📝 Grammar B2

-는 한

-neun han

As long as / So long as

What it means

Expresses a condition that must remain true for the result in the second clause to hold. Often translated as "as long as" or "provided that." Attaches to action verb stems with -는 한; adjective/noun forms use -(으)ㄴ 한.

Nuance & when to use

Emphasises that the condition is the boundary or prerequisite. If the condition no longer holds, the result is no longer guaranteed.

⚠ Common mistake

Confusing with -는 동안 (while/during). -는 한 focuses on the condition remaining true, while -는 동안 focuses on time duration.

Example sentences

포기하지 않는 한 기회는 있어요. Pogihaji anneun han gihwaneun isseoyo. As long as you don't give up, there's a chance.

건강한 한 계속 일할 수 있어요. Geonganhan han gyesok irhal su isseoyo. I can keep working as long as I am healthy.

비가 오지 않는 한 야외에서 할 거예요. Biga oji anneun han yaoe-eseo hal geoyeyo. We'll do it outdoors as long as it doesn't rain.

FAQ

When is this used?

Emphasises that the condition is the boundary or prerequisite. If the condition no longer holds, the result is no longer guaranteed.

What's a common mistake?

Confusing with -는 동안 (while/during). -는 한 focuses on the condition remaining true, while -는 동안 focuses on time duration.

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