Pronunciation
ㅓ vs ㅗ: A Simple Korean Pronunciation Guide
Hear and pronounce the difference between the Korean vowels ㅓ and ㅗ with simple mouth-position tips and useful examples.
The vowels ㅓ and ㅗ can sound close at first. The clearest difference is the shape of your mouth.
How to pronounce ㅓ
For ㅓ, keep your mouth relaxed and more open. The sound is often written as “eo,” but that spelling is only a guide.
Try not to round your lips.
- 어디
- where
- 언어
- language
How to pronounce ㅗ
For ㅗ, round your lips and bring them slightly forward. The sound is closer to a short, pure “o.”
- 오늘
- today
- 오이
- cucumber
Practice the contrast
Say 어, 오 slowly while watching your mouth in a mirror. Your jaw should feel more open for ㅓ, while your lips should look rounder for ㅗ.