하다 vs 되다
Explanation
하다 is the general “do/make” light verb: 공부하다, 일하다, 생각하다.
되다 means “become” (의사가 되다) and also “be okay / allowed” (돼요? / 안 돼요).
Permission pattern: -아/어도 되다 — 들어가도 돼요?
Not every English “do” is 하다; not every “get/become” is 하다 either.
This page focuses on “하다 vs 되다.” Read for meaning first, then re-read looking only at formality and particle choice — those two details decide whether you sound natural.
After the explanation, study the worked examples and the common mistakes. Then take the one-question check so you know you did not only skim.
Connect this page to nearby Chamelingo lessons and tools. Isolated tips do not stick; a graph of vocabulary + grammar + speaking does. Use the related links at the bottom to keep walking the graph.
When you can explain “하다 vs 되다” in one plain English sentence and produce one new Korean example without looking, you are ready to move on — then review again within 24 hours.
Examples
숙제를 했어요.
I did my homework.
의사가 되고 싶어요.
I want to become a doctor.
사진 찍어도 돼요?
Is it okay to take a photo?
Common mistakes
- Translating every “do” as 하다.
- Using 하다 for permission instead of 되다 patterns.
How to practice
- Level: elementary–friendly explanation; still re-check formality with a native conversation partner when stakes are high.
- Say every example out loud, then change one slot (place, time, or person) to force production — not only recognition.
- After reading, open Chamelingo and recycle the same pattern in a lesson or speaking practice so it enters long-term memory.
Check yourself
Question 1 of 1
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