K-Drama Dialogues EP 2: “The Glory (2023)”

- January 21, 2025

Episode 2: Learning Korean with “The Glory” (2023)

Today’s episode is all about the gripping revenge drama “The Glory”, a 2023 hit that left viewers speechless with its intense storyline and powerful performances.

The story follows a woman who meticulously plans revenge against the people who tormented her in high school. It’s full of deep emotions, confrontations, and dramatic dialogue—perfect for learning how to express strong emotions in Korean.

[1. Key sentences ]

1. 복수는 나의 것 (Revenge is mine)

Breakdown:

복수 (revenge)
는 (topic particle)
나의 것 (mine)

Example Sentence:

복수는 나의 것, 반드시 성공할 거야. (Revenge is mine, I will succeed for sure.)

2. 용서할 수 없어 (I can’t forgive you)

Breakdown:

용서하다 (to forgive)
할 수 없어 (cannot do)

Example Sentence:

네가 한 일을 용서할 수 없어. (I can’t forgive what you did.)

3. 나는 강해질 거야 (I will become stronger)

Breakdown:

나는 (I)
강해지다 (to become strong)
-ㄹ 거야 (future tense)

Example Sentence:

어려움 속에서도 나는 강해질 거야. (Despite the difficulties, I will become stronger.)

[2. Grammar Focus ]

"Let’s break down some grammar patterns used in The Glory that can help you express emotions and make strong statements in Korean."

1. -(으)ㄹ 거야 (I will do something)

Used to express future intentions or strong determination.

Examples:

나는 성공할 거야. (I will succeed.)
그는 나를 절대 잊지 않을 거야. (He will never forget me.)

2. -을 수 없어 (I can't do something)

Expresses inability or refusal.

Examples:

거짓말을 믿을 수 없어. (I can't believe the lie.)
그렇게 쉽게 포기할 수 없어. (I can’t give up so easily.)

3. -은/는 나의 것 (Something belongs to me)

Used to emphasize ownership or determination.

Examples:

이 기회는 나의 것. (This opportunity is mine.)
이 순간은 나의 것. (This moment is mine.)

[3. Real-Life Conversation Practice ]

"Let’s put what we’ve learned into practice with some real-life scenarios inspired by the drama!"

Scenario 1: Asserting Yourself
A: 왜 그렇게 열심히 공부해? (Why are you studying so hard?)
B: 이 기회는 나의 것. 반드시 성공할 거야. (This opportunity is mine. I will succeed for sure.)

Scenario 2: Expressing Emotions
A: 네가 너무 상처를 줬어. (You hurt me too much.)
B: 미안해. 용서해줄 수 있어? (I'm sorry. Can you forgive me?)
A: 아니, 용서할 수 없어. (No, I can't forgive you.)

Scenario 3: Encouraging Yourself
A: 포기할까 봐. (I think I might give up.)
B: 아니, 나는 강해질 거야! (No, I will become stronger!)

[4. Cultural Insights ]

"Bullying, known as '왕따 (wang-tta)', is a serious issue in Korean society, and The Glory brought attention to the long-term effects it can have on individuals. In Korea, there is a strong sense of justice, which is why the drama resonated with so many people.

Common phrases related to justice and resilience in Korean culture include:

'정의는 승리한다.' (Justice will prevail.)
'끝까지 포기하지 마.' (Don't give up until the end.)

This drama also highlights how perseverance and self-improvement are highly valued traits in Korean society."

[5. Practice Challenge]

Try writing a sentence using ‘나는 강해질 거야’ to motivate yourself in a challenging situation.
Share an experience in Korean where you refused to give up, using ‘포기할 수 없어.’

Stay strong, and I’ll see you next time. 안녕히 계세요!"

Beyond K-Lingo