayo?)” wondering “Where should our next travel destination be?”

6. 등산 (deungsan) – Hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in Korea, offering both exercise and beautiful views. “저는 주말마다 등산을 가요 (Jeoneun jumalmada deungsaneul gayo)” translates to “I go hiking every weekend.”

If you’re inviting a friend for a hike, you might say, “이번 주말 등산 가지 않을래? (Ibeon jumal deungsan gaji aneullae?)” asking “Do you want to go hiking this weekend?”

7. 수영 (suyeong) – Swimming

Swimming is not only a great workout but also a refreshing way to cool down. “여름에는 매일 수영장에 가요 (Yeoreumeneun maeil suyeongjange gayo)” means “I go to the swimming pool every day in summer.”

When planning a swim, you could say, “수영하러 같이 가자 (Suyeonghareo gachi gaja)” suggesting “Let’s go swimming together.”

8. 낚시 (nakksi) – Fishing

Fishing is a serene activity that allows for peaceful contemplation. “저는 낚시를 할 때 마음이 평온해져요 (Jeoneun nakksireul hal ttae ma-eumi pyeongonhaejyeoyo)” translates to “I feel peaceful when I go fishing.” If you’re introducing a friend to fishing, you might say, “낚시 좀 해볼래? 정말 재미있어 (Nakssi jom haebollae? Jeongmal jaemiisseo)” asking “Want to try fishing? It’s really fun.”

9. 사진 찍기 (sajin jjikgi) – Photography

Photography captures moments just like fans capture their favorite idols in concert. “저는 여행할 때 사진을 많이 찍어요 (Jeoneun yeohaenghal ttae sajineul manhi jjigeoyo)” means “I take a lot of photos when I travel.”

Sharing your hobby, you might say, “사진 찍는 것을 좋아해. 함께 사진을 찍으러 다니지 않을래? (Sajin jjikneun geoseul joahae. Hamkke sajineul jjigeureo daniji aneullae?)” which translates to “I love taking photos. Want to go around taking pictures together?”

10. 정원 가꾸기 (jeongwon gakkugi) – Gardening

Gardening nurtures both plants and the soul. “저는 정원 가꾸기를 통해 마음의 평화를 찾아요 (Jeoneun jeongwon gakkugireul tonghae ma-eumui pyeonghwaleul chajayo)” translates to “I find peace of mind through gardening.”

When inviting someone to garden with you, you might say, “함께 정원을 가꾸어 보고 싶어? (Hamkke jeongwoneul gakkueo bogo sipeo?)” asking “Do you want to try gardening together?”

Engaging in hobbies and activities not only enriches your personal life but also offers a delightful way to enhance your Korean language skills. Whether you’re reading a book, cooking up a storm, or capturing the beauty of nature through photography, each activity brings its own set of joys and learning opportunities.

As you dive into these hobbies, remember that they’re also a bridge to understanding more about Korean culture and the daily lives of your favorite K-pop idols. So, why not pick a new hobby from this list and start exploring today?