Korean Verb Conjugation: Present, Past & Future Overview
Written by Erik Claesson · Founder of Chamelingo · Korean learner · Software engineer
Korean verb conjugation is more regular than English. This overview shows how the three core tenses fit together; use the linked focused lessons when you are ready to drill each ending in depth.
Watch a verb morph from dictionary form → present → past:
Dictionary
gada
to go (dictionary form)
Present Tense: 아요/어요
The present tense ending depends on the last vowel of the verb stem:
- ㅏ or ㅗ in the stem → use 아요
- Everything else → use 어요
- 하다 verbs → always 해요
Dictionary
meokda
to eat (dictionary form)
Practice present tense with interactive examples →
Past Tense: 았/었어요
The past tense follows the same vowel harmony rule as present tense:
- ㅏ or ㅗ → 았어요
- Everything else → 었어요
- 하다 → 했어요
Dictionary
gongbuhada
to study (dictionary form)
Practice past tense with interactive examples →
Future Tense: (으)ㄹ 거예요
The future tense pattern:
- Stem ends in vowel → add ㄹ 거예요
- Stem ends in consonant → add 을 거예요
Practice future tense with interactive examples →
Negation: 안 and 못
Korean has two ways to negate verbs:
안 (don't / won't, by choice):
- 안 먹어요 = I don't eat
못 (can't, inability):
- 못 먹어요 = I can't eat
Learn about 안 negation → | Learn about 못 vs 안 →
Irregular stems (starter list)
Most verbs are regular. A few high-frequency irregulars appear early:
You do not need every irregular on day one. Learn the three tenses first, then collect irregulars as you meet them in lessons.
Mini practice
Conjugate 가다 / 먹다 / 공부하다 into present, past, and future polite forms.
Related guides
Practice on Chamelingo
Our curriculum introduces present tense early, then past and future with spaced review so endings stick. Interactive drills conjugate verbs in full sentences. Not isolated flashcards.
Tags: verbs · conjugation · tenses · grammar